Today we’d like to introduce you to Zipporah Sowell

Hi Zipporah , we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?

I began my studies of herbalism during my senior year of high school. I decided to take a horticulture course as an elective and that’s when I found my passion at first sight. I learned plant identification, leaf arrangements, and all of the plant basics. Towards the end of the course, I was required to complete a final project and I decided to grow oregano, lavender, chamomile, and other herbs that sparked my interest. The pivotal point of my interest in herbalism came about when one day I came home from track practice and I was lying on the couch as normal. A little later that evening, I got up and had the worst headache of my life. That headache was followed by a fever, cough, and congestion. I was almost certain I had the flu or some version of it. Fortunately, I was introduced to this wonderful medicinal plant by the name of Elderberry. I consumed an Elderberry decoction at least twice a day, engaged in intermittent fasting, and rested. At the time I wasn’t sure what the Elderberry was doing in my body, but all I remember is my body sweating excessively as if my body was putting all of its energy towards fighting off this dis-ease. I experienced those symptoms on a Friday and by the time Sunday came around, it was as if nothing had happened and my body returned to its state of balance.To add a bit more to my journey in herbalism, I took a study abroad trip to Jamaica right before the COVID pandemic to complete soil science work to earn credits for one of my classes. In addition to the agriculture work I was doing, I was taught about medicinal plants they use in Jamaica such as allspice, tamarind, bitter melon, and more. As I delved into countless herbalism books and taught myself, I knew this was my calling. The “thing” that makes you lose track of time, that brings you peace, and could also be used as an avenue to turn my passion into prosperity. Fast-forwarding to today, I graduated from Tuskegee University with my Bachelor of Science concentrated in Plant & Soil Science, Magna Cum Laude and I also received my certification as a Naturopathic Herbalist in March of 2022. Now I am more than elated to say I am the owner of a spiritual wellness boutique where we specialize in “Connecting Souls with Earth Magick”🌿✨️.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?

Of course entrepreneurship is rarely a smooth road and you experience challenges on the way. Personally, besides little nuisances here and there, I would say that the biggest obstacle that I’m currently experiencing is gaining exposure and growing my social media platform. I’m interested in discovering ways to grow an organic following and how to reach my target market. Nevertheless, just like anything else in life, entrepreneurship is a journey and I know eventually I’ll figure out the best way to overcome this challenge in a way that is authentic to me as an entrepreneur and for my business.

As you know, we’re big fans of Rooted Vybz Botanica. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?

🌿Rooted Vybz Botanica is a luxury black woman -owned spiritual wellness boutique that provides souls with spiritual tools to assist them on their healing journey. Our products are sourced from Mother Earth herself and blessed with her magick touch. We offer a variety of products ranging from organic herbs to raw crystals that can be used to connect one with Spirit and Mother Earth. Through connecting with Mother Earth, we connect with Spirit and most of all ourselves. It is our hope here at Rooted Vybz Botanica that with the use of our tools and the guidance of Spirit, our customers can achieve divine bliss by remembering one’s power. Our power to love. Our power to heal. Our power to create. Our power to connect.

🌿Currently we offer organic herbs , raw crystals, crystal pendants, incense, spiritual waters, herbal digital guides, and smoke wands. The services we offer include: herbal consultations, personalized birth chart reports, personalized numerology reports, custom affirmative prayers, and spiritual advisory consultations.

🌿We provide increased access to quality metaphysical tools to assist one in their journey of remembering their own power of self healing. The number of spiritual wellness shops/botanicas is not sufficient, and we are working to bridge that gap. Furthermore, not only do we offer these divine tools but we also offer guides on how to use these tools via our digital guides and creatives on our social media page.

🌿The main aspect that sets us apart from others is that we work with Mother Earth as a lifestyle. Our lives are infused with this concept. We are not in this industry because spirituality is now a “trend”. Furthermore, we are not in this industry to make a quick buck. We truly care about helping people remember their power of self-healing through connecting with Spirit and our planet. Furthermore, we focus on the holistic balance of both physical and spiritual wellness. This world would be a much better place if everyone could reconnect to their infinite selves. Digging deep into your spirituality is healing for the soul and it is not something to be taken lightly. The importance and sacredness of Mother Earth and all that she offers is something we are passionate about.

🌿As far as what I’m most proud of being an entrepreneur, is my resilience and my unwavering passion for my craft. Being an entrepreneur is not the weak, and the person you always have to believe in no matter what is YOU. I’ve experienced discouragement from people about my line of work, but I let that remain as outside noise. Some people can’t see your vision until you make it happen. You have to hold onto your vision even when others dont see it. Regarding what I’m most proud of with Rooted Vybz Botanica, is the success we had at our first market in Chicago, IL. The annual Juneteenth market hosted by Thank You Chicago was incredible; the love and support was immaculate and it was such an honor to be in that space with other black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs of color.

What’s next?

There is power in discretion, stay tuned to see the magick unfold! 😉

Pricing:

• Organic Egyptian Blue Lotus $22.22
• The Stone of the Divine $8.88
• 50 Herbz You Need To Know Digital Guide $15.15
• The Dragon Wand $12.12
• Organic Rose Petal Cones $4.44

Contact Info:

• Website: https://rvbotanica.com
• Instagram: @rvbotanica__
• Other: 🌳Linktree: linktr.ee/iamzipporah

Image Credits

Alexis Jacobs
Founder of ButterBean Shots