Understanding Herb Safety: What You Need to Know Before Using Herbs for Your Health

Herbs have been used for centuries to support health and well-being. They offer natural remedies for various ailments, but it’s crucial to use them safely. This guide will provide you with detailed information on how to use herbs wisely, taking into account how they affect individuals differently, their interactions with medications, and their quality and sourcing.

How Herbs Affect You Individually

Herbs can affect each person differently based on a variety of factors. Understanding these differences can help you use herbs more safely and effectively.

Your Unique Body

Every person’s body responds to herbs differently. Factors such as age, health conditions, and individual body chemistry all play a role. For example, older adults may metabolize herbs more slowly than younger people, while individuals with chronic health conditions may need extra caution, as their bodies can process herbs in unique ways. Even someone with a sensitive stomach might experience digestive upset from an herb that others tolerate easily. It’s always best to start with a low dose and observe how your body responds before increasing it.

Allergies and Sensitivities

Herbs, like any other substance, can cause allergic reactions or sensitivities. People who are allergic to certain plants may also react to herbs from the same plant family. For example, if you’re allergic to daisies, you might also react to echinacea or chamomile. Allergic reactions can range from mild symptoms, like itching or rash, to more serious effects, such as difficulty breathing. To minimize risk, start with a small amount of any new herb and carefully observe your body’s response. If you experience any adverse symptoms, stop using the herb immediately and consult a healthcare provider.

Herb and Medication Interactions

Drug Interactions

Herbs can affect how well medications work, either enhancing, diminishing, or canceling their effects. For example:

• St. John’s Wort: Often used for depression, can interfere with medications like birth control pills and antidepressants, making them less effective.
• Ginger: Known for easing nausea, it can increase the effects of blood-thinning medications, which might raise the risk of bleeding.
• Rose hips, and Marshmallow: can prevent the absorption rate of the medications you take.

If you’re taking medications, it’s essential to check if any herbs you’re considering might interact with them. This can help you avoid complications and ensure that both your medications and herbs are working as intended.

Managing Interactions

To manage potential interactions, always inform your healthcare provider about all herbs and supplements you’re taking. They can help you understand possible interactions and adjust your medications or herb use as needed. Keep an up-to-date list of all supplements and medications to review during appointments. Some herbs can be safely separated from medications or other herbs, for example, taking one in the morning and another at night, or leaving a few hours between them, to reduce interaction risks. However, some herbs should not be combined at all, or should be avoided entirely with certain medications, because they can amplify effects, reduce effectiveness, or cause harmful side effects. Always research or consult a knowledgeable professional before combining herbs or taking them with medications

Counterindications

Counterindications are situations where herbs are just not indicated, and that means you should not use them. This includes situations like being pregnant, if you're breast feeding, or have a condition that will likely be affected by various herbs. When it comes to your health it's important to ensure that you understand that herbs are not a whole lot different than the medications you get from the doctor, so it's good to know the counterindications of the herbs you are working with.

Additional Considerations

Herbs & Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Not all herbs are safe during pregnancy. Some can increase the risk of miscarriage, early labor, birth defects, or other complications. Herbs can also affect breast milk; both in volume and composition, and may pass certain compounds to your baby. Just like pharmaceuticals, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider before taking any herb while pregnant or breastfeeding. Always do your research and check before using anything during this sensitive time to protect both you and your child.

Herbs & Children

As practicing herbalists, it's important to understand that children come in all shapes and sizes, and have yet you acclimate to the world like grown adults have so herbal use in children requires special consideration. Not all plants are kid, baby, or child safe and it's important to know what to avoid when working with kids.

Herbs that are generally unsafe for babies and young children

• Peppermint (Mentha × piperita) – Can cause breathing issues or worsen reflux in infants; strong essential oils are risky.
• Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) – Toxic if ingested; can cause breathing problems if inhaled in high amounts.
• Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) – Contains liver-toxic compounds (pyrrolizidine alkaloids); never internal use in children.
• Yohimbe (Pausinystalia johimbe) – Stimulating and potentially dangerous for heart and blood pressure; not safe for kids.
• Castor (Ricinus communis) seeds – Highly toxic if ingested; can be fatal.
• Senna (Senna alexandrina) and other strong laxatives – Can cause severe cramping or electrolyte imbalance.
• Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) – Strong antimicrobial; generally avoided in infants because it’s harsh on liver.

Herbs that are generally safe for babies and young children

• Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) – Calming, can soothe mild colic or help with sleep.
• Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) – Helps with gas and mild digestive discomfort.
• Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) – Gentle calming and sleep support.
• Ginger (Zingiber officinale) – Mildly helps nausea or upset stomach (use small amounts for older babies).
• Red Raspberry Leaf (Rubus idaeus) – Usually used in older children for mild tonic support.
• Oatstraw (Avena sativa) – Gentle nutritional support, calming, can help mild restlessness.

Dosages and safety profiles can differ significantly from those for adults, and can be determined by using the Clarks method, Fred's, or Youngs method to understand and apply safe dosing for children.  Always seek guidance from a healthcare provider before giving herbs to children. 

