Jessica Shifrin  "Jess"

I think my family and I’s story is unique but relatable to a lot of people, and I believe that is what makes me able to think outside the box for my clients and community, especially as a clinical Herbalist.
I am dealing with my own illnesses (Fibromyalgia, PTSD, anxiety, ADHD, and depression are just a few) like many others, and treat only with herbal remedies. About 8 or so years ago, I had been prescribed 27 different medications, this and my husband’s health is what sent me down this path, but I also believe I was drawn to it because of my heritage.
My paternal great-grandfather was the town’s medicine man, and believed in using dark and light magic to help his people. My maternal great-grandparents were Shawman with the Cherokee nation, however, I was not raised learning herbalism or “old wives’ tales”. I was westernized like so many others in the instant gratification of western medicine. These options didn’t work for me; I felt like I was just getting by, and living in a dull lack-lusting state. I was turned off and just going through the motions. I started to research other options.
I was raised in Southern California, and remember as a child going outside and grabbing fresh fruit and veggies all over my yard. My husband and I do that here, and I have spent the last 13 years learning how to do it here in Florida, especially in the sugar sand where we live. I have been studying permaculture, aquaponics, and hydroponics, and have became a master gardener. I have been studying anything and everything that I could to learn how to grow better options for our health, which led me to become a Clinical Herbalist, and receive my Master of Science in Clinical Herbalism from Maryland University of Integrated Health. I have been a practicing Herbalist for over 3 years now. I teach classes on herbalism, food forests, permaculture, aquaponics, and everything related. I love learning and love watching things grow.