Beyond the Green Pill: Practicing Vitalist Herbalism with Mike Masek

The Dancing Willow

In today's episode, I’m joined by Mike Masek, director of The Forager’s Path School of Botanical Studies in Flagstaff, Arizona. With over 30 years of experience and training in Herbal Medicine, Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine, Mike has devoted his life to helping students move beyond textbook knowledge — into real, embodied herbal wisdom rooted in nature and daily life.

In this episode we dive into:

🌿 How vitalist herbalism differs from “green pill” thinking
🌿 The difference between family, community, and clinical herbalists
🌿 How to address stress at the root by healing your sensory input & accessing beauty
🌿 Why learning your local plants is more powerful than memorizing distant materia medica
🌿 Ethical wildcrafting and honoring the seasonal rhythms of nature
🌿 Practical advice for herbal beginners ready to build hands-on experience

We also explore why true herbalism is about practicing — not just studying — and how slowing down, observing, and building relationship with plants transforms not only your herbal skills, but your entire life.

Whether you're just starting out or deepening your herbal path, Mike's grounded wisdom will leave you inspired to reconnect with the plants, the land, and yourself.

Links & Resources:

• Mike's Website: www.theforagerspath.com
• Mike's Facebook
• The Foragers Path Instagram

Stay Connected
If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe, leave a review, and share with others who would love it.

Support the podcast by making a purchase with Dancing Willow Herbs!

Website: www.dancingwillowherbs.com
Instagram: @dancingwillowherbsco