Plants for the people and a nourishing nail tonic recipe

From the Heart: Erin Listens to the Plants

Herbalist and author Erin Lovell Verinder is on a mission to share the gifts and wisdom widely, so that all people can connect, heal and enjoy the magic of the plant kingdom.

Erin has long been curious about the natural world, but it wasn’t until she learned about herbalism and plants as medicine that her curiosity truly bloomed. “I was always deeply fascinated by nature as a small child. As soon as I understood that plants could be medicinal, it opened up a whole different world of wonder. As a herbalist you are always learning, it is an ever unfolding journey and deepening of your relationship to plants, I love that so much.” It’s this awe and wonder that she now shares with the world through her books and card deck. 

“It is one of my passions to make herbalism as accessible as possible. To inspire people of all walks of life to bring medicinal plants into their lives. A good book is often treasured, a tangible keepsake full of plant magic.”

Long-time followers of Erin’s social media would know of the wonderful herb and vegetable garden she and her husband, Noah, planted in their Northern Rivers backyard before relocating to a secluded cottage in Tasmania. “I always suggest for people to grow herbs, it’s the most excellent way to learn and connect to the remedies. I always grow aromatic, hardy, culinary herbs. I adore cooking with herbs, weaving medicinal might into my everyday life. I love rosemary, oregano, thyme and sage. I also love to plant lots of flowering herbs to add colour and beauty – lemon verbena, yarrow, nigella, tulsi are my favourites!”

Beyond growing herbs, Erin recommends tuning into a specific plant to get to know its wisdom. “If there is a plant you are curious about or an action you are seeking- like herbs to aid calm, let that lead the way. Often the plant calls you in. Stay curious and experiment one plant at a time.” She also recommends learning from trusted sources and herbalists that inspire you. 

Coming into Spring, Erin recommends plants that will shake off the winter cold. “Awakening your body after winter with the energy of herbs that also love to pop up in spring is a perfect match! Dandelions are gorgeous and begin to bloom this season. Their leaves make a nourishing tea and the roots help clear the liver.” And for nail health, turn to plants rich in minerals.

“Mineral dense plants are incredible for nail health. Herbs like nettle leaf, horsetail and alfalfa are rich in silica, calcium and iron and are my top picks for nail health. I also love Vitamin C rich herbs like hibiscus or rosehips to aid collagen synthesis.” 

With a full client base and more exciting projects on the way, Erin is conscious about making sure she has time to unwind and step away from her desk. “Having full days, afternoons or mornings that are completely switched off is such great medicine for me. I’m really doing my best to practice presence, with life in its fullness, for me it demands conscious effort to clear the way for presence. Nature is always my balm, walks and quiet moments are dotted throughout my day to earth me and fill me with green joy.”

You can connect with Erin and her work on Instagram and her website.