In this video, How to Heal Your Lungs & Recover Your Vitality, I’m sharing my personal journey using herbs to heal my lungs after battling pneumonia. Working alongside pharmaceutical medicines, I relied on a range of supportive herbs—like Mullein, Peppermint, Lungwort, Yarrow, Bee Balm, Cinnamon, and Licorice—to soothe and strengthen my respiratory system. I’ll walk you through which herbs helped, which didn’t work as well, and what I would approach differently if I had to go through it again.

I'll also dive into an often-overlooked but essential aspect of healing: convalescence. This practice, rooted in Ancient Greek medicine, is all about allowing the body the time and care it needs for true recovery. In today’s world, we tend to rush through recovery, but focusing on convalescence can make a real difference in regaining long-term health and vitality. Whether you’re recovering from a respiratory illness or just looking to strengthen your lungs, I hope these insights and tips help you on your healing journey.

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Herbal Lung Recipe

Ingredients:

1 tbsp Yarrow

3 tbsp Bee Balm or Oregano

1 tbsp Peppermint or Spearmint

1 tbsp Marshmallow Root

1 Mullein Leaf (approx 2 tbsp)

1 tbsp Lungwort

2 tsp Cinnamon chips

1 tsp Licorice root

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Directions: Add herbs to a teapot with a strainer or a saucepan. Add 2 cups of hot water and let steep for 10 - 15 minutes. Strain and drink to restore lung health and vitality.

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Where to Buy Herbs

https://mountainroseherbs.com/

https://oshalafarm.com/

https://www.herbalist-alchemist.com/

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Other Convalescent Tips

Take Hot Baths

Self-Massage with Herbal Oils

Eat Warm Easy to Digest Foods like Soups

Make Art

Take Naps

Journal Your Dreams

Move Slowly

Stay Quiet

🚀 Support Nightlight on Kickstarter ✅ https://bit.ly/NLK25
🌌 Unlock Unique Rewards! ✅ https://bit.ly/NLK25

In this video, I’m going to dive into the concept of control—what it really means, what it doesn’t, and the surprising history behind the word itself. Then, I’ll break down three practical ways you can use herbal medicines to regain control in your life. Many people want to incorporate herbs, but they don’t always move from idea to action. Real control is about creating cohesion and alignment between what we value and what we do.

Here are the three ways to get started:

These three practices will help you bring what you want into alignment with what you see in your life every day.

MY ONLINE COURSES 

🌱🌝 Roots & Spheres Class: https://bit.ly/RootsAndSpheres 

🌿Herbal Foundations Apprenticeship: https://bit.ly/HerbalProgram

Resources:

Reputable Herb Sources

On Beauty - Book, "Consolations: The Solace, Nourishment and Underlying Meaning of Everyday Words" by David Whyte https://amzn.to/3OjEkh7

Poem "A Dream of Trees" by Mary Oliver in "New and Selected Poems Volume One" https://amzn.to/3UDfQmw

"Embrace for Impact" from IG post from Baratunde Thurston @baratunde

In this month’s feature on Echinacea, we’re diving deep into the roots (literally and historically) of this powerful plant. I’m Ashley Elenbaas, a clinical herbalist with over 15 years of experience, and I’ll be taking you on a journey through the traditional uses of various Echinacea species—especially as they were known and used by Indigenous peoples of North America long before this plant became the “immune activator” we know today.

While Echinacea has been popularized for immunity, its historical applications were far more varied. In this episode, I’ll share how this herb was used for “bad blood,” wound healing, and even emotional states like depletion and depression. We’ll explore its fascinating chemical compounds, the doctrine of signatures, and ways to bring Echinacea back into our daily lives for a range of wellness needs. Join me to rediscover the depth and versatility of this incredible plant!

🌱🌝 Roots & Spheres Class: https://bit.ly/RootsAndSpheres 

🌿Herbal Foundations Apprenticeship: https://bit.ly/HerbalProgram

Books:

"Native Plants Native Healing the Traditional Muskogee Way" by Tis Mal Crow - https://amzn.to/4f7G3Sq

"The Earthwise Herbal: A Complete Guide to New World Medicinal Plants" by Matthew Wood - https://amzn.to/4fsc87g

Echinacea Tinctures/Glycerites/Capsules:

Galen's Way Dispensary for Herbal Practitioners - https://www.galensway.com/

Herbalist & Alchemist Echinacea Tincture (blend of angustifolia, purpurea, and pallida) - https://www.herbalist-alchemist.com/shop-products-uec-ultimate-echinacea

Eclectic Herb Freeze Dried Echinacea angustifolia capsules - https://amzn.to/4fIBs9d

Herbpharm Echinacea purpurea Glycerite - Alcohol Free - https://amzn.to/4f1kLpp

In this video, I'll be sharing the most effective way I've found to work with perimenopausal symptoms using herbs and understanding your unique energetic constitution or tissue state. As a clinical herbalist, I believe that finding the right match can make all the difference.

