Herbstalk has been on pause for a while, but thanks to the energy and enthusiasm of some new team members we can continue on, re-invigorated! Here are our lovely organizers for the upcoming Wintergreen Market:

Dear Community, it’s Steph Zabel here. I’ve realized that in the 10+ years of leading Herbstalk I’ve never really introduced myself. I prefer to remain behind-the-scenes, but here I am — hello! 

I’m a teacher, student, writer, gardener and mother. For over a decade I’ve taught home herbalism; now much of my work is focused on sharing ways to connect with the earth, her seasons, and solar & lunar cycles.

I am the founder of Herbstalk, and since 2011 it has been an immense joy and honor to put together these events for the community. I took a pause for the past two years, but now, thanks to the enthusiasm and hard work of Vicki (taking on event logistics & social media) and Brandie (heading the BIPOC led art & educational space) Herbstalk can continue on, re-invigorated. I am so grateful to work with these two amazing women — they have hearts full of fire and love.✨

In these times — when we are collectively witnessing so much suffering and divisiveness — it is essential that we come together in spaces that hold, honor and reflect all people. And so for me, the most important aspect of Herbstalk is how it FEELS: I want each person who walks through the door of an event to feel a sense of belonging & welcome, warmth & inspiration, shared joy & vibrant community. While it’s certainly a place for our minds to learn about the botanical world, even more so Herbstalk is meant to be a place where our hearts can find other hearts to connect with.

Many thanks for all your support, and for celebrating the return of Herbstalk with us!

Some fun facts:

💚 Although I grew up mostly in South Carolina and Texas, I’ve lived in Spain, Mexico, Dominica, the United Kingdom and Saudi Arabia.

💚 My Myers-Briggs personality type is INFJ (which is probably why it is excruciatingly difficult for me to share anything personal on social media!…)

💚 I’m learning how to play the Celtic harp - a dream!

💚 I almost always read non-fiction books.

💚 My vices are: salt & vinegar chips and Irish whiskey.



​💚 I adore crows, rain, autumn and dim lighting.

​💚 You can learn more about my writing and classes at: @steph_zabel and @livinglandcourse

by Ray Lardie

The cooling temperatures, the changing leaves: the end of October brings Samhain to mind for many people, but this ancient holiday was not celebrated in many parts of Europe. In Russia, a different holiday falls at this time of year: the Feast of Paraskeva.

Who is St. Paraskeva? Who is Mokosh’?

The Feast of Paraskeva occurs on October 28th and honors Saint Paraskeva, a martyr saint whose name means Friday. The Saint Paraskeva is venerated in Russia, however, took on many aspects of the Slavic earth goddess Mokosh’, also known as Mat’ Syra Zemlya, Damp Mother Earth. Thus in Russia and some other Slavic countries, Saint Paraskeva is associated with the earth, water, fertility, textile work like weaving and embroidery, childbirth, the home, and herbs, among other things. Crossroads and sacred springs were often sites of her chapels—both clear connections to Mokosh’. In fact, Saint Paraskeva is often depicted in Mokosh’s traditional pose: elbows bent, hands held up in blessing.


How is the day celebrated?

Rest: Folklore surrounding the holiday tells us more about what traditionally wasn’t done. Out of respect for Saint Paraskeva and thus by extension Mat’ Syra Zemlya, people didn’t weave, embroider, sew, or pursue other textile arts on the Feast of Paraskeva. In fact, one was supposed to take a break from textile arts on Fridays generally, or risk a warning punishment in the form of arthritic pain in the hands, eye irritations, or worsening sight—all maladies that would make textile crafts much more difficult.

Offerings: Aside from resting from work, people would make offerings of flax skeins by tossing them into a well or one of Paraskeva’s sacred springs. That does neatly remove the ability to spin! If you don’t happen to have a skein of flax fiber, tossing coins is also acceptable.

Purification: It was also a time to purify and bless one’s house and animals by sprinkling them with water, ideally from a sacred spring.

Wedding Wishes: Mokosh’ is said to oversee autumn, so it’s no surprise that Paraskeva would be addressed by women seeking to marry. Traditionally, the autumn wedding season began two weeks before the Feast of Paraskeva on the Feast of Pokrov, and the two were addressed together in a prayer: Father-Pokrov, Mother-Paraskeva, cover my head with a bridal veil, with a married woman’s headdress.


