We were lucky to catch up with Chandra Jones recently and have shared our conversation below.

Chandra, appreciate you joining us today. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?

Growing up in a family immersed in alternative medicine, I initially veered towards mainstream allopathic practices as I became independent. However, a personal health crisis prompted a rediscovery of herbalism’s significance. After navigating the challenges of Western medicine, I experienced the transformative power of hands-on bodywork during massage therapy sessions, inspiring my journey to become a Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT). Relocating to a 40-acre off-grid ranch in Rifle, Colorado, fueled my curiosity about local plants and their medicinal properties, leading me to establish Ages Apothecary.

My mission is rooted in a commitment to ongoing education in integrative medicine. The vision includes opening a practice offering diverse modalities such as herbalism, Massage Therapy, Homeopathy, and more. While aspiring for a future where allopathic and alternative medicine harmonize, I am driven to empower individuals to understand their innate ability to heal. Through Ages Apothecary, I aim to share knowledge, rewild connections with nature, and kindle the life force within, especially amidst the current healthcare challenges.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

. As a Colorado native, my journey as the creator of Ages Apothecary LLC is deeply rooted in the wild beauty of my surroundings. Having spent two decades in the mountain town of Paonia, surrounded by a diverse community of Farmers, Ranchers, Coal Miners, Artists, and Entrepreneurs, my desire to care for wild land grew. In 2018, fate led me to 40 acres of untamed terrain outside Rifle, Colorado, where the breathtaking views of Rifle Gap and the Great Hogback Mountain range fostered a profound connection to the land.

Living amidst this wild environment, I immersed myself in learning about native plant species, discovering their incredible gifts for healing and abundant living. This newfound harmony with nature inspired a commitment to sustainable living practices. From raising chickens and pigs to rotational grazing and cultivating a future food forest, we’ve embraced a lifestyle rooted in stewardship. Our latest venture involves growing gourmet mushrooms, all achieved completely off the grid.

Motivated by a passion for the land and sustainable living, I founded Ages Apothecary to share my knowledge of medicinal plants. It has become a blessing, allowing me to inspire others, foster a sense of rewilding, and cultivate a deeper connection to nature. Through our Wild Harvest Herbal products, available in my online Apothecary, I aim to offer nature’s gifts to support the well-being of our friends and families, encouraging a lifestyle that keeps us feeling our best..

You can explore a diverse range of herbal offerings in my collection, including salves, tinctures, herbal soaks, and invigorating lung steams. Among my creations, mushroom extracts hold a special place in my heart, as I enjoy the transformative process of cultivating these fungi into potent medicinal remedies. As a Licensed Massage Therapist, I specialize in cupping therapy, a modality I am fervently eager to share with others.

I embrace the journey of continuing education, I believe it is fundamental to enhance my practice. I am currently enrolled in Homeopathy school with the Academy of Homeopathy Education (AHE), I anticipate unveiling my expertise in homeopathy in the next four years. Join me on this evolving path towards holistic well-being.

Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?

In the herbal community, there’s a joke that sums up the diversity: “Ask 5 herbalists what echinacea is good for, and you’ll get 5 different answers.” Herbalism is incredibly expansive, with diverse roots of origin and varied practices. Personally, I align myself with a blend of vitalist and Folk herbalism. My approach involves matching herbs to individual constitutions, recognizing that everyone’s healing journey and unique body respond differently.

For those venturing into this field, my advice is to delve into the wealth of herbal knowledge from various practitioners. Study diverse techniques, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different methods. That being said, here are a few of my favorite teachers who have greatly influenced my practice.

Rosemary Galdstar
Rosalee de la Foret
Sajah Popham
7Song
Matthew Woods
Yarrow Willard

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

My journey of resilience emerged from navigating trials, including swiftly becoming a single mother post my daughter’s birth—a tumultuous period that endured. Amid complications, I developed Adenomyosis, leading to a challenging diagnosis marked by numerous hospital visits and surgeries, ultimately resulting in a hysterectomy. