Podcast cover

Sky House Herbs

Ashley Elenbaas
227 episodes   Last Updated: Jun 30, 25
Everywhere we go, we can find plant spirits. In this podcast, clinical herbalist Ashley Elenbaas invites us to discover the healing power of plants—not just their medicinal properties but their deeper wisdom and gifts. With respect and reverence, Ashley guides her listeners to be open to the teachings of these potent teachers. If you are looking for a holistic approach to healing that can help you achieve optimal health and well-being, then pop in for a listen.

Episodes

In this video, I'm sharing my 5 biggest herbal mistakes—the kind that are a little embarrassing, sometimes painful, and always full of important lessons. 🌿From burning my skin with raw garlic to accidentally creating an infection with marshmallow root (yes, really!), I’m pulling back the curtain on what not to do when working with herbs. I’ll even show you the photos—because let’s be honest, we all learn best when it’s real.You’ll also hear about a cold I gave myself with the wrong herbal timing, and a gardening fail with Mugwort that completely took over. If you’re learning herbal medicine or just using herbs at home, this video will help you avoid some of the most common—and avoidable—pitfalls.These lessons were hard-won, but I hope they’ll keep you safe, empowered, and on a smoother path with your herbal journey.🎫 Upcoming Events - https://tinyurl.com/3y4xp6kc 🔗 Sky House Herb Website - https://www.skyhouseherbs.com/ ———— MY ONLINE COURSES 🌱🌝 Roots & Spheres Class: https://bit.ly/RootsAndSpheres  🌿Herbal Foundations Apprenticeship: https://bit.ly/HerbalProgram————👉 If you’ve ever had an herbal fail, drop it in the comments — I’d love to hear your story!Resources:Check out the LA Cold Cure Toast Recipe: https://youtu.be/UZvm9BPr2pk?feature=shared Chapters - Don't Do This! My 5 Biggest Mistakes Using Herbs00:00 Begins00:34 Introduction to Herbal Mistakes  01:56 The Garlic Foot Fail  05:09 Marshmallow Root Misapplication  07:53 Mugwort Gardening Mistake  09:27 Hormonal Balance Blunder  10:38 Cold Treatment Timing  12:40 Conclusion and Reflection  #herbalmistakes #herbalmedicine #clinicalherbalist #herbalsafety #plantmedicine
In this episode, I’m joined by land steward, farmer, and ethnobotanist Aleya Fraser for a rich conversation about ancestral wisdom, plant medicine, and the deep connections between land, community, and purpose.We talk about how Aleya’s  journey from aspiring medical professional to full-time grower was shaped by a dream and rooted in the teachings of elders. Together, we explore the role of food as medicine, how spirituality shows up in farming and herbalism, and how storytelling helps pass down cultural and plant knowledge through generations.This conversation touches on:- The importance of elders and intergenerational wisdom- Farming as a spiritual practice and form of resilience- The connection between feminine energy and land stewardship- How plants like elderflower carry ancestral stories across cultures- Gardening and herbalism as tools for healing and climate adaptationWhether you’re a gardener, herbalist, or simply curious about the intersection of culture, plants, and purpose—this episode offers inspiration and insight into what it means to live in relationship with the earth and our ancestry.