“With warmth, compassion and a true understanding of how natural herbs can work wonders, I am a believer in seeking knowledge and advice from her”

-Megan C.

Growing up on the dusty farms of Oklahoma my love of plants started early on in life while following my great grandfather around planting peanuts, shucking corn, and hunting for the largest watermelon. At the age of 18 I became the youngest educator to work at Slide Ranch, a nonprofit organization that teaches experiential environmental education to folks of all ages in Northern California. I saw lives transformed by teaching where food comes from and how connecting what is on one's plate with the source blossoms into a deepening respect for nature. This experience fueled a decades-long study of nutrition and experimentation with a variety of whole foods based diets. I found that my happy place was in the kitchen working with the plants and creating delectable and healthy meals for my community. Incorporating spices and fresh herbs for flavor and health led me to the path of medicinal herbalism.

I have received extensive training as an herbalist and I am a certified clinical Western herbalist through the Berkeley Herbal Center. After completing three years of study and an internship in the community clinic, I worked as a teaching assistant for the school. I went on to become a core faculty member teaching first and second year students.

Currently, I maintain a private clinical practice in San Francisco and via distanced consultation using Zoom or by phone. I make potent plant infusions and nourishing foods, and teach classes about herbal medicine and holistic self-care. I also serve as a core faculty member at Scarlet Sage’s online certification program, Verse. I enjoy providing first aid each year in the Wellness Den herbal clinic at Spirit Weavers Gathering. I thrill at the a-ha moment that always happens when people directly experience how nature profoundly supports us! It is my hope that this understanding creates a desire to honor and protect the natural world.

“I have all the faith in the world in SJ’s skills as a healer and can’t believe how much my life has changed as result of seeing her.”

-Angeline B.

I believe that everybody is different and has their own unique way of processing and healing. What might work for some doesn't necessarily work for others. Diversity is the key for thriving communities and ecosystems. I enjoy learning what each element offers to create the bigger picture. The plant world offers us incredible opportunities to heal ourselves while using nature as a guide. My approach is holistic and seeks to determine the root cause of imbalances in the body that lead to disease. Through diet, body movement, and herbal support I believe many of these chronic illnesses can be managed by bringing the body back into balance. The side effects are generally feeling better and having more vitality!

I am committed to learning and teaching viable and sustainable methods in this ever increasingly busy society to bring health and resilience into our communities, families, and gardens. I am passionate about providing low cost care to the underserved and those in need. I currently dedicate three low cost consultations with herbs per month to support herbal healthcare for all! Contact me to get on this list.