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
10 Easy Spring Herbs to Forage for Wellness
Discover 10 spring herbs for natural remedies! Learn to forage and use these seasonal plants for health and wellness in this enlightening guide.
Spruce Tips: Foraging and Using this Spring Evergreen
Discover the art of foraging spruce tips, including how to identify, sustainably harvest, and creatively use them in culinary and medicinal ways.
Easy Purple Dead Nettle Salve
Learn to make your own Purple Dead Nettle salve with this easy guide, perfect for soothing dry, irritated skin using the healing power of nature.
Living in Harmony: A Robin’s Egg Encounter
A poignant tale of harmony with nature, as a delicate robin’s egg is discovered and carefully returned to the nest, reminding us of life’s fragility and the profound interconnectedness we share with the world around us.
Juneberry Simple Syrup to Honor the April Moon Goddess
Discover the magic of juneberry simple syrup made with juneberry blossoms—a light, floral delight perfect for honoring the goddess of spring in your recipes.
The Magic and Traditional Uses of the Basswood Tree
Discover the historical significance, folklore and diverse healing benefits of the basswood tree. Learn about its uses and applications in this in-depth guide.