Amber Meyers is the Co-Director and Founding Partner of the Herbal Academy, an international school of herbalism. Through her leadership at the school, she has helped bring herbalism into more than 100,000 students’ homes throughout the world. Equally as rewarding, she has brought herbalism into her own home, teaching her three little ones about the wonder and benefits of nearby plant allies through family rhythms.
Amber is passionate about small business development and entrepreneurship, and desires to support Herbal Academy students with their own entrepreneurial pursuits via her contributions to the Herbal Academy’s Business Herbal Course, as an advisor of the Herbal Entrepreneur Conference, and expansion of Herbal Academy offerings.
How did you first discover plant-based medicine?
My journey into herbalism started with the Herbal Academy – and by that, I mean the development of the Herbal Academy! I was about one year out of college, and had been working at a PR agency while doing some freelance marketing for small businesses on the side, when I met an herbalist named Marlene Adelmann. She invited me for tea and to discuss her dreams of starting a community school where she could share her passion for herbalism and nutrition with others. I had no idea what herbal medicine was at that point in my life –– having loose leaf tea with her during that conversation was my first experience drinking non-bagged tea at all! –– but Marlene’s passion for the subject and her “sky's the limit” ambition sparked my entrepreneurial heart. Soon, we were jumping all in on this endeavor together!
In the first years, we were so busy getting the business off the ground (and seats filled in our classes!) that it took me some time before I really engaged with the material in an impactful way. That can be the nature of small business, right? But over the years, I grew right alongside the school and my personal transformation has been life-changing. There was never a point in my journey where I suddenly thought, “I’m an herbalist” because the process was slow, organic, and much of it happened through first-hand experience cultivating the school, through my mentorship with Marlene, and through the internal development and launch processes of Herbal Academy’s programs. Over the course of 10 years the school has offered 20 herbal course offerings (and some in development), and I have learned through every one of them. Our Herbal Academy team of course developers, teachers, clinical herbalists, folk herbalists, content creatives, community specialists – everyone at the Herbal Academy is so brilliant and has unique perspectives, backgrounds, and talents that work towards the same goal. Every day provides the opportunity to collaborate with a greater team for the greater good of the school and our community, and this spirit of collaboration has also really helped stretch my learning to greater depths, and has influenced my herbal journey tremendously.
What is one of your key plant-based medicine rituals?
Getting outside, engaging with nature, forest bathing – it’s part of my family’s rhythm and the plant connection that I need most to ground and nourish myself at the deepest level. My backyard abuts wooded acreage with access to neighbor-made hiking trails, deer paths, and a creek with a number of bridges to cross over. Spring through fall, as soon as my workday is over and my little ones wake up from their naps, we pack up a snack, put on our gear, and head out to explore. In spring, we come across newborn fawns hidden away in the ferns waiting for their mamas to return to them, we observe the green carpet take over the forest floor, and we forage for violets, dandelions, nettles, garlic mustard, and our favorite, morel mushrooms. Each season, there is something to look forward to. Admittedly, in winter it is harder to get outside here in Minnesota, but we still enjoy nature, just in smaller doses. I’m very grateful to have the opportunity to live with nature so easily at this point in my life.
"Getting outside, engaging with nature, forest bathing – it’s part of my family’s rhythm and the plant connection that I need most to ground and nourish myself at the deepest level."
Do you have a cultural or ancestral connection to any plants?
Herbalism wasn’t part of my upbringing. I didn’t hear stories of how my ancestors connected with plants, and I wasn’t taught how to work with herbs in my childhood – this simply wasn’t passed on.
While I didn’t have this plant connection growing up, I do feel really blessed for where my path has led me and I’m trying my best to pass along what I learn to my children. I’d be curious how my children would answer this question 20 years from now, you know? It’s common for my 5 year old and 3 year old to point out the goldenrod, yarrow, and queen anne’s lace growing in ditches while we’re out on walks, help themselves to lemon balm and berries growing in our edible landscape, ask for a mint leaf or chamomile tea when they have tummy upsets, or make pretend forest stew in the backyard with plants they can identify from the woods. These glimpses into their awareness make me so appreciative for the path they are on, and the connection they are experiencing in their early years.
"While I didn’t have this plant connection growing up, I do feel really blessed for where my path has led me and I’m trying my best to pass along what I learn to my children."
What is the one plant/herb you can’t live without and why?
I wouldn’t be able to go long without nettle! It is a deeply nourishing herb, rich with vitamins, and has numerous beneficial actions that support many body systems including the respiratory and digestive systems and provides tonic, nutritive support during pregnancy. Nettle was one herb that I could use in pregnancy and through the postpartum period, when many herbs are limited. I have drunk a lot of nettle tea in the past 5 years for that reason alone!
Nettle is really wonderful as a tea by itself, but I also favor this herb because it blends so well with others. Outside of the teacup, I enjoy using the fresh early greens in spring and early summer pastas, sautés, and skillet meals.
Can you share your favorite self-care practice?
Tea, it’s so simple but grounding for me. I will often sit down with a cup of tea in the afternoon, sometimes in the evening and usually around the kitchen table, and look out the window at the trees, slow my breathing, enjoy the aroma and the taste of the herbs that fill my cup, and take the moment to rest and unravel from the day.
Oftentimes my two older kids will end up joining me, and then it becomes an act of family self care. But tea settles everyone, and even with the entire family involved, afternoon and evening teatime will often be our most peaceful part of the day.
"...Even with the entire family involved, afternoon and evening teatime will often be our most peaceful part of the day."
How do you like to use Prismatic Plants in your daily routine?
Once I start my workday, I pretty much go non-stop for the first 5 hours while my clarity and energy levels are at their best. Once I start to lose steam and need that break, I refresh whatever drink is in my Mason jar, stretch my legs, and then come back to my desk and use the Melt Tension Serum. I massage where I feel tense – typically my jawline and my upper shoulders – and feel the tension ease almost immediately. It’s a simple practice that’s been really effective in helping me reset before going back to my computer to finish up the workday.
"I massage where I feel tense – typically my jawline and my upper shoulders – and feel the tension ease almost immediately. It’s a simple practice that’s been really effective in helping me reset before going back to my computer to finish up the workday."
What is one organization you think people should know about and support?
Herbalists Without Borders (HWB). If you haven’t heard about them, I encourage you to visit their website and learn about their community chapters and programs.
In their words, HWB is devoted to helping people and communities through compassionate holistic care all around the world. They serve communities in need that are often impacted by natural disasters, violent conflicts, poverty, trauma, and other access barriers to health and wellness through their Holistic Free People’s Clinics, trauma training, herbal medicine, education, and many other programs. Over the last few years, the Herbal Academy has been linking arms with Herbalists Without Borders to support their chapter leadership teams in scholarship-based herbalism education. It’s a partnership we hope to build upon well into the future.
]]>Ever felt stuck in between fight or flight? Sometimes we don’t even know what triggered it, but before we know it we have a tight chest, short breath and an overwhelmed mind. We know this function exists to protect us, but what do we do when we don’t need protecting?
Enter the Vagus Nerve, known as the modulator of the brain-gut axis in psychology. When we reference the brain-gut axis, we are referring to the location where the communication of the central and enteric nervous system occurs. This communication then stimulates emotional and cognitive function, so when the brain-gut axis is out of balance, this results in decreased function in these areas, which can lead to all sorts of discomfort, physically and mentally such as brain fog, digestive issues, depression, anxiety and more. So how do we begin to approach healing our vagus nerve naturally?
First, in order to understand how to heal our vagus nerve naturally, let’s break down the components of the nerve itself. Known as the 10th cranial nerve, the vagus nerve is the longest nerve in our body, reaching from our brain all the way to our abdomen. ‘Vagus’ is actually Latin for the word wandering, which seems fitting due to its wide-range of wandering nerves. Due to the vagus nerve containing both sensory (afferent) and motor (efferent) functions, it’s considered to be a mixed nerve.
When referring to vagus nerve function, vagal tone is defined as the activity of the vagus nerve. Increased vagal tone means higher functioning versus decreased vagal tone.
Our vagus nerve can become damaged when our bodies undergo a prolonged period of mental or physical distress…(hint hint, basically our everyday busy-body lives.) One of the main ways our vagus nerve dysfunctions during this time is by failing to act as a filter for our consciousness to communicate what’s happening to our body. Without this filter, we can feel brain fog, fatigue, muscle aches and even digestion disruption. Picture yourself having access to every news source all at once; you’d feel helpless seeing the terrible things while also feeling joy for all the good simultaneously; your body trying to make sense of the juxtaposition of all the information you’re receiving is what causes the dysfunction.
Similar to how we would approach an overwhelmed, out of touch toddler, we must take that same energy towards ourselves when embarking on healing our vagus nerve naturally. When we say natural, we mean we are using gentle and non-invasive tools. Some examples of natural healing would be breathing exercises, massage, yoga, and even gargling!
One of the most popular ways of healing the vagus nerve naturally involves manual vagus nerve stimulation through massage. The areas to stimulate are the inner surface of the tragus, the concha, and the cymba of the concha. Here’s how we like to set up for a vagus nerve massage:
Another popular way to heal the vagus nerve naturally is by participating in breathing exercises. One of the ways breathing can improve our vagus system is by improving heart rate variability and minimizing the fight or flight response. We like to start our exercises with a couple drops of Good Day to allow our brains to relax with clean energy and focus.
“When I took a full dropper I felt so even keeled I instantly fell in love! I felt like I was able to flow through challenges throughout my day with a calmer demeanor and a clearer mind.” says Brittney.
While some may say any form of deep breathing will do the trick, here two popular methods:
We’ve just barely begun to scratch the surface of healing the vagus nerve naturally. As we are continually learning more about how to address our body’s needs, we advise you to keep track of the things you are discovering. Whether it be daily triggers or breathing exercises that work, it’s helpful to have something to look back on. Think of this as your natural healing first aid kit.
Read more about natural healing with plant medicine here. Got questions? Email us at info@prismaticplants.com
Sources:
YOSH: Founder, Perfumer
Scent Trunk: Creative Director
Scent Festival: Producer
How did you first discover plant-based medicine?
I grew up in an Asian household so traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), herbs and acupuncture were part of my culture and upbringing. Though I felt embarrassed as a child, I have grown to tap into that side of my family heritage, especially in my scent work.
What is one of your key plant-based medicine rituals?
Bath time and bedtime plant based rituals - both internally and topically are an essential part of my wind-down routine. Knowing which plants support my body is key to feeling good, sleeping well and waking up refreshed. A simple tea blend is sometimes all I need.
Do you have a cultural or ancestral connection to any plants?
Ginger is widely used in Asian cuisine and healing. It has become one of my favorite roots to use - whether cooking with it or having it in a tea or cocktail as well as olfactively in fragrance.
What is the one plant/herb you can’t live without and why?
Ginger! See above :)
"...While visiting any new destination I will find a place to jump in the water - swim in the ocean, lake or pool. This connects me to the place energetically - like a baptism."
Can you share your favorite self-care practice?
My favorite self-care routine is while visiting any new destination I will find a place to jump in the water - swim in the ocean, lake or pool. This connects me to the place energetically - like a baptism. I will then visit the local market and buy either local salt or local herbs to cook with and/or make bath salts.
How do you like to use Prismatic Plants in your daily routine?
I love using the Good Night tincture to wind down as part of my bedtime routine. I’ll have it under the tongue directly or in a cup of sleepy time tea. Melt Tension Serum is such a great go-to for stressful days on the laptop and heavy thinking! I love pairing it with my massage tools to increase the effect.
"Melt Tension Serum is such a great go-to for stressful days on the laptop and heavy thinking!"
What is one organization you think people should know about and support?