Supplements vs. Whole Herbs

Herbal supplements can be more potent than whole herbs due to their concentrated forms. When using supplements, choose products with standardized extracts and verified quality to ensure consistent potency and safety. It's also important to check the max daily dose of any one given herb, because sometimes supplements sold in stores can halve much more than the recommended daily dose for safe use.

Herb Solubility & Bio-availability

This might sound strange when we think about plants, but not every plant you work with can just be thrown into some water and chugged. The reason for this resides in the chemical makeup of the plant and its constituents. So what does that mean? Well, it means that how you extract the plant to use it matters. 

• Making infusions = water soluble.
• Making tinctures = alcohol and glycerin soluble. 
• Making oils = lipid or fat soluble

Each plant either has, or doesn't have, constituents that are soluble in the above solvents. Let me explain, if you decide to use a plant like turmeric as an infusion (water solvent), because someone told you that doing that would be useful as an anti-inflammatory, you might think they were right. But, if you understood that the constituent inside the turmeric, that's responsible for its anti-inflammatory effects, is only soluble is lipids, or fats you might decide that water wasn't the best way to extract that plant. 

Now, that also goes for bio-availability. Bio-availability is the extent to which a substance becomes available in the body to have an active effect. Some herbs, such as turmeric, have constituents with low bioavailability, so they are often combined with other herbs that improve absorption and effectiveness in the body. So, it's important to know the plant you are working with and what you want out of the plant before you try to use it. 

Mixing Herbs

Combining different herbs can enhance their effects, but it can also lead to problems. Here’s what you should know:

Synergistic Effects

Sometimes, combining herbs can make them work better together. For example, using ginger and turmeric together can enhance their anti-inflammatory effects. This synergy can be beneficial if the herbs complement each other and don’t cause adverse effects.

Conflicting Effects

On the flip side, some herbs might counteract each other or cause unwanted effects when used together. For example, one herb might raise blood pressure while another lowers it, leading to conflicting effects. 

Be cautious when mixing herbs and consult with a knowledgeable herbalist or healthcare provider if you’re unsure. When combining herbs, start with small amounts and observe how you feel. If you notice positive effects without any negative side effects, you can continue using them together. You can also use resources to determine what plants go well together, and which should you should avoid combining. 

Purity and Sourcing of Herbs

The quality and source of herbs are crucial for their safety and effectiveness. Here’s how to ensure you’re using high-quality herbs:

Quality Control

Choose herbs from reputable sources that follow strict quality control standards. Look for certifications or seals from organizations such as the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) or ConsumerLab, which indicate that the herbs have been independently tested for purity, potency, and safety. Avoid products from companies that make exaggerated health claims or provide little information about their sourcing and manufacturing practices. High-quality herbs should be free from contaminants, accurately labeled, and consistent in strength, so you know exactly what you’re taking.

Where Herbs Come From

The origin of your herbs plays a critical role in their quality, safety, and effectiveness. Herbs grown in polluted soils, treated with pesticides, or processed under poor conditions can be contaminated with harmful chemicals, heavy metals, or microbes that may affect your health. Choosing organically grown herbs from reputable suppliers helps minimize these risks. Whenever possible, select herbs that are grown locally or from sources with transparent standards for cleanliness, sustainability, and ethical harvesting. Knowing where your herbs come from not only protects your own health but also supports responsible practices that safeguard the environment, the workers who grow and harvest the plants, and the communities that rely on these resources

What to Look for When Shopping Online for Herbs

• Reputable supplier: Established companies with good reviews and transparent sourcing.
• Certifications: USDA Organic, USP (United States Pharmacopeia), ConsumerLab, or other recognized quality seals.
• Clear labeling: Scientific (botanical) names, part of the plant used, and dosage instructions.
• Ingredient transparency: Only the herb listed, without hidden fillers or additives.
• Third-party testing: Evidence of purity, potency, and absence of contaminants like heavy metals, pesticides, or microbes.
• Ethical and sustainable sourcing: Harvested responsibly, especially for wildcrafted herbs.
• Customer support: Ability to ask questions about sourcing, preparation, or safety.
• Positive reviews and testimonials: Especially regarding product quality, accuracy, and consistency.

What to Avoid When Shopping Online for Herbs

• Vague or missing sourcing information: Companies that don’t disclose where or how the herbs are grown.
• Exaggerated health claims: “Cures everything” or “miracle herb” statements are a red flag.
• No scientific or botanical names: Only common names can lead to misidentification.
• Unverified or unsafe suppliers: Unknown brands with little to no online presence or customer feedback.
• Unclear or inconsistent labeling: Missing plant part, dosage, or preparation method.
• Suspiciously low prices: Extremely cheap products may compromise quality or purity.
• Lack of third-party testing: No proof of safety, contaminants, or potency.
• Hidden fillers or additives: Herbs mixed with unknown substances without clear labeling.
• Poor packaging or storage: Herbs exposed to light, moisture, or improper containers that can reduce potency.

Unsafe Harvesting Locations

• Near roads or highways – Plants can accumulate heavy metals and exhaust pollutants from vehicle emissions.
• Industrial areas or factories – Soil and air may be contaminated with chemicals, heavy metals, or other toxins.
• Agricultural fields treated with pesticides or herbicides – These chemicals can linger in plants and soil.
• Urban or residential areas – Contamination from runoff, lawn chemicals, or pet waste is common.
• Landfills, dumps, or areas with waste runoff – High risk of chemical and microbial contamination.
• Sites near mining operations – Soil and water may contain toxic metals like lead or arsenic.
• Waterways near chemical plants or sewage discharge – Aquatic or riparian plants can absorb pollutants.

