Functional Nature with Rachelle Robinett | for MysticMag
Rachelle Robinett from Pharmakon Supernatural® shares with MysticMag her journey with herbalism, from its early beginnings to the now flourishing herbal apothecary that she calls home.
How did you first discover the world of the herbal apothecary?
Growing up, I spent most of my time in nature and developed an early relationship with it. My family also prioritized health and wellness, which included knowledge about medicine, nutrition, and how the body functions. As a result, I have always been intrigued by the human experience and what causes us to have distinct and varied experiences throughout our lives.
I came to understand that our sensory inputs greatly influence our experiences, and as a result, we have the ability to modify what we take in through our senses, such as what we eat, drink, and use as medicine. By doing so, we can positively impact our human experience throughout our lives.
Additionally, I am fascinated by the underlying reasons for everything, particularly how they relate to the human body. I have come to understand that the root cause of our symptoms, whether they are related to illness or our emotional state, can often be traced back to why. This interest has remained a pure and primary focus throughout my life and has led me to explore the intersection of nature, medicine, and human experience. Ultimately, this exploration has led me towards the world of herbalism.
I began my professional work with herbalism about eight years ago, but I’ve been involved with it my entire life. Over time, it evolved into something more than just herbalism, eventually becoming an entire ecosystem that includes digital platforms, online education, products, services, in-person events and experiences, and our previously physical now digital herbal apothecary (cafe & shop).
What services/treatments do you offer those with whom you work?
Currently, my private practice is limited. Demand became so high that I started offering online, on-demand classes on the most popular topics, such as fertility, inflammation and pain, gut health, nutrition, hair, skin, and nail health, brain health, and thyroid hormone balance. These classes are available to anyone, anytime. I now have a long waitlist for my intentionally small private practice. However, most of what I offer people is online education and inspiration on how to use plants to improve their health.
We have several offerings to support our community’s wellness journey. We offer a newsletter, a podcast, and a line of herbal gummies that are our primary product. These gummies are a great option for those who want to consume what I talk about in an edible form. I produce content fairly nonstop right now, as well as collaborating and consulting with other brands and businesses in the health and adjacent industries. Additionally, we recently launched a new portal on Substack where people can ask and receive my answers to their personal health and herbalism questions. This subscriber-only portal is a way for people to access my personalized guidance for the answer to one question, rather than wanting to work together long-term. I’m thrilled to see this new community growing!
How would you define ‘Functional Nature’ in its various forms?
Nature serves a functional purpose for us, and this includes everything from herbs and mushrooms to temperature, light, sound, and shape. All of these natural elements impact us, and we, in turn, are part of nature, one manifestation of the environment. Our own nature is also essential to relate with, and I’m beginning to see that relationship as central to our holistic health. We feel our best when we’re connected to our nature. The art of functional nature, in my opinion, involves harmonizing our nature with the broader natural environment around us.
Do you believe that you are contributing towards (and that there is indeed a) the shift from Allopathic Medicine to more Holistic Alternative Therapies?
Yes, and yes! I believe in finding a balance between allopathic medicine and alternative therapies, and providing people with the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions about their own health and well-being. I’m also here to raise awareness and increase access to natural alternatives that can complement or even replace some of the more conventional treatments. I believe that our approach of educating and inspiring people is a really valuable way to empower individuals to take control of their own health, and I intend to continue providing people with the tools they need in order to be healthier, naturally.
How do you see the future of Pharmakon Supernatural® and what is your mission?
My core mission with Pharmakon Supernatural® has always been to empower individuals to live healthier lives through natural means. As we continue to grow, I’m dedicated to expanding our reach and impact through strategic partnerships and collaborative experiences. I’m really passionate about showcasing how herbalism is not only a niche practice that we opt into or out of, but rather a versatile and adaptable approach that can integrate seamlessly into modern and urban lifestyles. Through these efforts, I hope to inspire more people to explore the benefits of natural remedies and live in harmony with nature.
As a lifelong writer, I plan to share more of my written works now that my business has grown to a size where it can sustain itself with less of my direct involvement. I’m currently working on a book that delves deeper into the philosophy behind my practice and the world of functional nature. It’s about how to find the whys, and to do so by thinking naturally.