Star Feliz is the owner of Botanica Cimarron, a small batch apothecary company and creative wellness company.
Our mission is to promote sustainable food sources and provide access to the highest quality ingredients with integrity. We aim to encourage healthy eating while bringing joy with beautiful plates full of flavourful dishes.
Whether it's from a family recipe or from a 5-star restaurant, we believe everyone should have the chance to experience delightful cuisine. If you would like to contribute your talents or stories on our blog please contact us at [email protected] - we'd love to hear from you!
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Botanica Cimarron: Student Business Spotlight
Photography courtesy of Botanica Cimarron
An Interview with Star Feliz, Botanica Cimarron
Are you inspired by ancestral herbal traditions? Do you enjoy medicine that is plant-based and spiritual, but also place-based? Are you interested in culturally rich and diverse remedies? Star Feliz of Botanica Cimarron practices this type of herbalism.
Star is a Chestnut School of Herbal Medicine-trained clinical herbalist and full spectrum doula. She also has a background as a spiritual guide. They combine Afro-Taino Caribbean herbalism with Western herbalism. Their ancestral lineage inspires them to create and they have a vision for a future of earth-healing.
We need more herbalists who are focused on the earth and communities.
Botanica Cimarron, the community vessel of Star's vision, is a small batch apothecary container and a ritual arts container which sells expertly-formulated bespoke medicine and spiritual tools. This is also a resource for local herbal classes and affordable healthcare.
Star shared with us an interview for our Student Business Spotlight, a series that features Chestnut School of Herbal Medicine alumni, their work and the many professions herbalists are able to choose. Star is a recent graduate of the Online Herbal Immersion program, which includes 1,000 hours of personal mentoring in sustainable herbalism and herbal career development. You can learn more about the many herbal careers available by visiting An Herbalist’s Salary and Career Options and How to Become an Herbalist.
Botanica Cimarron's elixir collection.
Star, can you tell us about yourself and your first call to work in herbal medicine?
I am a Dominican American artist, herbalist and spiritual guide. My path to herbalism began with my grandmother and mother, and the herbal infusions they made. In my early twenties, I worked and lived on a permaculture-style farm. It was there that I began to truly listen to plant spirits and deepen my own study. I also learned to honor my ancestral healing gifts.
Botanica Cimarron, please tell us about it. What is it offering your community?
Botanica Cimarron, a wellness company rooted in ancient Afro-Taino knowledge, is dedicated to healing marginalized communities' relationship with the earth by creating innovative lifestyle products and educational experiences that will ensure our futures. All products are formulated in ceremony and handcrafted with the earth and stars. Botanica Cimarron's headquarters are in Los Angeles on the unceded Tovaangar territory.
Star Feliz handcrafts spiritual tools that are powerful, ethically sourced and lovingly made.
How did you decide this was the best career choice for you?
Signs were everywhere. When I am creating and in nature, my soul is most alive. Before I started my own brand, for many years, I saw first-hand the healing power of my medicine through my work as a doula and community organizer. I never thought this would become a career but I have built it step by step based on my sacred calling.
How has your herbal training, and especially the business skills you learned in our programs, helped your business?
The coursework at the Chestnut Herbal School of Medicine made me realize that I had been craving a structured learning environment for a long time. It was measurable. I was able to use the new materials as a reference and move confidently through my blocks.
What motivated you to come and study at Chestnut School in the first place?
The self-paced program was appealing to me. This allowed me to devote my full attention to the Lenapehoking Freedom Fighters Herbal Care Kits project, which I was working on at the time.
What is your favorite thing about owning a herbal business? What are your biggest challenges?
I enjoy sharing ancient knowledge in innovative and new ways with people. It's great to be able to work with the most incredible people on the planet -- those who are dedicated towards the healing of the Earth. It's the pace of business and the amount of work required to run it that is challenging. It's especially difficult when you are just a one-person team.
Botanica Cimarron’s Rainbow Serpent Ritual Oil is formulated using real snakeskin, gemstones and herbs, essential oils and gold dust.
Why are there three essential [TAG22] in your herbal business/practice?
Hibiscus - Potent fire medicine.
Moringa is a tree of Life. Deeply nourishing.
Licorice is a brilliant activator in any formula.
What advice would you give to those who are just beginning their herbal education and want to start a business. What advice would you give to budding herbal entrepreneurs?
The importance of community (personal and professional) cannot be overstated. Focus on creating a community if you don't have one already. Don't forget the legal, structural, backend and other organizational building block!