Paraskeva Herbs

The other name for the Feast of Parakeva is Paraskeva-l’nyanitsa, Paraskeva the Flaxen, since the day marked the start of flax work, even if the holiday itself was a day of rest.

FLAX, Linum usitatissimum, called лен/lyon, has importance as not only a source of cloth, but also as a medicinal herb. A sweet, warming, moistening herb, flaxseeds are worked with in infusions and decoctions to address gut inflammation, including constipation and food poisoning, as well as respiratory inflammation, including bronchitis. Flaxseed oil regularly massaged into the chest helps relieve chronic bronchitis.

Flaxseeds help address dry, atrophied states in the joints and muscles as well. Russian herbalism heats up the dry seeds to apply them externally to sore muscles and joints; Western herbalism makes a thick mush of the seeds with hot water to apply externally for the same reason. In both cases, flaxseed will nourish the tendons with its rich oil content, though one method is messier than the other. Curiously to me, a poultice of flaxseed can soothe eye irritations—hopefully not ones brought on by spinning on Fridays!

Ray Lardie is a Boston-based clinical herbalist and relentlessly optimistic realist who couldn’t stop learning if they tried. Dedicated to helping people learn to work with herbs and their bodies as partners, not enemies, Ray seeks to build resilience in individuals and communities. They work from Western and Russian herbal medicinal perspectives at Sovereign Birch Herbal, tailoring their approach to fit whole-body, whole-life needs. Ray is ever on the lookout for the seeds of the hopepunk stories and futures we will nourish with one another in this era of climate change. 

by Marissa Myers

Marissa has been drawn to the world of aromatics and plants since she was a child. Certified in aromatherapy, Reiki, and meditation, she actively changes lives using these healing practices. Additionally, she is a holistic life coach, and works towards helping others heal while simultaneously getting in touch with their spiritual side. As Herbstalk's Market Manager & Community Engagement Assistant, Marissa draws upon years of experience to oversee vendor relations, event management, and social media outreach. As a longtime attendee and member of the Herbstalk community, she is beyond thrilled to be a part of the team! ​

by Marissa Myers

As hard as it is to believe, springtime is almost here. Even if it feels far away, the festival of Imbolc is just what we need to welcome in spring’s vibrant energy. 

What Is the History of Imbolc? 
In between the middle of the Winter Solstice and the Spring Equinox lies the Celtic festival of Imbolc. Dating back to pre-Christian times, Imbolc celebrations revolved around the Goddess Brigid. Ancient Celtic mythology explains that she was born with a flame in her head and immediately drank the milk of a mystical cow upon birth, which is where her common symbols of a flame and dairy originated from. She also represents fertility, and many women would travel to her sacred wells (the most popular one in Kildare, Ireland) to drink their water in hopes of conceiving shortly after. During Imbolc celebrations, those celebrating would light bonfires and make dairy-rich meals in honor of Brigid. 

Now, Imbolc coincides with Saint Brigid’s feast day. Historians have shown that when Christianity was spreading throughout Ireland, the church was having a difficult time convincing pagans to let go of their gods and goddesses. Thus, Brigid was “reborn” into Saint Brigid, and her representations (i.e., fertility, the flame, and dairy farmers) were kept the same. 

How Can I Celebrate Imbolc?
Depending on your own spiritual practice, there are a variety of ways to celebrate Imbolc. Below are a few ideas to help get you started: 

Set Up Your Imbolc Altar.
Like many Sabbats, an altar plays a large role in your Imbolc celebration. Since the holiday is centered around Brigid, incorporate her colors (red and white) onto your altar. This can be done in the forms of flowers, fabrics, or crystals. It’s also recommended to incorporate candles around the altar, symbolizing Brigid’s flame and bringing light into the winter darkness. 

Make Brigid’s Cross.
One representation of Brigid is the goddess’s cross. By creating this cross, you’re welcoming her into your home for the upcoming spring season. It’s also said to protect your home from future fires or destruction. A tutorial on how to create your own cross can be found here. 