The Coalition of Sustainable Perfumery is a terrific organization that fosters conversations about sustainability in perfumery and focuses on preserving biodiversity and natural resources. The COSP Endangered and Threatened Fragrant Species Red List that compiles a list of plants that are commonly used in fragrance creation and production. Sometimes, sustainable also means using alternative materials that are either naturally or synthetically derived.
The year is 2022, and there’s no shortage of anxious feelings to go around. If you’re reading this, you’ve likely spent the past few years getting cozy with the nuances of your personal anxieties and stressors. Anxiety is something we’ve all felt or feel regularly. Learning ways to relieve our anxiety is equally important as finding out what causes stress and anxiety within our bodies. We’re here today to dive into the intricacies of CBD and how it can impact our stress and anxiety levels.
This is a question many people who are new to CBD are concerned with. In short, it is extremely rare for CBD to be associated with any sort of anxiety or panic. Side effects overall are very rare with hemp-based CBD, with the most common associated side effect being a bit of drowsiness in part because the body's nervous system is being calmed.
From a scientific perspective, there’s no research linking increased anxiety to CBD. We do know that CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not affect the mind or mental processes.
We believe this question stems from the idea that cannabis get’s you ‘high’, and being ‘high’ can be uncomfortable and cause anxiety for some people. However, not all cannabis can get you ‘high’. It’s only cannabis that is cultivated to have high amounts of THC. Hemp (which is what we use) is a cultivated cannabis varietal that has very little THC but very high CBD. So when consuming our hemp products, you will not get high or feel any psycho-activity that would cause anxiety.
To increase effectiveness, our Prismatic Plant full-spectrum tinctures contain .05% THC per dose (the legal amount for hemp products is up to 0.3%). This tiny amount of THC makes other cannabis compounds like CBD and CBDa better at doing their jobs - which is to heal you! This is also known as the entourage effect. We extract the whole plant (mostly flowers) without stripping away beneficial compounds in favor of only CBD (like an isolate), and that’s why we call it a full-spectrum extract. We always recommend starting with a low dose and taking it slow when trying new products. Take note of how you feel and go from there. After all, everyone’s physiology is different! Read more on how to take CBD and find your dose here.
CBD interacts with serotonin receptor 5-HT1A known to reduce anxious feelings associated with generalized anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, insomnia, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. These receptors are mostly found in our nervous system and they attach directly to our cells. Low serotonin levels lead to an increase in anxiety, stress, and depression. When our serotonin levels increase, we see positive impacts on our sleep, digestion, behavior, and overall mood. CBD also decreases inflammation, making it easier for our bodies to clearly communicate, heal, and detox while calming the nervous system.
CBD interacts with serotonin receptor 5-HT1A known to reduce anxious feelings...These receptors are mostly found in our nervous system...Low serotonin levels lead to an increase in anxiety, stress, and depression.
It’s no surprise that anxiety is the most common mental health disorder in the world. When we say we’re all in this together, we really mean it!
As we jump back into what feels like a pre-pandemic summer, we’ve found that CBD helps us feel more present while easing tension around traveling, socializing, and heading back to in-office work. The pace of life quickly picked up, and it’s 100% normal to be feeling it in many ways. One of our favorite things about CBD is that it’s non-addictive, and it’s not necessary to increase the dosage over time In fact, you can reduce dosage over time as you replenish your body's own production of endocannabinoids. Find a dose that works for you and take it as needed (regularly works best for chronic anxiety and deep healing).
*** Hot tip: Boost the calming properties of CBD by staying hydrated and practicing deep breathing exercises!
CBD is non-addictive, and it’s not necessary to increase the dosage over time. In fact, you can reduce dosage over time as you replenish your body's own production of endocannabinoids.
At Prismatic Plants, we’re all about balance, baby. No bandaids, just pure plant power delivering long-term healing. Cannabidiol (CBD) is featured in all of our products for its benefit in relieving stress and anxiety. After all, these days you can never have enough stress relief!
For quashing daytime stress we created our Prismatic Plants Good Day tincture. It uses Adaptogens (Schisandra, Bacopa, Rhodiola, White Ginseng, Holy Basil), CBD plus CBDa (the raw form of CBD) to double down on its ability to soothe inflammation, clear brain fog, and improve focus while keeping us calm and balanced. What to expect? Increased mental clarity, energy without the jitters, cleared brain fog, and reduced stress.
We don’t take stress or anxiety lightly, so we created our formulas with the guidance of master herbalists and biomedical chemists. Last but certainly not least, sourcing clean and sustainable ingredients is essential! Our ingredients are 3rd party tested and free of heavy metals, mycotoxins and pesticides.
*** While powerful, CBD is not a replacement for doctor-prescribed medications. Please consult your doctor before stopping medications. Got questions? Email info@prismaticplants.com
Aliza Sherman is a web pioneer who transitioned into the cannabis industry after discovering the medicinal properties of the plant while going through menopause in her early 50s. She’s the co-founder of Ellementa with filmmaker and creative Melissa Pierce. Ellementa is a community and educational resource for women interested in plant medicine and other alternative paths to wellness. With a passion for crafting content that empowers and inspires, Aliza hosts “The Ellementa Show,” a weekly podcast where she interviews women who share their wisdom about wellness (Prismatic Plants Founder Sarah Polansky was recently featured on her show).
She is also the author of 12 books including Cannabis and CBD for Health and Wellness, co-authored with cannabis physician Dr. June Chin, and The Happy, Healthy Nonprofit, co-authored with nonprofit tech expert, Beth Kanter. Aliza lives and works in Alaska.
"I made it my mission to let more women know about the healing properties of cannabis and to help dispel the myths that have kept this effective medicinal herb from so many people."
PP: How did you first discover plant-based medicine?
In my late 40s and early 50s, I was suffering from debilitating pain, first with two frozen shoulders, then arthritis in my neck that was compounded by menopause-induced insomnia. I was a wreck. Plant medicine wasn’t new to me - I was a huge proponent of natural remedies and had been using echinacea, astragalus, and other herbs since the 1980s when I was diagnosed with Epstein-Barr Virus in my 20s.
But cannabis? I was a child of the “Just Say No” generation and even won an honorary mention for my science fair display called “Close Encounters of the Worst Kind” where I shared the information I found in books in the library: that marijuana was a gateway drug to heroin. Going to my first cannabis conference focused on women’s health in 2016 turned everything I knew upside down. Realizing that we’ve been misled by our own government about cannabis, I dove into research and was able to access cannabis from a home grower when I moved to a state that had a medical marijuana program with a caregiver model.
The first time I tried it, at night, it worked almost instantly on my pain and helped me sleep through the night. I woke up the next morning and cried with relief. Soon after, I made it my mission to let more women know about the healing properties of cannabis and to help dispel the myths that have kept this effective medicinal herb from so many people.
PP: What is one of your key plant-based medicine rituals?
Because of some personal situations at home, I am not able to consume THC very often, but I’ve become a huge fan of CBD, CBG, and even CBN. I have some favorite CBD oils that I take before my morning coffee. I also enjoy CBD tea. My skincare ritual includes plant-based creams and lotions, some of which are enriched with CBD and CBG like Melt Tension Serum. I’m lucky to be able to test and review CBD products on Ellementa.com and for my podcast so get the chance to try different ones - from oils to salves to bath and beauty products. On the rare occasions that I consume THC, I’ve been accessing it through low-dose edibles and savor those moments of stress relief and relaxation.
PP: Do you have a cultural or ancestral connection to any plants?
My family is Mexican on my mother’s side, from Jalisco. The cannabis plant has been a part of wellness and rituals since ancient times in Mexico. I cannot claim that my own family has had any connection to cannabis, but as I explore my ancestral roots, I am drawn to learning more about the healing power of plants, including psychedelics.
PP: What is the one plant/herb you can’t live without and why?
I credit full-spectrum CBD with relieving both my systemic inflammation and reducing the physical manifestations of stress that I’ve been experiencing. I’ve been going through a great deal of stressful situations in my personal life. I’ve developed Raynaud’s Disease - not the autoimmune version but the stress-induced version - and it can be very painful. Applying high-quality CBD salves to my fingers and toes has helped reduce the inflammation and pain. I turn to CBD on a daily basis to bring relief and fortify myself so I can be a strong and effective caregiver.
"I credit full-spectrum CBD with relieving both my systemic inflammation and reducing the physical manifestations of stress..."
PP: Can you share your favorite self-care practice?
I’m exploring my creativity. I’ve never considered myself an artist but have always loved arts and craft, making art, painting, drawing, working with clay, mixed media. I have no idea what I’m doing half the time, but I work to release my inner critic. I love how art shifts my energy and focus towards creation.
PP: How do you like to use PP in your daily routine?
I’ve just discovered Melt Tension Serum and love using it at the start of my day to help me stay balanced and relaxed. Then I use it at the end of the day and at bedtime to melt away stress and take a moment for myself - to breathe, meditate, and relax.
PP: What is one organization you think people should know about and support?
I am looking for ways I can provide my passion, talents, skills, and abilities to support mental health organizations, particularly ones supporting teens. One that really moved me is To Write Love on Her Arms - https://twloha.com/ - a non-profit movement dedicated to presenting hope and finding help for people struggling with depression, addiction, self-injury, and suicide. TWLOHA encourages, informs, inspires, and also invests directly into treatment and recovery.
]]>When it comes to plant-medicine, picking the correct dosage for your body means everything. No two bodies are alike so it's critical to find the right dose just for you (and it can change day to day). This is why tinctures are the perfect format for taking plant-medicine! The dropper allows you to be able to select your unique dose, more or less depending on your own body’s needs.
Here are a few basic elements to consider when trying to find the best dose for your bod. The first thing to consider is strength, not just mg but the type of extract. For instance, with CBD, some products contain full-spectrum hemp (like our tinctures) and some contain broad-spectrum. This will directly impact the strength of the CBD, meaning that 9.9 times (really, 10) out of 10 the full-spectrum product will be more impactful. We like to think of full spectrum as a rainbow, broad-spectrum as primary colors, and an isolate just as one single color. There’s quite a lot of research out there that points to isolates in particular not working as well compared to full spectrum extracts.
We like to think of full spectrum as a rainbow, broad-spectrum as primary colors, and an isolate just as one single color.
A small, consistent dose of our formulas over 7-14 days will give you the best idea of short and longer-term results.
Talking about dosage and any plant-medicine that was once considered taboo, means answering a common question or two:
This may go without saying but when it comes to trying new plant-medicine, especially when cannabis is involved, it’s important to address and dispel any fear that you may have before diving in.
Set intentions for your health, and move forward with that at the forefront of your mind paying close attention to your body's signals as you go.
Reminder again to take things slow and pay close attention to how you react to it over the course of an hour or two. A small, consistent dose of our formulas (or others) can do a lot of healing over time. There are endless resources, written word or online that showcase the powers of cannabinoids and often reference the long history of misinformation in our culture.
Set intentions for your health, whether it be soothing chronic pain, reducing anxiety, or improving sleep, and move forward with that at the forefront of your mind paying close attention to your body's signals as you go.
Stress is a permanently hot topic in the wellness world, and rightfully so. 2020 research states that approximately 75% of Americans experience stress to the extent that it causes both physical and mental side effects. Knowing that stress is a chronic epidemic that won't disappear overnight, how do we manage it? This article is dedicated to tips and tricks that can help us manage cortisol levels on a day-to-day basis, reducing stress levels naturally for a happier, healthier life.
75% of Americans experience stress to the extent that it causes both physical and mental side effects.
Cortisol is often called the 'stress hormone', is a naturally occurring hormone produced by your adrenal glands, conveniently released when you're under physical or mental stress. It triggers our flight-or-fight response in these situations. While this sounds entirely negative, cortisol is necessary for other bodily functions. Like all hormones, it's all about balance! When it comes to cortisol, problems arise when levels are high for prolonged periods. High cortisol levels wreak havoc on the brain, increasing inflammation, destroying brain cells, and interfering with cognitive function. When levels remain elevated for days, weeks, or even months, we experience increased activity in the amygdala, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders. Physical manifestations of stress can include weight gain or loss, skin issues, insomnia, digestive issues, and many others.
