The Business of Black Herbalism: Reclaiming Ownership in a Commercialized World

An Herbalist Point Of View

The Business of Black Herbalism: Reclaiming Ownership in a Commercialized World

The natural wellness industry is thriving. Plant-based remedies, once considered niche, are now embraced by celebrities, stocked in mainstream stores, and promoted as the answer to a range of modern ailments. Yet, within this booming market, there’s a crucial disparity: the historical contributions and current underrepresentation of Black herbalists.

A Legacy of Healers, Often Unseen

The use of plants for healing is deeply woven into Black history. During the era of slavery, enslaved people drew upon knowledge of African medicinal plants, blended with wisdom gained from Native Americans, and adapted European folk traditions. These healers, often women, risked their lives to provide physical and emotional care within their communities, creating a legacy of resilience and resourcefulness. Yet, their stories frequently go untold, and their expertise remains undervalued.

During this time, enslaved people were not allowed to seek medical care from doctors, so they had to rely on their own knowledge of plants and herbs to treat their ailments. This knowledge was passed down from generation to generation, and many of the remedies used today are based on traditional African American plant medicine. In this article, we will explore the history of herbal medicine in Africa, its use in slavery, the metaphysics of plant medicine, the science behind it, and how we use it today.

A Moment of Reflection

The history of plant medicine in Africa dates back to ancient times. African cultures have long used plants and herbs to treat a variety of illnesses, and many of these remedies are still used today for skin conditions, digestive issues, and respiratory illnesses. Herbs such as ginger, turmeric, and garlic have been used to treat inflammation, while other herbs such as echinacea, goldenseal, and ginseng have been used to boost the immune system. Plant medicine can also be used to treat mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression. The African continent has produced some of our absolute favorite herbs used today like South African Rooibos which has many benefits like being high in antioxidants, caffeine-free, good for sleep, high in antioxidants, good for your heart, good for your bones, and even contains anti-inflammatory properties.

African knowledge of plants together with their slave labor made them essential to the growth victory of the colonies when it came to agriculture.

After arriving in the Americas, cohabitation and collaboration with Indigenous Americans meant that enslaved Africans were then introduced to knowledge of local plants and their medicinal ways. Therefore, African American herbalism is a hybrid of all the knowledge that enslaved Africans came into contact with leading up to and throughout their enslavement.

In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in plant medicine and herbalism. Many people are turning to plant medicine as an alternative to traditional Western medicine. Plant medicine is often seen as a more natural and holistic approach to health and wellness.

Black history and plant medicine are intertwined, and it is important to recognize the role that African Americans have played in the development of plant medicine. By understanding the history of plant medicine, we can better appreciate the role that it has played in the health and wellness of African Americans.

In addition to traditional African remedies, many African slaves brought their knowledge of herbal medicine to the Americas, where it was ultimately used to treat ailments and diseases when they did not have access to quality health care.

The Metaphysics of Plant Medicine

The metaphysics of plant medicine within African and African American traditions is deeply intertwined with spirituality, ancestry, and a holistic view of wellness. Plants aren’t merely seen as biochemical substances but as imbued with spirit and energy. The healing process involves not just the physical body but also addressing imbalances on emotional and spiritual levels. Ancestral guidance is often invoked, with knowledge of plants and their uses seen as a sacred inheritance passed down through generations. Plants may serve as intermediaries to the spirit world, used in rituals to facilitate healing, protection, and connection to a lineage beyond the physical realm. This understanding of plant medicine emphasizes a profoundly interconnected worldview where humans, nature, and the ancestors exist in a dynamic, symbiotic relationship.

The science behind plant medicine is complex and varied. Many of these herbal remedies have been studied and tested, and some have been found to be effective in treating certain conditions. But in contrast there is still so much more to be studied and tested when it comes to plant medicine indicating we have a very long way to go, but I believe we are on the right track.

Today, plant medicine is still widely used to treat a variety of ailments. Herbal remedies can be found in many health food stores, and many people still use them today to treat common ailments such as headaches, colds, and digestive issues. It is believed by some that plant medicine can also be used to treat more serious conditions, such as cancer, autoimmune disease, and even HIV/AIDS as the late great Dr. Sebi would say.