Ethical and Environmental Considerations

When choosing herbs, consider their environmental and ethical impacts:

Sustainable Harvesting

Support companies that practice sustainable harvesting. Overharvesting can deplete herb populations and damage ecosystems. Look for products that come from sustainable sources and contribute to conservation efforts.

Fair Trade

Opt for herbs from companies that adhere to fair trade principles. This ensures that workers are paid fairly and work in good conditions. Fair trade practices also support ethical and environmentally friendly methods of production.

Preparing and Using Herbs

How you prepare and use herbs can affect their safety and effectiveness. Here’s what you should consider:

Extraction types

Herbs can be prepared and used in a variety of forms, including infusions (herbal teas), capsules, tinctures (alcohol-based extracts), oils, and powders. Each form differs in strength, potency, and how the body absorbs the herb, so not every herb is best used in every form. For example, some herbs may be more effective as an infusion than as a tincture. When choosing a preparation, consider your goals and the desired effects of the herb

For example:

• Infusions: Typically milder and slower to act but useful for daily health maintenance. Also needed when extracting mucilage.
• Capsules: Provide a concentrated dose and are convenient for regular use.
• Tinctures: Stronger and absorbed quickly but can be more potent and need careful dosage.
• Oils: Especially useful for external applications or for herbs with fat- or lipid-soluble constituents.

Dosage

Starting with a lower dose is a good practice when using new herbs. Gradually increase the dose if you don’t experience any adverse effects. Avoid exceeding the recommended daily dosage for any herb, as higher amounts can lead to side effects.

For instance, if you’re starting on a new herbal supplement, begin with the lowest recommended dose and monitor your body’s response. Adjust the dosage as needed, based on how you feel and any guidance from a healthcare provider.

Children under 2 should avoid use of herbs without being under the care of a qualified herbalist. Children over 2 years of age are usually dosed at a rate according to their age under the "Young's Rule". 

Rule: Add 12 to the child's age. Divide the child's age by this total. For example the dosage for a four-year-old would be 4/ 16 =.25 or 1/4 of the adult dosage. 

Talking to Your Healthcare Provider

Consulting with your healthcare provider before starting any new herb is essential, particularly if you have existing health conditions or are taking prescription or over-the-counter medications. Herbs, while natural, can still interact with medications, amplify or reduce their effects, or trigger side effects in sensitive individuals. A healthcare provider can give personalized guidance, help you understand potential interactions, and advise on safe dosages or suitable alternatives.

It’s important to keep your provider informed about all the herbs, supplements, and vitamins you are using, not just the new ones you plan to try. This comprehensive overview allows them to evaluate your overall regimen, spot possible interactions, and make any necessary adjustments to your medications or herbal use. In some cases, they may recommend spacing certain herbs and medications apart, adjusting timing, or avoiding certain combinations altogether.

Maintaining an up-to-date list of everything you take, including herbs, supplements, and pharmaceuticals, is a practical way to stay safe. Bring this list to every appointment and review it regularly. By keeping open communication with your healthcare provider, you not only protect your own health but also ensure that you are using herbs in the most effective and responsible way possible

Common Herbs

Here’s a closer look at some popular herbs and their safety considerations:

Echinacea: Echinacea is often used to boost the immune system and prevent colds. It’s generally safe for short-term use, but it can cause allergic reactions in some people, particularly those allergic to plants in the daisy family. If you have allergies, start with a small amount and monitor for any reactions.

Ginseng: Ginseng is known for its energy-boosting and stress-relieving properties. However, it can interact with medications like blood thinners and affect blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes or take anticoagulants, use ginseng cautiously and consult with your healthcare provider.

Ginger: Ginger is used for digestive issues and inflammation. It’s safe for most people but can interact with anticoagulant medications, increasing the risk of bleeding. If you’re on blood thinners, monitor for any bleeding or bruising while using ginger.

Turmeric: Turmeric is valued for its anti-inflammatory benefits and is often used for joint pain. It can interact with blood-thinning medications and affect blood sugar levels. If you have bleeding disorders or diabetes, consult with a healthcare provider before using turmeric.

Final Thoughts on Herbal Use

Herbs can be a valuable addition to your health regimen, offering support for digestion, immunity, relaxation, and overall well-being. However, using them safely is essential to ensure that their benefits outweigh potential risks. Each person’s body reacts differently to herbs, and factors such as age, existing health conditions, and overall body chemistry can influence how an herb affects you. Being mindful of these individual differences helps you tailor herbal use to your needs and promotes a more effective and enjoyable experience.

Equally important is understanding how herbs interact with medications, supplements, or other herbs. Some combinations can enhance effects, reduce effectiveness, or even cause adverse reactions. Choosing high-quality, ethically sourced products is another key factor in safe herbal use. Herbs grown in clean, sustainable conditions and processed under transparent quality standards are less likely to contain contaminants, pesticides, or mislabeled dosages, protecting both your health and the environment.

