A Cup of Tea & Jams is a reader-supported publication and podcast. If this offering blesses you, consider upgrading to a paid subscription or buy me a cup of tea.

On the last new moon of 2024, I thought it would be fitting to share today’s offering, which is about the beautiful and powerful plant motherwort. It’s interesting that this episode is premiering at the start of winter yet the plant itself flourishes during the hot summer months of Leo season.

While there are definitely some folks who know what motherwort is, there are quite a few folks who are not familiar. I was definitely one of the latter. In early spring, I decided to try my hand in growing motherwort, which is very easy to do because it is part of the mint family. As a result, it grows abundantly.

After spending some time with the flowering herb and receiving support during a year that was full of grief and heartache, I decided to bring it forward in my Garden Talk series to lift up how it has bolstered me through this time. I am joined by a wonderful woman and fellow herbalist, Erika Parker-Smith who also has a deep relationship with motherwort and has so much knowledge & wisdom to share.

In our conversation, we talk about how motherwort is supportive for the womb and heart. We also discuss navigating life transitions, cycling through grief, and how a walk with motherwort has led Erika to become a death doula.

To learn more about Erika and her work as an herbalist check her out at Rebelmancy and on IG via @rebelmancy and @the_eccentriccousin.

Other gems shared in this episode:

* Black Grief Practitioners Are Protecting Black Life In Death

* Alua Arthur Ted Talk: Why thinking about death helps you live a better life

* Going With Grace

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit acupofteaandjams.substack.com/subscribe