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 remedies, 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 like homemade soapmaking.
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 wonderous arts of plant medicine and nature connectedness. I sincerely hope you’ll join me on this journey.
Return to Our Roots
Connecting with nature is more than a walk through the woods. It’s about being conscious of seasonal changes, becoming attuned with the plants around us, and relearning the nature-language we’ve forgotten through our modern lives. We believe that incorporating the “old ways” of doing things, growing and harvesting our own food, and having a do-it-yourself spirit, promotes self-sufficiency and is an important part of leading a healthier lifestyle, closer to nature.
We hope to provide you with a foundation to rewild yourself through aligning with the cycles of the seasons and to help you in discovering the energies of the seasonal cycles.
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
Purslane Recipe: Embracing the Wild with Fermented Purslane, Ginger, and Garlic
This delightful fermented purslane recipe combines the earthy flavors of purslane with the pungent notes of garlic, the subtle heat of ginger, and the spicy kick of red pepper flakes. Fermenting the purslane adds depth and tanginess to the dish, creating a unique and probiotic-rich condiment that add depth to many dishes.
Queen Anne’s Lace: Its History, Identification, Toxic Look-Alikes, and Uses
Explore the captivating story, features, and uses of Queen Anne’s Lace! Uncover its rich history, learn how to tell it apart from toxic look-alikes, and discover its edible and medicinal uses.
Sauerkraut 101: The Easy Guide to Crafting Homemade Fermented Cabbage
Discover the joy of crafting homemade sauerkraut with our step-by-step guide. Learn how to ferment fresh cabbage into a tangy, probiotic-rich delight that surpasses store-bought varieties. Embrace self-sufficiency and boost your gut health today!
How to Freeze Green Beans: The Best Method for Preserving Freshness and Flavor
Discover the ultimate guide on how to freeze green beans perfectly while preserving their freshness and flavor. Learn how to blanch, cool, and prepare beans for freezing, ensuring they remain vibrant and crisp. Follow our foolproof method and enjoy garden-fresh green beans all year round.
September’s Full Moon: Exploring the Folklore and Significance of a Harvest Moon
Discover the magic of September’s full moon, the Harvest Moon. Explore its spiritual significance, origins, and folklore. Learn how to connect with nature’s rhythms and honor this radiant celestial event.
Embracing Eco-Friendly Changes at Home — 4 Ideas to Reduce Waste This Summer
Discover innovative ways to reduce waste and create positive environmental impact this summer. From energy-smart laundry routines and home herb gardens to battling mold the eco-friendly way and crafting natural fragrances, explore practical tips to make your home more sustainable and refreshing.
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