Cook an Imbolc-Inspired Dinner.
Since Brigid is the guardian of the hearth and home, it’s best to celebrate with foods that honor just that—including loaves of bread, grains, and dairy products. Check out these Imbolc-inspired recipes for feast ideas. 

What Herbs Can I Use to Celebrate Imbolc?
There are a number of herbs used to celebrate Imbolc. Take a look at a few common ones listed below. 

Bay Leaves.
Bay leaves have long been associated with the fire element. In traditional Imbolc rituals, they have been used as an offering to the sun. By carrying around bay leaves, it can bring you prosperity for the upcoming season. Consider writing down your future goals and intentions, and placing your bay leaves in a spell jar. This way, they’ll serve as a reminder for your future intentions. 

Rosemary.
Similar to bay leaves, rosemary is a herb that has a connection to fire. For spellwork, rosemary is an excellent herb to use for cleansing or purification purposes. A common cleansing ritual includes adding rosemary to your bath. You can also incorporate rosemary into your Imbolc feast by adding it into recipes. 

Heather.
This beautiful feminine herb evokes both fertility and the divine feminine within. This is a wonderful herb to use for fertility spells or outer cleansing—similar to rosemary. However, heather can be difficult to find. For convenience purposes, use heather tea bag leaves in your Imbolc ritual. 

Final Thoughts on Imbolc
During the holiday of Imbolc, be sure to tend to your own inner flame. To do so, practice the rituals listed above and celebrate spring’s upcoming light. Regardless of how you practice, make sure to honor yourself and the season.

by Marissa Myers

The days are getting shorter, the weather is getting colder, and the magic of Yule is in the air. It’s the time of year that calls us to examine our intuition, showing us what needs to be brought out of the darkness and into the light. 

What is the History of Yule? 

Marking the first official day of winter, Yule (or Winter Solstice) is celebrated by pagans around the world, and is the shortest day of the year. In the 16th century, most Yule celebrations included merriment and festivities within the community. These celebrations included feasting, drinking, and dancing around the Yule tree.

In Scandinavia, for example, a traditional Yule feast would last for 12 days and participants would take part in burning the Yule log. In modern day solstice celebrations, pagans and druids gather around spiritual landmarks (i.e., Stonehenge, Newgrange, etc.) to celebrate the holiday. 

How Can I Celebrate Yule?

Depending on your individual practice, there are a variety of ways to celebrate Yule. The most common include the following: 

Build a Yule Altar: A large part of celebrating Yule is centered around the altar. The main purpose? To honor the sun’s return. That said, it’s important to have something that symbolizes the sun, such as candles or a bright piece of cloth. It’s also a good idea to fill your altar with pinecones, fir, mini wreaths, and a small Yule log. Everything on the altar should represent the sun and winter. 

Create a Yule Wreath: A wreath composed of pine, evergreen, or fir is the perfect way to ring in Yule. Many pagans forage their own supplies from the woods, and build wreaths to honor the earth’s winter abundance. 

Decorate a Yule Tree: Most families have likely decorated a Christmas tree before, but in ancient pagan traditions, a Yule tree was decorated outside with candles. Similar to a Yule altar, candles were meant to symbolize the sun as well as passed loved ones. If you have trees outside your home, consider brightening up your yard by (carefully and safely) placing a few candles on them. 

Celebrate with Candles: Since the solstice is the shortest day of the year, it’s important to have light sources in the evening. For many, taking a plethora of candles and putting them into a shape (such as the sun or another sacred pattern) help welcome in the holiday. 


What Herbs and Plants Are Associated With Yule?

Like many holidays on the Wheel of the Year, certain herbs play an important role in each Sabbat. For Yule, here are a few herbs that can add a little magic to your day:

Cinnamon: Known for its warming properties, cinnamon is a wonderful herb to incorporate into your celebration. Consider sprinkling cinnamon over Yule desserts, or adding a little into your coffee to see what symbols appear. 

Vanilla: Acting as a representation of comfort and seduction, vanilla is the perfect herb to add to your kitchen witchcraft. The best way to do so? By adding vanilla to your recipes. Try making desserts or teas that have hints of vanilla for added comfort. 

