This Profile is for the herbal preparation and is not meant for peppermint essential oil use. Botany Mentha x piperita (Laminaceae) X means this plant is a hybrid, a cross between two plants. Although there is some controversy over which two, it is generally accepted that spearmint (Mentha spicata) and water mint (Mentha aquatica) brought… Continue >>>
Category Archives: Essential Oils
Plant Profile: Monarda
Botanical Name: Monarda fistula var. menthafolia (Laminaceae) Common Names: Bee Balm, Oregano de la Sierra, Wild Oregano, Mountain Oregano Southwest Habitat: Grows in colonies, usually found in riparian habitats or dry stream beds. Occasionally found away from water in small depressions in the ground where a bit of extra moisture collects. Fairly easy to cultivate… Continue >>>
Using Essential Oil Diffusers for Winter Health
During the colder, darker months of the year, we spend more time indoors. This increased indoor time is also when the airborne viruses of colds and flu are most active. One of my favorite health promoting activities during this time of year is to use an ultrasonic diffuser with essential oils. I find this approach… Continue >>>
My Views on the Essential Oil Industry
The validity and safety of essential oils are two areas of ongoing confusion in the alternative healing community. This article gives my views on these challenging topics. Education v Marketing Some of the gatherings and classes in the industry are advertised as education when, in fact, they are nothing more than a sales pitch. There… Continue >>>
Tulsi Essential Oil
Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum, Lamiaceae, also known as Holy Basil) is one of the most revered medical and spiritual plants in India and is becoming increasingly popular in this country. The use of Tulsi as an essential oil is less known. However it is one of my favorite oils and it makes a valuable addition to… Continue >>>
Is the Internal Use of Aromatic Oils Safe?
This is a hot topic in the essential oil community these days and an area with much confusion. One group uses the occasional few drops in a drink, food or herb preparation. Another group recommends much higher amounts that to me seem scary and dangerous. A third group says to never, ever use these concentrated… Continue >>>
Sponsoring A Class
Sponsoring an Herb Class People interested in studying herbal medicine may receive free class tuition by sponsoring a course, either in your town or at our school in Flagstaff. Guidelines for the complimentary course are: A minimum of six students pay full price, in advance, by the agreed upon deadline. The host attends the class… Continue >>>
Fresh Perspectives on the Use of Essential Oils
Our Foundations of Herbal Medicine program spent the weekend working with and learning about essential oils. Each time I teach this part of the course, it always strikes me how much I learn from the experience of interacting with the oils. My understanding of them deepens and my appreciation of this field grows. Watching people’s… Continue >>>
Using Herbs with Children: Where is the “Line”?
Every parent has a “Line” when using herbs with children. Crossing the Line means that outside help is required, whether it be a professional herbalist, a naturopath or an MD. It is important to acknowledge the Line and to think about where it is. Various factors effect the position of the Line and it is… Continue >>>
Plant Profile: Pinon
In the American Southwest, there is not the diversity of tree species that exist in Appalachia. Fortunately, the trees that are available to us are truly gifts from the earth. One of my favorites is the pinon pine, which is common throughout the Four Corners area and the Colorado Plateau. Family – Pinaceae Pinus edulis… Continue >>>
Latest Courses
2025 Rocky Mountain Field Study
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 >>>
2025 Family Herbalist Program
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
A Master Herbalist?
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 >>>
Protected: Colorado Herb Trip 2025
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It’s Alterative, NOT Alternative!
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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