High cortisol levels wreak havoc on the brain, increasing inflammation, destroying brain cells, and interfering with cognitive function
Learning about cortisol is wild, and ironically, it can feel stressful just getting educated on the subject. But where there is a problem, there is a solution! And that's why we're here writing. It might sound crazy, but managing your cortisol levels is like nourishing your body, mind, and spirit from every angle possible. Like spending time with animals? Yep, that's on the list.
Here's a list of things you can do to reduce cortisol:
1. Eat chocolate. We told you this was going to be fun. Chocolate is high in antioxidants and polyphenols known to reduce stress and cortisol. Feel relaxed after a bite? That's the chemicals doing their job!
2. Laugh! Your goofy friends, that funny show, the book that brings out the belly laughs, these things are GREAT for your health. Laughter can reduce cortisol levels by 50%.
Laughter can reduce cortisol levels by 50%.
3. Know your triggers. Taking time to get familiar with what causes stress can lead to lower stress levels in the long run. When stress occurs, journal about what happened and how it made you feel. This activity will make you more equipped to identify triggers before they overtake you.
4. Lean on cortisol-reducing nutrients & herbs. Numerous vitamins, minerals, and adaptogenic plants are known for their stress-reducing properties. Omega 3 fatty acids reduce stress by supporting brain and nervous system health. Zinc and magnesium actively work to reduce cortisol levels. Our Good Day formula features a complete ingredient list of stress-supporting plants such as adaptogenic Rhodiola, Schisandra, CBD, CBDa, and many more.
5. Consume enough food and water. When we are underfed or dehydrated, things quickly go awry. The protein and essential nutrients we consume keep stress levels low and hormones balanced. Healthy fats and plenty of water keep things flowing smoothly in the brain while supporting gut health.
6. Prioritize antioxidants! Antioxidants reduce oxidative stress in our bodies. Fruits and veggies contain high levels of balancing vitamins, keeping our immune system strong and stress levels low.
7. Reduce caffeine intake. It's all about moderation here. Caffeine can really do a number on your stress, causing a natural spike in cortisol levels when consumed. Check out our Good Day formula if you're looking to keep energy levels up without the jitters or wild side effects. If caffeine is a must for you, look to green tea (especially matcha!) for a gentler effect plus a good boost of antioxidants.
8. Forest bathing. This might be our favorite cortisol-reducing activity. Talking a walk through nature helps us realign with our most natural being. Time slows, we have more space for deep breathing, and our eyes can relax. Forest bathing is a great solution when you need immediate relief from stress, quickly reducing cortisol levels and releasing 'happy' chemicals like serotonin and dopamine. Scheduling weekly visits to nature will allow for a regular defrag - do it and brag about how good you feel later!
9. Get that deep sleep. When stress levels go up, rest seems to be the first thing to go out the window. Blackout curtains, linen sheets, herbs, meditation, or minerals, whatever you need to do to promote great sleep, do it! Investing in great sleep might include some pre-bedtime prep, but it will always be worth it because sleep is the foundation of well-being. We formulated Good Night for that exact reason, containing 11 sleep-supporting ingredients to whisk you away gently into a night of restorative rest. Zero AM drowsiness and 100% sustainable and organic ingredients from nature.
The above list is just a fraction of the activities and habits that can help us naturally manage cortisol levels. Nutrition and medicinal plants are a great place to start when setting the foundation for a low-stress lifestyle.
Got questions? Email info@prismaticplants.com or Shop Good Day and Good Night here.
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Interpreting your dreams isn’t an exact science but is about building a relationship between your waking and sleeping mind. When you dream, your brain is going to work to store all of the data it received that day and tuck it away into neat little compartments. Interestingly, scientists studying the brain during sleep discovered that during your REM sleep, low-frequency theta waves were more active in the frontal lobe. This replicates what happens when people are awake and their brain is learning, storing, and recalling information. Dream theorists currently recognize the purpose of dreams as:
The last bullet point especially is where nightmares can stem from. We’ve all been there… The next day we have a big event/presentation/job and the night before our mind is running around in circles going over all the details. If we do get to the REM stage (when our most vivid dreams happen), it can show up as the old, naked in public dream. Which one might interpret in their dream journal as meaning you feel unprepared. This might help you to better plan in the future or even process your stress better because you’ve “been there, done that” in your dreams.
Dream journaling is beneficial for working through a busy mind and/or if you feel like you’re stuck in some thought or behavior patterns that you would like to break free from. It is for the waking mind to pause and reflect on what the subconscious mind might be trying to say. Here are some top reasons to give dream journaling a chance even if you may be a bit skeptical of its value.
New dream journals at the shop here.
“The conscious mind allows itself to be trained like a parrot, but the unconscious does not.” –Carl Jung
1. Spark Creativity
When you sleep and the subconscious mind takes over it allows the rational processing of your brain to be put on the back burner. Anything is possible in your dreams. When you wake up and journal your dreams, you can use your subconscious’ imagination to fuel your waking pursuits. It can help you see life in a new way without the rational brain stepping in to say “that’s not how things work.”
2. Move Through Emotional Baggage
When we lay our head down on the pillow at night, this is the brain’s opportunity to sift and process all the information it received that day including any difficult (or happy) emotions. Dreams can be the mind’s way of unpacking those feelings to understand what they mean and why they are impactful. Ever notice that when you are stressed you’re more likely to have a nightmare? This is no accident. It’s your brain's way of scenario planning and learning how to deal with difficult situations so that tomorrow if you have a similar encounter, it might not feel as stressful because your mind has “practiced” the situation already. You can use dream journals in this situation to understand what emotional patterns are coming up. This can offer you insights that your conscious mind wouldn’t have seen on its own. Subconscious feelings that need our attention rather than ignoring during our waking hours. Use these insights to create change in your waking life to help you remove negative emotions and encounters from your day.
3. Get to Know Yourself a Bit Better
In our dreams it can be a platform for living out your deepest desires. Your subconscious mind might be exploring something your waking mind would not entertain. In analyzing your dream, you may discover something new about yourself that the rational brain put aside. This can lead to greater fulfillment, purpose, and new endeavors.
4. Pro Tip: Play an Active Role in Your Dreams
Over time with the regular practice of dream journaling and reflecting on what your dreams mean, can begin to give you more control of your subconscious mind when asleep. Referred to as lucid dreaming, this dream state allows you to feel almost awake in your dreams and control aspects of how your dream story unfolds. Practitioners of lucid dreaming find value in it transferring creative ingenuity to their waking pursuits.
Getting started is pretty straightforward. Over time you can sharpen your practice by exploring outside texts on dream meanings but this isn't required for getting value out of dream journaling. Here are some quick tips for getting started…
Now the question ends with how to get to that dreamy state to start practicing this dialogue between our waking and unconscious mind? Enter Prismatic Plants Good Night tincture. It not only helps you fall asleep and stay asleep, but it also has several herbs that promote dreams. Valerian Root is said to promote REM in later stages of sleep and increase lucid dreaming. It can both enhance vivid dreams and assist in dream recall. Good Night also contains California Poppy, stronger than a nervine relaxant, its is a nervous hypnotic. Meaning it can bring about a deeper sense of relaxation and calm especially for people who have high anxiety and chronic stress. And finally our organic hemp (CBD & CBN) goes to work to calm a racing mind and sedate the body into a deep sleep where you are ready for the dream stage to begin.
And now in our shop are these 2 fab dream journals, Magic and Eye Dream, to get the dream capture flowing or for jotting down your other creative musings.
]]>Liana Vazquez is a Latina born and raised in Philadelphia but her roots come from la isla of Puerto Rico. Liana is a floral artist, petite model, soul fueling content creator, and is the assistant captain for the Women’s National Ice Hockey team of Puerto Rico. She is also the co-founder of Wilde & Lovely, a business that curates to those who are drawn to aesthetics in a more sustainable and ethical way of life. You can find her creative musings at @thelovelyvine on Instagram.
Liana's love for florals stemmed from being cooped up in her tiny NYC apartment. She began drying florals as a form of meditation. The guy she was dating at the time, told her to see a therapist because he was concerned about the abundance of dried flowers hanging everywhere in her tiny abode. Quick to realize that this wasn't a mental health issue, but rather a mental health self-care, she dumped the guy and began passionately pursuing the craft of floral design. Since then, fortune has smiled upon her with new opportunities left and right that has allowed her to keep following her dreams.
Beyond floral design, she is a lover of her hometown Philly community, embracing sustainable practices, collaborating with her hat maker fiancé, and changing the face of ice hockey (yes, she is an Ice Hockey Champion!).
How did you first discover plant-based medicine?
I discovered plant-based medicine during my college days, but I didn’t really dive deep into educating myself more until the year of 2019 when I was diagnosed with a life altering diagnosis that put me on the journey of plant-base medicine.
What is one of your key plant-based medicine rituals?
My key plant-based medicine will always always be Echinacea also known as the purple coneflower helps a lot with the inflammation within my body and builds my immune system. I consume a lot of THC/CBD, morning and night either with different herbal blends or without depends on how I am feeling to be honest.
"I suffer from crippling anxiety and Prismatic Plants has helped play a roll in my everyday consumption of medicine that I know is fueling to my body."
Do you have a cultural or ancestral connection to any plants?
I do have a cultural/ancestral connection with many plants, I am a Taíno which is a member of the Arawak people also known as a Borinquen. My people were consumers of it all cannabis, herbs, mushrooms, and even tobacco for healing/spiritual properties. I consume all of those, especially Yuca, which is the root of the Cassava plant. Yuca contains vitamins C,B, and A as well as calcium, phosphorus, potassium, and iron. Also, fun fact it’s higher in fiber and potassium than any potatoes out there and so yummy.
What is the one plant/herb you can’t live without and why?
I can’t live without cannabis, it has really changed my life completely and has played a big roll in my journey of healing not just my body, but parts of my mind and soul. I consume, create, and heal all from one plant and I don’t know any other type of medicine that does it all for me besides cannabis.
Can you share your favorite self-care practice?
Doing absolutely anything that will fill my soul. I believe self-care doesn’t have to be this thing with a price tag attached, simply meditating with yourself and just being with you is like the ancestral root of self-care. Just coming back to me is my favorite self-care practice, doing things like creating, smoking while doing your skincare routine, or taking a walk in the park with your favorite jams. Just loving your own company, there is nothing like that.
"Just loving your own company,
there is nothing like that."
PP: How do you like to use PP in your daily routine?
I use Prismatic Plants everyday, you can ask my fiancé my Good Night lives right by my bedside and my Good Day is always at arms reach. I suffer from crippling anxiety and Prismatic Plants has helped play a roll in my everyday consumption of medicine that I know is fueling to my body. Getting back into hockey shape is the hardest shape to get back into in my opinion, sore/tensed muscles is no joke. The Melt Tension Serum I have been adding it to my nightly routine lately and let’s just say I don’t intend on taking it out!
PP: What is one organization you think people should know about and support?
There is an amazing organization located in the cultural heart of Latinx Philadelphia called, Taller Puertorriqueño. It’s a community-based cultural organization whose primary purpose is to preserve, develop and promote Puerto Rican arts and culture, grounded in the conviction that embracing one’s cultural heritage is central to community empowerment. I recently had my first floral exhibit there for Hispanic Heritage month and what they do for the community is beyond beautiful. This place is the beating heart of the Latinx community here in Philly.
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They offer a monthly poetry club, offer 1:1 quantum sessions to the community, and are always brewing up some new herbal magic.
Bo will be hosting a free virtual meditation series in collaboration with Prismatic Plants Jan 21 & 22. Learn more and sign up by going here.
