The Herb Shoppe 2023: Embrace the Journey to Natural Wellness!

In the world of herbalism and natural wellness, there are few names as revered and inspiring as Amanda Furbee. An individual who wears multiple hats with unwavering passion and dedication, Amanda is not just an herbalist, but also a medicine maker, adventurer, innovator, and the proud owner of The Herb Shoppe—an online haven for all things herbal. With a diverse array of offerings that include teas, tinctures, essential oils, and herbal remedies, Amanda's shop is more than just a marketplace; it's a sanctuary for those seeking to nurture their health and well-being through the potent gifts of Mother Nature. In this article, we'll dive into the fascinating world of Amanda Furbee, exploring her journey, her vision, and the remarkable products she brings to the world, all in the pursuit of enhancing our lives through the power of herbs. Join Delivery Rank on this botanical adventure as we uncover the magic woven by Amanda, the modern herbal maven.

Can you tell us about the journey that led you to become the owner of The Herb Shoppe, and what inspired your passion for herbal medicine?

In 2010, I was on a sabbatical from my design work, and during that time, I stumbled upon an herb shop in a small town in New Mexico. I was immediately drawn to what the shop represented and all the possibilities it held. I found myself deeply inspired by herbal medicine, and this inspiration led me to consider a career change into the field of herbal medicine.

After some research, I discovered an herb shop in Portland online. I traveled there, interviewed with the original owner, and made the cross-country move from North Carolina. I began working at the shop in August 2011 and quickly immersed myself in the world it represented, especially within the community. I fell in love with herbal medicine because I could see how much people needed it and how eager they were to heal their bodies naturally. This passion led me to explore various aspects of herbalism, including the concept of food as medicine.

The original owner and I started discussing the possibility of partnering, and together we opened a location in Portland on Mississippi Ave. Shortly thereafter, I took over the business completely. I revamped our product line, remodeled the shop, and gave it a fresh look and atmosphere. However, it's important to note that this endeavor wasn't just about me; it was a collaborative effort that involved our dedicated staff, employees, and the supportive community.

Building this type of work truly requires the involvement of an entire team and community.

The Herb Shoppe emphasizes the importance of organic and locally sourced herbs. How do you ensure that these standards are consistently met, and what benefits do they bring to your community?

Certainly. We make a conscious effort to source our materials locally, focusing on organic or wildcrafted options, and we prioritize sustainably sourced ingredients. This involves collaborating with various suppliers who provide these products, as well as establishing connections with local farmers. We are deeply committed to understanding the origins of our ingredients and their sources.

In this process, we often obtain a Certificate of Analysis (COA), which is a standard documentation for many reputable companies. However, it's worth noting that some smaller farmers may not have the capacity to provide this documentation. In such cases, we rely on various methods to identify the plant, such as visual, taste, and scent cues. Nevertheless, having proper documentation is an essential aspect of our sourcing practices.

Additionally, we engage in harvesting activities ourselves to create larger batches of tinctures and syrups. Thankfully, the Pacific Northwest, where we are located, offers an abundance of resources. We are fortunate to have access to a wide variety of plants that thrive in this region. Even if we don't grow them in our own yard, we often obtain ingredients like elderberries from friends' trees. This emphasis on local sourcing and knowledge of the origin of our ingredients, combined with research and collaboration with suppliers, is central to our approach.

Herbal medicine has gained popularity in recent years. What unique products or services does The Herb Shoppe offer to distinguish itself from other herbal stores in the market?

Absolutely, we offer a comprehensive range of products, which sets us apart in several ways. We aim to provide everything you might need, whether it's for personal use, your home, your pets, or your children. This includes skincare products, and we take a deep dive into each of these categories.

Moreover, what makes us unique is our ability to create custom blends. If you walk into our store or give us a call and say, "I need something to help me sleep, but I can't have valerian," we have the capability to tailor a blend specifically for you. This personalized approach is a great advantage, and we collaborate with various naturopaths and professionals in the industry who have their own clients. We can create custom blends to address their specific needs as well.

The Herb Shoppe likely deals with a wide range of herbs and botanicals. How do you stay up-to-date with the latest research and developments in herbal medicine to offer the best products and advice to your customers?

Indeed, herbal medicine encompasses a wide range of aspects. To stay well-informed and educated, I believe it's essential to take classes and engage in self-education to keep up with the latest developments. This includes reading articles and books that provide insights into emerging trends and practices.

Herbal medicine operates in a unique space, sitting in a gray area compared to conventional medicine and FDA regulations. As practitioners, we must make every effort to align with existing standards, even though it often appears that regulatory bodies struggle to fully comprehend herbal medicine.

Despite these challenges, herbalism has gained significant popularity among individuals who are increasingly interested in understanding what they put in their bodies, on their skin, and in their environment. Herbalism encompasses a holistic approach to wellness, considering factors such as stress levels, cycles, habits, and dietary choices. People are becoming more aware of these aspects, and it's truly gratifying to witness this awakening and heightened awareness take shape.

Can you share any exciting plans or upcoming initiatives that The Herb Shoppe has in store for its customers or the broader herbal medicine community?

We are currently in the midst of a significant transition with our shop. As of September 2nd, we made the decision to close our physical brick-and-mortar store, and we have transitioned entirely to an online presence. This shift has allowed us to adapt and expand our reach.

In addition to this transition, I initiated a nonprofit organization last year, and our goal is to provide assistance and support to individuals seeking answers and guidance. We want to ensure that every person has access to the help they need. To achieve this, we offer sliding-scale pricing for 30-minute consultations. These consultations are designed to replicate the experience of visiting our physical shop and speaking with one of our knowledgeable staff members. Moreover, those who engage in consultations also receive discounts on our products. Ultimately, our aim is to assist people regardless of their budget, and we even offer free consultations, with others generously contributing to cover the costs.

These are significant changes we are implementing, and our future goals include acquiring land to establish a wellness property. We envision a place where individuals can stay, whether for a short or extended period, and focus on their well-being, addressing their physical and mental needs. Whether someone requires rest, acupuncture, herbal consultations, or nutritional guidance, we aim to provide comprehensive support. This represents our vision for the coming years, and we are actively working to make these changes a reality.

If you would like to find out more about The Herb Shoppe, visit https://theherbshoppepdx.com/