To maximize the benefits of herbal remedies while minimizing risks, always consult with a healthcare professional before introducing new herbs into your routine. Use herbs as part of a balanced approach to health that includes proper nutrition, exercise, lifestyle adjustments, and professional guidance. By combining informed choices with responsible use, herbs can become a safe and effective tool to support your long-term health and well-being.

Passion Flower: A Botanical Monograph

Purchase the Passion Flower Monograph here ---> https://thegreenwitchescorner.com/passiflora-incarnata-monograpgh 

Sources:

The Herbal Academy. (n.d.). Passiflora incarnata monograph — Herbarium. The Herbal Academy. https://herbarium.theherbalacademy.com/monograph/passionflower/?ap_id=thegreenwitch 

Thomson PDR. (2004). Passionflower. In PDR for Herbal Medicines (3rd ed., pp. 622–623). Medical Economics Company.

European Medicines Agency. (2014). Community herbal monograph on Passiflora incarnata L., herba. EMA. https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/medicines/herbal/passiflorae-herba

Brouns, A., Lechtenberg, M., & Hensel, A. (2025). Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata): Quality of food supplements versus registered herbal medicinal products. Planta Medica, 91(9), 532–540. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40245939/

National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. (2025). Passionflower: Usefulness and Safety. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/passionflower

Harit, M. K., Mundhe, N., Tamoli Sr, S., Pawar, V., Bhapkar, V., Kolhe, G., … Agarwal, A. (2024). Randomized, double‑blind, placebo‑controlled, clinical study of Passiflora incarnata in participants with stress and sleep problems. Cureus, 16(3), e56530. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38646244/

Janda, K., Wojtkowska, K., Jakubczyk, K., Antoniewicz, J., & Skonieczna‑Żydecka, K. (2020). Passiflora incarnata in neuropsychiatric disorders — a systematic review. Nutrients, 12(12), 3894. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33352740/

Ngan, A., & Conduit, R. (2011). A double‑blind, placebo‑controlled investigation of the effects of Passiflora incarnata (passionflower) herbal tea on subjective sleep quality. Phytotherapy Research, 25(8), 1153–1159. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21294203/

5 Health Benefits of NAD Supplements for Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)

Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is an increasingly common condition characterized by fat accumulation in the liver that occurs in individuals who do not consume excessive alcohol. This condition ranges from benign fat buildup to more severe forms like non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which can progress to cirrhosis or liver cancer if left unmanaged. NAFLD is often linked to obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome, making it a critical area of concern in public health.

Recent research suggests that Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD) supplements may offer significant benefits for individuals dealing with NAFLD. This blog delves into what NAD is, its roles in the body, and explores the top five benefits of NAD supplements for managing NAFLD, providing a comprehensive view of how these supplements can aid in liver health.

What is NAD?

Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD) is a crucial coenzyme found in every cell of the body. It exists in two forms: NAD+ (oxidized form) and NADH (reduced form). Both forms are involved in key biochemical processes, including energy production, DNA repair, and cellular health maintenance.

NAD plays a pivotal role in the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary energy carrier in cells. ATP is essential for numerous cellular functions, including protein synthesis, cell division, and repair. NAD’s role extends beyond energy production, as it is also involved in regulating cellular aging and stress responses.

As we age or face health challenges, NAD levels can decline, potentially contributing to various health issues, including NAFLD. Fortunately, NAD levels can be boosted through supplementation, which may offer therapeutic benefits for managing NAFLD.

1. Enhancing Liver Function

The liver is vital for detoxifying the body, processing nutrients, and breaking down fats. In NAFLD, fat accumulates in liver cells, impairing these functions. This fat buildup can result in reduced ability to metabolize fats and increased risk of liver inflammation and damage.

NAD supplements can enhance liver function by supporting the energy needs of liver cells. NAD is essential for ATP production, which fuels various liver processes, including fat metabolism. Adequate NAD levels help the liver perform its functions more effectively, improving overall liver health.

Research has shown that NAD supplementation can improve mitochondrial function in liver cells. Mitochondria are the powerhouses of cells, responsible for producing ATP. By enhancing mitochondrial function, NAD supplements help ensure that the liver has the energy required to perform its critical tasks efficiently. This improvement in liver function can lead to a reduction in fat buildup and better overall liver health.

2. Mitigating Inflammation

Chronic inflammation is a significant factor in the progression of NAFLD. Persistent inflammation can exacerbate liver damage and increase the risk of developing more severe conditions, such as NASH or cirrhosis.

NAD supplements have demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties. NAD assists in activating sirtuins, a group of enzymes that play a role in regulating inflammation and oxidative stress. By boosting NAD levels, these supplements can enhance sirtuin activity, which in turn helps reduce inflammation in the liver.

In addition to activating sirtuins, NAD may support the production of anti-inflammatory molecules. This dual action—enhancing sirtuin activity and supporting anti-inflammatory processes—can contribute to reduced inflammation and improved liver health. Lower inflammation levels can help prevent further liver damage and improve overall liver function.

3. Boosting Fat Metabolism

Efficient fat metabolism is crucial for maintaining liver health and preventing the progression of NAFLD. Fat metabolism involves breaking down and utilizing fats for energy, a process that can be disrupted in individuals with NAFLD, leading to fat accumulation in the liver.

