What is indigenous herbalism? A deeper look into erekani herbs’ roots

Introduction

I grew up in a household where you’d find remedies for all kinds of ailments. Every time of the month when those dreadful cramps came along, mom would go out to the garden, pick some yerba buena (spearmint) and make me a soothing tea. Looking back I realize the plants were with me the all along.

Natural remedies are not only important but vital in a Mexican household. This is because Mexico has a deep history of traditional medicine, incorporating herbal remedies and folk healing practices passed down through generations, stemming from a combination of indigenous traditions, pre-Columbian civilizations and limited access to modern healthcare. According to a 2024 study published in Social Science & Medicine, it was reported that Mexicans are more likely to maintain these practices compared to other Latino groups. 92.3% of surveyed Mexicans continued using traditional medicine post-migration (Crocker et al., 2024) . This connection to traditional medicine suggests that for many Mexicans, healing is not just about health— it’s about preserving ancestral wisdom in everyday life, even after migration.

For centuries, Indigenous communities around the world have relied on the wisdom of plants for healing, nourishment, and spiritual connection. Unlike modern pharmaceuticals, which often isolate a single compound, Indigenous herbalism embraces the whole plant: its spirit, energy, and synergy with the body. At Erekani Herbs, our approach to herbalism is deeply rooted in these traditions, blending Western and Indigenous practices to create holistic, effective remedies.

In this post, we’ll explore the essence of Indigenous herbalism, its significance, and how we honor these ancestral teachings in our products.

Understanding Indigenous Herbalism

Indigenous herbalism is more than just using plants for healing. It is a philosophy that recognizes the interconnectedness of nature, people, and the land. Many Indigenous healing traditions emphasize:

Whole plant medicine – Using the root, leaves, bark, or flowers in their natural form.

Respect for the land – Harvesting sustainably and giving back to nature. Creating a reciprocal relationship with the plants.

Energetic balance – Recognizing the spirit and essence of plants, not just their chemical makeup.

Community knowledge – Healing practices passed down through generations via oral tradition and hands-on teaching from elders.

How We Honor Indigenous Herbal Traditions at Erekani Herbs

At Erekani Herbs, we strive to respect and preserve Indigenous herbal wisdom by:

Wildcrafting responsibly – Harvesting herbs in a way that protects the plant populations and the surrounding ecosystem.

Sourcing ethically – Partnering with suppliers who respect traditional growing and harvesting methods.

Using whole plants – Our teas, tinctures, and salves are crafted to maintain the integrity of each herb.

Blending tradition with science – While we honor ancestral knowledge, we also ensure our formulations are safe and effective through continued research and experience.

Bringing Indigenous Herbalism into Your Daily Life

If you’re looking to incorporate Indigenous herbal practices into your routine, start by:

Building a relationship with plants – Spend time observing them in nature, learning their properties, and how they grow. We live in a society that almost promotes disconnection with nature. This is food for the soul.

Choosing whole plant remedies – Opt for herbal infusions, decoctions, and tinctures over isolated extracts.

Practicing gratitude – When using plant medicine, acknowledge the land and its gifts. Some herbalists will often offer gifts in return to the plant that they harvest from. It doesn’t have to be anything grand. Words, a song, or a quiet moment of reflection, can be a meaningful offering. 

Exploring herbal traditions – Learn from Indigenous herbalists and their teachings. I would recommend reaching out to the tribe of the land you reside on. The American public school system only teaches of very brief discussions about the colonists and westward expansion. There is a wealth of knowledge beyond the perspective of colonizers that history often emphasizes.

Conclusion

Indigenous herbalism is a sacred, holistic practice that reminds us of the deep connection between plants and people. At Erekani Herbs, we are honored to carry forward these traditions, offering remedies that nourish the body and respect the wisdom of the land.

Are you ready to explore the healing power of Indigenous herbalism? Browse our handcrafted teas and tinctures to experience these traditions firsthand!