Why Would a ‘Foodbank’ Have a Herbalist?
(There’s nothing wrong with owning a Dryrobe, but...)
There’s nothing wrong with owning a Dryrobe, but it’s curious how something as freely available as sea swimming has become synonymous with an item costing over £100. We’ve seen it time and again—brands capitalising on the latest wellness trend. The wellness industry, in fact, was valued at around $6.3 trillion in 2024, a 26% increase from before the pandemic. Remember when we all tended our gardens, baked banana bread, and met up outside by the sea during lockdown? Fast forward to today, and it seems wellness now requires mindfulness apps, 12-step skincare routines, shelves stocked with more vitamins than Holland and Barrett, and yes, Dryrobes.
In Naomi Klein’s seminal No Logo, she warned us the things that are free to us—like nature, knowledge, and food—will gradually be turned into commodities that are sold to us, often at a high price, in ways that make them seem special or elite.
Breaking down the idea that nature’s remedies are some kind of luxury, when in fact they’re free and abundant all around us, is exactly why we have a resident herbalist at Larder>East.
Using foraging and herbal medicine to support people experiencing financial strain and food insecurity isn’t just practical—it’s empowering. Knowing that weeds and native plants can ease headaches, soothe eczema, or calm nerves restores a sense of trust in the world around us. And there is something meaningful that it’s the oft-overlooked weeds that hold such potent power.
We’re incredibly fortunate to have Michelle Wooderson, our talented gardener and herbalist, as a key member of our team. Michelle can often be found on Thursday evenings, moving from table to table with a pot of tea brimming with pine needles, herbs, and all sorts of plant goodness. She offers soothing brews for anxiety, menopause, and other common struggles, or simply lends an ear to anyone in need of support, with a remedy from her apothecary to match.
We were beyond delighted to learn that the National Lottery’s community fund was eager to invest in how these skills could make a real impact on our local community. As a gifted musician and songwriter, Michelle has created a unique collection of songs inspired by medicinal plants, paired with a book called A Little Herbal Hymnal that complements the melodies.
We’re excited to share this beautiful offering with the world in a special event that blends storytelling, music, plant wisdom, and wild foods. It promises to be a treat for the mind, body, and soul.
Tickets for this event are available to everyone with discounted rates for our members. You can (and should!) grab your tickets here.
Grab your tickets here