When I work with native plants, whether planting them or gathering them, I avoid the use of metal. The reason is that the Natives of North America, at the time of colonization, didn’t have metal tools. They were using carved stone and hard woods for their tools. To honor their ways on this land that my ancestors immigrated to in the 1600s, I avoid the use of metal when gathering native plants as long as I can do so without damaging the plant or it’s immediate environment. Sometimes, metal tools are just the best choice, especially when digging roots in tough soil. In many cases, it’s easy enough to pick flowers and leaves without using tools at all.

Also, when working with native plants it’s important to recognize if/when it is appropriate. Many Native Americans have put a call out to reduce the use of white sage by non-native people. This request is both to recognize that non-native people are using a very sacred plant and that this sacred plant is being over harvested. This request put me on an exploratory path of learning about the use of sacred smoke by my ancestors, and also using the common plants that grow around me. I have found that many plants smell amazing when burned and some don’t.

Learn more about ethical and sustainable approaches to wildcrafting and sourcing by reading my ebook, Ethical Foraging.