I'll introduce you to American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius)—an herb every woman entering perimenopause should consider for overall vitality, along with specific dosing tips. Plus, I'll dive into the four most common tissue states that often get out of balance during this stage: Excitation, Depression, Tension, and Atrophy. I'll guide you through how to identify these states in your body and share the best herbs to help restore balance, with dosing recommendations for each.

I'll also cover commonly used herbs like Black Cohosh, Hops, and Dong Quai, explaining which specific patterns they work best with and how they can support your journey through perimenopause. I keep things lighthearted and easy to understand, so you can quickly discover the herbs that will help you feel more at ease and vibrant through this transition.

Product Links:

Herb for All Women - American Ginseng - Panax quinquefolius - https://mountainroseherbs.com/american-ginseng-extract

For Hot/Excitation Types

 Milky Oat Tops Tincture - https://amzn.to/4fjafJZ

 Hops Tincture - https://amzn.to/48gRhkT

 Hops Capsules - https://amzn.to/3YBhNC8

For Cold/Depressed Types

 Angelica (archangelica - American or sinensis - Chinese) - https://mountainroseherbs.com/angelica-extract and https://amzn.to/3Yz4dix

 Black Cohosh - https://www.herbalist-alchemist.com/shop-products-bck-black-cohosh-extract

For Tension Types

 Blue Vervain - Verbena hastata - https://www.herbalist-alchemist.com/shop-products-bvv-blue-vervain-extract

 Hops Tincture - https://amzn.to/48gRhkT

For Dry/Atrophy Types

 Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) - https://mountainroseherbs.com/shatavari

 Marshmallow Root - https://mountainroseherbs.com/marshmallow-root

Welcome to my working apothecary kitchen! I’m Ashley Elenbaas, clinical herbalist, and in this video, I’ll give you a behind-the-scenes look at my herbal apothecary as I tackle a bunch of unfinished projects. From pressing an herbal-infused oil to finishing a few tinctures of Monarda fistulosa, I’ll show you step-by-step how I press, filter, and store these beautiful remedies. It’s a messy process, but there’s something so satisfying about clearing out the space and getting everything in order! Plus, I’ll share a few fun ideas for turning your herbal creations into thoughtful holiday gifts. Grab a cup of tea and join me for some good laughs and some apothecary tidying inspiration!

In this video, I’m sharing my Top 10 Travel-Friendly Herbs & Herbal Formulas for Stress-Free Adventures. As a clinical herbalist with over 15 years of experience (M.Sc. RH(AHG)) and more than 20 years of traveling both abroad and around the US using herbal medicines, I’ve learned exactly which herbs and formulas are a must-have for every trip.
I’ll walk you through my personal favorites that take care of everything: disinfecting surfaces, repelling bugs, cleaning cuts and scratches, and knocking out colds from start to finish. Whether you're flying or hiking, these plant allies will help you handle everything from sleepless nights and unexpected stress to skin rashes and more. Grab your herbal travel kit, and let’s dive into these incredible remedies for your next adventure!
Here is what was in my travel bag:
Weed Bag - https://amzn.to/4eXIbM6
Honey Gardens Elderberry and Honey Syrup - https://amzn.to/4hbhOnR
WishGardens Kick-Ass Sinus - https://amzn.to/4eBAHhM
Yarrow Tincture/Salve - for cuts, scrapes, circulation
Bach Rescue Remedy  (kids) - https://amzn.to/3NgJYjm
WishGardens Serious Relaxer - https://amzn.to/4dDbCli
YoungLiving Purification Essential Oil (Multipurpose) - https://amzn.to/4eA5NXg
Echinacea/Red Root Tincture - https://amzn.to/3U0dxti and https://amzn.to/3YbOkhX
Four Elements Cooling Calendula Salve - https://fourelementsherbals.com/products/cooling-calendula-salve?srsltid=AfmBOooKRUtvR-b4YKoJt5kE0DtEciKlPFdrYqn0mzotRfsW5rw2G8Y2&variant=39799891263644
Propolis Tincture - https://amzn.to/4ewEdKk

In this episode, "Passion Potions: Herbs to Spice Up Your Sex Life," I'll share five of my favorite herbal recipes designed to ignite passion, increase libido, and enhance sensitivity and moisture. With over 20 years of teaching experience and 15 years of clinical practice, I'll guide you through the benefits of herbs like Damiana, Ginger, Cinnamon, Dong Quai, and Shatavari. Together, we'll brew a sweet, honey-infused cordial perfect for date night and a marshmallow tea blend to boost lubrication for days to come. Check out the recipes below to get started!