NAD supplements can support fat metabolism by activating enzymes involved in fat processing. Sirtuins, which are influenced by NAD, help regulate fat storage and energy expenditure. By increasing NAD levels, supplements can improve fat breakdown and utilization, reducing fat accumulation in the liver.

Enhanced fat metabolism also supports overall weight management, which is important for managing NAFLD. NAD supplements can help individuals maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of metabolic conditions associated with NAFLD, such as obesity and diabetes.

4. Promoting Cellular Repair

Cells in the liver and throughout the body are subject to damage from oxidative stress, toxins, and normal wear and tear. The liver, due to its role in detoxification, is particularly vulnerable to such damage.

NAD is essential for cellular repair and maintenance, including the repair of damaged DNA. It activates enzymes known as poly(ADP-ribose) polymerases (PARPs), which play a crucial role in fixing damaged DNA. NAD also supports other repair mechanisms that address cellular damage.

In individuals with NAFLD, NAD supplementation can enhance the repair of liver cells affected by fat buildup and inflammation. By improving DNA repair and other cellular repair processes, NAD supplements can help restore liver cell function and promote overall liver health. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with more advanced stages of NAFLD, where cellular damage may be more pronounced.

5. Enhancing Metabolism

Metabolism encompasses all the chemical processes in the body that maintain life, including the conversion of food into energy. A healthy metabolism is essential for weight management, fat levels, and overall health.

NAD supplements can positively impact overall metabolism by supporting key metabolic pathways related to energy production, fat oxidation, and glucose metabolism. Improved metabolism can aid in weight management and reduce the risk of metabolic disorders associated with NAFLD.

NAD supplementation helps the body utilize nutrients more effectively, supporting overall health and well-being. By boosting metabolism, NAD supplements can contribute to better weight management and a reduced risk of developing conditions linked to NAFLD.

Integrating NAD Supplements into Your Health Routine

If you’re considering NAD supplements for managing NAFLD, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure they are appropriate for your individual needs. Quality supplements from reputable sources should be selected, and recommended dosages followed.

Incorporating NAD supplements into your routine should be complemented by other healthy lifestyle changes. A balanced diet, regular physical activity, and avoidance of excessive alcohol are essential for maintaining liver health. These lifestyle changes can enhance the effectiveness of NAD supplements and contribute to better overall health.

Potential Risks and Considerations

While NAD supplements offer potential benefits, it's important to be aware of potential risks and considerations. Some individuals may experience side effects or interactions with other medications. Consulting with a healthcare provider ensures that NAD supplementation is safe and appropriate for your health conditions.

Conclusion

Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease presents significant challenges, but NAD supplements offer a promising approach to support liver health. By enhancing liver function, reducing inflammation, boosting fat metabolism, supporting cellular repair, and improving overall metabolism, NAD supplements can play a key role in managing NAFLD.

Incorporating NAD supplements into a comprehensive health strategy, alongside lifestyle changes, may provide significant benefits for managing NAFLD. Always seek professional medical advice to tailor a plan that fits your specific health needs and to develop a personalized approach to managing NAFLD effectively.

By taking proactive steps and leveraging the benefits of NAD supplements, you can support your liver health and work towards a healthier, more balanced life.

Getting Ready To Launch Our First Witchy Course!

Hey everyone!

These last few months have been just so busy! In addition to working on the website conversion I have also been keeping a secret and now seems like a good time to chat about it.

So, even though I have been neck deep in the bs of doing this conversion I have managed to set aside some time to work on some course work, and I am rounding the corner on the first course! I have been keeping this to myself for some time now and have been working on this course for a few years on and off, and over the last month I have really been pretty determined to get the course finished and ready to launch. Now I'm not there just yet, but it's pretty close! I have a few more tweaks to make and the marketing side to finish before it becomes available for others to purchase. But, let me tell you all about it! 

Over the last, well most of my life, I have experienced various levels of abuse from many different places which have cause me quite a bit of trauma and bullshit that I had to work through in order to move forward in my life. Once I managed to work through one thing, I found myself wrangling another, or being triggered by some situation that would rock my confidence and make me question myself. After being in therapy for over 10 years and battling myself in the pursuit of self love, acceptance, and forgiveness in order to discover who I am and rebuild myself from the ground up. I decided that I would collect all the tools that I used to help myself along the process of healing and compile them all in one place so that someone else can use them. I'm calling the course:

Chakras: A 7 Week Magical Journal To Unblocking Cleansing & Balancing Your Energy.

Now before I get into the course, I have to set a disclaimer * This course does not replace the need for professional help, and will not treat or diagnose any mental health issues that you may be facing.  (should you need to seek professional help please don't avoid going to get help)* That said, this course is designed to unearth your shadows and is not for the faint of heart, or for the person who is just not ready to face themselves. 

