This episode of “Voices of our Herbal Elders” brings an intimate conversation with Phyllis Light, a revered herbalist whose deep roots in Southern folk medicine illuminate her profound connection with the healing power of plants.
Born into a lineage of herbalists, Phyllis carries the wisdom of her Creek/Cherokee heritage, blending it with her extensive knowledge acquired over more than four decades in natural health and healing. As the founder and director of the Appalachian Center for Natural Health, Phyllis has dedicated her life to educating others about the efficacy and sanctity of traditional herbalism, sharing insights that bridge the past with the present to inspire future generations of herbalists.
Personal Journey and Influences
Phyllis shares her rich heritage and the influential figures in her life, including her family and notable herbalists, who shaped her path in the world of herbal medicine.
Southern Folk Medicine
The discussion delves into the distinct characteristics, historical significance, and modern relevance of Southern folk medicine, emphasizing its contribution to American herbal traditions.
Herbal Advocacy and Sustainability
Phyllis advocates for the responsible use and conservation of native plants, critiquing the commercial exploitation of resources like American Ginseng and urging herbalists to prioritize ecological stewardship.
Mentorship and Education
The conversation highlights the importance of hands-on learning and mentorship in herbal education, addressing the challenges faced by new herbalists in a rapidly digitizing world.
Personal Herbal Allies and Healing Stories
Phyllis recounts personal anecdotes and testimonies to the profound healing capacities of plants, sharing intimate experiences with herbs like American Ginseng, Blue Vervain, and Sumac.
Community and Disaster Response
Reflecting on her experience during Hurricane Katrina, Phyllis illustrates the herbal community’s role in crisis intervention and the power of grassroots healing initiatives.
In the forward of her excellent book, Southern Folk Medicine, I shared “when I first met Phyllis Light several years ago at an herb conference, I was fully captivated by this vibrant, enthusiastic herbalist from the South. She was not only brilliant, but also funny, one of the best storytellers ever, and she was completely impassioned, like me, by the plants.”
I hope you enjoy this Inner-View as much as I did! If you do, please share this episode with others!
“You don't have to believe a plant will work. They evolved to do their job, and our liver evolved along with us over thousands of years to welcome it to do its job.”
May the past, present, and future of herbalism come alive in this insightful exchange.
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About Phyllis Light
Phyllis D. Light, a fourth generation herbalist and healer, has studied and worked with herbs, foods, and other healing techniques for over 30 years. Her studies in traditional Southern folk medicine began in the deep woods of North Alabama with lessons from her grandmother, whose herbal and healing knowledge had its roots in her Creek/Cherokee heritage. Phyllis is the director of the Appalachian Center for Natural Health in Arab, Alabama, which offers both online classes and in-person workshops. Phyllis continues to maintain an active private practice and consults with clients and offers health educational classes for businesses. She is on the faculty of the Matthew Wood Institute of Herbalism and the American Institute of Naturopathy.
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!
Thank you Rosemary, loved the interview. I have a deep Southern heritage, even though I spent more of my life in the desert southwest. It’s very interesting the knowledge Phyllis has to offer. As always you are a treasure. Much love Cynthia