If you've followed Prairie Coast for any length of time, you know my passion for natural living extends well beyond candles.
What started as a desire to create more natural products for my family eventually became a business. Now, that journey is leading me down a new path: herbalism.
Last week, I began an introductory herbalism course, and this fall I'll officially begin my studies through the American College of Healthcare Sciences. My goal isn't to rush through the process or become an overnight expert. Instead, I want to take the time to truly learn, understand, and appreciate the relationship between plants and wellness.
As I continue my education, I plan to share that journey here on the blog. You'll find updates from my studies, herbal traditions and history, recipes for teas, tinctures, salves, and other simple recipes, as well as ways to incorporate herbs into your everyday life.
I also hope to explore how herbalism can complement what we already do at Prairie Coast. The same love for botanicals, natural ingredients, and intentional living that inspired our products is what draws me to herbalism today. Over time, you may begin to see that influence reflected in new products, workshops, and offerings.(yay!!)
An Important Note
One thing I believe is important to be transparent about from the beginning is the role of an herbalist.
Even after completing my education and becoming a registered herbalist, I will not be a medical doctor, nurse practitioner, or licensed healthcare provider. Herbalists do not diagnose, treat, or prescribe for medical conditions. Any information shared here is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.
What herbalists can do is study the traditional and modern uses of plants, formulate herbal products, educate others about herbs, and support wellness through evidence-informed herbal practices. My goal is to continue learning responsibly, sharing what I discover, and creating products that reflect that knowledge while always encouraging readers to consult qualified healthcare professionals for medical concerns.
A Simple Sunburn Skin Salve
One of the things I'm most excited to share throughout this journey is practical herbal recipes that can be made at home.
Today, I'm sharing one of my favorites: a soothing sunburn skin salve.
Makes 9oz
Ingredients:
1/2 cup rose infused oil
1/4 cup lavender-infused oil
1/4 cup lemon balm-infused oil
1 oz raw beeswax
25 drops of lavender essential oil
Prep:
Gently mix the oils with the beeswax over low heat in a double boiler. Still occasionally until fully combined. Remove from heat and stir in the lavender essential oil. Pour the mixture into a clean, dry tins or glass jars. Let it cool completely before putting on the lid.
*Keep for up to 1 year in a cool, dark place. I like to put mine in the fridge to help calm a sunburn.
I hope you'll join me as I learn, experiment, and grow. Whether you're simply curious about herbs, interested in making your own herbal preparations, or looking for ways to live a little closer to nature, I'm excited to share this journey with you!!
Here's to learning something new, one plant at a time. Cheers!
xo-Kristina