🎫 Upcoming Events - https://tinyurl.com/3y4xp6kc 🔗 Sky House Herb Website - https://www.skyhouseherbs.com/ ———— MY ONLINE COURSES 🌱🌝 Roots & Spheres Class: https://bit.ly/RootsAndSpheres  🌿Herbal Foundations Apprenticeship: https://bit.ly/HerbalProgram————References and Resources:Book, “Caribbean Herbalism: Traditional Wisdom and Modern Herbal Healing by Aleya Fraser - https://amzn.to/45pZROPAleya’s Website: https://www.caribbeanherbalism.com/Follow Aleya on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naturaleya/Octavia Butler - “Parable of the Sower” book - parable of the sower octavia butler summaryBenjamin Banneker - https://prologue.blogs.archives.gov/2025/02/26/the-extraordinary-benjamin-banneker/Harriet Tubman “Aunties” Farm - https://www.theaunties.farm/Google Search - “Fermented Plant Juices”Stella Natura Planting Calendar 2025 - https://spikenardfarm.org/product/stella-natura-calendar/Korean Natural Farming Basics - https://www.motherearthgardener.com/organic-gardening/korean-natural-farming-basics-zm0z20uzbut/CHAPTERS - Storytelling, Soil & Spirit: How Elders and Plants Guide Our Purpose00:00 Begins00:34 Introduction to Ancestral Wisdom and Plant Medicine  02:10 Exploring Roots and Heritage  03:54 The Journey to Farming and Herbalism  06:26 The Role of Elders in Learning  08:42 Finding Meaning and Purpose in Life  09:10 The Power of Place and Ancestry  12:38 Connecting Through Plants  14:35 Technical Difficulties and Transitioning to Goddess Worship  14:35 Exploring Neolithic Goddess Worship and Ancestral Connections  17:47 Land-Based Practices and Feminine Energy in Farming  20:23 The Power of Storytelling in Teaching and Connection  23:47 Gardening Tips and Ancestral Wisdom in Plant Medicine
In this episode, I’m sharing some of my favorite medicinal herb pairings from my own garden and exploring the art of companion planting—not just from a gardening standpoint, but also from an energetic and symbolic perspective.Over the years, I’ve discovered that many herbs don’t just grow well together—they thrive in each other’s presence. These plant partnerships offer physical benefits like pest control, soil improvement, and immune support, while also weaving a subtle web of metaphysical resonance. When we plant with intention, the garden becomes more than a productive space—it becomes a living, healing relationship.In this video, I walk you through four powerful herbal pairings and why they work on both a biochemical and spiritual level:🌼 Chamomile & Mint – Peace meets clarity; these Mercury-ruled herbs bring calm focus while supporting each other physically through pest resistance and soil health. 🌾 Yarrow & Echinacea – A duo of protection and resilience, supporting boundaries, immunity, and ecological balance. 🌻 Calendula & Borage – Sunshine and courage in bloom; these companions uplift both soil and soul. 🌙 Lemon Balm & Valerian – Joy and rest, light and shadow—this yin-yang pair nurtures both the body and emotional cycles.🌙 Basil & Thyme – Aromatic besties with soil sparing roots that both provide great medicines and cooking spice.Whether you’re growing an herbal medicine garden, deepening your relationship with the plants, or curious about the energetic dynamics of the green world, this episode is for you.🌱 Like, comment, and subscribe if you love learning about herbal allies, plant spirit wisdom, and regenerative gardening practices!Links:Summer Solstice Free Event - https://www.skyhouseherbs.com/upcoming-events Garden Gatherings in Minnesota - https://www.skyhouseherbs.com/garden-gatherings Year Two Herbal Apprenticeship - https://www.skyhouseherbs.com/second-year———— MY ONLINE COURSES 🌱🌝 Roots & Spheres Class: https://bit.ly/RootsAndSpheres  🌿Herbal Foundations Apprenticeship: https://bit.ly/HerbalProgram————Chapters: Companion Planting Medicinal Herbs: Best Pairs for Growth, Healing & Spirit00:00 Begins00:34 Introduction to Companion Planting02:25 The Benefits of Chamomile and Mint05:54 Yarrow and Echinacea: Healing Pairs08:23 Borage and Calendula: Courage and Resilience10:39 Lemon Balm and Valerian: Relaxation Duo13:26 Basil and Thyme: Aromatic Allies14:41 Violet and Ladies Mantle: Feminine Healing16:37 The Power of Marigolds18:35 Intuition in Gardening: Learning Through Experience#CompanionPlanting #MedicinalHerbs #Herbalism #HerbGarden #PlantSpirits #EnergeticHerbalism #Permaculture #SpiritualGardening #Chamomile #Mint #Yarrow #Echinacea #Calendula #Borage #LemonBalm #Valerian
