In the heart of Denver, Colorado, amidst its expansive urban landscape, lies Blue Yarrow Herbs, our urban botanical farm that breaks the grid of typical city scenes. Contrary to what one might expect, we are surrounded by the essence of high desert vibes within the city, while majestic alpine forests are just a short 45-minute drive west on I-70. My husband and I have devoted the past six years to this little green haven, nurturing and reintroducing several medicinal native plant species on our modest 0.2-acre lot—a journey marked by dedication, resilience, and frequent joyous celebrations. Yet, we feel our journey has only just begun.
Our passion for herbalism was sparked after I graduated from The Colorado School of Clinical Herbalism, which inspired us to purchase our home and start this venture right in a city that is vibrant and crying out for equality and change. At a time when herbalism is enjoying a resurgence in popularity, we have noticed that the critical aspects of sustainable practices are often left behind.
Blue Yarrow Herbs stands as a beacon for bio-regional herbalism, committed to educating and integrating nature's rhythms into urban life, where the connection between people and plants is most at risk of fading.
Our family is not just human; it includes two daughters, two rabbits, five chickens, two guinea pigs, three dogs, and two cats. Each creature plays a vital role in the life of our farm, contributing to the warmth and vibrancy of our home. We also open our hearts and doors to foster animals, further enriching our bustling environment.
At the core of our mission are our plants. Educated in the Vitalist approach of herbalism, which emphasizes the use of bio-regional plants and the protection of vulnerable populations, I was mentored by Mar Knight-Hall of Tulipan Herbals. Mar not only taught me the art of cultivation but also the importance of direct interaction with plants, generously sharing plant starters that have deeply rooted my passion in sustainable bio-regional herbalism.
We specialize in the distillation of herbal medicinals, focusing on cultivating plants like Peppermint, Spearmint, Yarrow, Lemon Balm, Clary Sage, Garden Sage, White Sage, Holy Basil, and Chamomile. These herbs are integral to our products and serve as educational tools for our community. We offer classes, mentor interns, produce herbal products, and always with a keen eye on sustainable sourcing, as guided by the United Plant Savers’ At-Risk Species list.
In our urban setting, questions about the potential impacts of city pollution on medicinal plants are common. These concerns provide perfect opportunities to discuss the necessity of urban soil restoration and permaculture practices, essential for communities most impacted by poverty, who stand to benefit greatly from enhanced biodiversity and natural resources. So, I say, focus on re-building the soil and clean environment around us, one urban botanical sanctuary at a time. It takes time to cultivate change, but the rewards can be felt immediately.
We are proud to announce that we have become a member of the United Plant Savers Botanical Sanctuary Network. This affiliation will strengthen our commitment to protecting medicinal plant populations and promoting environmental sustainability.
We invite you to support our mission to nurture and expand our botanical sanctuary, or urban farm, through education, cultivation, and sustainable practices. Join us in fostering a greener, more equitable future for our community and beyond. Your support can help us continue to grow and serve as an example of how urban spaces can successfully connect humanity with the healing power of nature.
Immersed in the verdant world of herbal lore, Lauren Ann Nichols-Sheffler blossomed at The Colorado School of Clinical Herbalism, where she was bestowed a certificate in medical herbalism. As the visionary behind Blue Yarrow Herbs—also celebrated as Herbal Vice—she champions bio-regional herbalism, nurturing plants and embracing local sources. Her fervor for plant education and advocacy thrives through her roles: co-stewarding the Denver Herb Club, enlightening minds at CSCH, and orchestrating educational community events at her United Plant Saver's Botanical Sanctuary. In her pivotal role as Senior Sourcing & Purchasing Manager at WishGarden Herbs, Lauren continues to weave her deep reverence for plant sustainability into the fabric of her professional endeavors.