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
60 Surprising Edible Flowers
Explore our comprehensive guide to 60 edible flowers of the Northeast, from backyard blooms to native wildflowers, with tips for a self-sufficient lifestyle.
Foraging Northern Spicebush: A Delicious Wild Spice
Discover how to identify, harvest, and cook with the aromatic plant, Northern Spicebush. Bring its unique flavors to your table.
Purple Dead Nettle Look-alikes: Henbit and Ground Ivy
Discover how to identify purple dead nettle look-alikes, including henbit and ground ivy, with key features and foraging tips.
Fermented Ginger Honey Recipe and Easy Instructions
Learn how to make fermented ginger honey, a natural probiotic superfood known for its health benefits and culinary versatility. Simple and easy recipe.
Motherwort Uses: A Woman’s Valuable Ally
Discover many motherwort uses from menstrual support to anxiety relief. Learn 3 easy ways to prepare this versatile herb – teas, tinctures & decoctions.
Easy Homemade Chickweed Pesto
Discover the joy of foraging with our chickweed pesto recipe – a fresh, nutritious twist on a classic, perfect for connecting with nature’s bounty.
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