Nathaniel Whitmore: a man with good herbal skills

By JONATHAN FOX

HONESDALE, PA — Having had my fair share of illness in the past, with treatment based on Western medicine, it seemed natural when I developed an interest in alternative forms of healing. Holistic practices, including homeopathy, acupuncture, acupressure and herbal remedies, are but a few of my new interests, and Nathaniel Whitmore, in residence at the Honesdale Wellness Center (HWC), located at 602 Church Street in Honesdale, seemed to be a good choice to contact.

Having completed 350 of the 400 hours of client consultation he needs to attain his accreditation with The American Herbalist Guild ( americanherbalistsguild.com ), a peer-reviewed professional mentor-based membership, Whitmore is always adding to his impressive list of credentials.

Along with his Bachelor of Science in Metaphysics degree from the American Institute of Holistic Theology, he has also studied with The Himalayan Institute, the Endless Mountains School of Shiatsu, and is certified as a Master Herbalist with the Clayton College of Natural Health.

Whitmore, well known in the area for his “Plant and Mushroom” walks and expertise in edible and medicinal plants, was happy to set up a consultation with me this past week. Easy to speak with and knowledgeable in his field, he patiently took copious notes in conjunction with the intake forms that I had filled out beforehand.

Whitmore’s interest in the field of herbal remedies began “about 10 years ago,” and he went on to explain that he is “fascinated by how botanically rich our area is. My ideal scenario is one in which the client understands the process and empowering a person in this understanding is richly satisfying to me.”

He continued by saying that herbs have been used medicinally “since the beginning of time,” citing ancient Chinese principles and even Hippocrates (often referred to as “The Father of Medicine”) while explaining that since herbal remedies are not regulated as medicine and cannot be prescribed as such, education is key. “I like being able to help people understand. So many folks have misconceptions and herbs need to be applied with responsibility—the missing link is knowledge.”

While discussing my health concerns, a desire to quit smoking and the assortment of symptoms I personally experience, Whitmore was comprehensive in his examination. Armed with extensive notes in hand, he promised that he would research and explore the various herbs that could benefit my particular needs and get back to me.

Two days later, I received a four-page email suggesting a course of action, with an explanation regarding every aspect of our original consultation. Initially, I had explained my interest in the subject and that I was willing to explore the issue in detail, rather than looking for a quick-fix, one-shot deal, and his response was in keeping with my goal.

In part, his email had this to say: “Thank you for your dedication to your health and your interest in my work. There is much for us to discuss regarding your symptoms and as mentioned, our relationship will be most productive if ongoing. We can start with some initial recommendations and as things move on we can reassess and shift our focus.”

Since I am concerned about lung function, Whitmore recommended herbs that “have the primary effect of nourishing the chi and yin (healthy fluids) of the lungs.” He went on to explain that the main formula consists of roots for “decoction” ( boiling the root to extract the essence), and also suggested the use of mullein.

Addressing additional symptoms, Whitmore continued his evaluation in great detail, suggesting a course of action that incorporates using a variety of tinctures, herbs and roots that include, but are not exclusive to, lobelia, calamus, Solomon’s seal, shatavari, American ginseng and licorice.

This detailed and well-presented evaluation covered a brief history of the various plants and their medicinal properties, preparation, measurements, usage and notes about care and cautions in using herbs responsibly.

The follow-up included a list of questions related to my consultation, and was attentive to the smallest details, leading me to a better understanding of the subject at hand. I was impressed with Whitmore’s knowledge, understanding and compassionate, gentle and informative handling of the entire situation.

Whitmore suggested that I search out my own resources, but recommended Northern Lights Natural Foods (570/226-5858) in Hawley, as a good place to start, where he conducts classes in “herbs for aches and pains” and tincture-making workshops. He also leads plant walks and classes at All Better Central ( allbettercentral.com ) in Milford, PA, at the Earthgate Retreat Center ( earthgatestudios.com ) in Dingmans Ferry and at the Good Earth ( goodearthcallicoon.com ) in Callicoon, NY.

Whitmore is currently scheduling father/son day camp excursions for the coming months. While creating a bonding experience that teaches outdoor skills and plant identification, these excursions build relationships and educate throughout the region, taking advantage of the Catskills’ natural beauty.

Informative, interesting and educational, my herbal journey begins. I plan on following up and look forward to continuing my investigation and developing a relationship with the natural path to good health.

Nathaniel Whitmore, Herbalist and Shiatsu Therapist, can be reached at the HWC, 570/253-6621 ext. #4, through the web site herbwalks.com or via email at wathakes@gmail.com.