Growing up on the coast of Maine, I learned early on about the healing powers of plants from my grandmother. My fervor for herbal medicine has been deeply rooted since childhood and is what called me back to Maine after working in the media production industry as a videographer and photographer…
… I loved working in media & the arts, but I became compelled to depart from the city life to return to my roots where I could delve deeper into my relationship with plants. I now consider myself a photography hobbyist and over the past year have been finding joy in it again! I’ve been taking many photos of flowers these days :)
Herbal medicine has always been part of my lifestyle, especially so when I became sick in college with interstitial cystitis, a chronic bladder disease. I saw countless doctors and specialists at one of the best hospitals in the world, but would leave each appointment feeling increasingly discouraged. I never once heard the word “heal”, only long names of medications to put a “bandaid” on the pain; there was no healing in sight. I didn’t experience true healing and relief from the pain until I began treating with herbs. I found autonomy and empowerment in healing my own body through the lessons my grandmother had raised me on. The closer I came to working with plants in my daily life, regardless of where I was living, I felt at home.
The mission of Herbal Tide Botanicals is to illustrate our inherent need for living in a harmonious and mutual relationship with the land by creating sustainable, non-toxic, healing, & affordable plant products - from skincare to immune-boosting elixirs. Through mindful care of ourselves and our communities using medicinal plants, we can also begin to heal our relationship with the land.
I strongly believe natural medicine (and safe & healing skin/body products!) should be accessible to all - and is the greatest form of preventative health care. Most skincare products on the market are filled with toxins (yes - even the ones that appear to be “natural” or “holistic”!). My ultimate dream is to open an apothecary & herbal clinic that provides alternative & affordable community care.
5% of proceeds from all products sold are donated to the Wabanaki Community Herbal Apothecary in support of Maine's Indigenous communities. Community care and giving back to the people, the land, and the ancestors from which we learn, craft, and practice is the most important piece of herbalism. We give thanks and reparations to the land and to the people.
Thank you for sharing this journey with me!
-Michaela