Their Instagram: @frequency.medicine
Their Website: ecosensualalchemy.ca
"I am constantly inspired by the link of viewing our bodies as highly advanced technology and at the same time mystical spiritual temples of infinite potential."
1. What is your POV on how you approach Meditation?
I am deeply inspired by the potential of our infinite consciousnesses paired with the largely untapped extremely advanced technology of the human body.
Through my studies and practice, I have discovered there are layers to this.
In our body, we have a nervous system which is the electric circuit our experience runs through and a highway of many types of communication from our internal to our external work and visa-versa. To me, nervous system health, awareness, and self-care are the foundation of walking on the earth as a healthy and conscious human.
It seems everyone is being told to be and or wants to be ‘woke’ and high vibe but without a healthy, toned, and cared for the nervous system that regulates properly this isn’t possible. From my perspective, nervous system health is the foundation of being able to stay conscious of our experience, regulate how we wish to intentionally interact with the world, and have the developed electrical circuits to run high vibe voltages through our sacred bodies.
I am constantly inspired by the link of viewing our bodies as highly advanced technology and at the same time mystical spiritual temples of infinite potential.
Once we have a regulated and happy nervous system then I find the practice is able to open up to our body, spirit, and mind being able to harmonize, nourish, and come into alignment without our own unique magic and whatever we need to individually receive in the practice to support our truest shine of in unique magic.
2. Who or what inspires your practice?
I am highly inspired by seeing and integrating the ways humans can tune into and heal from the modalities of breath, frequency, and sound during one's practice. I am constantly analyzing and looking at nature both at the level of perception where we see matter but also at the energetic level and watching the flow of life and energy and analyzing how these sacred rhythms can be integrated and evolved in a meditation practice.
One of the quotes I like to hold in my learning is “when you think you know anything you know nothing” and from this perspective, I actively arrive at my analysis of meditation and consciousness from a place of curiosity.
Earth is the most beautiful masterpiece. The dimensions and inspiring layers that can be learned and received from it, as to integrate into a spiritual and/or health practice, is limitless.
"This way of meeting a plant leads on to meet themselves. For we can not truly listen to another until we have learned our own sound, rhythm and pattern."
3. What tools or rituals do you like to incorporate into your meditation practice?
Breathe, sound, and earth materials are the main pillars that I include in my practice.
I find breath and vibration are the foundation of incarnation and working with and exploring these pillars of life to deepen one's understanding of them is so powerful and regenerative.
When I studied Herbal Medicine, before we met the plant and learned what has already been discovered of it, we met the plant in all of its forms (tea, tincture, whole form, ext.) in a blind testing format (interacting with the plant without knowing what it is). My first introduction to each plant I studied was through a practice of somatic self-awareness and somatic tracking.
This looked like finding my baseline of somatic state, energetic state, organ systems, mental patterns and then receiving the plant and tacking my energetic body, organ systems, mental patterns, and knowledge received through ingestion and proximity to the plant's constituents, and spiritual teachings.
This way of meeting a plant leads on to meet themselves. For we can not truly listen to another until we have learned our own sound, rhythm and pattern, and then from this place we are able to feel and perceive how it feels to meet another person, plant, practice, rock, anything.
Ever since my studies, I incorporate this practice working with plants as a meditation tool in both my personal practices and when I teach and facilitate to build and develop folk’s somatic, energetic, and spiritual self-awareness.
4. Is there a special mantra that you like to say while meditating?
Since a child, I have been much more energetic than verbal, and accordingly, in my practice, I engage more with vibration and energy than with words.
One practice I really believe in is the power of intention. At the start of my personal practice or a practice I lead, I will invite folks to set their intention and not just run the words through their mind but to feel somatically and energetically what this intention feels like and means to them.
From my studies of alchemy, I resonated with the innerstanding that the mind is almost like an in-between gatekeeper of consciousness between our bodies and the source.
Accordingly, I find the mind likes the identity with the meanings associated with words, however, when we tap into vibration and tones, this is able to move clearly past the gatekeeper of the mind, and link our spirit incarnate into our body more clearly with nourishment and healing from the source.
I think words can be powerful if we are working to rewire a cognitive patterning. However, I have found in my personal practice that sound removed from a label of meaning, and brought to a pure vibrational state, can be multifaceted and uncaged in its healing potential.
"I really believe in the power of intention...not just run the words but to feel somatically and energetically what this intention feels like..."
5. Any special plants in your life? Is there an herb or fungi that helps you on the daily?
My favorite question, I love plants so deeply, that it might be impossible to answer just one.
Sequoia and Usnea spp. are two energetically that I am working within the current.
I am also working with evolving a Spagyric (alchemical tincture) of Blue Lotus which is one of the closest plants that I have worked with Alchemically, so I am really excited to bring that medicine forward as an offering to the community.
I also work with the mushroom kingdom and dynamically move through various botanicals.
6. What tips would you recommend for someone getting started with creating a regular meditation practice?
First of all, I would say trust your intuition. If a practice or teacher feels great for you listen to this inner guidance and if a practice or teacher does not, honor this voice as well.
If someone was wanting support actually arriving into and having a consistent practice. The advice is really simple, I would share:
Have an area that is already set up so that it is easy to arrive into without resistance. If it is feeling hard to be consistent just focus on sitting down. Don’t overanalyze the practice or create mental expectations of length just focus on arriving at your matt, and sitting down and the practice will naturally follow.
If someone is desiring advice on beginning a meditation practice and not knowing where to start, I would invite them to begin with the practice of observing their breath. Noticing how it feels to breathe it, noticing what the energy of it feels like, noticing where in their body it seems to flow to, etc...For a few weeks practicing breath awareness as the breath as this is such a powerful tool and foundation for mediation.
If someone is having a really hard time sitting and it is feeling triggering somatically or mentally to be still, I would recommend they seek to consult and some work with someone who has nervous system awareness, as this sounds like an activated nervous system response. And they most likely have incomplete nervous system activation cycles that are needing to be regulated and moved through. There are many ways to do this and I am so passionate about working one-on-one with people to help create custom mediation practices that are trauma aware and nervous system informed.
7. How do you like to incorporate Good Day into your morning meditation sessions?
I love supporting my morning practice with my botanical elixir.
And adding in Good Day is such a beautiful addition to the botanical drink.
I am really in love and impressed with the quality and intention of the formulation. My body enjoys receiving it. It is calming and supportive and such a great tool to incorporate in the morning. Since cortisol levels are naturally high in humans in the morning and cortisol raises the stress response, working with this botanical CBD is such a great ally to start the day and harmonize the body.
8. How does Good Night add to your wind-down routine?
There is so much power in ritual and engaging with something with intentional awareness. Adding Good Night into my evening tea or directly under my tongue is a self-care and somatic-care practice that I have found helps to transition from the rhythm of the day to the rhythm of the night.
Sign up for our free mediation series with Bo here.
When: Jan 21 & 22, 2022
Ever had brain fog? It's quite possible your internal clock was off.
So, what's the exact function of this 'clock'? Our circadian rhythm controls our sleep-wake cycle, which is responsible for releasing chemicals and hormones that tell us when to eat, digest, sleep, work, and even things like ovulate. These chemicals and hormones will affect mood, focus, and cognitive function. Ever had brain fog? It's quite possible your internal clock was off. Throughout the day, our biological clock is quite literally keeping us on schedule. It is a delicate act to handle the ebb and flow of our bodies each day - just another way the human body is incredible, right? And if you ever thought we didn't have a connection to this world, our chemical release, and internal clock is entirely in sync with when the sun rises and sets. Important note: your chronotype will dictate your circadian rhythm as an individual. It varies from person to person. Learn about your chronotype and how that might impact your daily flow here.
Many elements of the modern world cause conflict for our natural rhythm. Smartphones, processed food, high levels of caffeine, lack of exercise, and longer hours spent inside can negatively impact our internal flow. The examples are endless, and the more we partake in these habits, the more we lose touch with our natural rhythm. If you needed a sign, take this article as the aha! moment calling for more balance in your life. Our magical bodies rely on it!
You may have noticed, but at Prismatic Plants, we're all about natural solutions and doing what we can to help our bodies adapt. The impact of modern ways can feel heavy and demanding, but there are many things we can do to support our internal clock. Here’s a list:
We like to think of this list as housekeeping for our bodies. Taking time to honor this balance can enhance our waking hours, leading to increased productivity and an improved feeling of well-being. It's a win/win situation!
Learn more about Good Day and Good Night here. Got questions? Email info@prismaticplants.com
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How did you first discover plant-based medicine?
Like many, my discovery of plant-based medicine had recreational roots. But it wasn’t until I moved to California in 2014 that I started viewing plants as medicine. Working in wellness, there was a lot of plants I worked with but I don’t feel I became conscious or connected to working with plants as medicine until I moved there. I suppose it has to do with California being a wellness hub, but I just began to become more educated about plants and that’s when I truly began to see medicine in a new way.
What is one of your key plant-based medicine rituals?
Clearing with Rapeh, which is a shamanic snuff made from primarily sacred tobacco. As a channel, I’m doing a lot of readings for myself and my clients. One of the most important things in my work is to be a clear channel and rapeh is used in many cultures for that very reason. It’s taken me some time to build a practice with this medicine, but it’s one that remains vital and highly revered as one of my plant-based medicine rituals.
Do you have a cultural or ancestral connection to any plants?
Being of mixed-race, I’m connected to about 12 different regions. Currently, I’ve been diving deeper into my African and Native American ancestry. I’ve recently learned of my connection to poisonous medicinal plants used by the Bantu peoples like the bitter apple or solanum aculeastrum. Though bitter apple is considered poisonous, the Bantu would cut the leaves and fruit to make an extract. They’d also use the fresh fruit to treat wounds. I learned this plant was used in traditional medicine to heal various ailments like stomach disorders and cancers. Further, research has shown it to be antimicrobial due to its ability to defend against bad bacteria and fungi overgrowth. I haven’t had the pleasure of working with this plant yet but I do intend to experience the medicine in tincture form.
My Native American heritage is of the Cherokee and Chickasaw peoples. They’d often use yarrow, yellow dock, wild ginger, cedar, and wild rose to treat various ailments. I’ve connected to a lot of different plants my Native American ancestors have built relationships with. As I’m uncovering more of my ancestry, I feel honored to connect with my indigenous relatives through plant medicine.
What is the one plant/herb you can’t live without and why?
Although they are technically fungi, I’d say mushrooms. They just never cease to amaze me. Whether it be medicinal or psychedelic, fungi are so capable and abundant. Pau D’ Arco is another herb that’s changed my life. It’s such a potent and versatile bark that I can use in a variety of ways as a steam, tea, or powder.
Can you share your favorite self-care practice?
A few times out of the week I’ll do a bath ritual. I’ll intuitively check in to decide what plants, salts, essences, and smudge I need. Sometimes I’ll play different frequencies depending on my intention. It’s a time for me to reconnect, recenter, and relax and honor my needs.
How do you like to use Prismatic Plants in your daily routine?
I usually take the Good Day tincture if I know I have a busy day ahead of me or if I’m feeling anxious. I take it straight– about 1 full dropper under the tongue and in about 20 minutes I can feel the change in my energy. I feel calmer and more embodied. I mix the Good Night in my evening reishi tea. I’ll typically curl up with a good book, sip on the tea, and before I know it I’m ready for bed. I use to take melatonin but I find that the combination of the Valerian Root, CBN, and Ashwagandha helps me sleep through the night without feeling groggy in the morning. I wake up feeling refreshed and well-rested.
What is one organization you think people should know about and support?
Melatonin tends to feel like a buzzword in the world of “natural” sleep aids. It was one of the first OTC natural sleep aids to be regularly accepted by the mainstream market and quickly became an alternative to drugs such as NyQuil and Tylenol PM.
