Western Herbalism & Black History

Western Herbalism is the primary form of herbalism taught in America, shaping the curricula, protocols, and practices of many herbal programs. Across social media, articles, blogs, DIY guides, and public events, Western Herbalism is widely promoted as the default standard in herbal education and practice.

However, it is important to question what specifically makes herbalism 'Western' and what this designation truly signifies.

First of all, the term Western Herbalism is not old. It's a fairly new, however, according to Wikipedia and Google, "Gemini" is heralded as being over 2,000 to 3,000 years old with roots in Mediterranean civilization, with ancient roots in Egypt and Greece, having evolved into a mix of European, Mediterranean, and eventually, Indigenous American traditions...

While this history may sound impressive, a closer examination reveals significant issues.

So, how old is Western Herbalism? Well, it depends on who you talk to and who's presenting it. From my view, Western Herbalism as we know and understand it in modern times is a new construct that was created to conglomerate European herbal practices formalized by colonialism. Though the term appears to be inclusive of all Westerners, it implies European herbal traditions and practices exclusively due to its deep connection to colonialism.

As a teacher, I have long advocated that this term be clarified to more aptly say Western European Herbalism, especially in America.

This distinction matters because, in America, herbalism has been shaped by diverse groups. Yet popular narratives, as seen in search results, only briefly mention Native Americans and celebrate certain 19th-century figures, while largely excluding African enslaved peoples and other non-European contributors. This omission underscores my main argument: the current definition of Western Herbalism is incomplete and inaccurate.  

To address this omission, I developed the "Black North American Herbalism" course, which I have taught for nearly 10 years. This curriculum is a historical survey of the herbal traditions and knowledge of African and enslaved people in America. My work in this field has led to various interviews and podcasts, and I am currently working on a book to further formalize and honor these contributions.

In honor of Black History Month, I am proud to amplify the voices of pioneers like George Washington Carver, Harriet Tubman, Emma Dupree, and many others. This coming Saturday, February 21, and the following Saturday, February 28, I will be leading a celebration of Black Herbalists, Past, Present, and Future at the Berkeley Herbal Center. The event will feature all-day classes, a short film, and a Wellness Market.

Together we'll share, teach, and present Black herbal educators, pioneers, and perpetuators of the rich herbal traditions and practice of what I call Black North American Herbalism.

Join me in a grand effort to write history the right way. 

In Love & Truth, 

Shereel