Our shadows are all the aspects that most of us refuse to acknowledge. They are all the traumas, triggers, behaviors, and learn habits that we formed through the life experience we had. These shadows have formed our mindsets, and unconsciously dictate the actions and behaviors that we display in any given situation, and in order to change them we have to do the following:

1. Identify that there is a problem, behavior, trigger, habit, or reaction that affects us.

2. Accept that there is work that needs to be done.

3. Process what caused the issue (gaining a perspective on how it came to be, and how it developed over the years)

4. Identify how it is affecting your life and what patterns have developed.  (Is it serving you or hindering you?)

5. Make a decision to work towards making a change.

6. Take the necessary steps towards change and growth

So in light of my overly thural nature, I created this course using the chakra systems to deep dive into the depths of the various shadow aspects, because it's the perfect system to use to prevent overwhelming the person taking the course. 

Each chakra system corresponds to a different aspect of the self and allows the person who is taking the course the ability to focus on a single aspect of their shadows at a time. The course is designed to give you supportive tools that guide you through identifying the different areas in your life that my be holding you back, hindering your development, or preventing you from being the best you that you can be and serves as a tool for self reflection. This course is also designed so that you can use it  over and over as a tool to process through each of your shadows in order to unblock, cleanse, and heal through your experiences. 

The course is just about ready for launch and I'll post once I have it ready! 

In the mean time I have work to do! I'll see everyone for this month's twilight meet! have a blessed night!

Update: Details and Progress

 Hey everyone!

I hope everyone has been having a great few weeks! It's been a minute since I last blogged, my apologies, but there have been some major changes that i'm about to let out of the bag! 

So, I've been working to try and figure out how to move forward with my business after closing my store front so I could become more of an online web based store, and in the last few months I have encountered a few setbacks that really irritated me and prevented me from gaining traction where I needed it. I encountered some unforgiving fees and upkeep costs that I wasn't actually informed about when I decided to go with the previous site and payment processor. They were taking large amounts of money from me, because I wasn't "selling" the required amount to avoid the fees and it was just not serving my business.

After some arguments, misunderstandings, and realizations about the whole process, I realized using that processor no longer serves my goals. Canceling with them meant that I would have to shut everything down and convert to an entirely new platform and payment processor. The thought of doing this was super daunting because of everything that I had already built, and starting over from scratch was something I wasn't super happy about. So after reviewing my options I decided that it wasn't worth the headache where I was and split for a more affordable and honest option.

I have selected a new platform to rebuild and have been face deep in website design, product making, and configuring all my marketing avenues so that everything runs smoothly for everyone. This process took me quite a bit of time to finish, and I'm still working on some elements. Over the last couple of days I have finally finalized the setup and the creation of the new website, and will be taking down the old website here in the next few days. As of right now the new web address isn't going to change very much and can be access via ---> https://thegreenwitchescorner.com  

The new website will no longer feature the herb store as the main feature in order to make room for our company mission. However, I will still be selling bulk herbs to those who wish to buy from me. On the new website click "shop herbs" and you will be redirected to our bulk herbs store!  

I have updated our socials with the website switch now that it is built, but I am still working on various things. As I continue to work on the site, you will see new updates as I go along. Creating a web-based business is not an easy process and involves a whole bunch of tech that can get a little overwhelming. I can not tell you how many hours I have spent working back and forth with companies to figure out the process and tweek the stuff that would not work correctly, but I'm super happy with the end result so it was worth it!

In addition to the new website we will be rebranding our colors, logo, and social media groups so that everything under the Green Witches Corner is branded and cohesive. I am also trying to figure out how to combine all the groups back under the main group so that there isn't any more division or confusion when it comes to our company. If you have any suggestions on how I can do that with Facebook that would be fabulous!!!

 As things progress I will be developing a community that is off of the Facebook platform that will serve as the foundational community group, but the details on that are TBD. I will send out an invite link once I have more information.

The GWC will also be converting our main products over to courses, workshops, and ebooks to better suit the community learning environment. The courses, workshops, and e-books cover three distinct categories to support learning, practice, and growth. 

• Witchcraft Education Series: This section is dedicated to providing a wide range of products and courses designed to deepen your understanding of practice of witchcraft, shadow work, and towards developing your personal practice. 
• DIY Wellness Series: This section is dedicated to offering a diverse range of courses designed to help you learn how to craft up your own products at home. From homemade skincare recipes, to herbal extractions, this series provides you with the knowledge and tools to make your own remedies at home. 
• Business Education Series: This section houses a variety of products and courses tailored to help you build, manage, and grow your business. After all this work building websites and developing courses and products it's only fair that I show you how to do it too! Be your own boss and let me show you how! I want to mention that the business section will also co-link to our business profile Do The Digi Thing so you can also have access to the courses that are developed and hosted on that platform. 

I wanted to cover topics that I enjoy in order to help someone else, and even though I have struggled in many things and changed the way I do things, what I have to offer is still valuable. These three aspects of my life have always been a strong part of who I am. So, I plan to deep dive into what I know, what I have learned, and where I have learned it in order to put together some valuable resources that can help you learn more along your path. 

You will see all these updates, new courses, and changes over time as I am only one human doing all the work.

My mission and vision are big, and I hope that I can help where it's needed, and bring together a strong community of people who want to help each other and grow together. Until my next post... I'm gonna get back to work!

My 30 Day Lymphatic Detox Using Castor Oil

 Alright y'all, I haven't posted a thing about my adventures of detoxing my lymphatic system with castor oil and I figured now would be a good time to do an update. It's been just about 2 weeks since I started and I am not going to lie, I haven't been super consistent in doing this every day. I kept it up for the first 4 days and then needed to give my skin a break, because I was getting pretty itchy under my chin and I wasn't sure if I was developing a rash from using it. So I gave myself a day or so break from everyday use. 