Like many others, years ago, we curiously dove into the world of melatonin to see if it could cure our sleep-deprived nights of tossing and turning. Much to our dismay, we instead wound up with many nights of wild melatonin-induced dreams and often woke up feeling a hangover-like grogginess.
How could it be? Were we alone in the side effects that we felt after a night of putting melatonin down the hatch while wishing for a sweet 8 hours of undisturbed rest? After a healthy amount of research, we discovered that our side effects were common and simultaneously uncovered that melatonin can have other not-so-great lasting impacts.
Image by: @vesnica.j
What is Melatonin?
Understanding the adverse effects means diving into the actual definition of melatonin. Produced in the pineal gland in the brain, melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone in the brain that your body uses to regulate your circadian rhythm (the internal clock that regulates awakeness and sleepiness). It uses the amino acid tryptophan (a precursor to serotonin) to help synthesize before it is released into the blood and cerebrospinal fluid eventually making its way to our brain. When it gets dark outside, melatonin levels naturally increase to prepare you for rest, and when the sun rises, levels drop, awakening us for the day ahead.
How is Melatonin made?
In order to replicate this “sleep” hormone outside of our bodies, it can be produced from animals, microorganisms, or synthetically. So it's not a plant-based medicine at all. It's taken on the moniker “natural” simply because we naturally produce it, sometimes the sources it comes from are natural (an animal) and sometimes they are synthetic. And if you’re vegan or concerned about animal welfare, something to be aware of.
What are the side effects of Melatonin?
It quickly became evident how ingesting more melatonin could make our bodies feel off or that our sleep was disturbed rather than supported. While melatonin is safe for short-term use, it’s absolutely not a long-term solution. To put it simply, melatonin is a bandaid when it comes to addressing and healing sleep disorders. Too much melatonin will quickly disrupt our circadian rhythm, throwing our internal clock off for the entire day or even week. The daytime grogginess we experienced post-melatonin was induced by an ‘overdose’ of the hormone, causing our body to feel like we should be sleeping during the day. These side effects are the last thing we need when looking to cure a lack of sleep that might be due to stress, anxiety, or other chemical imbalance. And here’s the real kicker: some doctors believe that the longer we take melatonin, the more difficult it becomes to produce it naturally.
Prismatic Plants Approach to Sleep
As we’ve shared before, supporting our circadian rhythm is one of the most important things we can do for our bodies. Our natural and truest flow can only happen when our internal clock is ticking smoothly. When we set out to create Good Night , we were looking for a plant-based solution that supported our natural clock rather than interfering with it. Furthering our belief that we need to support our bodies natural capabilities to heal rather than intervene with harsh medicines.
So, how does our blend of herbs in Good Night support rather than interfere? Let's start with our powerful cannabinoids: CBN + CBD. These cannabinoids are widely studied, and to this day, they've yet to find any adverse side effects. That's the type of plant medicine we love! CBD is essential for reducing our cortisol levels and helping us relax while winding down. CBN is also stress-supporting and is often used to promote deep sleep and treat pain. So, how is hemp different than melatonin? Both cannabinoids go to the root of the problem rather than applying a temporary bandaid for one night of rest. CBD and CBN work together to calm nerves naturally, supporting a healthy chemical balance and balanced nervous system. We like to think of hemp as a tool to support harmony within our bodies. The best part? No morning grogginess after a great night of sleep. For that, we thank hemp's anti-inflammatory qualities.
Calming adaptogens, functional mushrooms, and sleep-promoting herbs came next. Reishi, Ashwagandha, and Oat Straw play critical roles in actively restoring immune health, supporting healthy energy levels, and aiding muscle recovery. These plants play a part in our round-the-clock coverage that works to keep our circadian rhythm running smoothly. Unlike melatonin, this blend stabilizes and balances rather than throwing other hormones or chemicals into the mix. Guilty of teeth grinding or waking up with kinks in your neck? California Poppy, Valerian Root, and Skullcap team up to calm the nervous system and reduce muscle tension so you can fully relax once you hit the sheets.
Sense a theme here? Prismatic Plants is ALL about restoring balance naturally and supporting internal harmony rather than interfering with it. We believe that Mother Nature gave us herbal medicine to do just that.
Read more on our nighttime formula and shop Good Night here. Got questions? Email us at info@prismaticplants.com
Optimist makes distilled non-alcoholic spirits that are inspired by and created in LA. With more than a dozen botanical ingredients in each of the three complex flavor profiles, their drinks are also free from sugars, and any nasty additives.
Prismatic Plants signature Yin/Yang elixirs were designed to reduce everyday stress through our potent blend of adaptogens, herbs, and cannabinoids (CBD, CBN, CBDa).
Together, Prismatic Plants and Optimist Botanicals have created a cocktail for midday mindful drinking, and a night cap to relax and soothe you into peaceful slumbers. Functional, stress-alleviating ambrosial cocktails without the alcohol.
Here's to less stress, good vibes and better sleep this month.
And just for the PP crew, Optimist is offering 15% off all month long with code CaliOctober.
The Uplighter
3 oz Optimist Fresh
1 droppers of Prismatic Plants Good Day
1 oz Key Lime juice
1 Tsp Honey Pinch of chipotle salt
Combine all ingredients in a shaker and shake vigorously for 30-45 seconds. Once mixed, add a few cubes of ice and shake for 10 secs to chill. Holding back the ice, pour into a coupe glass. Finish with a few drops of Good Day and herbaceous garnish.
Island Dreams
1 ½ oz Optimist Smokey
1 dropper of Prismatic Plants Good Night
2 oz Fresh Pineapple juice
1 ½ oz Coconut milk
½ oz Fresh Orange juice Nutmeg to garnish
Combine all ingredients in a shaker, dry shake for 45 seconds to emulsify and create a beautiful foam. Serve in a tumbler or more festive glass ofyour choice, over crushed ice with a grate of nutmeg.
How did you first discover plant-based medicine?
Lyme Disease has been a big teacher for me and has opened me up to a lot of healing modalities. I was diagnosed with Lyme Disease at age 18 and after exhausting Western medicine, I began to look elsewhere for answers. I have spent a good half of my life trying out every alternative health remedy under the sun so I worked with a lot of traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurveda. There are a lot of herbal remedies and supplements that I have tried.
I first got really into cannabis while working at a design studio. I was doing strategy for a cannabis project so I started to study the plant and learn all about its healing properties.
My relationship with plants deepened when I moved to the forest and began identifying the plants that were living alongside me, learning their healing properties, and making medicines. I’ve also learned a ton from two herbalists friends I met in Oregon and now I’m studying clinical herbalism with Sajah Popham.
What is one of your key plant-based medicine rituals?
Every morning I go out and greet the sun and the six directions.I believe in Nature’s power to heal both from the inside out and the outside in. I think it’s easy to forget that just being in nature is really healing us and that often the medicines we need most are the ones that are growing where we live so it’s important for me to be intimately connected to the land I’m on.
Do you have a cultural or ancestral connection to any plants?
My ancestry is Ashkenazi Jewish and there’s a huge black hole in our history, but I did recently come across an amazing book that has helped me to understand more about my ancestral and cultural relationship to plants called Ashkenazi Herbalism: Rediscovering the Herbal Traditions of Eastern European Jews. Really there was no differentiation between what would now be considered “scientific” and “folk” remedies for a long time so my ancestors were definitely using the plants that were growing around them for all sorts of healing. Jewish healing has now been jokingly reduced to “chicken soup” but there’s actually a lot more.
And of course, cannabis residue has been found in ancient Jewish temples. So I know that my ancestors used to go into a Holy Hot Box :)
What is the one plant/herb you can’t live without and why?
It really changes with the seasons! In the winter, elderberry and reishi. In the spring, nettles and dandelion. In the summer, I like to pick yarrow and St. John’s Wort and make tea. In the fall, rosehip!
These are all plants (and fungi) that I wild harvest and I believe that Nature is providing us with what we need at the exact right time. These medicines keep me healthy and balanced as the seasons change. I love wild harvesting plants because I am able to form a relationship with them.
As far as a first aid kit, yarrow is a must have!! I sliced my finger on a mandolin and it wouldn’t stop bleeding, but then I just crushed some dried yarrow and put it on the cut and it stopped immediately. Plants are so magic!
Can you share your favorite self-care practice?
My morning routine is my biggest self-care practice to start the day off right. I wake up at 6am and do yoga/meditate for an hour, then have warm water with lemon followed by celery juice, then I take my dog out for a few mile hike and greet the sun and the directions. I come home and either make a green smoothie with bananas and wild blueberries or have a cup of hot cacao with coconut butter, maca, lion's mane, reishi, and stevia and get to work!
I also love to soak and sauna -- there’s a great place in Ashland called the Jackson Wellsprings and my favorite thing to do is get a group of friends together to go for an evening soak.
How do you like to use Prismatic Plants in your daily routine?
I love to take Good Night after post-dinner Dandelion tea and before taking magnesium! It tastes so yummy and feels pretty light on my tongue. I love how it doesn’t knock me out, it just gently aids me in falling to sleep and getting good quality rest, which is SO important for healing.
What is one organization you think people should know about and support?
Sagorea Te Land Trust — https://sogoreate-landtrust.org/
It’s an urban indigenous women-led land trust that facilitates the return of Indigenous land to Indigenous people
Also Outdoor Afro: https://outdoorafro.com/
]]>Adaptogens help the body adapt, supporting a healthy response to modern stressors while maintaining balance within the body, AKA homeostasis.
So, how exactly do adaptogens and hemp work together? To start, let’s talk about the primary roles adaptogens and hemp play in our bodies. Adaptogens help the body adapt, supporting a healthy response to modern stressors while maintaining balance within the body, AKA homeostasis. Adaptogenic plants interact with the HPA (Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal) axis, which is responsible for regulating our nervous system and our stress response.
Prolonged stress causes HPA depletion, reducing thyroid function. This means that your nervous system is not getting the support it needs to function optimally. The perfect analogy to describe this relationship medically is to imagine what working out does for your muscles; adaptogens equip your body to pivot around stress with ease no matter what the day brings. Better stress response → less cortisol release → reduction in anxiety, depression, fatigue, and stress. Hello, balance and smoother days!
Now, onto hemp. Hemp’s cannabinoids work with our own endocannabinoid system to create stability (homeostasis) across all our basic processes which affect mood, stress, sleep, pain, appetite & metabolism, immunity, and reproduction. It does this by interacting with various receptors located throughout the body (more on that here).
These receptors work to clear inflammation to keep each system in our body flowing smoothly. Everyday we come in contact with inflammatory triggers- diet/food, chemicals, alcohol, pollution, chronic illness, stress, you name it. When inflammation goes unchecked it can be detrimental to the body in the long term, resulting in various diseases like diabetes, cancer, IBS, and heart disease.
Research is also showing that CBD specifically interacts with our limbic and paralimbic system helping to de-escalate our fight or flight response when faced with a stressful situation. Our Prismatic Plants’ formulas utilize an organic full-spectrum hemp extract with key cannabinoids like CBD, CBDa, and sleep-promoting CBN, in an effort to bring as much of hemp’s benefit as we can in encouraging the body back to homeostasis.
Prismatic Plants has adaptogens and herbs working on our HPA axis to support our nervous system and hemp extract working to support our endocannabinoid system-- this helps to regulate all of our internal workings and our limbic system.
So in summary, we have the adaptogens and herbs working on our HPA axis to support our nervous system and hemp extract working to support our endocannabinoid system which helps to regulate all of our internal workings and our limbic system - talk about a powerhouse duo!
Our plants are working on different parts of the body but with the same common goal - prevent burnout and promote balance. When we use adaptogens and hemp together, we are doubling up on stress support and paving the way for inner harmony. It’s essential to view this harmonious flow as preventative herbalism and treatment - healing in the now and preventing issues in the future.