In this episode, I invite you into my garden to explore the healing power of three so-called “weeds” that are actually potent medicinal herbs—growing right where they are, wild and wise.These plants have become some of my closest allies in supporting health, especially when it comes to digestion, stress, and overall wellness. I’ll share how I use natural remedies in daily life and why I often turn to herbs before reaching for conventional medicine.We’ll explore: 🌱 The therapeutic role of gardening 🌱 The often-overlooked power of bitter herbs 🌱 How reconnecting with plants outside your door can transform your approach to health✨ Featured Herbs:Bee Balm (Monarda fistulosa)Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca)Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium)Whether you're an experienced herbalist or just beginning your plant path, this episode offers grounded, heart-centered guidance on how to use these common “weeds” as healing herbs. Learn how to listen to their tastes, tune into their wisdom, and reawaken your relationship with the land around you.Let’s rediscover what it means to find medicine in the garden.———— MY ONLINE COURSES 🌱🌝 Roots & Spheres Class: https://bit.ly/RootsAndSpheres  🌿Herbal Foundations Apprenticeship: https://bit.ly/HerbalProgram————Chapters: Weeds as Medicine: 3 Powerful Healing Plants in Your Backyard00:34 Introduction02:16 Soil to Spirit: Spiritual Gardening Connection02:17 Welcome To The Garden02:30 Bee Balm Identification03:05 Bee Balm Medicinal Uses .mp406:59 Introduction to Motherwort and Its Benefits08:52 Exploring the Characteristics of Motherwort08:57 Exploring the Wild Herbs09:20 The Healing Power of Motherwort10:15 Introduction to Artemisia Absintheum11:45 Medicinal Uses and Preparation of Wormwood Tincture12:20 Effects on Digestive and Reproductive Health12:41 Exploring Nature's Wonders13:25 Closing
Hi everyone! I’m Ashley Marie Elenbaas, clinical herbalist, and in this Herb of the Month episode, I’m taking you on a deep dive into the powerful and aromatic world of Rosemary. This herb has been cherished for centuries for its medicinal benefits, spiritual uses, and rich cultural significance.We’ll explore how Rosemary supports mental clarity, digestion, and circulation, while also discussing its traditional role as a protective herb in rituals and folklore. I also share insights into how Rosemary is used to enhance memory and cognitive function, and how it connects us to ancestral wisdom and remembrance.Whether you're using Rosemary as a tea, tincture, or essential oil—or burning it as an incense to clear energy—this episode offers practical tools, clinical insights, and spiritual reflections to help you work with this herb safely and effectively.In this video, I cover:Rosemary’s botanical and energetic profileMedicinal uses for digestion, memory, and circulationIts historical role as a protective and sacred plantRitual uses for cleansing, remembrance, and revitalizationSafety and dosage guidelines, including precautions for pregnancyWhy fresh Rosemary matters for vitality and potency———— MY ONLINE COURSES 🌱🌝 Roots & Spheres Class: https://bit.ly/RootsAndSpheres  🌿Herbal Foundations Apprenticeship: https://bit.ly/HerbalProgram————ResourcesMonthly In-Person Garden Gatherings  - https://www.skyhouseherbs.com/garden-gatheringsUpcoming Local Events - https://www.skyhouseherbs.com/upcoming-eventsOnline Courses - https://www.skyhouseherbs.com/aboutBook, "Benedictaria: The Blessings Way of Southern Italian Folk Medicine by Gail Faith Edwards - https://blessedmaineherbs.com/products/pre-order-benedicaria-the-blessing-way-of-southern-italian-folk-medicine🌿✨ ROSEMARY HAIR OIL RECIPE - ROSEMARY-INFUSED HAIR OIL (OLIVE OIL BASE)Nourishing scalp oil for hair growth and root health🌿 Ingredients:1 cup 🫒 extra virgin olive oil1/4 cup 🌿 dried rosemary(Or a small handful of fresh rosemary — thoroughly dried to prevent spoilage)🛠️ Instructions:1. Prepare the RosemaryIf using fresh rosemary, ensure it is completely dry to avoid spoilage.Strip the leaves from the stems and lightly crush them to help release their essential oils.2. Combine IngredientsPlace the rosemary in a clean, dry glass jar.Pour the olive oil over the rosemary until fully submerged.3. Infuse the OilSlow Method:Cap the jar and place it in a warm, sunny windowsill for 2–4 weeks, shaking gently each day.Quick Method:Place the jar in a double boiler or warm water bath on the lowest setting for 2–3 hours.