On day six I went back in and started up the process giving myself an on and off again schedule to see if I had any further reaction to it. It turns out that I think it was just my body getting rid of a fungus I have been pledged with that was just really itchy! (Yea I know, gross right! Well, moving to the desert environment really changed up my skin) Years back I had gotten, and been dealing with, pinea visocolor (an annoying topical fungus that loves hot environments) since just after I moved to new mexico, and nothing I have tried to get rid of it did me any good. I hated it, and with my skin tone, it translated into dark spots in some areas of my skin and light spots in other areas, it was really present on my neck and chest, and only showed its ugly head in the summer months. I had been living with it coming and going for a really long time so I just kinda dealt with it. Knowing that the castor oil was also antifungal I also wondered if it would have any effect on the visacolor. But, I wasn't actually using the castor oil for that purpose. 

What I really wanted to do was drain my lymphatic ducts in my face and neck. I had learned a while back that the double chins we get, when we think we are growing extra fat on our face, is actually lymphatic congestion. I Was like, Really? I seriously thought my face was just getting fat. lol. So with the wonderful benefits of castor oil and its ability to move fluids around I wanted to see if what I learned about the double chin was in fact true. I'm not all the way through my thirty days yet, but I have noticed a few differences and I plan to share a couple of pictures throughout this post from when I first started to today, 14 days later. 

The first change that I noticed was my skin texture. I have been exceptionally dry for a while now as I continue to detox my liver, and I can really feel it in my skin. When massaging the castor oil on my face it was super thick, and it feels like it kinda sits on your skin. I was super worried that it would make my face too oily and maybe even clog up my pores. I hadn't checked to see if castor oil was non-comedogenic and my skin type is usually a combination type, so if I get too much oil on my nose area i'll definitely pop a pimple or two, and I hate those! 

The next thought I had when I was applying it on night one (oh yea, I decided that I was going to do this every night before bed) was... damn! I'm gonna get all this oil all over my pillow! I was sure it was just gonna sit all over my skin and smear all over everything while I slept. I actually did my best to sleep totally on my back the first night, because of this, but of course once you're asleep that kinda goes out the window. In the morning I did see some oil on my pillow, but it wasn't like a huge mess so that was a relief! It seems that once you apply the oil to your face, even though it feels like it sits on the skin, it actual absorbs kinda nicely. In the morning I didn't need to wash anything off and my skin felt uniformly moist. 

The second thing I noticed was a lack of congestion. I always wake up congested, and need to go blow my nose to breathe a little better. However, I just didn't need to go do that and it was noticeable! It was actually pretty freaking awesome!! 

By the end of the fourth day after I took my break due to the itchiness, I realised that my penia visocolor was gone. Like it's totally resolved! Not a spot, or mark left! I mean years I had this crap and all it took was a little castor oil for a few days! Are you serious? Well fuck... That's when I realized that the iching was because the fungus was dying, and I decided to go back to using the castor oil more often. 

In an effort to keep at it, I failed a bit due to being distracted, tired, and unmotivated to take the extra time to
put it on my face and do the massaging. Hey I'm human... I missed a total of 4 nights. 

After 14 days my skin is much more moisturized and there have been NO breakouts! I mean I was sure that it would happen, or I would get at least one, but it turns out castor oil just doesn't do that. 

The last thing I noticed is that the double chin seems to be getting smaller... 😲 Seriously? Okay, maybe that little tidbit of information that I ran across might actually be true! Now after losing my mommy parts due to an emergency hysto from stage four endometriosis, I've struggled to keep my weight in check and I go back and forth in my weight. It's a hormone thing and when your body doesn't make hormones, or have the ability to balance them well, that kinda shit happens. But I was for SURE that my double chin was all about the "me packing on some extra weight", not congestion in my face... Nope, it's congestion. Well shit, that's good to know! I think I'll keep this up and get a little more disciplined on remembering to apply it every night.

Oh yea, just a heads up when I apply the castor oil, I put it on like its a lotion or moisturizer and spend a little extra time rubbing the areas where the lymph nodes are in a downward motion to stimulate them to release out and down instead of up. I'm not 100% sure I'm doing this correctly as far as the massaging motions, but I do know that when you rub in the downward direction on your neck and behind your ears they do drain a bit better, so I kept up with that.  

So go ahead and check my day one to two week update, and let me know what you think. Do you think you want to try this yourself? 

If you do, let me know I would love to know your results!

Why I Decided to Rebrand My Business

 Hi everyone!

I am sure that you are beginning to notice that I have started to make some changes in my business and I wanted to give you some insight as to why I have begun to do this. Now I've been on facebook for a really long time and I have struggled to figure out what it is I really want to do with my business. I have a lot of skills, talents, and interests; and if you have followed me for a long time you will know that I haven't really be able to define what it is that I really want to do, or what it is that I stand for. 

