Be Bonita Podcast Ep.14 w/ Best Of Philly Herbal Bar Dope Botanicals
The Art and Science of Herbalism: A Chat with the Dope Botanicals Sisters Nakia & Taahirah Stith
Have you ever wondered about the magic behind herbal remedies? Recently, I had the pleasure of sitting down with two extraordinary women who are revolutionizing the world of herbalism in Philadelphia. Meet Nakia & Taahirah Stith Stith, the dynamic sister duo behind Dope Botanicals.
Despite their 13-year age gap, these sisters operate like twins, finishing each other’s sentences and sharing a passion for herbal healing that’s nothing short of infectious. As certified herbalists and health coaches, they bring a unique blend of traditional wisdom and modern science to their craft.
“Herbalism is really a folk tradition,” Nikkia explained, her eyes lighting up. “It comes from community, from family, from ancestry. Someone in your family always knew something about herbs.”
Their journey into herbalism is a heartwarming tale of family influence. Their father, determined to change their lives, introduced them to a plant-based lifestyle long before it was trendy. This early exposure sparked a lifelong passion that eventually led them to open Dope Botanicals.
Dope Botanicals named Best Herbal Apothecary by Philly Mag for their Best of Philly 2022 Award.
But don’t mistake their warm demeanor for a lack of seriousness. When it comes to crafting herbal remedies, these sisters mean business.
“We take it very seriously,” Tahera emphasized. “We understand the vulnerability that comes with asking for help. We consider how the body works, how herbs interact, and how they should be applied given your lifestyle.”
Their approach is refreshingly holistic. Whether you’re dealing with low energy, digestive issues, or stress, they take the time to understand if it’s a momentary blip or a chronic condition. Their solutions range from a quick pick-me-up at their drink bar to deep cellular rejuvenation protocols.
One of the most fascinating parts of our chat was their breakdown of herbal preparation methods. Did you know that different parts of plants require different brewing techniques?
Roots, barks, and berries need to be boiled (a method called decoction), while delicate leaves and flowers are best prepared through infusion.
The sisters also shared some eye-opening insights about mass-produced herbal products. Those convenient tea bags? They might not be as beneficial as you think. “It’s really important to look at what’s inside,” Nikia advised. “Often, it’s just tea dust, not enough to truly heal you.”
As our conversation wound down, I couldn’t help but feel inspired by these modern-day medicine women. They’re not just selling herbs; they’re continuing a legacy, honoring their ancestors, and helping people reconnect with nature’s healing power.
So, the next time you’re feeling under the weather or just need a wellness boost, why not give herbalism a try? And if you’re in Philadelphia, stop by Dope Botanicals. Trust me, these sisters know their stuff!
Remember, health is a journey, not a destination. As Nikkia and Tahera would say, “Life is lifting!” So why not face it with a cup of herbal tea in hand?
They deserve a follow on IG: @dopebotanicals