By: Jennifer McDonald, Mobile County Master Gardener | www.MobileCountyMasterGardeners.org
Throughout human history, plants and humans have been dearest friends, existing together in complex mutual bonds. Modern life has somewhat obscured the deep and innate connections among plants and humans, but so many of our meals, homes, clothes, medicines, toiletries, cosmetics, and more are made from plants, many of which grow naturally around us.
It is a wondrous thing how our Earth has provided us with something that nourishes our body and souls, as well as delights us with its beauty. One person who shares my fascination and deep reverence for the flora and funga world is Mobile-based herbalist and educator, Melissa Nichols.
As an indigenous person belonging to the Mvskoke (Creek) Nation, Melissa grew up using traditional techniques and practices of growing plants, foraging through the seasons, and making herbal treatments and remedies. Today, she finds passion and fulfillment in providing handmade plant-based products to the public, as well as enthusiastically sharing her knowledge with the community through her business, Cedar & Moon Apothecary.
On a chilly Sunday afternoon this past December, I had the opportunity to attend her “Community Plant Walk” at the Mobile Japanese Garden. Melissa hosts the periodic free events (donations optional) with her associates, herbalist Natasha Freeman from Bee-lightful Botanicals in Baldwin County, and Tanner Hammond (“Mushroom Man Tan”), local mushroom expert and chef.
The gentle, guided walk through a wooded trail provided the opportunity to learn about numerous edible and therapeutic plants and fungi growing in our area, and perhaps even in our own back yards. The trio of brilliant young plant lovers impressed me immediately with their extensive knowledge, but also their passion and deep reverence for nature and its gifts.
The way Melissa’s eyes lit up at certain discoveries along the way could only be described as utter joy, balanced with knowledge and gentle wisdom beyond her years. This is far more than a job to her. This is a labor of true love, and a mission to help her community learn about the abundance of friendly plants in our area.
“I am truly blessed to have had so many people in my life share knowledge with me through the years,” Melissa says. “And now I feel overjoyed at the opportunity to share it with others. Knowledge isn’t meant to be hoarded. Information is meant to be shared, and I want the people of our community to have the information they need to safely and effectively use the plants available to them.”
More than anything, Melissa hopes to empower people to feel confident exploring the plants around them on their own. Access to information opens so many doors for people to do their own research and make informed decisions about their wellbeing.
“It is incredibly empowering to know that no matter what happens, you know how to forage and find food and other provisions for your family,” Melissa says.
Caution should be taken when learning how to safely identify plants, and it is important to consult an expert when in doubt. However, with study and practice, many people develop confidence in their skills at identifying familiar plants.
Learning about the wild plants and fungi surrounding us is a fascinating journey, full of wondrous surprises. Several noteworthy things growing in our area this season include blackberries, blueberries, wild grapes, passion fruit, pawpaw, elderberry, sumac berries, smilax vines, pine, a variety of mushrooms, and more! The Community Plant Walks are a great way to start getting to know your local flora and funga.
Cedar & Moon also offers workshops on a variety of interesting topics, with classes including food, hands-on activities, and lots of fun and fellowship. You can also look for Melissa at local markets, find her products in select local establishments, or explore her other offerings to the community through her website at https://www.cedarandmoonapothecary.com/.
Ask a Master Gardener Editor’s Note: This article should not be a substitute for recommendations or treatment by a health care provider. Please consult your health care provider before consuming herbal products.
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