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

Bee Gardening: 4 Essential Elements for Happy, Healthy Bees
In order to support bee populations, you need to ensure their habitat. Bees need water, shelter, pollen, and pesticide control if they are going to thrive. Follow these four easy steps for bee gardening in your own backyard!

11 Powerful Ways to Connect With Your Ancestral Lineage
By going within to discover your own ancestral lineage, you may surprise yourself with what you find out. By connecting to your ancestors in this way, you may find that incredible source of belonging that has been missing your whole life. It is an essential practice for us today, a way to heal our lost connection to the earth and each other. It can help us realize a love for where we are on this planet that we may have never thought possible before.

8 Easy Ways For Celebrating Twelfth Night: The End of the Solstice Season
Celebrating Twelfth Night is all about the end of the Solstice Season and welcoming back the light. Here are 8 easy ways for celebrating Twelfth Night.

Easy Wassail Recipe for Yule: A Delicious Cup of Tradition
Try this easy traditional recipe for wassail and share it with friends while celebrating Twelfth Night or all 12 Day of Yule.

How To Wrap Gifts 6 Ways With Sustainable, Handmade, and Natural Elements
I’ll teach you how to wrap gifts in an eco-friendly and creative way this holiday season using handmade and wild, foraged adornments. This is a fun and sustainable way to create beautifully wrapped gifts. Replace the traditional red and green with a bit of handmade charm.

Honoring the 4 Sacred Evergreens of the Winter Solstice
The plants of the winter solstice play an integral role in this seasonal celebration that marks the turning of the Wheel of the Year. Evergreens such as conifers, holly and ivy, and mistletoe have their own folklore associated with them. These plants can be used to honor the season, celebrate its wisdom, and return home.