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 finds joy in wandering the woods, tending gardens, and gathering herbs. As a wildcrafter, herbalist, and nature enthusiast, I’m devoted to reviving ancestral plant wisdom and sharing the healing magic of the natural world.
With gratitude to my Chaubunagungamaug Nipmuck family, I honor our Mother Earth by embracing ancient lifeways, practicing plant medicine, and nurturing deep connections with nature.
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

Blue Vervain: The Hidden Aspects Of A Magical Medicinal Herb
If you’re wondering how to identify Blue vervain, then this article is just for you. After reading through this article you will be able to spot blue vervain wherever it is growing as well as know its medicinal benefits and uses.

Harvesting Black Walnuts (The Best Way to Gather, Clean, And Cure Them)
Black Walnuts are a delicious treat, but unfortunately, harvesting them can be a labor-intensive process. This guide will walk you through the steps of harvesting black walnuts and give you some tips that I’ve learned along the way that will hopefully help you out in the process.

Hot Apple Cider Magic: A Delicious Autumn Ritual of Self-Care
Indulge in the cozy ritual of crafting spiced hot apple cider. Discover the simple steps to create a comforting elixir that warms the soul. From mixing cider and maple syrup to infusing aromatic spices, find solace in this autumn-inspired self-care practice. Sip and savor the essence of the season with every cup.

Root Cellar: Preserving a Bountiful Harvest
Using a root cellar is a great way to preserve your garden’s bounties. A root cellar makes it easy to keep your food on hand for as long as possible, making it possible to preserve home-grown goodness long term, even through the winter.

Embracing Presence and Purpose: 9 Easy Ways to a Meaningful Life
Discover practical ways to maintain presence and purpose in a world full of distractions. Learn from the experience of someone who has adopted a simpler, more deliberate way of life and find out how to slow down, savor life’s simple pleasures, connect with nature, and cultivate meaningful relationships. Read on for tips on how to stay focused on what truly matters amidst the noise of modern life.

Learning the Herb Boneset: A Useful Native Medicinal Plant
While you might have never heard of the herb boneset, it has been used for centuries for its medicinal uses. It is best known as a fever reducer, digestive aid, pain reliever and to stop coughs. On this page, you will learn all about the herb boneset and its traditional and medicinal uses.