About

My journey into herbalism began sixteen years ago while working at a health food store in Southern California. During one of my shifts, I felt a cold coming on and stopped by the vitamin department to ask the manager for a recommendation. She smiled, handed me a bottle of elderberry syrup, and suggested I mix it with water and sip it throughout the day.

I never imagined that simple conversation would become my first introduction to the world of herbs.

Until then, I knew very little about herbalism. In fact, I often walked past the shelves of herbal products feeling overwhelmed by the hundreds of bottles and tinctures, unsure of what any of them were used for. That experience sparked a curiosity that eventually grew into a lifelong passion for understanding how herbs have been used for generations to support everyday wellness.

That curiosity led me to work in the Whole Body department at Whole Foods Market, where I had the opportunity to help customers navigate vitamins, herbal teas, supplements, and natural body care products. It was there that I discovered my favorite part of the job was educating people. I loved answering questions, simplifying complex topics, and helping customers feel more confident in the choices they were making.

During that time, I was fortunate to be mentored by a talented herbalist whose knowledge, generosity, and passion for teaching inspired me to pursue herbalism professionally. After relocating to Indiana, I enrolled in the American College of Healthcare Sciences while working full time and earned my Diploma in Herbal Studies. I was honored to receive Dean's List recognition throughout the program and continue pursuing opportunities to deepen my education because I believe everyone who learns from me deserves information that is approachable, accurate, and responsible.

That belief became the foundation of True North Apothecary.

I created True North Apothecary because I believe people don't just need access to quality herbs—they need someone to help them understand and use them well. There is an incredible amount of information about herbalism online, but it can be difficult for beginners to know where to start or whom to trust. My goal is to make herbal education approachable, practical, and grounded in responsible learning.

Before I publish a video, write an article, or create a new educational resource, I ask myself one question:

Will this be easy for a beginner to understand?

That question guides everything I do.

Whether I'm carefully sourcing herbs, creating educational content, or writing my beginner's herbal book, my mission is to help people feel more informed, more confident, and more comfortable exploring herbalism one step at a time.

The name True North Apothecary reflects that mission. Just as a compass points toward true north, herbal education has become the constant direction that has guided my life for more than sixteen years. At the center of my logo is a cluster of elderberries, honoring the very first herb that started it all.

Thank you for being here and for allowing me to be part of your herbal journey. I hope True North Apothecary becomes a trusted place where you can learn, ask questions, and discover the confidence to explore herbalism with curiosity and care.

Warmly,

Monique 
Founder & Herbal Educator
True North Apothecary