Natural Living Interview
In Conversation with Herbalist Emily Wiggins
On Daily Herbal Infusions, Ritual, and Listening to the Body
For herbalist Emily Wiggins, herbal infusions aren’t a trend or a quick fix — they’re a quiet, daily practice rooted in consistency and care. We sat down with Emily to talk about how she uses herbal infusions in her everyday life, the plants she reaches for most often, and why simplicity matters when working with herbs.
How did herbal infusions become part of your daily routine?
Emily:
I started making herbal infusions years ago, mostly out of necessity. I was working long days, feeling depleted, and wanted something nourishing that didn’t feel complicated. Infusions became that anchor — a way to slow down and support my body without overthinking it. Now, they’re just part of my day, like brushing my teeth or stepping outside for fresh air.
What does a typical infusion day look like for you?
Emily:
I usually prepare an infusion the night before. I’ll choose one herb — sometimes two — pour hot water over it, and let it steep overnight. In the morning, I strain it and sip it throughout the day. There’s no strict schedule. I listen to how my body feels and drink it when it feels right.
Are there herbs you find yourself returning to again and again?
Emily:
Absolutely. Nettles are a staple for me — they’re deeply nourishing and easy to work with. Oat straw is another favorite, especially during stressful seasons. And then there are times when I lean into more grounding herbs, depending on what life is asking of me. The key is building a relationship with the plants, not chasing variety for the sake of it.
How do herbal infusions differ from teas?
Emily:
The biggest difference is intention and time. Infusions are steeped much longer, which allows more of the plant’s minerals and constituents to be extracted. They’re meant to be nourishing and supportive over time, not just something you drink quickly and move on from. I think of them as food for the body, not just a beverage.
What advice would you give someone just starting with herbal infusions?
Emily:
Start simple. Choose one herb, learn how it feels in your body, and give it time. There’s no need to do everything at once. Herbalism is about listening — to the plants and to yourself. When you approach it that way, the practice naturally becomes sustainable and meaningful.
Why do you believe daily herbal rituals matter?
Emily:
Because they create space. In a world that constantly pulls our attention outward, a daily herbal practice brings us back into our bodies. It’s a reminder that care doesn’t have to be dramatic — it can be gentle, steady, and deeply effective.
This interview is part of our ongoing conversations with herbalists who integrate plant medicine into everyday life.