Who is Dr. Sebi?

Dr. Sebi was a Honduran herbalist and healer who had a profound impact on the natural health movement. He was born Alfredo Bowman in 1933 and was a self-taught healer who believed that all diseases could be cured with natural herbs and plants. His work was based on the African holistic approach to health, which focused on the interconnectedness of the body, mind, and spirit.

Dr. Sebi’s theories and treatments were revolutionary, as he believed that all diseases were caused by the accumulation of mucus in the body. He developed a unique system of plant medicine that focused on cleansing the body of toxins and restoring balance. He also developed a range of herbal remedies and treatments that were designed to treat a wide range of ailments.

Despite his success, Dr. Sebi’s work was met with controversy. His theories and treatments were met with skepticism from the medical community, and he faced legal challenges from the FDA and other government agencies. Additionally, there were debates about the efficacy of his treatments and whether or not they could truly cure diseases. Dr. Sebi was even taken to court over this topic.

Dr. Sebi was a revolutionary figure in the natural health movement. His theories and treatments were based on the African holistic approach to health, and he developed a unique system of plant medicine that focused on cleansing the body of toxins and restoring balance. Despite the controversy surrounding his work, Dr. Sebi’s legacy lives on and his impact on the natural health movement is undeniable.

Herbal medicine has a long and rich history in Africa our planetary mother, and its use has spread to many other parts of the world. It’s use in slavery and it’s metaphysical properties have been studied and tested, and it’s use today is widespread although there is definitely a lot more research to do.

The Modern Market: A Demand for Authenticity

Today, the growing popularity of herbalism presents an opportunity for Black herbalists. However, it’s crucial to recognize the industry’s tendency towards tokenism and cultural appropriation. Well-meaning consumers with a desire for authentic knowledge often struggle to find Black voices and businesses at the forefront. This leads to missed opportunities for both consumers seeking genuine traditions and for the Black practitioners who hold this valuable knowledge.

Building Ethical Businesses: Beyond Products, a Movement

The shift towards ethical herbalism is being spearheaded by Black healers, entrepreneurs, and educators. Their work emphasizes several key principles in black herbalism:

• Honoring Ancestral Wisdom: They share the rich history of Black herbalism, contextualizing modern products and practices within this lineage. This storytelling elevates traditional knowledge and counters erasure.
• Sustainable Sourcing and Stewardship: Many Black-owned herbal brands prioritize working with small-scale farmers, employing regenerative practices, and protecting both the plants and the communities where they originate.
• Community-Centered Wellness: These businesses go beyond product sales. They offer workshops, consultations, and create spaces for knowledge sharing, emphasizing holistic health and empowerment within the Black community.
• Uplifting the Next Generation: Mentorship and training programs for aspiring Black herbalists are becoming more prevalent, ensuring this legacy is preserved and nurtured.

Celebrating Success: Amplifying Black Brilliance

Let’s shine a spotlight on black-owned herbalist setting an inspiring standard like Orisha Oshun owner of The Surviving Vegan, Brianna Cherniak, and Brooklyn Guillebeau. Alongside myself, LaToya Renee Owner of Herbalistic Wellness, there are countless other herbalist creating high-quality herbal preparations, running community and online apothecaries, and leading educational initiatives. These ladies are just a few shining examples showing us what a truly inclusive and equitable natural wellness industry could look like when those supporting black herbalism strive to support the community naturally.

Call to Action: Your Choices Matter

Consumers hold immense power to shape the future of herbalism. Here’s how to be an ally:

• Do Your Research: Look beyond mainstream brands; actively seek out Black-owned herbal businesses online, at local events, or through community recommendations.
• Vote With Your Dollars: Whenever possible, support these businesses directly, ensuring the profits uplift the very communities that fostered this knowledge.
• Spread the Word: Share your discoveries on social media, tell your friends and family, and celebrate the innovative work being done by Black herbalists.

The business of Black herbalism is about reclaiming a legacy, honoring the ancestors, and ensuring a thriving future where tradition, innovation, and community care intersect. Let’s champion this shift and create a space where Black knowledge and leadership in plant-based wellness are rightfully recognized.