I recently arrived to speak at an event on plants and one of the women attending said that until I started speaking she thought I was a designer. I am well aware that many may look at me and not see what their idea of a medicine woman or herbalist looks like. I love that! Right away, it's a great opportunity to begin the dialogue regarding what exactly is an herbalist, authenticity and how can herbalism be practiced in the city. I am a single mother of three, who owns her own business, of African American descent, loves fashion and I am a trained Master Herbalist. This is the portrait of a modern urban herbalist. The study of herbalism is the most defining aspect of my life. It is incorporated in all areas of my life from the way I raise my children to my basic everyday decisions.

How does a woman raised in Brooklyn living an urban lifestyle choose the herbal way? Let me give you a brief background. Born and raised in Guyana until I was in my early teens I was no stranger to natural/nature medicine, it was part of my breeding. As with many of us of Caribbean heritage, "bush medicine" was the back bone to our healing process. In retrospect many of our grandparents or community elders were herbalists in their own rights.

What is an herbalist? Herbalists are people who dedicate their lives to working with medicinal plants. This includes grandma who worked "magic" plants, native American healers, curanderas, holistic medical doctors, naturopaths, medicine makers, herbal farmers, writers, mid-wives, and researchers, to name a few. While we are all varied in our work we are all united by a deep respect and love for life, especially the relationship between plants and humans.

more from Karen

Apprentice at Sacred Vibes Our apprenticeship program is an opportunity for women to reconnect to their divinity and to develop a deep connection with our green guides. Please download an informational .pdf to get more info on the program here Past articles authored by Karen Herbs for a Healthy Summer An Herbal Approach to H1N1 How to Recognize Stress in our Children Healthy Aging Karen in the news Click to download a .pdf of Sacred press clippings Download the recently written New York Times Article

Practicing herbalism in modern times is possible and enjoyable. We all use herbs in our daily regimen. We use herbs and spices when we cook and eat. What about the ginger beer and just beer in general, which has a large component of hops, an herb known for its relaxing properties.

Some of the herbs bring us unexpected medicinal values. For example, do you eat curry often? Curry is a mix of many different spices, included in those are cumin and turmeric. Both of which are highly beneficial for the digestive system along with other body systems. Turmeric gives curry its bright yellow color, but, did you know that it's loaded with benefits for the body? It is a major anti-oxidant, and can be used for liver problems, digestive problems, circulatory issues, skin disorders, diabetes, cancer, high cholesterol; allergies and arthritis, there are many more uses for this herb/spice. How about thyme? Most of us put Thyme in every dish we prepare. Thyme provides our bodies with the most effective and usable form of vitamin C for our bodies. It's great for cough, colds, flus, indigestion, ringworm, athletes' foot, gum infections, and ringworm. Did you know that herbs can be used as an aphrodisiac and on an entirely different level, a method of birth control?

In short, we are all using herbs each day in our diet. How can we expand on that knowledge of what a specific herb does to benefit a specific body system? How can you use the knowledge of herbs to bring peace of mind, grounded spirituality, beautify your body and prevent disease? Consult with an herbalist. Become empowered to speed your own healing. Take control for your own well being.

"She is easy to talk with and I feel comfortable coming to her with my health concerns. She has recommended some great teas and supplements which have aided me in living a healthier lifestyle." ~Jackie	Not sure what you need? Need to address a specific issue? Then schedule a one-on-one in person or telephone consultation with Sacred's Master Herbalist, Karen Rose. Our consultations are in depth using visual meditation and other intuitive healing methods to create a balance of spirit and body. To schedule an appointment, please fill out the form below and Karen will get in touch with you.
		Consultation Fee: The first hour is $200. Clients may opt to add on to the first hour in 15 minute intervals at $50 per interval. Cost for all herbal preparations is separate.
	HERBAL CONSULTATIONS