This wonder blend came to be after our founder Sarah set off to treat her chronic illness, she found that this combination of adaptogens and hemp made her feel better in the moment while doing double duty in helping to heal her long-term chronic issues- a result that she’d never experienced with other medicine (plant medicine included!). So Good Day and Good Night came to fruition.
We like to think of our formulas as the ultimate stress-fighting team, thwarting off daily inflammatory triggers while promoting calm energy and a healthy sleep cycle- something that we all pretty much need these days! With regular use, we hope it can help you step into your fullest potential, letting you focus on the things that matter instead of constant stress weighing you down.
Source:
1. Winston, David. Maimes, Steven. Adaptogens: Herbs for Strength, Stamina, and Stress Relief.
Image Source:
Cover Image: Hozzography
Figure 1. Schneider, Marion, and Sandeep Kumar Vashist. “Journal of Basic & Applied Sciences.” Depression: An Insight and Need for Personalized Psychological Stress Monitoring and Management, 23 May 2014, doi:10.6000/1927-5129.
Figure 2. Cayman Chemical
Most of these tricks or methods don't require purchasing things but are natural energy-boosters you can do at home already just with your grand ol’self.
1. Rise and spit! - Yes, we said it. Your mouth produces a surplus of toxic bacteria overnight, which is why we often wake up with morning breath. Wake up, spit and follow it with a big glass of water to help your mouth reset.
Pro Tip: Try oil pulling with coconut oil. Take 1 tbsp of coconut oil and swish in mouth for 1-5min. When done, spit it in the trash can--not down the drain as it will harden when cold water hits it.
2. Drink Lemon water first thing in the AM - Equal parts old natural remedy and woo-woo wellness trend. It’s safe to say that lemon water has superpowers. Especially effective on an empty stomach or at the beginning of your day, lemon water is immune-boosting and the ultimate way to detox your body without doing anything crazy. Cleans your mouth, detoxes your liver, regulates your metabolism, we could go on! It’s such a simple habit and one that has a big return. We challenge you to try it straight for a week and report back!
Pro Tip: Add liquid chlorophyll to your water - Chlorophyll promotes the production of red blood cells and improves circulation. Better blood flow = higher energy levels. It also works to help our bodies detox. Not familiar with chlorophyll? It’s a naturally occurring pigment that plants (like many leafy green veggies) use to get their nutrients.
3. Blink more - Science says that increased screen time causes us to blink half as much as we should. Blinking is rest for our eyes - it also thwarts off headaches, eye strain, and overall exhaustion we tend to feel after a day of work on our computer. More blinking = less of that ‘fried’ feeling after prolonged screen time.
4. Wim Hof breathing techniques - Each breath is an opportunity for energy to be released into our bodies. The Wim Hof method focuses on taking 30-40 deep breaths in a row and should be practiced while sitting down. This method ensures that oxygen reaches all parts of the body for optimal energy levels.
5. Reach for your cup o’ joe a bit later in the morning - Cortisol kicks in around 7 am each day - this release gives us natural energy and can reduce the amount of caffeine we ‘need’. So plan for coffee or caffeine once the body has evened out from the initial surge of cortisol, more like 9 or 10 am. The result is a more balanced day with energy that feels sustainable vs. severe highs and lows.
Pro Tip: Swap coffee for green tea or matcha. Perfect with a sidecar of Good Day.
6. Take a lap every 3 hours - Break up your days at home by scheduling a quick walk around the block for 12 pm and 3 pm. This movement is a total reset for our brain and bodies that helps us avoid feeling sluggish at any point during the day. Plus, vitamin D from sunshine and fresh air is always invigorating.
Pro tip: Use the stopwatch feature on your phone to set 3-hour timers
7. Hold the sugar till early evening - Refined sugars and carbs are energy zappers as they take a lot of energy for our bodies to process. Sugar causes a temporary spike that quickly fades into a low-energy slump. If you can, save these foods for after you soar over the afternoon hump and are looking for an indulgent treat in the evening.
Pro tip: Instead of reaching for carbs or caffeine during your afternoon slump, Try a dropper of Good Day. With its soothing inflammation capabilities and nootropic herbs, it can give you a natural boost that won't affect your sleep quality.
8. Binaural Beats - Calm the mind with music for your brainwaves. Binaural beats can help us reduce stress, therefore improving focus, concentration, and cognitive function. This music style focuses on different frequencies for each ear, resulting in a similar state that meditation provides. This is an efficient option for people who struggle with getting relaxed during meditation.
Pro tip: Check out Binaural Beats or Binaural to get started.
9. Get inclined - Lie on your back, place a pillow under your back, and put your feet up straight into the air, angling them towards your head. Sit like this for a few moments and then slowly stand up on vertebrae at a time. This practice is often used in yoga to increase blood flow to your brain, fighting fatigue while providing a natural energy boost.
10. Intermediate Fasting: Try intermediate fasting every day, start at 12 hrs (the time you completed dinner to the time you have breakfast 8 pm-8 am.
Pro Tip: See if you can stretch it to 16hrs 7 pm -11 am or 8 pm to 12 pm.* *Only try this if you are in good standing health without serious medical conditions.
Got your own tips and tricks? Share them with us by replying to this email or by messaging us on Instagram! These nuggets of information can be life-changing for workflow or quality of life, and we love sharing them with our community.]]>
PP: How did you first discover plant-based medicine?
I’ve been around plant medicine my whole life. I grew up just outside of Yosemite National Park, so I was amongst some dense and magical nature at any early age. My father was an integrative internal medicine doctor who worked with herbs, homeopathy, and also studied Traditional Chinese Medicine - so he taught me a lot right away in life. My mother can nourish any soil she puts her hands into and make flowers grow so I got the green thumb from her. But if I’m being 100% honest I’ve known I was a green witch since I was a little girl, the plants have just always spoken to me. Now my work is rooted in reconnecting with the land and using plant wisdom to do that in an informed and heart centered way.
PP: What is one of your key plant-based medicine rituals?
My plant medicine rituals change often, as they should --- through seasons, whatever I’m going through emotionally, or physically, or momentarily. But I’ve always got some tincture in rotation for the most part, and also love doing loose leaf infusions or decoctions. Oh, and herbal baths! Brewing a big pot of herbs then straining it straight into the bathtub is so nourishing.
PP: Do you have a cultural or ancestral connection to any plants?
I mean, all plants are cultural and ancestral no matter where you’re from or what your lineage is. A massive part of being an ethical plant person or herbalist means cultivating a relationship with the plants that have an ancestral connection with YOU and the lands of your people. Beyond that, as modern plant people tapping into what’s available and abundant around you regionally supports natural rhythms of healthy regeneration and ethical harvesting/cultivation. As a cubana + xicana woman, guava and hibiscus truly feel as though they invoke my ancestors when I work with them, plus they’re just tropical and sexy.
PP: What is the one plant/herb you can’t live without and why?
Nettles. It’s a utilitarian herb. It’s safe for everyone and is so accessible but also potent. It’s super nutrient dense, and the spirit of Nettles is that of the wild weed so it almost feels like it’s lending that resiliency to my cells and my body when I drink it. It also just tastes really good as an iced tea, brewed with some spearmint. *Chef’s Kiss*
PP: Can you share your favorite self-care practice?
Radicalizing myself with joy. Partaking in the idle pleasures of life. Finding enjoyment in merely just existing. Cooking myself a good meal, too.
PP: How do you like to use PP in your daily routine?
Right now I’ve got Good Day in rotation. I take it in the morning first thing before I get started for my day, just to get me ZEN off the rip. I’m kind of a high energy person so it sets my thermostat at a chill temperature before I go out into the world.
PP: What’s one organization you think people should know about and support?
Image by Paula Codoner
One of the most important things to understand about herbalism, it’s a whole-body and spirit affair. Phytotherapists acknowledge that herbal medicine works best when we’re working to align ourselves in all areas, not just physically. Healers take many things into account when treating a patient: diet, exercise, mental, emotional, and spiritual health. This concept might be the most significant difference between traditional western medicine and modern herbalism (plant-based medicine) as it’s genuinely about whole-body health.
Holistic herbalism follows this approach with a structured guideline:
Reference: Hoffman, D. Holistic Herbal.
Modern herbalism pairs this guideline with science-backed research to understand how a single type of plant medicine affects each system within the body. From there, we can zero in on all health benefits, side effects and even categorize the plant into areas like adaptogens, providing the proper prescription for those seeking healing. The goal of this process and structure is to get our bodies back to their natural balance or to achieve a new adequate balance (also known as homeostasis). When we are balanced, we can focus on preventative care vs. treating illness or disease when it pops up. Herbalism truly focuses on long-term solutions, often for chronic illness when western medicine has no answer. No bandaids, just always digging deeper to find the root of the problem within. This concept is the very foundation of herbalism → to give our bodies the tools to be well and sustain themselves.
So, how does western medicine and modern herbalism compare? And are they related at all? These are questions we get all the time. How can science-back these herbs, yet it’s rare to see them prescribed in a traditional western setting? The answer is simple but equally mind-blowing; so many modern pharmaceutical drugs contain plant compounds! Yup, that’s right, from aspirin to antibiotics. One of the most significant differences between herbalism and western medicine lies in the fact that pharmaceutical drugs tend to isolate individual compounds from plants, and herbalism generally utilizes lower milligram whole-plant treatment, believing it to be more effective and gentler. Working with nature instead of selecting only one desirable attribute/compound from a plant without understanding all the other attributes/compounds within the plant and how they work together (this is why full spectrum is so important).
Image By Paula Codoner
As they say, knowledge is power, and this knowledge is beneficial when you’re looking to take control of your own health. When you see trendy new herbs, it’s great to know what you’re buying and how exactly it works. Like with all medicines, it’s essential to do your research and listen to your body. Much of herbalism relies on the intuition of the individual in paying attention to how various plants affect you after ingesting or topical applications. Not all plants work for every body. Always consult a holistic doctor if you don’t know where to start - there are endless science-backed studies out there that can point you in the right direction as well. We’ll continue to break down how our signature plants work here and via our Instagram, so be sure to follow along.
Folk Medicine - This type of herbalism exists in every culture and is handed down from generation to generation. Folk Medicine combines herbal medicine with methods of healing that are passed on from an anointed person and typically blended with religious beliefs, most of which relate to witchcraft or magic. Some methods of Folk Medicine were thought to be born out of traditional medicine failing poorer people and cultures.
Focuses on: Herbal remedies, cultural traditions, spiritual connection, etc.
Traditional Chinese Medicine - An ancient form of herbalism. TCM looks at your entire well-being, approaching the body from spiritual, mental, and physical perspectives - believing that “Qi” is a vital force of life and any imbalance of Qi causes disease or illness. This form of herbalism focuses less on science and more on balance and harmony through energy.
Focuses on: Qi, Ying & Yang, herbs, diet, acupuncture, cupping, preventative care, Tai chi, etc.
Ayurvedic Medicine - Often referred to as Ayurveda, this is likely the oldest form of herbalism. Ayurveda was started on the Indian subcontinent and is still used in some form by over 90% of India’s population. The main focus of this type of herbalism is to preserve health by balancing mind, body, and spirit. Like many other types of herbalism, Ayurveda aims to be preventative rather than specific types of treatment.
Focuses on: diet, massage, yoga, meditation, herbal remedies, preventative care, etc.
Modern Herbalism - This type of herbalism is a blended version that takes aspects out of each of the above methods. Many of the herbs and plants used in modern herbalism are now backed heavily by scientific research, sometimes even making their way into prescription drugs. A blend of old and new - eastern and western.
Focuses on: diet, meditation, herbs with targeted benefits, whole-plant medicine, preventative care, etc.
