Can you share a little about yourself and what first drew you to herbalism?
I’m just a city girl from the east side of Buffalo with curiosity about the world and a desire to live on my own terms. I was drawn to explore herbalism during the pandemic, while at home with my son and looking for healthy ways to channel my anxiety. A friend of mine was posting about herbal remedies and teas to combat COVID so I started doing my own research and taking online classes. Soon I was testing tea and elderberry syrup recipes and leaving them at my family’s front door. I became fascinated with learning more about plants and nature and felt like I was taking my power back in such a scary season of life. From there I embarked on a journey to become a wellness practitioner- herbalist, doula, and yoga instructor.
Do you have a favorite herb or remedy you work with most often, and why?
Since developing my practices into a business, I’m constantly working elderberries, honey, fresh herbs and produce. I created Bru Apothecary when I realized I could make my own supplements that were safe enough for my growing 3 year old and my grandmother dealing multiple comorbidities just by using things we often have in our homes. Many of my teachers encourage medicine making with the resources around you; making the kitchen your first “farmacy.” To be honest, one of my favorite herbs is cannabis/hemp because of how temperamental it is to grow but so abundant and rewarding in its many forms of consumption and usage.
What has been the most rewarding part of running a small herbal business?
The most rewarding part is also the most difficult part of running a business. Executing with creative freedom and unshakable discipline. I remember working for a company that wanted all the employees to take a personality test to find out if we are operating within our strengths. The results labeled me as a “maverick,” which is defined as an unorthodox or independent-minded person. That’s probably why I never lasted more than 2 years in a traditional corporate setting but have stayed the course as an entrepreneur for more than double that time. It’s the work that no one sees or cares about, the failed attempts, late nights, and missed opportunities. Learning how to lead has been the most rewarding part of the journey.
How does herbalism influence your own daily life or self-care practices?
I think it most influences all of my nutrition choices. Eating as much local and seasonal options as possible. Respecting the cycles of nature and attempting to mirror that in my own life. Every season of life is not about blossoming, sometimes we are meant to root in darkness in order to be ready for upward growth.
What are you most excited about for the future of your apothecary?
I’ve always known that the apothecary was just a starting point to something greater. For a few years I’ve been dreaming of a full service holistic studio. A space for community, movement, learning, growing, with Bru operating as a cafe/storefront. That’s the long term vision. Right now, I’ll be happy to have my own commercial kitchen space!
