In this enlightening episode of “Voices of our Herbal Elders,” I dive deep into the heart of herbalism with the legendary Brigitte Mars. Brigitte, an author and educator with a legacy woven into the very roots of the herbal community, shares her profound connection with nature and healing.
From her unique experiences with psychedelics to her advocacy for cannabis and her service as a psychedelic sitter and an end-of-life doula, Brigitte’s journey is as diverse as the flora she cherishes. Her reflections on a childhood shaped by the disciplined environment of a boarding school bring a deep understanding of how our earliest interactions with the world influence our healing paths. This interview is not just a conversation; it’s an exploration of a life lived in deep symbiosis with the earth and its ancient wisdom.
- Psychedelics and Plant Medicine: Brigitte touches on her experiences with psychedelics, framing them as a significant part of her journey and exploration into the realms of consciousness and healing.
- Cannabis Advocacy: A proponent for the healing properties of cannabis, Brigitte talks about the plant’s integral role in wellness and its emerging acceptance within society.
- End-of-Life Doula Work: As a death doula, Brigitte offers insights into the profound nature of supporting individuals at the end of their lives, an extension of her nurturing spirit and herbal knowledge.
- Healing and Stewardship: The intrinsic link between the health of our planet and the health of humanity, emphasizing the responsibility of herbalists as stewards of the earth.
- Herbalism as a Career Path: The growth and evolution of herbalism as a mainstream career choice, influenced by platforms like TikTok and the rise of herb schools.
- Evolution of Herbalism: Brigitte discusses the evolution of herbalism from a tight-knit community to a widespread movement, touching on the challenges and opportunities for young herbalists today.
"The healing of our planet coincides with the healing of humanity. And when our planet is sick, humanity's sick. And so you can't really be an herbalist without really being a steward."
May the past, present, and future of herbalism come alive in this insightful exchange.
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About Brigitte Mars
Brigitte Mars is an herbalist and nutritional consultant of natural health with almost fifty years of experience. She teaches herbal medicine at Naropa University and at the School of Health Mastery in Iceland.Â
She has taught at Omega Institute, Esalen, Kripalu, Sivananda Yoga Ashram, Envision, Tribal Visions, Unify, Sister Winds, Arise Festivals, and even The Mayo Clinic. She is a founding and professional member of the American Herbalist Guild.
Brigitte is the author of many books and DVDs, including The Natural First Aid Handbook, Natural Remedies for Mental and Emotional Health, The Country Almanac of Home Remedies, The Desktop Guide to Herbal Medicine, Beauty by Nature, Addiction Free Naturally, The Sexual Herbal, Healing Herbal Teas, Rawsome! and co-author of The Hempnut Cookbook. Her latest project is a phone app called iPlant. Brigitte is also a psychedelic sitter and end-of-life doula.
You can stay connected with Brigitte Mars on her website at brigittemars.com, on Facebook, on Instagram, or on TikTok.
about herbs for over 50 years. It is my honor and joy to share what I have learned with you, and to introduce you to my fellow herbalists and plant lovers!
Rosemary….I graduated from your amazing course in 2017 and have shared the knowledge (and passion) with young and old! Love Brigitte Mars! Her Desktop Guide to Herbal Medicine sits next to many of your books and all of them are accessed often. Thank you for doing these Elder podcasts….so powerful. I am sharing them too! Sending love and light. Kathy
PS- I live by an amazing lake and welcome my nettles! I also have a pick your own blueberry field and the rules are simple….eat as many as you wish and thank the bush.
Kathy, so lovely to hear from you. Thank you for listening in. I’ve been so enjoying doing these ‘inner views’ and am just glad to know others are enjoying them as well.
Rosemary, I loved the interview with Brigitte. I always learn so much with every episode. Thank you, love and blessings Cynthia
Hi, Cynthia, warm herbal greetings. Thanks for listening in to these ‘inner views’. Each one is so different and unique, but what unites each of them is the passion each person has for the plants and their life long devotion to them. Enjoy!!! Many more to go!