⚠️ Do not boil or simmer.4. StrainOnce infused, strain the oil using a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer into a clean glass jar or bottle.5. StoreLabel your jar and store it in a cool, dark place.🌿 Shelf life: approx. 6 months💆‍♀️ To Use:Massage the oil into your scalp to:- Stimulate hair growth- Nourish and hydrate rootsLeave on for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for a deeper treatment.Shampoo and rinse as usual.CHAPTERS - HERB OF THE MONTH: ROSEMARY00:00 Begins00:34 Introduction to Rosemary01:04 The Botanical Features of Rosemary02:49 Cultural and Historical Significance06:42 Rosemary as a Protective Herb07:23 Rosemary and Ancestral Memory09:26 Medicinal Properties of Rosemary14:30 Safety and Usage Guidelines17:05 Practical Applications of Rosemary
In this episode, I invite you into the garden with me to explore what I call “the goddess in the garden”—a reflection on how growing herbs can be a deeply healing and empowering practice. I share my love for three special herbs: rose, calendula (marigold), and lady’s mantle, and how each one supports both beauty and wellness, inside and out.We’ll talk about what I see as the goddess rebellion—a return to the earth, to simplicity, and to meaningful community connections. I also touch on the science behind gardening and mental health, and how even tending a few pots on a windowsill can bring peace and purpose to your day.Whether you’re a lifelong gardener or just curious about growing your own herbs, I hope this episode leaves you feeling inspired to connect more deeply with nature, your own inner wisdom, and the healing beauty of the plants around you.In this episode, I talk about:Gardening as a form of self-care and spiritual connectionWhy rose is one of my favorite herbs for emotional and skin healingThe many uses of calendula for beauty and first aidThe folklore and feminine magic of lady’s mantleHow growing herbs can support mental health and reduce stressEasy ways to start gardening, even with limited spaceResources:Series Playlist -  "From Soil to Spirit"  - watch here: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLtGmbdK5tigdaoI6mlsJdkzFSiJxrt7Am&feature=sharedSeries Playlist  - "The Goddess, Herbalism, and Sacred Symbols" - watch here: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLtGmbdK5tigd379v87qNELJjygFWn1Dp5&feature=sharedBook, "Benedictaria: The Blessing Way of Southern Italian Folk Medicine" by Gail Faith Edwards - https://blessedmaineherbs.com/products/pre-order-benedicaria-the-blessing-way-of-southern-italian-folk-medicineOrganic Herb Source: Strictly Medicinal Seeds (and Live Plants!) - https://strictlymedicinalseeds.com/———— MY ONLINE COURSES 🌱🌝 Roots & Spheres Class: https://bit.ly/RootsAndSpheres  🌿Herbal Foundations Apprenticeship: https://bit.ly/HerbalProgram
