Hi! I’m Ellen
I was born and raised on Kiikaapoi, Kaw/Kansa, Osage and Očhéthi Šakówiŋ lands (also known as Kansas City, MO). In my childhood, I could often be found making potions in my backyard or reading a book. As I grew older, I became more interested in the connection between environmental issues and justice. In herbalism, I have found an interesting and beautiful way to combine the two.
From 2018-2019, I trained with Lise Wolff in folk herbalism. Since then, I have gone on to take more classes from Lise, as well as Matt Wood and Phyliss D. Light. I have also self-educated through books, the internet, and experience. I earned my degree in environmental studies with a social justice concentration from Cornell College in 2014.
When I’m not playing with plants, you can find me working at the local library, tutoring writing, talking during TV shows, and enjoying good food.
Pedagogy/Praxis
I chose to study folk herbalism, which is based on traditional and experiential practices. This allows us to look holistically at the plants’ interaction with each other, humans, ecosystems, and culture. By connecting to ancestral traditions, we can connect to what was and what could be again.
I only teach about plants that are already growing or can be grown in the area. I find this encourages a deeper connection to the land itself.
I use my herbalism as a vehicle to build community and for justice - to challenge white supremacy, capitalism, ableism, transphobia, homophobia, patriarchy and more.
A note on health…
Sometimes, our bodies will never be a body that is deemed “good” or “acceptable” or “healthy” by societal standards. It is not my job to tell you what your body should look like or what it should be able to do. I am here to tell you what herbs do.
In my classes, I will generally not be speaking about foods to eat, weight, or how to manifest a perfect, pain-free bodymind. I do my best to focus on body neutrality and make my classes accessible for all. Please contact me with any accessibility needs.
Giving Back/Sliding Scale
I want my offerings to be available to as many people as possible, regardless of ability to pay. I always offer sliding scale and/or trade spots in my classes. Depending on my financial situation at the moment, I may be able to offer more or less sliding scale spots. Please inquire if you’re interested.
I donate 2% of all proceeds to a BIPOC organization.
If you have a mutual aid project in need of remedies, please don’t hesitate to contact me.