Ethical Wild-harvesting Checklist

Written By Brittny Babcock

With modern medicine so easily accessible one might wonder, “is collecting my own plant medicine worth it?” To me, the answer is an overwhelming YES!

When we are able to collect plants ourselves, using our own hands, we create a deep bond between us and our environment. One that isn’t able to be recreated in a lab and that in-and-of-itself can create wildly potent insight and healing. When we are able to ID and harvest plants for their medicinal, magical or artistic uses, a sense of self-reliance and empowerment accompanies it.

Something to remember when foraging for wild plants it is our responsibility to do it ethically, sustainably and with knowledge and know-how of what we are doing.

Wild-harvesting is stewardship

So, before you harvest ask yourself the following questions:

  • Do I have positive ID?

  • Do I have permission/permits?

  • Is the stand healthy/away from pollutants or chemical contaminants?

  • Is the stand in a fragile environment or is this an endangered plant?

  • Is tending necessary and what kind?

  • How much is good to pick and what time of day is best for this plant? What time of year?

  • What effect will my harvest have on the stand?

  • What is my emotional state?

  • Do I have proper storage to transport the harvest safely to be processed?

  • After harvesting, is there any cleanup that can be done?

Wild-harvesting requires responsible planning & thoughtful management

Print your free checklist here and take it with you next time you’re headed out to harvest:

 
Brittny Babcock
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