There’s something truly magical about working with plant medicine. It feels ancient and intuitive, like tapping into wisdom that’s always been there, just waiting for us to notice. Recently, I’ve found myself leaning into this magic by seeing an herbalist to explore tinctures tailored to my personal needs.

For me, one of those needs stems from what I believe is my undiagnosed spectrum of ADHD. I’ve never wanted to go the pharmaceutical route, so I turned to herbs for assistance. My herbalist created a blend specifically for me, using herbs like holy basil, lemon balm, and gotu kola. This formula has helped me feel more focused and calm, gently working with my body rather than forcing it into submission.

Another tincture I was given, for love and emotional support, featured lemon balm, rose, and passionflower—a sweet, nurturing combination that feels like a hug in a bottle. It’s incredible how these plants, with their unique properties, can hold space for our emotions and help us find balance.

The Art of Herbal Medicine

Plant medicine isn’t just about physical health—it’s about tuning in to what we need emotionally and energetically. Herbs like holy basil, known as an adaptogen, help the body manage stress, while lemon balm soothes the nervous system. Rose supports the heart, encouraging us to soften and open when we feel guarded. Gotu kola, an herb often used in Ayurveda, can enhance mental clarity and focus.

When these herbs are combined into tinctures, they become highly concentrated, making them easy to incorporate into daily life. Just a few drops under the tongue or in water can offer gentle, effective support. There’s something beautifully intentional about working with plant medicine, it asks us to slow down, listen to our bodies, and trust in the natural rhythms of healing.

Where to Start if You’re in Austin

If you’re curious about exploring herbal medicine, I highly recommend working with a knowledgeable herbalist who can craft blends tailored to your unique needs. If you’re in the Austin area, here are a few local gems to check out:

• Earth Commons on the east side offers a wide variety of herbs, tinctures, and workshops.

• The Herb Bar, located south, is a cozy spot filled with everything from dried herbs to pre-made tinctures.

• KindFolk Apothecary & Wellness, for those in the northwest area, has a lovely selection and a warm, inviting atmosphere.

These places not only provide access to high quality herbs but also foster a sense of community, which is such a big part of the magic.

Plant Medicine: A Holistic Approach

Herbal medicine doesn’t work the way pharmaceuticals do, and that’s the beauty of it. Instead of masking symptoms, it works in harmony with your body to restore balance. It’s a slower, gentler approach that respects your body’s innate ability to heal.

For me, this journey into plant medicine has been deeply personal and grounding. It’s taught me to trust my intuition, lean into self-care, and connect with the Earth in a meaningful way. Whether you’re exploring herbs for focus, emotional support, or just a deeper sense of well-being, plant medicine offers endless possibilities.

If you’ve ever felt curious about plant medicine, consider this your sign to explore it. Whether you start with a single herb like lemon balm or seek out a custom blend from an herbalist, the journey is worth it. These plants have been part of human healing traditions for centuries, and their wisdom is as relevant today as ever.

Here’s to tuning in, slowing down, and letting the magic of plants remind us of what it means to feel supported and whole.