It’s important to note that these are not the only types of plant medicine but these are the most common. Many if not all theories in natural healing practices can fall under or take from one of these 4 methodologies.
As a brand in the modern world, we’ve benefited greatly from the research and legacy of both Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda. Not to mention, the medicinal plants and practices gleaned from ‘our’ country were shared and discovered by Native Americans and African Americans that had been enslaved. Modern Herbalism owes a great debt to indigenous people all over the world. Our Good Day and Good Night formulas wouldn’t be here without the historical guidance of all the types of herbalism mentioned above.
To sum things up, understanding the foundation of each theory can guide you on the path to being your fullest self - we believe that there are valuable practices to be learned from all of these methods. Plant-medicine is truly a full-being experience so be sure to include mind, body, and soul when you embark on your journey.
A more in-depth, research-backed look at how plant-medicine works inside your body will be coming to our blog next week - stay tuned! Sign up for our newsletter and join our magical community on Instagram to be the first to read!
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Born and bred in Brooklyn, she now calls Virginia home where she is currently hard at work on building her own equity + community focused farm. When she’s not farming you can catch her in the kitchen with her partner Community Chef Anochi Odinga II.
PP: How did you first discover plant-based medicine?
I discovered plant medicine from momma earth herself. As soon as I embarked on my farm journey, I would find myself in places all over the U.S., getting plant-based healing in its most original form-- just laying on the earth, observing the earth, watching it change, heal, transform.
After running an herbal greenhouse, farming all sorts of veggies, and working at a farmer's market, I found myself super knowledgeable about herbs and the power of veggies. I never called it “plant-based medicine” or “plant-based healing” or any other trending term, I called it working with momma earth and knowing her on a personal level. Eventually knowledge of momma earth comes naturally once you’re working with her on the daily.
PP: What is one of your key plant-based medicine rituals?
I love to indulge in cacao ceremonies. I find drinking cacao to be such a heart opening event and I do it on new/full moons that feel very significant to me and my partner. I shall be enjoying one real soon as my partner and I are moving into a huge new chapter into our lives.
PP: Do you have a cultural or ancestral connection to any plants?
As a Black Woman I feel both culturally and ancestrally connected to food -- period. Most of the foods we eat are originally from Africa but have been transported somewhere else, just like myself.
In particular tho, I’ve always felt really connected to collards. It's the one green that black people from Ethiopia all the way to Brooklyn, NY, know about and avidly eat. To me, collards represent the black voice, black resilience, black history. The way black people are able to finesse simple greens into a delicious part of a dish. I’ve also used collards in my floral arrangements for the simple fact that collards are such beautiful plants, it's important for us to look to our food for nourishment - yes! - but beauty too!
PP: What is the one plant/herb you can’t live without and why?
GANJA! Ganja is a plant that I truly enjoy in every format it comes in from CBD edibles, to spliffs, to hemp clothing - They all bring me so much joy & comfort especially during these harsh times.
PP: Can you share your favorite self-care practice?
I am going to be 100% honest and say self care is something I've always struggled with. It's a concept that is still hard for me to understand and implement into my life. My work life balance is very rarely balanced and it feels nourishing to admit that. Therefore I keep my self-care real simple to avoid over thinking what it should be.
I set good boundaries with my digital work life. I make sure that I put my phone on airplane mode as soon as I am done with work for the day. I try to make sure it's the same time everyday too. I sometimes have my partner hide my phone from me and make sure I sleep with my electronics in a different room. This truly prevents me from over working and burning out.
I do daily check-in's via free writing. I wake up and one of the first things I do, even before brushing my teeth, is sit down with a glass of water and just free write my early morning away. It helps me address the large amount of thoughts pouring into my head first thing in the morning.
Lastly, AFFIRMATIONS! Lawd, affirmations have helped me so much since February has started. Just making sure I am reminding myself that I am beautiful, that I am getting closer to my dreams, that I am helping others, that I am on the right path - these are all thoughts that I NEED to be reminded of or else imposter syndrome will drown me into depression.
PP: How do you use PP in your daily routine?
I use PP on the daily for moments where anxiety feels like it's creeping up on me. It helps to have this lil ritual. It gives me a chance to breathe, to mediate, honor my body and mind at the same time. PP works as a quick check in ritual in my life.
PP: What is one organization or plant-based business you think people should know about and support?
A Growing Culture.
A Growing Culture’s work has helped me truly understand the world through a global agriculture perspective, helping me understand we actually are all connected through food. They have also helped me understand some of the privileges I have as a Black American farmer by always making sure that farmers from the global south have a chance to share their lives, lived experiences, projects, visions, etc with us.
To start off our CBD 101 blog the first thing we need to look at is hemp. This "weed" of a plant has been used for over 10,000 years, from clothing to food to medicine. It wasn't until the last decade of research that we finally began to understand how great its medicinal value really is...enter healing cannabinoids like CBD.
CBD or Cannabidiol is a phyto-active compound called a cannabinoid found in hemp. To date, we are aware of over 500 active constituents in hemp and the list keeps growing. With over 65 cannabinoids identified, the most well known are THC, THCV, CBN, CBG, CBC, and CBDa.
Cannabinoids found in the hemp plant mimic our own body's production of endocannabinoids which work within our endocannabinoid system. The endocannabinoid system is responsible for regulating all our basic processes which affect mood, stress, sleep, pain, appetite & metabolism, immunity, and reproduction. When we are not making enough of our own endocannabinoids, this is where the phytocannabinoids (phyto = plant-based) from the hemp plant can help supplement our body's needs and bring us back to balance or homeostasis (optimal health). It works both internally (when ingested) or topically (applied on top of the skin.
Hemp's cannabinoids work to supplement our own body's endocannabinoids when we are depleted and not producing enough to keep us in optimal health.
Now that we understand hemp, next up in our CBD 101 blog is understanding the product lingo. You may have heard of these terms. This is in reference to the type of hemp extract found in a product. Full spectrum means the extract contains all of the naturally occurring compounds and phytoactives found in the hemp plant. Broad spectrum is more refined where THC is removed. Isolate, all other compounds and phytoactives are removed and you are just left with CBD.
We like to think of full spectrum as a rainbow, broad-spectrum as primary colors, and an isolate just as one single color.
Research has shown that full spectrum is the most beneficial type of hemp extract because the CBD works synergistically with the other minor cannabinoids and phytoactives that are present in what is called the Entourage Effect.
We only use full spectrum CBD extracts that are below the legal limit of THC so they will not get you high but contain better medicinal affects.
Compared to vaping, gummies, or pills, tinctures are the most effective way to get CBD/hemp's benefits. When using a tincture and putting it under the tongue, this allows for it to be quickly absorbed by the body through the mucus glands in your mouth. This bypasses the digestive system where many of the beneficial compounds are filtered out by your liver before they can be of benefit to you.
We hope this CBD 101 blog helped clarify and answer key questions you might have about using CBD, hemp, cannabis and plant medicine in general! If there is a question that this CBD 101 blog did not answer for you, please reach out to us directly at info@prismaticplants.com. We want to ensure we are answering all your burning CBD 101 Q's!
]]>Born in NYC, Addison was raised in Rome, Italy. She has always been interested in objects and processes, form and function. Studying sculpture eventually led her to textiles, and of course then soap. Over the last decade, she experimented with weaving structures, fibrous materials and color (mostly natural), and found a common thread: no matter how much she attempted to transform materials, they would always prove their innate power that would dictate how one was allowed to manipulate them. The core of her interests is a reverence for material and exploration of the tension of art and design, craft and utility. She founded Mater Soap in 2016 with a desire to continue this playful focus.
“The first time I made soap it felt like I was in the early myth of Mount Sapo, in ancient Rome, where some claim soap was discovered by “accident.” As the story goes, after a sacrificial pyre the fat of animals mixed into the ash of the flames, and with the next rain the river was full of suds! I fell in love with the simplicity of soap in its formation and purpose: with every use it disappears a bit more until it has fulfilled its simple duty. An object of perfect utility.”
PP: How did you first discover plant-based medicine?
AW: My father is a dedicated believer in alternative medicine and when I was sick as a kid, he would put five drops of an essential oil blend meant to boost the immune system, down my spine, starting at the sacrum to the neck. To this day, I almost never take aspirin- always peppermint oil on my temples, the nape of my neck and under my nose; for stomach aches- Tarragon, ginger, fennel; Sore muscles, mood stimulants, skin issues… the remedies are endless.
PP: What is one of your key plant-based medicine rituals?
AW: I think my favorite daily rituals is preparing a batch of tea and refilling it so many times, throughout the day, to the point of total dilution when it barely tastes like tea. I usually drink soba, kukicha, or mint.
I have also been using a daily dose of Prismatic Plants Good Day and Good Night tinctures to balance me out. Sometimes I wake up in the middle of the night and double dose on Good Night :)
PP: Do you have a cultural or ancestral connection to any plants?
AW: I can’t claim cultural or ancestral connection… Mostly taught and learned due to health and personal interest. My father really instilled a “questioning” of western medicine (mom died of breast cancer and dad has crohns!) so I was raised using the power of plants to treat the bodily ailments as a way to fill in the gaps of western practices. I would say that my most beloved plant (the most curious one) is mugwort. My most used is Lavender, for it’s incredible skin benefits. My favorite scent is vetiver.
PP: What is the one plant/herb you can’t live without and why?
AW: I love Artemisia Vulgaris (Mugwort). It is a weed that grows all over the North East (even pops up in the cracks of industrial Red Hook, NY) I use it in one of my bar soaps, but it has so many great applications: digestive, skin, dream enhancer, spirit protector and pain relief. I also love Chamomile, it is the soother plant and I always need soothing.
PP: Can you share your favorite self-care practice?
AW: I have never been a very good self-carer and I need to remind myself to take care all the time. I think my favorite self-care practice is when I have a new Mater product sample session in the shower. I bring bar soaps, liquid soaps and oils all in the bath and use them all. It’s an incredible excess but it’s really fun. It forces me to stay in there for a little longer than usual. Also, I love moving my body, nothing too organized, mostly just biking all over and rollerblading. I guess I love to glide and find a lot of therapy in that.
PP: How do you like to use PP in your daily routine?
AW: I take a full dropper of Good Day in the morning. It really helps me settle my chaotic energy in the morning and focus on my tasks. When I get into bed I usually do a bit of knitting or rag rug braiding and take a full dropper of Good Night. It tastes so good… I love the addition of valerian and poppy to my CBD.
PP: What is one organization you think people should know about and support?
AW: Herbal Mutual Aid Network, a true grassroots organization started by two incredible people Yves and Remy, getting free plant-based care to Black people looking for support. It is an incredible resource!
Also, The Parole Preparation Project. I have been a volunteer with them for almost 3 years and it is the most political work I have ever done. The applicant I worked with for 2.5 years was just released from prison after 25 years and it was the most joyous and difficult thing I have ever been involved in.
Calling all caffeine addicts and even caffeine dabblers, this article is for you. Today we’re tackling caffeine and highlighting the ways it can affect your stress and anxiety levels. Caffeine is such an interesting topic as it’s so widely used and normalized by people all around the globe, so much so that it’s often referred to as the ‘most popular drug in the world’. Chocolate, tea, a variety of sodas, and even other drugs contain caffeine. A lesser-known, fun fact: There are over 60 plants on our planet that contain naturally-occurring caffeine. Take a walk and you’ll find a coffee shop or cafe on most street corners - getting your stimulant fix is easier now more than ever. With caffeine surrounding us, we have to wonder if our intake is directly related to our growing stress levels. Have we overvalued stimulation and productivity and along the way, paid for it with more stress and deeper anxiety? Science says yes.
We’ve all been there, you’re 3, 4, 5 cups of coffee deep and find yourself feeling tense and plagued with jitters that roll into a night of tossing and turning. It’s here that we ask ourselves, what toll does caffeine take on our bodies?
