Meet Your Herbalists
Jan Wolfe
Owner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Herbalist
As a toddler growing up in Ohio, I knew two things: 1) I loved to garden with my aunts and 2) heal things that ailed (people, pets, bugs, etc). I chose nursing as a career and eventually became a Family Nurse Practitioner. For 30 years I loved it and for the most part, it loved me right back!
However, there was always a little piece missing, some deeper connection that was absent. It took a major health challenge in my early 40’s plus rapid changes in how healthcare was being structured (i.e., more pharmaceuticals, less time to listen) to realize I no longer wanted to be a part of that system. I studied shamanism, became a Reiki master…and enrolled in herb school. When I walked into the first day of class, I felt like I had come home. Fast forward three years: I graduated from the Clinical Herbalist program at Sacred Plant Traditions in November 2013 and the following month I opened The Elderberry.
I believe that everyone can benefit from the amazing power of plant medicine. If you struggle with integrating herbs into your life or want more clarity about herbs, our certified, experienced herbalists can help. We know herbs, including the science behind them. We cater to both experienced and novice herb seekers. Whether you’re confused or unsure of which herbs to use for a specific problem, or want feedback on an herb formula, we’re here to help you sort out the facts from the hype.
Sydney Batson
Apothecary Manager, Herbalist, Craniosacral Therapist
“I began working as an apprentice at the Elderberry in 2015, and since then have developed a deep love for plants, energetic medicine, and creating safe spaces for healing.
I practice clinical herbalism and energy work. Think of me as your herbal matchmaker, pairing you with the plants and practices that best suit your needs. I am a graduate of Sacred Plant Traditions’ 3-year clinical herbalist training program, a certified Reiki “master” practitioner, and a student of biodynamic craniosacral therapy.
As a clinical herbalist, I can assist you with digestive complaints, menstrual woes, blood sugar imbalances, and much more. I’m passionate about facilitating healing on multiple levels, so energetic medicine is woven into my practice.
My work goes beyond mere symptom management to nourish your mind, body and spirit. Because truly, we need healing on many dimensions—from the cells of our selves to our collective earth. My mission as a black herbalist is to return access to traditional healing to people of color, and to diversify the wellness world—where it is gravely needed. True healing is not and must not be exclusive.
When I began studying herbalism, I just wanted to know which plants to use for various ailments. I wanted natural remedies for physical symptoms. Later in my training, I learned that real healing happens when we tend to all levels of our being. I learned that if we have help accessing those levels, each of us can heal ourselves. Your body is incredibly brilliant and wise. As an herbalist, I simply choose which plants can best meet you where you are. Naturally, you do the rest because your body already knows how.”
Meg Madden
Apothecary Manager, Clinical Herbalist, Tarot Reader, Gardener
I am a practicing clinical herbalist, graduate of Sacred Plant Traditions, long-term mentee of Suzanna Stone and Owlcraft Healing Ways, apothecary manager and medicine maker at The Elderberry. I have an undergraduate degree in Gender, Sexuality and Women’s studies with a minor in Psychology from Virginia Commonwealth University.
My practice follows threads of one-on-one herbal consultations, teaching, facilitating, and counseling. As a clinical herbalist, I work with my clients to facilitate healing and wellbeing with medicinal plants while honoring both clients and plants in their wholeness and complexity. I teach material from medicine making to plant identification to tarot, and I facilitate ceremony and read cards for folks who need a little extra guidance. In all my work I seek to offer a unique experience that allows my clients and students to shine and safely access their depths, and wherein I can give the clearest, least encumbered guidance specific to their unique story.
Alongside herbalism I practice writing, farming, as well as nutrition, anatomy and physiology, psychology, astrology, and a host of other subjects. I have deep interest and practice in ancestral work, handicraft, tending wild and cultivated plants, and am dedicated to supporting access to wellbeing for all.
Amanda Wagstaff
Herbal Associate, Visual Artist
“I grew up on a farm in southern Virginia, and I come from a family of makers: farmers, builders, gardeners, artists, teachers... Like my family, I have always felt most myself when working with my hands or with raw materials. I studied Art & Art History at Wiliam & Mary and UNC-Greensboro, and now I maintain a studio in my home in southern Albemarle county. At the moment, my studio practice centers around textiles: hand-sewing, quilting, and natural dying.
In 2019, my plant journey began! I started growing medicinal plants in my backyard, and learned more about the plants growing wild on the land near my home. In 2021, I completed the Foundations course at Sacred Plant Traditions. I hope to continue learning from the plants and from the wonderful herbalists in this community, and I hope to find new ways to integrate my art & herbalism practices.”
Natalie Rader
Herbal Associate, Clinical Herbalist
I am an herbalist, gardener and cook. A perennial student and maker of herbal medicine, dedicated to helping people and the earth heal. I have been studying home herbalism and medicine making since 2005.
My relationship with plants began as a child in the steps of my mother, an avid gardener and in the natural setting of my rural community. This continued while residing in the Rocky Mountains alongside the plants of the alpine landscape and now, in Virginia.
I began my journey with plant medicine while seeking solutions to my own chronic health issues and wanting alternatives to the pharmaceutical model while caring for my son.
I completed my 3 year study of clinical herbalism at Sacred Plant Traditions with Kat Maier in 2022 having gained a deep understanding of the clinical and energetic aspects of herbalism through the lens of Western Energetic herbalism as well as with knowledge of the principles and practices of Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese medicine, allowing me to work with clients at a constitutional level.
In addition to working with clients clinically I work at The Elderberry as an apothecary assistant, tend the apothecary of a Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner, and assist at harvest time at a local medicinal herb farm. I also work at the Charlottesville Waldorf School with toddler/preschool aged children.
As a clinical herbalist, it is my goal to help people take control of their own health, build resilience, and feel at home in their bodies.