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Ten Questions to get to know Kristine De Block
Thousands of people worldwide engage with The Herb Society through our social media, especially instagram, our website and this blog.
Kristine De Block, BSc Hons is a Medical Herbalist and Educator and Trustee for The Herb Society, a voluntary role. She is also Junior Herbalist Club Leader.
Get to know Kristine and what inspires her through this quick snapshot in ten questions.
1. What’s your first memory of being inspired by herbs?
My first memory of being inspired by herbs is tied to my maternal grandmother and elderberries. She showed me how to carefully pick the tiny berries and make a rich, syrupy remedy. It felt like a magical potion, and the way she spoke about its healing properties made me realise the power of plants. That experience was the spark that set me on this herbal path.
2. Who do you look to for herbal mentorship or advice?
Christopher Hedley has been a significant influence in my life, inspiring me with his walks and captivating stories of old. His teaching style, full of warmth and wisdom, has profoundly shaped my own approach. Nowadays, my mentors are the herbs themselves and my wonderful colleagues in the herbal community. Each plant has its own story and wisdom to share, and discussing these insights with fellow herbalists enriches my understanding. We learn so much from each other and the plants we work with, keeping our practices dynamic and grounded.
3. What is the lesson you’ve learnt from herbs that you’d most like to share with others?
One of the most profound lessons I’ve learned from herbs is patience. Plants don’t rush, and they teach us to slow down and observe. Healing and balance come from understanding natural rhythms, both in our environment and within ourselves. It’s a beautiful lesson in humility and respect for the natural world. I am increasingly tuning into the seasons and my local medicinal plants and trees.
4. Tell us about a place you’ve visited that’s been a great herbal experience.
Gosh, I’ve been fortunate to see so many wonderful places! The herbal garden in the Ardennes in Belgium, with its rich tapestry of medicinal plants, felt like stepping back in time. Australia’s many stunning gardens, my travels through Europe, and the wildflowers under the Swiss Matterhorn have all been deeply inspiring. The medicinal gardens at Lindengate Charity and Amersham Museum are closer to home but equally magical. And there are still so many more on my bucket list!
5. Describe your current practice with herbs and the benefits this brings.
In my practice, I blend traditional herbal knowledge with modern understanding. I see patients in my clinic, where we explore their unique needs and create personalised herbal plans. The benefits are immense: seeing someone find balance and wellness through herbs is incredibly rewarding. It’s about small, meaningful changes that ripple out into overall wellbeing.
6. Where do you see your interest in herbs evolving over the next five years?
Over the next five years, I hope to deepen my knowledge and continue sharing it through The Crafty Herbalist Academy. I’d love to expand the teachings in the Academy and grow our community, making herbal knowledge and sustainability through plant medicine accessible to more people, whilst keeping it affordable.
7. How do you see the role of the Herb Society in the UK and your contribution to this?
The Herb Society plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting herbal knowledge. As a trustee, my role is to spread the word about all facets of the wonderful world of herbs. The society is a hub for enthusiasts and practitioners alike, fostering a sense of community. My contribution is to keep passing on the knowledge, inspiring others to explore and appreciate the healing power of plants. I’d love to help the Society grow a vibrant online learning hub.
8. If you could make one change that could increase awareness, appreciation or application of herbs in the UK, what would that be?
If I could make one change, it would be to integrate herbal education into school curriculums. Teaching children about herbs, their uses, and their importance in our ecosystem from a young age would foster a deeper connection and appreciation for nature. It’s planting seeds for future generations, and I have made a start teaching my own little ones as well as hosting a Junior Herbalist Club in my local area.
9. And, has to be asked, what’s your favourite herb, and why?
My favourite herbs at the moment are nettle and hibiscus. They complement each other beautifully in energetics and taste. Nettle is nourishing and grounding, while hibiscus is vibrant and uplifting. Together, they create a harmonious balance that’s both refreshing and supportive to overall health.
10. Finally, if you were herbal advisor to a new colony being established on Mars, what advice would you give?
If I were advising a new colony on Mars, I’d suggest starting with herbs that support overall wellbeing and resilience, like adaptogens and immune boosters. Think echinacea, astragalus, and, of course, a good supply of nettle and hibiscus tea to keep everyone cheerful. And don’t forget to talk to the plants – even on Mars, a little conversation can do wonders for growth. Oh, and maybe keep an eye out for any alien herbs – who knows, Martian plants might have some fantastic new remedies we haven’t even dreamed of yet! Just imagine: “Martian Mint” or “Red Planet Rosemary” – the possibilities are endless!
You can find out more about Kristine and her work at www.thecraftyherbalist.org.uk
