Welcome to the outdoor apothecary
The Outdoor Apothecary inspires naturally minded people to live with the seasons, become self-reliant, connect with nature, and protect their health through herbal living. We love celebrating “the old ways” of living to bring blessings to ourselves, our families, communities, and to Mother Earth. We offer articles, tips, recipes, and ideas on practical self-reliance, simple herbal preparations, foraging, gardening, and reconnecting ourselves to our natural world and sacred ancestral traditions.
About Me: Barbi
I’m a bookish “earth mother” who loves to read and walk in the woods. I’m a wildcrafter & herbalist, avid gardener, collector of nature specimens, and field guide enthusiast.
I spent most of my childhood exploring our natural world, and I’m now devoted to reviving the ancestral wisdom of plants as medicine and healers. I love spending hours outside tending to my gardens, gathering plants and herbs, being in nature, and learning skills of self-reliance.
I give deep thanks and gratitude to my Chaubunagungamaug Nipmuck family for inspiring me to honor our Mother Earth by dedicating myself to studying and sharing ancient lifeways and reviving the wondrous arts of plant medicine and nature connectedness.
What's In A Name?
Disclaimer: The use of the term “apothecary” in our name and content is strictly metaphorical, intended to convey nature’s role in holistic wellness and does not imply professional medical or pharmaceutical services. We do not operate as a pharmacy, medical, or pharmaceutical provider. Our content is for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice or a substitute for professional healthcare. If you require medical advice, please consult a qualified healthcare provider.
Nourish Yourself with Nature
Free 29-page Guidebook to Celebrating the Seasons
A Guided Workbook to help you celebrate nature’s seasonal cycles with mindfulness and meaningful intentions – our gift to you! Learn how to live a mindful nature-connected life.
Recent Posts
Embracing Slower Living: How to Align with Autumn’s Rhythms
Embrace slower living this autumn with mindful practices, seasonal eating, and cozy self-care rituals. Connect with nature and align with the rhythms of the season.
Homemade Vanilla Extract: A Simple Heartfelt Gift
Create a rich, homemade vanilla extract with organic ingredients—perfect for holiday gifting. Includes free printable labels for a personal, thoughtful touch!
Crafting a Sacred Samhain Altar
Create a sacred Samhain altar to honor ancestors and celebrate the harvest. Discover essential elements, rituals, and tips for connecting with nature’s cycles.
Decoupage Seashells: An Easy Nature Craft
Create stunning decoupage seashells with our simple DIY guide! Perfect for beginners, these seashell crafts make great trinket dishes or thoughtful handmade gifts.
Tips and Easy Recipes Using Homemade Tomato Paste
Explore two favorite recipes using homemade tomato paste: creamy tomato soup with croutons and a hearty beef pasta casserole, showcasing rich, comforting flavors.
DIY Fabric Fresheners: A Natural Gift Idea for the Holidays
Learn how to make and gift lavender fabric fresheners—a natural, chemical-free way to keep laundry smelling fresh. Perfect for holiday gifts! Includes a free printable gift tag.