The Wildcraft Herbal Foundations Guide
Welcome to the Herbal Foundations Kit.
This guide was created to help you begin building a simple home herbal apothecary and to learn how to work with the herbs included in your kit.
For generations people have turned to plants to support everyday health and wellbeing. Herbal medicine does not need to be complicated. Often the most powerful remedies are also the simplest.
Inside your kit you will find seven foundational herbs that can support calm, digestion, nourishment, skin health, and seasonal wellness.
Use this guide as a gentle starting point as you begin to explore herbal teas and simple preparations.
Meet the Herbs
Chamomile
Chamomile is a gentle and calming herb traditionally used to support relaxation, digestion, and restful sleep.
Common uses
Calming evening tea
Digestive discomfort
Gentle support for children
Simple preparation
Add 1 to 2 teaspoons of chamomile flowers to a cup of freshly boiled water. Cover and steep for 10 to 15 minutes.
Peppermint
Peppermint is a refreshing herb well known for supporting digestion and creating an uplifting tea.
Common uses
Bloating and sluggish digestion
Nausea
Refreshing daily tea
Simple preparation
Add 1 teaspoon of peppermint leaf to hot water and steep for 10 minutes.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is a bright and uplifting herb traditionally used to calm the nervous system and lift the mood.
Common uses
Stress and anxiety
Restless sleep
Nervous digestion
Simple preparation
Steep 1 to 2 teaspoons of lemon balm in hot water for 10 to 15 minutes.
Nettle
Nettle is a deeply nourishing herb rich in minerals that supports vitality and general wellbeing.
Common uses
Daily nourishing tonic
Seasonal wellness
Hair and skin support
Simple preparation
For a stronger infusion add 1 tablespoon of nettle to a cup of hot water and steep for at least 30 minutes.
Calendula
Calendula is a beautiful golden flower traditionally used to support the skin and lymphatic system.
Common uses
Herbal oils and salves
Skin soothing washes
Gentle herbal tea
Simple preparation
Steep 1 to 2 teaspoons of calendula flowers in hot water for 10 to 15 minutes.
Marshmallow Leaf
Marshmallow leaf is a soothing herb that helps calm irritated tissues in the throat, digestive system, and urinary tract.
Common uses
Dry cough
Sore throat
Digestive irritation
Simple preparation
Marshmallow leaf can be prepared as a gentle infusion by steeping in warm water for 15 to 20 minutes.
Elderflower
Elderflower has long been used in traditional herbal medicine to support the body during colds and seasonal illness.
Common uses
Early stage colds
Sinus congestion
Seasonal immune support
Simple preparation
Steep 1 to 2 teaspoons of elderflower in hot water for 10 to 15 minutes.
Simple Herbal Preparations
Herbal Tea
This is the easiest way to begin working with herbs.
Add 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried herb to your tea infuser and place it in a cup.
Pour over freshly boiled water.
Cover and steep for 10 to 15 minutes before removing the infuser.
Nourishing Herbal Infusion
This preparation is ideal for mineral rich herbs such as nettle.
Add 1 tablespoon of herb to a cup of hot water and steep for at least 30 minutes. Some people prefer to steep for several hours.
Calendula Herbal Oil
Calendula flowers can be infused into oil for gentle skin support.
Place calendula flowers in a clean jar.
Cover completely with olive oil or another carrier oil.
Seal the jar and leave in a warm place for 2 to 4 weeks.
Strain and store the oil for use on the skin.
Simple Tea Blends
Calming Evening Tea
1 part Chamomile
1 part Lemon balm
A gentle tea to help unwind and support restful sleep.
Digestive Tea
1 part Peppermint
1 part Chamomile
A refreshing tea to ease bloating and support digestion.
Daily Nourishing Tea
Nettle - 1 tsp per 250mls
A mineral rich tonic that can be enjoyed regularly.
Cold Season Tea
1 part Elderflower
2 parts Peppermint
1 part Chamomile
A warming tea traditionally used during cold season.
Building Your Home Apothecary
The Herbal Foundations Kit is designed to help you begin exploring herbal medicine in a simple and approachable way.
As you grow more familiar with these plants you may wish to expand your apothecary with additional herbs such as rose, tulsi, or yarrow.
Working with herbs is a practice that deepens over time. Start simply, pay attention to how your body responds, and enjoy the process of learning from the plants.
How to Store Your Herbs
Proper storage helps maintain the flavour, aroma, and beneficial qualities of your herbs.
Dried herbs are best kept in a cool, dark, and dry place away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight.
Simple storage tips
Store herbs in airtight jars or sealed pouches.
Keep them in a cupboard or pantry rather than near the stove.
Avoid exposing herbs to light for long periods of time.
Use a dry spoon when measuring herbs to prevent moisture entering the container.
Glass jars with tight fitting lids are ideal for building a home apothecary and allow you to easily see your herbs.
How long do dried herbs last
Most dried herbs remain vibrant and aromatic for around 18 months when stored properly.
Over time herbs may gradually lose their aroma and strength. If an herb no longer smells fragrant when you open the jar, it may be time to replace it.
A simple herbal ritual
Each time you open your jars, take a moment to notice the scent and appearance of the herbs. This small practice helps you become familiar with the plants and deepens your connection to your home apothecary.
A Note on Herbal Safety
Herbs have long been used to support everyday wellbeing and are generally very safe when used with care.
If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medications, or living with a medical condition, it is always best to consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before using new herbs regularly.
Begin with small amounts and pay attention to how your body responds. Everyone is unique and herbs may affect people differently.
Herbal preparations are intended to support general wellbeing and are not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.
Stay Connected
If you would like to receive seasonal herbal recipes, apothecary tips, and new product releases, you are warmly invited to join the Wildcraft community.
Explore More from Wildcraft Dispensary
Herbal Powders
Herbal Ointments
The Immunity Collection