Welcome to Episode 1 of From Soil to Spirit: A 4-Part Gardening Series with Sky House Herbs!In this first installment, I’ll guide you through seven essential herbs to plant right now—Bee Balm, Chamomile, Thyme, Calendula, Nettles, Lemon Balm, and Peppermint. These herbs are not only easy to grow but incredibly versatile as medicines, teas, and culinary allies.But before we dig in, we’ll talk about connecting with the land, even if you’re in an urban space or a suburban yard. I’ll share simple ways to build a relationship with your garden by observing, listening, and honoring the plants and animals already living there.You’ll also learn how to set a clear vision for your garden, prepare your soil, and choose the right space based on your personal goals—whether it’s a healing garden, a pollinator patch, or your first herb spiral. With a clear vision you can do anything!✨ Whether you're a beginner or seasoned gardener, this episode will inspire you to plant with intention and purpose this spring.👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to follow the full From Soil to Spirit series!———— MY ONLINE COURSES 🌱🌝 Roots & Spheres Class: https://bit.ly/RootsAndSpheres  🌿Herbal Foundations Apprenticeship: https://bit.ly/HerbalProgram————Resources:Sky House Herb Garden Gatherings: https://www.skyhouseherbs.com/garden-gatheringsSky House Herb Events: https://www.skyhouseherbs.com/upcoming-eventsPicture This - Plant Identification App - https://www.picturethisai.com/Book - "The Serviceberry" by Robin Wall Kimmerer - https://www.picturethisai.com/Seed and Plant Sources: Strictly Medicinals Herbs - https://strictlymedicinalseeds.com/#HerbalGardening #SpringPlanting #MedicinalHerbs #SkyHouseHerbs #SoilToSpirit #GardenWithIntention #PermacultureHerbs #PlantSpirits
In this episode, I’m wrapping up my Goddess series by diving into the world of the Modern Goddess—what she meant to our Neolithic ancestors and how she still lives in us today. Inspired by my journey through Old Europe and the work of archeomythologist Marija Gimbutas, I explore goddess-worshiping cultures and the rich symbolism they left behind—like the snake, the egg, and sacred water—as guides for understanding cycles of life, death, fertility, rest, and regeneration.But this isn’t just a look at ancient history. I share practical, grounded ways to embody the goddess in your daily life today—through community care, seasonal and cyclical living, everyday rituals, and even the herbal allies I keep close (sometimes literally in my pockets!). If you’re longing to reconnect with the Earth, slow down, and live in a more regenerative rhythm, this episode is an invitation to awaken the goddess within and bring her spirit into the heart of your modern life.🌿 Subscribe for herbal tips and wellness insights: https://bit.ly/4iRnpyX———— MY ONLINE COURSES 🌱🌝 Roots & Spheres Class: https://bit.ly/RootsAndSpheres  🌿Herbal Foundations Apprenticeship: https://bit.ly/HerbalProgram————Chapters: The Modern Goddess: Living Courageously With Pockets full of Plants and Charms | Ashley Elenbaas00:00 Begins00:30 Introduction and Goddess Series Wrap-Up03:57 Exploring the Modern Goddess07:45 Permaculture Principles and Their Relevance10:20 Embodying the Goddess in Daily Life15:33 Becoming the Mother to All18:47 Embodying the Goddess Your Own Way19:37 Practical Pocket Tools and Herbs for the Modern Goddess28:35 Conclusion and Community EngagementReferences and Resources:Max Dashu's "Womanity Course" - https://suppressed-histories.teachable.com/p/restoring-womanityDocuseries "From the Goddess" by Laura Hirsch (featuring Starhawk) - https://www.womenbodiment.com/about-5Book: "The Fifth Sacred Thing" by Starhawk - https://amzn.to/3F3j0LuCheck Our my "Herbalism and Ancient Symbols Playlist" - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLtGmbdK5tigd379v87qNELJjygFWn1Dp5&feature=sharedVideo: "Signs Out of Time: The Story of Archeologist Marija Gimbutas" - https://youtu.be/BjE2-H1R9Zs?feature=shared"The Goddesses and Gods of Old Europe" by Marija Gimbutas - https://amzn.to/42d6aSF"The Language of the Goddess" by Marija Gimbutas - https://amzn.to/3EdFkl9Herbs and Body Care:Ranavat Saffron Brightening Skin Oil - http://rwrd.io/v2px4ntNettles Organic Dried Herb - https://www.bearwallowherbs.com/collections/teas/products/stinging-nettle-tea-1?variant=43075926229145Sacred Forest Flower Essences (Holy Basil) - https://grandparentsoftheforest.com/product-category/flower-essencesMother Hylde's Rose Glycerite - https://motherhylde.com/apothecary/Herbalist and Alchemist - Black Cohosh - https://www.herbalist-alchemist.com/shop-products-bck-black-cohosh-extract#ModernGoddess #PlantMedicine #DivineFeminine #HerbalWisdom #EarthBasedSpirituality #GoddessRituals #SeasonalLiving #WombWisdom #SacredFeminine #MarijaGimbutas #HerbalRituals #FertilityAndRest #CyclicalLiving #RootedLiving #WomenAndPlants
