Herbalism is so much more than just working with plants—it’s about connection. Connection to the land, to the seasons, and just as importantly, to each other. The practice of herbalism has always been rooted in community knowledge-sharing, yet in today’s world, it’s easy to feel like we have to go it alone.
This week on the podcast, I sat down with Harmonie O'Loughlin, the creator of Botanical Anthology and Plant Wonder Collective, to talk about slowing down, working with plants seasonally, and embracing herbalism as a practice of connection—not just consumption. Harmonie teaches us that plants arrive exactly when we need them. Spring violets, chickweed, and cleavers? They’re here to wake us up after winter’s heaviness. Fall roots and berries? Deep nourishment to sustain us.
Harmonie's work is all about creating the village within herbalism, supporting other people's relationships with plants by creating a platform for people to share their voices, recipes, artwork, and more through Botanical Anthology.
One of my favorite takeaways? Herbalism thrives when we share it. The more we learn together—through collective projects and shared wisdom—the more our connection to plants and each other grows.
Here’s what you’ll take away from this conversation:
- How seasonal herbalism can transform your relationship with plants
- The surprising power of collaboration in herbalism—and why going solo isn’t always the answer
- The behind-the-scenes magic of Botanical Anthology—and how it became a thriving herbal magazine
- The fleeting beauty of spring herbs like violets and lilac—and why they’re so hard to preserve
- How motherhood, foraging, and herbal medicine intertwine in unexpected ways
- Using an herb of the month practice to gain unique relationships and understanding of plants
- Insights into medicine making in alignment with the seasons
Plus, Harmonie gives us a sneak peek into the upcoming Spring Edition of Botanical Anthology, featuring plant-inspired crafts, folklore, divination, and herbal recipes.
This episode is for anyone who has ever felt like they had to figure out herbalism on their own. Whether you’re new to plants or a seasoned herbalist, this conversation will remind you of the power of learning and growing in collaboration with the plants & the people who love them.
Listen to the episode here: Weaving Collaborative Herbalism: Building a Seasonal Herbal Magazine with Harmonie O'Loughlin
🔗 Links & Resources:
- Botanical Anthology Digital Version – Get the new Spring Edition, launching March 17!
- Botanical Anthology Print Version
- Plant Wonder Collective – Join Harmonie's monthly plant studies & creative collaborations
- Harmonie’s Instagram
- Follow The Dancing Willow Podcast for herbal wisdom every Tuesday!
Stay Connected
If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe, leave a review, and share with others who would love it.
Support the podcast by making a purchase with Dancing Willow Herbs!
Website: www.dancingwillowherbs.com
Instagram: @dancingwillowherbsco