The Botanica Cimarron site will soon be releasing a new, extended edition of Green Gold - An Ancestral Spirit Plant Oracle Deck.
What next do you plan to do on your herbal journey, according to you?
I look forward to continuing my writing, as well as teaching and studying in tropical locations for extended periods of time. Look out for an expanded edition of my publication Green Gold: An ancestral plant spirit Oracle Deck.
We are so proud of all our students!
This interview is meant to inspire you to visit Star's herbal shop online and support this small business. You might find inspiration for your herbal business. Star can be reached via Instagram @botanicacimarron or the Botanica Cimarron web site.
Check out the Student Herbal Business Directory to see what other graduates have been up to and their diverse businesses.
Would you like to learn more about [TAG24] herbs and their applications?
Our 1,000 hour herbal immersion program is our most comprehensive online herbal course, covering botany and foraging, herb cultivating, medicine making and therapeutics.
Would you like to become a contributor?
Chestnut School of Herbal Medicine, chestnutherbs.com and its affiliates (c) 2011-2024. It is prohibited to use or copy this material in any way without the express written permission of the author and/or site owner. Excerpts or links may be used as long as full and clear credit and specific directions to the original content are given to Chestnut School of Herbal Medicine, chestnutherbs.com and chestnutherbs.com.
The post Botanica Cimarron Student Business Spotlight appeared initially on Chestnut School of Herbal Medicine.
By: Carrie Faye HarderTitle: Botánica Cimarrón: Student Business Spotlight
Sourced From: chestnutherbs.com/botanica-cimarron-student-business-spotlight/
Published Date: Wed, 03 Jan 2024 20:55:51 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the side effects of basil?
Basil is an herb that originated in tropical regions of India, Africa, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Jamaica, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, Paraguay, Uruguay, Argentina, and Chile.
The plant is easy to grow in most climates and requires little maintenance. Basil also thrives in poor soil conditions and is very drought tolerant.
As for the health benefits, more than 200 known compounds are found in basil, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, lignans, polysaccharides, essential oils, vitamins, and minerals.
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, basil contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties which may help relieve symptoms associated with arthritis, asthma, allergies, bronchitis, cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, digestive disorders, depression, eczema, insomnia, infections, migraines, osteoporosis, psoriasis, respiratory problems, stress, and ulcers.
Basil is also a culinary spice and is often added to tomato sauces, soups, salads, pasta dishes, rice dishes, dips, casseroles, pizza toppings, pesto, chicken wings, and popcorn.
However, like all herbs, basil should be consumed in moderation. Too much of anything is not good for you. For example, eating large amounts of basil could lead to stomach upset. And if you have sensitive tummies, avoid consuming basil during pregnancy.
If you are pregnant or nursing, consult your doctor before taking herbal supplements.
You should only take one type of supplement at a time. If you take other medications, make sure they do not interact with each other.
You should never use herbs while on medication unless directed by your doctor.
Some people experience allergic reactions when using herbs, especially those allergic to ragweed. Symptoms include hives, swelling around the mouth or eyes, shortness of breath, chest tightness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, dizziness, fainting, heart palpitations, blurred vision, loss of consciousness, seizures, or even death.
Some people who take certain medications may develop an allergy to basil. These drugs include:
- Antacids (like Alka Seltzer)
- Anti-anxiety medicines (Valium, Xanax, Ativan, etc.)
- Beta-blockers (like Propranolol)
- Blood thinners (like Coumadin)
- Calcium channel blockers (like Amlodipine)
- Cholesterol-lowering drugs (like Lipitor, Zocor, Mevacor, and Pravachol)
- Diabetes medicine (like Glucophage)
- Diuretics (like Lasix)
- Heartburn medicines (like Prilosec OTC)
- Hormone therapy (like Premarin, Tamoxifen, Femara)
- Insulin (like Humalog, Lantus, Novolin R)
- NSAIDs (like Aleve, Motrin, Advil, Excedrin, Tylenol, Ibuprofen)
- Oral contraceptives (like Ortho Evra, Yasmin, Loestrin, Ovrette, Yaz, and Seasonale)
- Pain relievers (like Aspirin, Celebrex, Vicodin, Percodan, Darvocet, Dilaudid, Fiorinal, Tylenol 3s, Naproxen, Motrin, Tramadol, Ultram, Voltaren
Why do some love coriander and others don't?
