A Profession Lost, But Not Forgotten In the winding hills of Haute-Provence, herbalists still tend their gardens, dry their plants, and blend tisanes for local markets. They speak of thym, lavande, and sarriette with reverence. But they cannot call themselves herboristes, not legally. Why? Because in 1941, during the Vichy regime, the French state quietly erased the official title. Since then, only pharmacists have had the right to advise on medicinal plants. A lineage stretching back centuries — from convent gardens to rural colporteurs and was abruptly broken. Yet in the fields and villages of Provence, the spirit of the herboriste persists. This is the story of that rupture and of the quiet, determined movement to reclaim what was lost....
Introduction: A Landscape Etched in Leaves In the sun-drenched hills and limestone valleys of Haute-Provence, the air is thick with the scent of thyme, lavender, and rosemary. Here, herboristerie — the traditional practice of using medicinal plants — is more than a health trend. It is a way of life, deeply rooted in place, memory, and ecology. From ancient oral traditions to today’s agroecological artisans, Haute-Provence sustains one of France’s richest living legacies of plant-based knowledge. But herboristerie in France occupies a curious legal and cultural space. Since 1941, the profession of herboriste has been technically outlawed. Yet in the hills above Forcalquier or the markets of Castellane, herbalists still practice — carefully, creatively, and passionately. This post explores...
The Best Herbal Teas for a Sore Throat: A Guide for Tea Enthusiasts Winter winds and chilly weather can bring more than just a rosy flush to your cheeks; they might also invite the unwelcome sting of a sore throat. When the discomfort of a sore throat sets in, many of us naturally seek relief in a soothing cup of herbal tea. As tea enthusiasts and connoisseurs, we know the comfort that a hot cuppa can provide – but did you know that certain herbal teas possess natural properties that can soothe your throat and speed up your recovery? Its warmth comforts the throat, the steam supports breathing, and the herbs themselves can provide significant remedial benefits. For centuries, various...
Mastering the Perfect Cup: Herbal Tea Brewing Temperatures Tea enthusiasts will agree that there's something deeply meditative about brewing the perfect cup of herbal tea. The temperature of the water, just like the recipe of a gourmet meal, can dramatically alter the taste and aroma of the finished brew. This post is for the connoisseurs, the casual sippers, and everyone who appreciates the delicate art of tea making. The Significance of the Right Temperature Why fuss over a few degrees here and there? Well, tea is a sensitive soul. The right water temperature can extract the perfect balance of flavours while preserving the tea’s therapeutic qualities. Water that's too hot can scald the leaves, producing a bitter taste. On the...
I. Introduction Rosemary, also known as Rosmarinus officinalis, is a perennial herb with fragrant needle-like leaves and small bluish flowers. Native to the Mediterranean region, this herb has a long history of use in culinary and medicinal practices dating back to ancient times. It was considered a sacred plant by the ancient Greeks and Romans and was often used in religious ceremonies. In France, rosemary has found its way into many traditional dishes. Its piquant, slightly minty flavour is a cherished addition to stews, soups, and roasts, especially in the Provence region where it forms part of the famous herbes de Provence blend. But the reverence for rosemary extends beyond the kitchen. French folk healers have long appreciated rosemary for...