I started the Green Witches Corner over 10 years ago on facebook as a place where I could essentially share what I like to do, and it eventually became so much more! As the group began to grow and members started to flow in I was super overwhelmed with what I should be doing. I enlisted the help of others and fumbled my way through the process. At the same time I was also going to school and trying to work for myself to try and create an income for my family. I was doing pop up markets, selling the things that I would make, learning about my interest, and raising my children. This grew into trying my hand in the brick and mortar style business, and I opened a storefront and then failed at it three different times.

Now I'll be the first to tell you that I did not have a clue what I was doing, I just knew that I liked to be creative, work for myself, connect with others, and learn. As a mom of three this wasn't exactly the easiest; and my life came with its own set of challenges that I don't really share, but none the less I did my best to create, give, and provide where I could in my life. 

Back in 2021 after I had a major life change I decided to give the business thing a try one more time. I had spent quite a bit of time in school learning about plant based medicine and alternative health in school, and after the local community lost one of our best health food stores I thought I would try and fill the void in the community with an herb store. Now being a witch, and someone who really liked to learn about plants and the magic they carry I thought that I could manage a storefront like an herb store. Failing at all my other business ventures and learning from those gave me an idea of what not to do. So I connected with the local business development center to learn about all the stuff I didn't know so that I wouldn't fail a fourth time. 

I spent hours and days researching, and defining what I thought I wanted to provide. I crafted spells to define what I needed, and even directed all aspects of what I was looking for so that I could give my intentions a little energy and direct my focus towards my goals. Then I went for it. I thought I planned everything out perfectly. I had a budget, an idea, and a direction. I was crafty enough to make whatever I wanted, and I did have a little help along the way. As things came together the store really took off, and it looked like it was filling the missing void in the community, but things can change in a heartbeat.

Between my own personal flaws, my insecurities, and some outside influences that I had no control over I started to notice a decline in my business that ultimately had me closing my doors just a short 3 years later. I had a lot of feelings about closing my doors, and at first I thought that I would just take everything home and just have an online store where I could just deliver orders to those who ordered. But the time away from the store gave me time to think about what I did and didn't like about having a store. It also helped me define where my weaknesses are.

Yea I'm creative, and yea I know a lot of things, but I just wasn't sure I liked being stuck in a store all day. I sucked at inventory and I didn't have the funds needed to employ anyone to do it for me. If I could have built a business model where I employed people or even understood how that and other things worked, then maybe the store would have been a bit more successful. The reality of the situation was that I just had so many ideas of what I wanted to do while I was there, and not enough courage to create and follow through on a lot of them. I gave myself excuses that limited my growth, and damaged my credibility. 

That brings us to the rebranding... 

Why am I doing it? Well for starters, the online presence that the Green Witches Corner has, that was built over that last decade hasn't really faltered. The goals and values I have for the groups have remained the same over the years, and I think using the name for my herb business just really confused my market. After closing down the shop I ran across a few pieces of information that changed my perspective on what I'm doing, and taught me how to redefine and identify my passions. 

The Green Witches Corner as an organization has always stood for a few things and they are 

1. Community & Connection

2. Learning & Sharing

3. Respect & Understanding

4. Spiritual Growth & Appreciation

5. Freedom of spiritual self expression

As the groups under the organization have grown over the years, my focus on them became distracted by the desire to work for myself, and an inability to understand my passions. I just needed a little nudge to get my focus back in the right direction, so I could redefine what I really want to stand for. So, I'm uncovering my eyes, pulling back the veil, and stepping back into, and coming out into the open with what I have a lot of passion for. 

The green witches corner for the last 9 of the 13 years it's been around, has been the cornerstone for supporting the versatility in practice, and spirituality, with respect between cultures, traditions, and practice. I stand on the fact that what you believe in and what you do are not the same, and what you believe and what you do don't have to be the same either. Spirituality is a very personal thing and so are the practices you hold.

My thoughts behind this are simple, who are you to tell someone else what to believe or what to do? 

Why can't we all gather together as a collective and share what we know with the intention of helping others grow and understand the various perspectives between practices, faith systems, and cultures? There should be no need to ostracize one over the other, because it defeats the purpose of developing a personal spiritual path with practices that divinely connect to you.

So with a huge passion for unity, community, and respect for everyone, I plan to refocus my passions back on building a long standing space where witches, pagans, spiritual, and like minded others can connect, share, develop, and learn from one another without feeling rejected, ostracized, or corrected along their path. Because the last time I checked, the foundations for believing in something, or practicing magic, didn't come from one source. It's universal and foundational, and it's time we get over the power trip, because you don't have to believe or practice by a specific culture, tradition, or pantheon to build and form a personal connection with source along a practical path that aligns with who you are as a person.

Going forward the Green Witches Corner has developed and finalized our mission and vision for the organization and I will stand by creating a safe environment where you can be you!

Company Mission Statement

Creating a vibrant haven where individuals of diverse spiritual paths can explore, learn, grow, support, gather, and celebrate their unique journeys through a harmonious environment that celebrates nature's rhythms, and fosters profound connections.

Company Vision Statement

Aspiring to cultivate a global community where cultures, spirituality, and practices are celebrated and honored, fostering mutual understanding and interconnectedness among all peoples through classes, community, and collaborative initiatives.

So, with all that in mind... Here's to a new beginning! I hope you tag along!

Be blessed & be you!

That's all that matters ❤