Revered Roots: Ancestral Teachings and Wisdom of Wild, Edible, and Medicinal Plants

by LoriAnn Bird

With Indigenous Métis herbalist LoriAnn Bird as your guide, connect with the ancestral wisdom of over 90 wild edible and medicinal plants from across North America. 

A purposeful and powerful reference to the lessons, nourishment, healing, and history of our “plant teachers,” Revered Roots shares guidance on exploring, gathering, and reclaiming these long-revered plants as food and medicine. Separated into two sections, LoriAnn first reveals her own journey to understanding and respecting our plant elders. She offers teachings and lessons about remembering our relationship to the plants around us and our responsibility to the earth that sustains us.

The second part of the book is filled with insightful illustrated plant profiles detailing the identification, uses, and Indigenous folklore of some of the continent’s most treasured ancestral plants. Included are edible and medicinal bark, berries, and buds from trees and shrubs, as well as foliage, flowers, and fronds from herbs, “weeds,” and wildflowers; some native to the continent, others introduced generations ago. 

Learn about the gifts our Rooted Nation of plants has to offer,  

Evergreen tips from spruces, pines, and firs Hawthorn berries, leaves, and flowers Plantain seeds and foliage Oswego tea leaves and bloomsSlippery elm barkMotherwort flowers, stems, and leavesBlack cohosh roots and rhizomes Marshmallow rootCottonwood buds and barkPlus dozens more
Reclaiming our natural rhythms and connections to the earth we walk on is essential to our health and well-being, both as individuals and as a community. One simple way to do that is by appreciating, respecting, and seeking to understand the plants around us.

Genres: Nonfiction, Health, Gardening, Nature, Indigenous

240 pages, Hardcover

First published March 1, 2025

Reviews

[The Sassy Bookworm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review of Revered Roots: Ancestral Teachings and Wisdom of Wild, Edible, and Medicinal Plants

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I recently had the absolute pleasure of diving into Revered Roots by LoriAnn Bird, and this book is a treasure trove for anyone interested in the rich world of wild, edible, and medicinal plants. I found myself completely captivated by the wealth of knowledge and beautiful presentation throughout the pages.

LoriAnn Bird, an Indigenous Métis herbalist, serves as an incredible guide through this exploration of over 90 plant species that are not only nourishing but also steeped in history and wisdom. The first half of the book is a heartfelt journey where LoriAnn shares her own path of connection and respect for our plant elders. It’s so refreshing to read about the deep relationship we can cultivate with the flora around us, recognizing our role in honoring and protecting the earth.

The second section is where the magic really happens! Each plant profile is illustrated with stunning photographs and artwork that practically leap off the page. It’s like wandering through a botanical gallery! From evergreen tips to the mysterious black cohosh roots, I was thrilled to learn about so many plants—some familiar and others completely new to me. The detailed descriptions, folklore, and practical uses for each plant make this book not just a reference but a true resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of nature's offerings.

And can we talk about the visual appeal? The cover alone is a stunning invitation into LoriAnn’s world of plant wisdom. Every page feels like a carefully crafted piece of art that makes you want to pause and appreciate the beauty of nature. I found myself flipping through the pages as if I were discovering hidden gems—each illustration is a work of art in its own right!

Beyond just information, Revered Roots provides practical recipes and tips for making your own medicines, which is invaluable for someone like me who is eager to put theory into practice. With a glossary and an extensive reference list, this book truly has everything you could possibly need to navigate the world of wild plants.

In short, Revered Roots has instantly found a special place on my bookshelf, and I can't recommend it enough! Whether you’re a seasoned herbalist or just curious about the plants that surround us, this book offers something for everyone. It beautifully bridges the gap between Indigenous wisdom and modern herbal practices, reminding us that connecting with nature is essential for our well-being. Grab a copy—you won't regret it!

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️

[Katherine Walsh · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is visually beautiful. The pages are like works of art. Each page is like discovering a beautiful new piece.

I do wish that there were photos of the plants mentioned in this book. The plants are almost all artwork, which I think will make it harder to accurately identifying a plant out in the wild.

I will admit, I don't know a lot about Canadian Indigenous practices. I learned a lot about their culture and what is important. I loved the extra tips that went along with each plant. It was a really good balance of using nature to heal while also considering individual needs.

[Garren · Rating 5 out of 5]

I so loved this book about wild, edible and medicinal plants. I got to learn new things about a lot of my favorite plants and SO much about native plants I’ve never heard of personally.

It was also great to read about the Author’s background as an indigenous woman. Beautiful photos and drawings throughout the book. I know several people that would love this that I might get it for.

Thanks to NetGalley, the publishers, & author for letting me read this arc!!

[Macaela · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautiful book about what some, even gardeners, would consider weeds. The first part is about nature and how we connect to it. Part two is about the plants themselves, based on the seasons—good for year-round gathering. The third part is all about using the plants in medicines. I think this is a great book for gardeners, foragers, and those who want to know more about the natural world around them.

Thanks to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group for the advanced copy.

[Chris Worthy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a gentle meditation. I have such an affinity for British Columbia. It feels very much like a sacred space, but this guide adds depth that I will remember when I next have the opportunity to visit.