Some people hate coriander, while others love it. But why?
Coriander is an herb that grows in warm climates throughout the world. It is native to both North America and Europe.
The leaves of the plant are used in cooking and can also be found in condiments such as salad dressings and dips. When added to food, coriander provides a spicy flavor.
Many people love its taste because it adds a fresh flavor to dishes without overpowering them. Others dislike the smell and taste of coriander because they find it too strong.
But there is more to coriander than meets the eye. There are two types of coriander – sweet and hot. Sweet coriander is milder and sweeter tasting compared to hot coriander.
Sweet coriander is usually grown for its seeds, often called cilantro. This type of coriander is easy to grow and is very low maintenance.
Hot coriander is most commonly used in Indian cuisine. Hot coriander gives a rich flavor to curries and sauces, making it popular among Indians.
Some people say that hot coriander tastes better than sweet coriander. However, the opposite is true for those who prefer sweet coriander.
There are many reasons why people enjoy different varieties of coriander. For example, one person may love the taste of coriander, while another enjoys the aroma.
Whether you like sweet or hot coriander, you might be surprised to learn that you can buy both types of coriander online.
What herb is best for healing?
Herbs are a fantastic way to help heal our bodies. Herbal medicine has been used since ancient times and continues to grow today. There are thousands of herbs known to cure various ailments.
Some herbs are excellent for treating colds and flu, while others can treat anxiety, depression, arthritis, cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and more.
There are also herbal remedies for skin care, hair loss, weight loss, sexual health, energy, sleep, digestion, and much more.
The list goes on and on. But one herb stands above them all regarding its ability to heal. That herb is called aloe vera.
Aloe Vera is considered to be the world's most powerful healer. For centuries it has helped people heal themselves naturally without any side effects.
It's incredible how well aloe vera works. It's even better than prescription drugs and surgery.
In addition to its natural healing properties, aloe vera is highly versatile and can be used in almost any area of life, including food, beauty products, and household cleaning supplies.
You may not realize this, but aloe vera contains hundreds of active compounds, which include vitamins A, C, E, B1, B2, B3, B6, folic acid, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, copper, sulfur, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, chloride, fluoride, iodine, selenium and more.
These nutrients are essential for human body functions such as cell growth, metabolism, immune system support, healthy bones and teeth, healthy blood pressure levels, healthy eyesight, healthy cardiovascular systems, healthy digestive systems, healthy lungs, healthy nervous system, healthy reproductive organs, healthy skin, and healthy libido.
Statistics
- The global herbs market is expected to reach more than $125 billion by the end of 2025.
- The herbs market is highly competitive, with over 1,000 herb suppliers and over 15,000 herbs products available in the United States alone.
External Links
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- Peppermint oil (Mintoil®) in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome: A prospective, double-blind placebo-controlled randomized trial
- Curcumin reverses the effects of chronic stress on behavior, the HPA axis, BDNF expression, and phosphorylation of CREB
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How To
How To Upcycle Herbs After Making Infusions, Oils, Tinctures, And More?
There are more ways to use herbs than you might realize. This is why it's essential to keep an open mind when learning how to make herbal infusions, oils, tinctures, and more.
You'll find that there are many methods for making these products, and even though they may seem similar, each method has its benefits.
For example, some methods include creating decoctions, boiling water or alcohol with the herb(s), and letting them simmer for a while. These infusions are solid and potent because they contain higher concentrations of active compounds.
Another type of infusion includes macerating the herb(s), which means soaking them in liquid for a few hours or even overnight. Macerations tend to produce milder results because the plant material isn't boiled.
Some cold-infused forms involve steeping herbs in cool liquids such as ice cubes or cold water. Cold infusions are gentler than hot ones, often used to treat minor ailments.
Herbal oil extraction involves heating the herb(s) to release the essential oils. You can either do this yourself or have someone help you out with it.
Finally, there are tinctures made by mixing herbs with alcohol. They're usually taken orally and are very effective for treating coughs, colds, and flu symptoms.
The best way to learn how to create infused products is to experiment with various techniques. Each technique offers a different potency and effectiveness, depending on the herb(s) you choose.
Once you've tried a few different methods, you'll begin to develop your preferences. In time, you'll be able to determine which techniques work well for you and which aren't worth pursuing.
Resources:
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Did you miss our previous article...
https://belovedsaffron.com/herbs/a-look-back-on-the-year-2023-at-jekkas