Bay Laurel: In Roman cultures, bay laurel represented Apollo, God of the sun. With Yule also celebrating the sun, it’s no wonder this herb appears in many Yuletide traditions. Take some bay laurel and spread it on your altar for good luck and light. 

Rue: Known as a highly magical herb, rue is great for protection and magical spells. It’s also a good herb to use for banishing things that are no longer needed in your life. As you enter into Yule, consider placing rue leaves in satchels and carrying them around with you for comfort. 


Final Thoughts on Yule:

When celebrating Yule, remember to choose the rituals that resonate with your tradition. While there are a number of ways to honor the sun and winter, focus on whichever practice speaks to you. 

Honoring your inner work is an important part of the practice. Whether it’s cooking, creating your altar, or decorating your Yule tree, take time to recognize what your inner self enjoys! 

by Marissa Myers

The leaves have fallen, the air is crisp, and the mist has filled the early mornings. It’s the time of the year when the earth slowly “dies” and transitions into its winter slumber. For those celebrating Samhain, it’s a time to connect with the dead and honor those who have passed. The veil is thin, and the other side is calling for us to awaken the connection. 

What is the History of Samhain? 
Samhain is a pagan festival originating from Celtic spirituality. Known as a halfway point between the fall equinox and the winter solstice, it’s celebrated from October 31st to November 1st to welcome in the darker half of the year. Those who celebrate believe that the physical world and the spirit world are intimately connected, and Samhain brings the Otherworld the closest it’s been all year.

In Druidic traditions, priests would light a fire to a wooden wheel, igniting a large flame. The wheel, according to the Druids, represented the sun’s energy. Those around this fire would take the flame back on a candle stick to light their own hearths, bringing light into the darkness. 

Storytelling around Samhain is another ancient tradition that continues today. A common Celtic tale told during Samhain includes “The Second Battle of Mag Tuired,” which portrays a battle between evil oppressors and the Celtic pantheon. Another tale, “The Adventures of Nera,” illustrates Nera entering the Otherworld while encountering corpses and faeries. 

How Can I Celebrate Samhain? 
Depending on your individual practice, there are a variety of ways to celebrate Samhain. The most common include the following: 

Decorate Your Altar: Using the colors of the season is a wonderful way to brighten up your altar. Samhain colors include a combination deep purples, burgundy, dark oranges, and black. Many people choose to cover their altar with dark clothes and dark colored candles, welcoming in the night of the spirits. If you’re looking to connect deeper with the dead, consider adding skulls or ghost figures to your altar. 

Carve Pumpkins: Carving pumpkins is a kid-friendly activity that’s fun for everyone. Gather a few pumpkins and carve some creative, funky designs. If you’re able to get smaller pumpkins or gourds, place a few on your altar. This is another simple way to evoke a mini Samhain celebration. 

Create a Prayer Circle: Since Samhain is all about connecting with our ancestors and honoring the dead, picking out a few prayers lets those who have passed know that you’re keeping their memory alive. A simple prayer could be as follows: 

With the gift of remembrance, I remember all of you. You are dead but never forgotten, and you live on within me, and within those who are yet to come. 

Even if you’re unaware of which ancestors to connect with, it’s okay to be general in your prayers--it’s the thought that counts!  

Bake Soul Cakes: If you’ve never heard of Soul Cakes, they’re a dessert used as a gift for spirits of departed loved ones. Pagans would bake these cakes and place them on their altars so their ancestors could access a yummy treat. But don’t worry, they’re not just for the dead! Those celebrating can also enjoy this delicious dessert. A great recipe for Soul Cakes can be found on this website. And if your spiritual tradition doesn’t include celebrating the dead, consider baking pumpkin bread, another common Samhain dessert.

What Herbs and Plants Are Associated With Samhain?
Like many holidays on the Wheel of the Year, certain herbs play an important role in each Sabbat. For Samhain, here are a few herbs that can add a little magic to your day:

Rosemary: During Samhain, rosemary is a symbol of remembrance. Many pagans choose to use rosemary on their altar as a representation of their ancestors. Rosemary is also okay to use as an incense, so don’t hesitate to cleanse your altar with this gentle herb. 