RESOURCES

ForLife Blue TeaPot and Strainer: https://amzn.to/3ZtVcsc

Bulk Herbs like Damiana: https://mountainroseherbs.com/

"Herbs and Natural Supplements: An Evidence Based Guide" by Braun and Cohen: https://amzn.to/4ewBYXf

"Herb of the Month: Damiana" Video: https://youtu.be/V76eFVrVt4k?feature=shared

"Herb of the Month: Black Cohosh" Video: https://youtu.be/2ZfcoKxKT2Q?feature=shared

Glass Mason Jars/Wide Mouth Drinking Jars: https://amzn.to/4gtZ8Pw

RECIPES

Passion Potion Tea

2 tbsp Damiana

1 tsp Rose

1 tsp Cinnamon chips or powder

Add herbs to a teapot like this one https://amzn.to/3ZtVcsc and fill with about 2 cups of water. Steep for 15 minutes, strain and drink.

Passion Potion Cordial

1/4 cup Ashwagandha

1/4 cup Shatavari

1 tbsp Licorice root (optional)

1 tbsp Ginger

1 tbsp Cinnamon

1 tbsp Angelica sinensis/Dong Quai

Add herbs to a sauce pan and add 1/2 quart or 2 cups of water. Simmer covered for 1 hour until liquid is reduced to 1 cup. Add 1/4 to 1/2 cup of honey and 1/4 to 1/2 cup of brandy. Mix well and refrigerate.

Passion Potion for Moisture

1/2 - 1 cup Marshmallow Root

1-2 tbsp Rose Petals

1-2 tbsp Cinnamon chips or powder

Add herbs and water to a glass quart jar. Let steep for 8-10 hours. Strain and drink. You may need a few days of drinking this to feel a full moisture boost but it will happen!

Passion Potion for Deep Processing

Black Cohosh Tincture

Damiana Tincture

Angelica sinensis Tincture

Take  - 3 -5 drops of each tincture before bed

Passion Potion Body Oil

Combine a blend of dried Shatavari Root, Chamomile Flowers, Calendula Flowers, Cinnamon, and even Ginger into a glass quart-sized mason jar, filling the jar 1/2 way with a combination of herbs.

Add jojoba or sunflower oil to the top and cap.

Let sit in a warm bath of water (like a crockpot) for 48 hours or sit in a dark place for 4 weeks.

Strain and use for massages and as a body oil.

Ugh, I've caught a cold! But don't worry, I'm taking you into my kitchen to show you exactly how I tackle it with some tried-and-true herbal remedies. In this video, I'll share my go-to recipes for getting back on my feet fast:

As a mom and herbalist, I know how important it is to recover quickly so you can get back to caring for your family and life. I'll walk you through step-by-step instructions, and you'll see firsthand how I care for myself during a cold, using herbs and foods you likely already have in your kitchen. Let's get through this together—one cup of tea at a time!

In case you missed my herbal tea recipe blend:

- 3 tbsp Calendula Flowers

- 2 tbsp Elder Flowers

- 2 tbsp Goldenrod 

- 1 tsp Licorice

- 2 slices of fresh Ginger Root

RESOURCES

Product Links & Resources

ForLife Blue TeaPot and Strainer: https://amzn.to/3ZtVcsc

Honey Gardens - Elderberry Syrup: https://amzn.to/3TG8yxy

Red Root and Echinacea Tinctures - https://www.herbalist-alchemist.com/

Kettle & Fire Mushroom and Chicken Bone Broth - https://amzn.to/4eCRWyK

Kozi Neck Warming Wrap - https://amzn.to/47NNprm

Welcome to this month's Herb of the Month feature! I'm Ashley Elenbaas, and today we're diving into Peppermint or Mentha piperita. In this episode, I'll take you through the fascinating origins of peppermint and the mythology behind its name, which offers some clues about how it's been traditionally used. I'll also share my personal experience working with this powerful plant for digestive disorders and show you how to make a comforting hot tea with fresh peppermint and refreshing infused water.

In addition, I'll teach you how to spot the difference between peppermint that’s old and has lost its bioactive properties versus freshly dried leaves that are still potent. And, of course, I’ll provide some practical tips for using peppermint, along with clinical data on its proven benefits for treating colds, IBS, headaches, and even boosting academic and exercise performance. Let's dive in and explore all the ways peppermint can support your health and well-being!

RESOURCES
ForLife Blue TeaPot and Strainer: https://amzn.to/3ZtVcsc
"Herbs and Natural Supplements: An Evidence Based Guide" by Braun and Cohen: https://amzn.to/4ewBYXf
Glass Mason Jars/Wide Mouth Drinking Jars: https://amzn.to/4gtZ8Pw

Step into my studio and teaching kitchen as I share an intimate look behind the scenes in 'Transform Your Garden Herbs into Kitchen Magic!' In this laid-back and informal video, I’ll walk you through my latest herb-drying techniques, give you a tour of my space, and show you how to garble goldenrod while exploring its many medicinal uses. I’ll also chat about the importance of mindful harvesting, sharing my past mistakes, and how we can build community by sharing herbs when someone is in need. Plus, I’ll share my top favorite herbs to grow at home and offer practical tips on the best times to store your herbs. I hope this video brings you a sense of comfort and confidence in your own herbal journey!