In this episode, I explore ancient perspectives on death through the lens of the Goddess—especially as she was honored in Neolithic cultures. We’ll journey into the cave as a sacred womb and tomb, examine burial practices, and consider the powerful symbolism of figurines, bees, butterflies, and the 'stiff white lady'—all expressions of transformation and regeneration. These stories remind us that death was once seen not as an end, but as part of a cycle of renewal. I also share the herbal wisdom of lemon balm, a plant long associated with the Goddess and healing rituals, and how we can use it today as an ally in our own times of transition and rebirth.———— MY ONLINE COURSES 🌱🌝 Roots & Spheres Class: https://bit.ly/RootsAndSpheres 🌿Herbal Foundations Apprenticeship: https://bit.ly/HerbalProgram————Resources:Check Our my "Herbalism and Ancient Symbols Playlist" - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLtGmbdK5tigd379v87qNELJjygFWn1Dp5&feature=sharedVideo: "Signs Out of Time: The Story of Archeologist Marija Gimbutas" - https://youtu.be/BjE2-H1R9Zs?feature=shared"The Goddesses and Gods of Old Europe" by Marija Gimbutas - https://amzn.to/42d6aSF"The Language of the Goddess" by Marija Gimbutas - https://amzn.to/3EdFkl9Buy Heirloom Lemon Balm Plants and Seeds - https://strictlymedicinalseeds.com/
🌿Part of my series Herbalism and Ancient Symbols🌿In this episode, I dive into the rich symbolism of the Bull and its ancient connection to the Goddess, the moon, and the regenerative forces of nature. Drawing from the incredible work of archaeologist and linguist Marija Gimbutas, we’ll explore Neolithic goddess-worshipping cultures through vases, pottery, and cave art that illuminate the sacred relationship between the feminine and the wild, earthy power of the Bull.One of my favorite examples? The “Bull Flowers”—vases shaped like bulls, overflowing with blooms—reminders of how beauty and strength were once inseparable in our ancestors’ view of the divine.As we move through the lush, fertile energies of Taurus season, I’ll also invite you to slow down, step outside, and reconnect with your luscious, living body—because this is a time for rooting, resting, and blooming.We’ll finish by weaving in the medicine of Licorice root—a sweet, grounding herb that resonates deeply with Taurus energy. I’ll share how to work with Licorice to nourish your body, support your adrenals, and inspire your inner journey of becoming.Join me for this exploration of ancient wisdom, seasonal magic, and herbal medicine. 🌙🐂🌸🔔 Hit the bell to get notified when we post new videos! 🌿 Subscribe for more herbal insights and tips for a healthier life: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqHWmptta4uc7HThzEATBVA?sub_confirmation=1———— MY ONLINE COURSES 🌱🌝 Roots & Spheres Class: https://bit.ly/RootsAndSpheres 🌿Herbal Foundations Apprenticeship: https://bit.ly/HerbalProgram————Resources:Check Our my "Herbalism and Ancient Symbols Playlist" - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLtGmbdK5tigd379v87qNELJjygFWn1Dp5&feature=sharedVideo: "Signs Out of Time: The Story of Archeologist Marija Gimbutas" - https://youtu.be/BjE2-H1R9Zs?feature=shared"The Goddesses and Gods of Old Europe" by Marija Gimbutas - https://amzn.to/42d6aSF"The Language of the Goddess" by Marija Gimbutas - https://amzn.to/3EdFkl9Licorice Tincture - https://www.herbalist-alchemist.com/shop-products-lce-licorice-extract?srsltid=AfmBOoqzQ0Y6TUI2ReImCL9q0Nd_8B3jWPfd64Lb1LE_apdmtl8Lmgox