For a magickal use during Samhain, hang rosemary bundles in front of your front door to keep harmful spirits from entering. If you have someone in your home who’s sick during Samhain, mix rosemary leaves with juniper berries to promote a healthy healing process. 

Chrysanthemums: Commonly used as a symbol of protection, chrysanthemums are also heavily associated with the spirit world. Traditionally, they’ve been used as a centerpiece for funeral floral arrangements or placed on new graves. Putting a bouquet of chrysanthemums in your home is a good way to remember those who’ve passed. 

Mugwort: Mugwort is a magickal herb associated with treating depression. Samhain can be a hard holiday for those suffering from the darkness of mental illness. To help, make a set of smudge sticks with mugwort to use in your ritual to cleanse your aura. You can also place mugwort under your pillow to promote gentle, restful dreaming. (*Please note, mugwort does not cure depression. Please talk to your medical provider for proper treatment for mental illness). 

Rowan Berries: In Scotland, rowan berries were used to ward evil spirits away from the home. During Samhain, hang these berry branches over your doors and windows to keep spirits at bay. Since Samhain has a lot of spirit activity, this will help keep your home full of good energy. 

Final Thoughts on Samhain
When celebrating Samhain, remember to choose the rituals that resonate with your heart. While there are a number of ways to honor the dead, focus on whichever practice speaks to you. 

Honoring our ancestors is an important practice. Whether it’s baking, creating our altar, or decorating the home, take time to recognize the earth’s “death”—and slow rebirth—on this special day! 

​

Are there any non-herbal hobbies or interests that you love doing? 

I love dancing — mostly in the comfort of my home — as well as interior decorating, taking pictures, thrift shopping, cooking and hosting dinner parties, luncheons, etc.

What’s one fun thing that most people don’t know about you? 

I love using my imagination like I’m an adventurer, and exploring places like abandoned buildings, off-the-beaten path in the woods, mountains, and rock formations at the beaches.

What made you want to be a part of Herbstalk?

I wanted to be a part of Herbstalk because I wanted to be a part of the opportunity to represent my neighborhood, Dorchester, and my culture in my city. Herbstalk looked like an amazing event with so many herbal resources that I was excited to connect with, but I didn’t see a lot of diversity. And I wanted to represent that diversity and hopefully be a part of expanding diversity and inclusion at these wonderful events. ​

With summer days getting shorter, signs of fall are becoming more apparent. Though the weather outside might be a different story, the earth around us shows signs that autumn is near, including grains being harvested, trees dropping their fruit, and the sun setting earlier at night. 

All of this earthly excitement acts as a doorway, ushering in the pagan holiday of Lammas. 

What is Lammas? 

Lammas, sometimes referred to as Lughnasadh, is a time to celebrate the upcoming fall harvest. Depending on your spiritual practice, Lammas can also be (and traditionally is) a day to celebrate the Celtic God, Lugh. In Celtic mythology, he is portrayed as a master craftsman and skilled warrior. It’s no surprise that games and craft fairs were held in honor of his memory. In some Irish villages, members would hold a funeral feast in honor of Lugh’s mother, Tailtiu, who supposedly passed away from exhaustion after clearing Ireland’s plains for the harvest. 

Baking bread and Lammas are also tied closely together. The world Lammas itself is derived from the old English phrase hlaf-maesse, which means loaf mass. In Ireland, it was good luck to wait until August 1st to pick the first sheaves of grain. By night, the farmer’s wife would rush to cook bread with new grains and make the first loaves to honor the harvest. If you were unable to use newly harvested grain, and had to reach for your previous years’ stash, it meant bad luck for the upcoming harvesting season. 

Like many sabbats, gratitude remains at the center of any holiday. It’s important to remember that by celebrating the harvest’s abundance, we are celebrating our ancestors and their survival efforts. It’s a good time to cultivate gratitude for our food and farmland, and the blessings the land provides for sustaining humankind. 

How Can I Celebrate Lammas? 

