In this engaging episode of “Voices of our Herbal Elders,” I have the pleasure of speaking with the legendary Ed Smith, affectionately known as Herbal Ed. With over 50 years of experience, Ed has been a cornerstone in the revitalization of American herbalism. From his early days working with renowned figures like Dr. John Christopher and Ann Wigmore to co-founding Herb Pharm, Ed shares his rich journey filled with wisdom, humor, and profound insights. Join us as we delve into his incredible stories of herbal adventures, his favorite plant allies, and the timeless lessons he’s learned along the way.
Early Influences and Inspirations
Ed Smith’s journey into herbalism was profoundly shaped by his early work with Ann Wigmore at the Hippocrates Health Institute, where he was introduced to the power of raw foods and herbal remedies. His path further intertwined with the teachings of Dr. John Christopher, a pivotal figure in modern herbalism, whose work and philosophy greatly influenced Ed’s approach to healing. Additionally, Ed’s experimentation with Cannabis and other psychoactive plants opened his eyes to the profound effects plants can have on neurochemistry, solidifying his commitment to the herbal path.
Founding Herb Pharm
The establishment of Herb Pharm with his partner Sara Katz marked a significant milestone in Ed’s career. Starting from their kitchen, Herb Pharm grew into a leading producer of high-quality herbal products, setting industry standards. Ed’s dedication to quality and integrity was evident in every aspect of the business, from the careful cultivation of herbs to the education of aspiring herbalists through their intern program. This program not only provided invaluable hands-on experience but also helped foster a new generation of knowledgeable and passionate herbalists.
Herbal Stories and Healing Experiences
Throughout his career, Ed encountered numerous instances where herbs demonstrated their profound healing abilities. One particularly dramatic story involved a young man with pneumonia at an herb retreat, where Ed’s application of traditional herbal treatments, including Lobelia and Dr. Christopher’s Herbal Composition Formula Powder, saved the young man’s life. Such experiences underscored the potent efficacy of herbal remedies and reinforced Ed’s belief in their transformative power.
Wisdom from the Elders
Ed’s work has always been deeply rooted in the wisdom passed down from previous generations of herbalists. Influences like Samuel Thompson and other herbal pioneers taught him the importance of direct experience with plants and the invaluable knowledge gained from observing and interacting with nature. Reflecting on the current state of herbalism, Ed emphasizes the need for aspiring herbalists to discern good information from misinformation and to build their practice on a foundation of personal, hands-on experience with plants.
Favorite Plant Allies
Ed shares a deep connection with several versatile and commonly used herbs, such as St. John’s Wort and Plantain. These plants, readily available and used for centuries, serve multiple purposes in herbal medicine. St. John’s Wort, for example, is celebrated for its applications ranging from nerve pain to bladder irritation, while Plantain is renowned for its wound-healing properties. Ed’s personal anecdotes and practical advice highlight the enduring value of these plant allies in everyday herbal practice.
“You’ve got to hang out with the plants. Learn what Plantain looks like in January, how it tastes, smells, and feels. That's where the real knowledge lies.”
May the past, present, and future of herbalism come alive in this insightful exchange.
About “Herbal Ed” Smith
Ed Smith, popularly known as “Herbal Ed,” has been working as a medical herbalist and herbal apothecary since 1975.
He is co-founder (1979) and co-owner of Herb Pharm, a regenerative organic herb farm and producer of herbal healthcare products in southern Oregon.
He is an internationally known teacher and lecturer on herbal medicine and pharmacy, wild-herb conservation and propagation, and he presents at many herbal gatherings, symposiums and expositions throughout the United States, Europe, Asia and the South Pacific.
Ed is a co-founder of the American Herbalist Guild, the American Herbal Products Association and United Plant Savers, and serves on the advisory board of the American Botanical Council.
In 2023 Ed was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Nutrition Business Journal.
In 2016, Ed was the recipient of the American Botanical Council’s prestigious Champion Award.
In 2013 he was awarded an honorary Doctor of Science degree by the National College of Naturopathic Medicine for his lifelong work and achievements in botanical medicine.
Ed taught at The California School of Herbal Studies for eleven years, is a guest lecturer at Bastyr University and National College of Naturopathic Medicine, and has guest lectured on herbal medicine at Purdue University and Harvard Medical School.
For two years (1978-80) Ed worked and co-lectured with Dr. John Christopher, and, with him and others, co-founded and served on the board of directors of the Foundation for Natural Living and Pacific College of Naturopathic Medicine.
For two years (1975 -77) Ed worked with Dr. Ann Wigmore at the Hippocrates Health Institute in Boston where he was senior lecturer, a raw-food nutrition counselor, and a massage therapist.
Now, 45 years after the founding of Herb Pharm, the company continues to be an herb-industry leader, and an innovator in herb extraction, wild-herb propagation and regenerative organic agriculture. And today, although supposedly retired, Ed still plays a vital role as advisor and herbal ambassador for Herb Pharm.
Ed currently lives with his wife, Nok, in Hua Hin, Thailand.
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!
Fantastic,Fun, Educational Experience of Organic Teachers. Blessed to have been able to Listen, Learn & Remember the Love & Inspirational Healings of the Green world. Namaste