I am especially fond of the old time hand drawn and colored plant illustrations that were common before the age of *immediate.posting.of.photos.on.social.media* became the norm. Don’t get me wrong. I am a huge fan of photography and love sharing my own plant images on the web. But there is something very relaxed, slow and mindful… Continue >>>
The Ranunculaceae family, also known as the Buttercup family, is not as common as some other families on the Colorado Plateau but is an especially interesting family. The herbal medicine from these plants tends to be strong; either a strong taste (acrid) or a strong action so a lower dose is often called for. These… Continue >>>
The Rosaceae family, commonly known simply as the Rose family is one of the most important families for both the herbalist and forager to know. One of our very best nourishing heart tonics is in this family along with many edible fruits that are high in anti-oxidants. For the herbalist, plants in this family are… Continue >>>
The Ericaceae family, also known as the Heath family, has fewer plants that are in common use in herbal medicine but they are widely used and an important part of our materia medica. In general, they like acidic soil and are often some version of a shrub or tree with evergreen leaves. In addition to… Continue >>>
Valerian is a well known and commonly used plant in western herbalism that has been categorized as a sleep herb. Many people have used it late at night when they are tossing and turning and are disappointed when it doesn’t provide the sleep results they were hoping for. This article provides further information on this… Continue >>>
The common names for the Apiaceae family are either the carrot or parsley family. The old family name was Umbelliferae; some books still show this and occasionally botanists still use this older name out of habit. This is an *extremely* important family to know. One reason is that it has abundant herbs, spices and foods.… Continue >>>
Whether foraging for greens or wildcrafting herbs, knowing the few toxic plants in one’s environment is essential. Poison hemlock is a potentially deadly plant that is frequently encountered in the forests and meadows of northern Arizona. This article and collection of photos is meant to help you identify this plant in your outdoor explorations and… Continue >>>
Formerly known as Asteraceae, the Compositae is one of the largest families in the world with approximately 20,000 species. Is it commonly known as either the Aster, Daisy or Sunflower family. Because of its size, there are many plants that are useful to both foragers and herbalists. This family is large enough that one cannot… Continue >>>
Monograph of St. John’s Wort – Hypericum perforatum Caitlin Stoner, a recent graduate of the “Foundations of Herbal Medicine” course, chose this multi-use therapeutic herb for her final research project. I am very happy to share her expertise on our school’s website. Click the link below to read her work. Hypericum – St. Johns Wort… Continue >>>
Brassicaceae – Mustard This family is characterized by flowers that have four petals and are shaped like a crucifix, hence the previous family name of Cruciferae. These plants are often edible and tend to have a spicy, hot energy and flavor although some of the domesticated varieties have been bred for a mild flavor. Besides… Continue >>>
Latest Courses
This trip is an optional field study opportunity for students enrolled in the Family Herbalist Program. Other herbal friends may be joining us. Photos from previous trips can be seen on Facebook here. Students are responsible for food, lodging (camping, Air B&B, hotel) and transportation. The dates for the 2025 program are July 13-17. Day… Continue >>>
This course is full and registration is closed.Registration opens on September 1, 2025 for the 2026 Family Herbalist Program.Send your contact info to mmasek@theforagerspath.com to be notified when registration opens. Choosing the path of herbal medicine can be a life-changing event. It was for me in 1990 when I made the decision to begin studying… Continue >>>
Educational Resources
The word Master often gets thrown around in regards to different occupations and skills. Master carpenter, chef, teacher, herbalist, etc. Everyone want this title but few have earned it. It is usually applied more for ego or marketing rather than actual skills and experience. It’s an issue in the herb community where there are no… Continue >>>
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This category includes herbs that are well known and frequently used in Western Herbalism. The definition of this category is poorly understood. These herbs are often misused because the energetics are ignored. These herbs are often grouped under the vague terms of Detox or Blood Cleanser. What They Are Herbs that support and open the… Continue >>>
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