These are the herbal study supplies I use most often, from journals and glass jars to basic preparation tools.
Kitchen herbalism uses what you have to support your family. You do not need endless supplies to start. It is easy to buy many tools. Practicing the craft is better than shopping. I spend more time with books and plants.
Still, a few reliable supplies are great. Occasional splurges help too. They make herbal study and prep organized. Practical and enjoyable are also benefits.
A Dedicated Journal
A must have as you begin learning herbalism, it's why Wildleaf Journal. exists. A herbal journal gives you space for herb profiles, recipe notes, and observations without feeling cluttered or overwhelming. I need somewhere to track what I'm making, what's working, and what I want to try next.
Glass Jars for Storage
Good glass jars are essential for storing dried herbs, tinctures, and infusions. I use a few different types depending on what I'm making:
This is my go to storage jar, readily aviable, trusted brand, and readliy available. The classic for a reason. Wide mouths make it easy to fill and access larger dried herbs. Ball also makes a beautiful wooden jar lid that fits right on top if you want a more natural look.
HomArtist Square Glass Jars with Bamboo Lids:
Another great option is square glass jars with bamboo lids. Their shape makes them easy to stack, while the bamboo lids add a clean, natural look to your herbal storage
Remedy or Tincture Storage:
Bekith 4 oz Amber Glass Bottles
Perfect for tinctures and small batches of herbal oils. The amber glass helps protect light-sensitive herbs, which matters more than you'd think.
Vanilla Extract Bottles with Swing Tops
Great for homemade extracts and liquid infusions. The airtight caps keep things fresh, and they come with labels and a funnel, which is a nice bonus.
Transferring herbs between jars and filling bottles gets messy fast. A good funnel-and-strainer combo is a helps keep your workspace tidy, this combo has saved me from so much mess. I also like this 3-in-1 fine mesh strainer for straining infused oils, fire cider, and teas.
Labels and a Good Pen
Ah, stationery, one of my weaknesses. This sounds simple, but we forget to label. Label your herbal creations. Clear labeling saves you from mystery jars. Use a permanent marker or a label maker. Always note the herb name and date. Include notes about potency or batch size. Future you will be grateful.
You'll use this for many things. It works for sourdough, extracts, and soap. It's especially handy for tinctures or salves. Measurements need to be accurate then. It completely removes the guesswork.
I admit, this one is a splurge. A clear glass teapot with an infuser is nice. It makes herbal infusions come to life. You can watch the herbs steep. See them change color; great for kids. It's pretty enough to leave out.
A kettle with temperature control is very helpful. Pair it with the teapot. Delicate herbs should not be steeped in boiling water. It's a small thing. But it makes a real difference.
Herbal Books and Other Herbal Study Supplies
Reliable herbal books are very useful. They give me a trusted starting place. Books help me understand herbs in context. They also make comparing information easier. I use them to build each plant profile.
You do not need a large library to get started. One or two well-chosen books are enough. I shared the books I use most often in My Favorite Herbal Books as a Beginner Kitchen Herbalist.
The Real Magic
These supplies create a framework for your practice. But real learning comes from consistency. Use your Wildleaf Journal to track observations. Document what works for your family. Let your herbal knowledge grow naturally over time.
You don't need everything at once. Start with a journal and some jars. Get a reference book. Then add items as your practice needs them.
Note: I've linked to products I use and love. Some of these are affiliate links. I earn a small commission if you purchase. This is at no extra cost to you. Thanks for using them. It helps keep this little shop going.