Cascade Anderson Geller was a renowned herbalist, educator, and environmental activist whose life was dedicated to sharing the wisdom of plants.
As a faculty member at prominent institutions, such as Bastyr University and the National University of Natural Medicine (formerly NCNM), Cascade inspired countless students and practitioners with her generosity of spirit and depth of knowledge of medicinal plants and their practical application.
Known for her clarity and warmth, Cascade was a true steward and passionate advocate for the natural world. The decades of classroom teachings that form the foundation of A Lifetime of Herbal Wisdom are infused with the humility, grace, and reverence for the natural world with which she lived her life.
A founding member of United Plant Savers, Cascade was deeply committed to protecting medicinal plants and preserving traditional herbal practices.
Even after her passing in 2013, Cascade's legacy continues to grow, as she remains a beloved and influential figure in the world of herbal medicine.
About the book..
“A Lifetime of Herbal Wisdom: The Inspiring Teachings and Plant Knowledge of Cascade Anderson Geller” presents a wealth of practical herbal knowledge, enriched with personal stories and practical reflections from a lifetime of working with medicinal plants and educating naturopathic doctors, herbalists, and the lay public. Providing deep insights into more than 60 of Cascade's most cherished herbs, this book makes decades of her teachings accessible to all.
Whether you're a seasoned herbalist or a newcomer to plant medicine, Cascade’s wisdom is presented in a way that provides both inspiration and practical guidance.
Book Contents
A Lifetime of Herbal Wisdom is divided into eight chapters.
Chapter 1: Inspirational Roots
Explore Cascade’s early inspirations and learn about the medicinal plants of the Southern Appalachian Mountains.
Chapter 2: Travels
Journey through Cascade’s travels, with insights into herbal practices from India, Nepal, Ecuador, the Mediterranean, and more.
Chapter 3: Plants I Have Known & Loved
Discover over 60 of Cascade’s favorite herbs, including their uses, healing properties, and practical applications.
Chapter 4: Plant Preparations & Formulas
Step-by-step instructions for making herbal teas, tinctures, elixirs, salves, and other remedies.
Chapter 5: Body Systems
Herbal remedies for supporting the digestive, integumentary, musculoskeletal, respiratory, and urinary systems.
Chapter 6: Family Medicine
Herbal solutions for children, teens, women’s health, men’s health, elders, and pets.
Chapter 7: Cascade’s Healthy Habits
Personal care routines for health, including facials, hydrotherapy, and herb walks.
Chapter 8: Healing Stories
Stories and remedies featuring 11 of Cascade’s favorite plants, including garlic, ginseng, and lavender oil.
A Lifetime of Herbal Wisdom: The Inspiring Teachings and Plant Knowledge of Cascade Anderson Geller is a treasure chest with a glimpse into the life and work of a truly remarkable herbalist in every sense of the word. Cascade’s voice sings through every page. This will be a cherished volume in my herbal library.
Jane Bothwell, Founder of Dandelion Herbal Center, Herbalist
Cascade brought to her work a fierce dedication to truth & authenticity. Often deviating from trends and commonly held perspectives, her experience as a folk herbalist, clinical practitioner, extensive researcher, naturopathic professor & world traveler demonstrates the wisdom of her far-reaching experience and practical approach to herbalism. Readers will benefit from her unique teachings, wisely voiced in this useful family herbal.
Mindy Green, Herbalist (AHG), Aromatherapist
Cascade’s wisdom came from the ancients and is grounded in the present. Such a gift that her teachings have been captured and shared in this authentic collection. While this book is chock full of herbal recipes, what makes this book stand out and be special is that it is a true journey into the heart & mind of an extraordinary herbalist’s life journey.
Sara Katz, Co-founder of Herb Pharm, Herbalist & Garlic Queen
What a gift to the herbal community - the timeless teachings and wisdom of Cascade captured in a book that is bound to be a cherished resource for herbalists of all levels. Reading this book is like stepping into the classroom with her. It is filled with memorable stories, detailed remedies, and recipes that will become your favorites.
Elise Higley, Co-founder of Oshala Farm, Farmer & Herbalist
I absolutely LOVE this book! I never had the honor of knowing Cascade, but this book is a real treasure. Thank you for all your passion, wisdom, and sharing your own gifts to make this book a reality.
Helen Ward, Herbalist and Co-founder Three Springs Farm in Vermont
Oh my goodness, what a gorgeous book! I hadn’t had time to get beyond the introduction, and tears were already flowing! She was my revered teacher and occasional house guest. You have accomplished a great feat. In amazement and thank you for sending me a copy!
Margi Flint, EarthSong Herbals
I LOVE THE BOOK! I started reading it last night, and I can't wait to read more. It brought tears to my eyes multiple times in the first 40 pages. What a gift!
Madelyn Morris, CEO and Co-founder Mickelberry Gardens
I am totally gobsmacked—the book is absolutely gorgeous. Congratulations on a huge achievement. Way to go - I bow to your supreme vision for this book.
Nancy London, Author of The Ripening: Essays on Love, Loss, Marriage and Aging; and Hot Flashes, Warm Bottles.