Depending on your culture or individual practice, there are a variety of ways to celebrate Lammas. The most common ways including the following: 

Decorate your altar: Using the colors of the season is a sacred way to honor Lammas. This includes a combination of oranges, reds, and dark yellows. Additionally, symbols of the harvest season, such as sickles and scythes, are placed on altars. These are accompanied by dried grains to celebrate the start of the harvest season. If you’re ​looking to brighten up your altar, consider adding sunflowers—the patron plant of Lammas—around its exterior. 

Practice craftsmanship: Because the holiday is associated with the God Lugh, craftsmanship is a heavy theme that’s been carried on for centuries. Whether it’s painting, singing, or playing an instrument, Lammas is the perfect opportunity to learn a new craft or build on an old hobby. And don’t forget to share your new (and old) gifts with those around you to celebrate! 

Bake bread: The center of Lammas revolves around baking bread. To have an abundant holiday dinner, bread-making is common across all families honoring the holiday. It’s the perfect way to bring families together to celebrate the harvest and home. Traditional Lammas feasts include each member taking turns breaking bread around the table. Consider doing the same with your family or by yourself. If you need inspiration, try this delicious recipe to create your own herbal-infused Lammas bread! 

Create a Corn Dolly: Creating corn dollies is an old Lammas tradition that has carried into modern day. To make your own, use stalks of wheat, barley, or rye if you have access to these plants. Using yellow ribbon, lace the stalks into a corn dolly to outline the shape of a woman. During the doll creation process, express gratitude and thanks for your harvest. Place your corn dolly onto your Lammas altar as the center of celebrations. At Samhain, the pagan holiday marking the end of the harvest season, take the remains of your corn dolly from the altar and return them to the earth. This is symbolic of sowing seeds of a future harvest for the following year. 


What Herbs and Plants are Associated with Lammas? 

Like many holidays on the Wheel of the Year, certain herbs play an important role in each sabbat. For Lammas specifically, here are a few herbs that can add a little magic to your day:

Yarrow: Yarrow has taken on different meanings and symbolism throughout the centuries. It’s been known to be a herb that casts away evil spells and hexes. People believe that stringing it across the doorway will prevent evil spirits from entering their home. To use yarrow in your own Lammas practice, place it around your neck as a form of protection.

Goldenrod: The bright happiness of goldenrod has an infectious energy for anyone who practices with it. Its uplifting nature has been known to help those with depression and grief. If you’re feeling overwhelmed this holiday season, consider using goldenrod on your altar to brighten the atmosphere—and your spirits, too. 

Vervain: The use of vervain can be traced back thousands of years for its role in spiritual and ceremonial services. In the Druidic tradition, many members believed vervain had supernatural powers to assist in getting in touch with the other side. Common vervain-based traditions during Lammas include healing rituals for those who need spiritual assistance. Use vervain essential oil as a blessing for your loved ones who need an extra health boost.

Meadowsweet: Also known as Bride of the Meadow, meadowsweet is another sacred herb of the Druids. Members would wear garlands made of meadowsweet around their neck during Lammas celebrations. If a Druidic wedding was taking place on Lammas, meadowsweet would be added to the bride’s bouquet. If you feel called to it, wear meadowsweet around your neck to honor the ancient tradition. 

Mint: Another herb close to the Druids, mint is known for its healing and protection powers. During Lammas, mint was used to attract abundance into one’s life. One of the best ways to use mint during Lammas is during a tea ritual, such as making a drink that includes mint leaves. This is a great way to honor your body and bless it with seasonal health. 


Final Thoughts on Lammas:

When celebrating Lammas, remember to choose the rituals that resonate with your heart. While there are a number of ways to honor the harvest, choose whichever practice you deeply connect with. Taking time to honor our earth and her abundance is important. Whether it’s baking bread, going on a walk, or meditating in the morning, take time to recognize the earth’s abundance—and magic—on this special day.

Marissa has been drawn to the world of aromatics and plants since she was a child. Certified in aromatherapy, Reiki, and meditation, she actively changes lives using these healing practices. Additionally, she is a holistic life coach, and works towards helping others heal while simultaneously getting in touch with their spiritual side. As Herbstalk's Market Manager & Community Engagement Assistant, Marissa draws upon years of experience to oversee vendor relations, event management, and social media outreach. As a longtime attendee and member of the Herbstalk community, she is beyond thrilled to be a part of the team! ​