Let’s start off with how caffeine makes us feel awake. We wake up, pour ourselves a cup of tea or coffee, caffeine enters the bloodstream through our stomachs, and temporarily makes us feel more alert by blocking sleep-inducing chemicals while increasing adrenaline and cortisol. If you’re prone to anxiety or stress pre-caffeination, your body is likely already experiencing an imbalance in the cortisol and adrenaline departments. From the moment caffeine hits our bloodstream, our hormone balance is thrown off making it more difficult to create balance for ourselves. The temporary buzz you feel is partially due to adrenaline but also due to dopamine being released by a stimulant. These feelings are generally great upfront but typically lead to energy lulls later in the day if we don’t refill our cups with further stimulation.
Wild fact: most people feel noticeable effects from caffeine 1-6 hours after consumption but it can be found lingering in your bloodstream for up to 24 hours after partaking! Science also points to a long-term disruption of your circadian clock. When our biological clock is off, we experience the effects widely throughout our bodies. We might find ourselves feeling sleepy at the wrong time, awake when we should be asleep, or suffering from side effects like poor digestion, heightened anxiety, and low immunity. All of these side effects pave the way for further stress, anxiety, and even depression. To address the real issue at hand, many people find themselves over caffeinating to keep up with work (guilty) or just to cope with the lack of healthy balance that each human needs but rarely has. Our modern culture doesn’t exactly place a high value on health and wellness but it does tend to reward success and productivity. It’s this very (common), deep-rooted issue that birthed our Good Day formula which is meant to help your body naturally fight stress.
So! If you’re reading this and still thinking, what’s the big deal with my biological clock being a bit off sometimes? To put it simply, let's liken it to a crack in your home’s foundation. When things are running smoothly we have the desired chemical balance, a proper sleep cycle, and a strong immune system. It’s in this space that we can focus on happiness, clarity and balance. Over time, a delayed circadian rhythm can lead to numerous chronic illnesses, high blood pressure, weakened immunity, weight gain, low sex drive and so much more. If we really sit with ourselves and face the potential of these issues, over-caffeinating is no longer on the table. It’s a short-term fix with a steep long-term price.
When considering your caffeine habits, it’s important to note that weight, age, and genetics can all play a part in how significantly caffeine affects us. Focusing on things like exercise, healthy eating, and meditating can provide support for our biological clock while promoting a healthy chemical balance. As we mentioned above, if you’re prone to anxiety or hormone imbalance, caffeine can really kick your chemicals into overdrive by causing the overproduction of adrenalin, cortisol & other hormones. If you simply can’t imagine your life without caffeine (or even if you can), rest assured that various cannabinoids and herbs are known to reduce the negative side effects caused by caffeine (while supporting your natural sleep cycle). We created our Good Day formula to align us with our natural energy flow throughout the day using adaptogens and nervines to respond and fight the effects of stress on the body and cannabinoids to reduce stress & anxiety for immediate in the moment relief. The result is a lesser need for caffeine, higher cognitive function, and reduced anxiety. Good Day works in tandem with our Good Night formula, which provides a healthy night of rest by further supporting our biological clock. Both formulas were created with the above research in mind. Fewer bandaids, more healing, and support for our deserving bodies.
Thank you for coming to our candid ted-talk on caffeine + stress. We’ll leave you today with one question, do you place more value on productivity or balance? Let your answer guide your next self-care moves.
Before we jump in, it’s important to note that sleep deficiency is the most common epidemic in our country. One in every 3 people suffer from poor sleep. This number has undoubtedly gone up in 2020. As we’ve mentioned before, poor sleep isn’t just poor sleep, it’s the gateway to many other chronic illnesses. That said, if you feel like alcohol helps you fall asleep, you might not be wrong. The real questions are, does it help you stay asleep? And how does it affect your sleep long-term? Behavioral studies show that having 2-3 drinks before bed does help you get* to sleep on nights 1-3 of this kind of intake. After that, the effects of that same amount of alcohol will begin to diminish and the potential for sleep disturbance increases with continued use. When we fall asleep with alcohol in our system, our body works to metabolize it over the first half of our nightly sleep. This process requires more work from our body so we spend more time in ‘deep sleep’ rather than REM. This might sound good but it’s not! REM is a crucial stage in our sleep cycle as it rules mental restoration, memory, and emotional processing. If you wake up after a night of drinking with a heavy dose of brain fog, that’s why! To sum it up, regular alcohol consumption = a recipe for poor or disrupted sleep.
As we stated in the intro, how alcohol manifests itself in our body can be very personal. Variables like weight, age, sex, body type and even the type of alcohol or how quickly we consume it are all factors to consider. A few facts that apply to everyone when it comes to alcohol consumption:
When our biological clock is off, we experience the side effects from head to toe. This unbalance shows up in the form of leaky gut, poor liver function, insomnia, and depression or anxiety. If you’re prone to anxiety and/or depression, it’s likely your circadian rhythm is already off which can make you even more sensitive to the effects of alcohol. Caring for our circadian rhythm is crucial as it regulates the vast majority of processes with our body, from overall immunity to energy, metabolism, sex drive, mood, and cognitive functions. So when we were designing a product for total health, we knew we had to create one to optimize sleep and help normalize your circadian rhythm--cue the spotlight on our Good Night tincture.
So moving forward, how do we drink wisely and avoid disrupted sleep? We can start by choosing the ‘right’ time of day to drink. Research has showcased that the body metabolizes alcohol differently at different times of day. The body is most able to process alcohol during the late afternoon and early evening hours. Hello, happy hour! Skip the brunch cocktails (most difficult for the body to process while you’re waking up) and cut the drinks 3-4 hours before hopping into bed at night as they’re most likely to disrupt your sleep. And if you happen to wake up in the middle of night thanks to a bit too much wine (insert alcohol of your choice), you can always reach for some Good Night to help lull your body back into that deep restorative sleep and avoid that day-ruiner of a morning hangover.
So! What is it? Why’s this solstice so special? Well, the winter solstice is first and foremost, a turning point. Arriving here means that we’re nearly done with a year that has undoubtedly been challenging for all of us. We pass the shortest day of the year and gradually move back to longer, brighter days. AKA spring flowers and sunny summer days, we see you!
The history of this day being a celebratory affair goes back to some of the first Indigenous peoples to walk to this planet. Many cultures have long seen the winter solstice as the “rebirth of the sun.” The darkest day brings the renewal of the light and signifies moving back to warmth. To mark the importance, tributes were resurrected and can still be seen at world wonder sites like Machu Picchu, Angkor Wat and The Temple Of Karnak. This winter solstice is even more unique as Jupiter and Saturn will be closer than ever. So close that on the solstice they may appear to be one big planet or two plants ‘kissing’. Astrologers believe that these special conjunctions hold further psychic meaning. View the conjunction by going outside an hour after sunset and looking towards the southwest skies.
With that in mind, the emotional and mental meaning behind this day is of utmost importance. The winter solstice is a time of deep self-flection and digestion. A time to reflect on the good and bad, not in a heavy way but in a way that celebrates living through all of it and coming out stronger. A time to lean into the darkness for whatever it may hold. Just like the sun, we have the opportunity to ‘rebirth’ ourselves. We can do this by allowing space for reflection and that reflection paves the way for new perspective as we sail on into the new year. This ritual feels incredibly meaningful this year as we all have SO much to digest. A new leaf can unfold if we are willing to welcome new energy and release old, unwanted energy.
If you can, plan a slower paced day that allows space for doing something you love. Bask in the non to-do list, where the focus is on just being still and appreciating silence. Surroundings for this can include:
You’ve got the tools and the meaning so now it’s your time to take your victory lap. Reflect on your wins this year and give them the stage they deserve. Digest what you need to let go, set your intentions and create new traditions with a ‘brighter days ahead’ mentality.
Happy Solstice Friends!
PP: How did you first discover plant-based medicine?
ELV: The very first memory I can recall of meeting plant medicine was my mum taking me to a herbalist as a child. I recall sitting in his clinic, it smelled sour, pungent and earthy with all the herbal goods permeating the air- smells that were totally unfamiliar to me. We came away with a big brown bottle of the most gnarly tasting herbal liquid! I was intrigued! When I was little, I learnt that different plants growing nearby held medicinal power and I was totally fascinated. My uncle was a keen gardener, and the concept that you could grow food and medicine kind of blew my mind as a child.
PP: What is one of your key plant-based medicine rituals?
ELV: Herbal overnight infusions, always. Every night I prep my slow infusion, and leave it to brew overnight, strain in the morning and sip on it throughout the day. I find the potency of the slow brew is a profound plant preparation, alongside the added bonus of hydration. I rotate out the herbs I infuse, but most commonly it is a blend of Nettle and Oat straw- the most perfect pair.
PP: Do you have a cultural or ancestral connection to any plants?
ELV: This has been and continues to be a deep remembering for me, I am a blend of so many parts. Russian, Romanian, English, Italian and Middle Eastern. Growing up here in Australia and living here- I have always felt a sense of myself just visiting. I hold great reverence for this beautiful land I currently call home, but there is an undeniable connection with the plants of my ancestors that grow in Europe with ease, or even in North America with ease. Here in Australia many of the wild weeds of these places grow, and they feel deeply familiar- the dandelions, the ribwort! Australia holds many plant medicines unique and native to this wild land, yet at this point it holds mystery to me. My calling and training has been returning back to the traditional western European folk medicine language. So in that sense, yes my connection is deep with these plants and my people who have long been with them!
PP: What is the one plant/herb you can’t live without and why?
ELV: Oh goodness that is such a hard one to answer!! I am torn between two, Nettle because she is so deeply restorative and nutritive and my body sings when I work with her magic. And then Ashwagandha because this beautiful plant has been a huge part of my health story and has ushered me back to my centre many times over!
PP: Can you share your favorite self-care practice?
ELV: I would have answered this very differently in the past, with a more complex answer. But truly practicing these pillars keeps me well and nourished. Getting sound sleep and allowing myself to rest, drinking water and eating nourishing food and moving my body. Connecting to nature and spending time in my garden fills me up!
PP: What is one organization you think people should know about and support?
ELV: I am super passionate about the conservation of plant medicine and admire the work of the United Plant Savers I feel as herbalists we need to be deeply conscious of the impacts our practices have on the land.
]]>Two gift guides are better than one! We couldn’t stop at one gift guide for a myriad of reasons but these are the top two:
And of course, a surplus of time at home on the web = more time to uncover new amazing brands + try their products. Below you’ll find a few of our 2020 finds. By shopping with these brands you’re supporting small, sustainable companies who deeply value each sale that keeps their passion afloat. Browse our 2020 picks:
For The Bod:
For Your Health:
For Your Abode:
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For Health:
For Comfort:
For The Kitchen:
For Self Care
We’re here today to answer a commonly asked question from our inbox, “What’s the difference between extracted herbs and raw herbs?” And the follow up question, “What’s better for me?” So let’s jump right in!
The biggest difference between extracted herbs and plant powders lie in the potency. This is due to three issues:
Now that we’ve identified some key differences from a science perspective, the last difference to mention is cost. With the higher potency found in extracted herbs you’ll typically find a higher price tag. The extraction process is laborious and requires ample testing to ensure every last ounce of plant medicine is safe. Full-spectrum extracts (like our hemp) go through rigorous testing to identify and quantify the beneficial compounds present (cannabinoids and terpenes). From there, the extract is blended accordingly to strength to make sure enough of those bioactive phytochemicals are present to deliver the health benefit we are looking to achieve. This high-level of integrity and process can be found in how we make Prismatic Plants. From sourcing potent plant material, to our extraction process, to robust testing, to our form factor, we set out to create a highly efficacious but safe plant medicine.
We love hearing your questions about herbal medicine so please keep em’ coming!
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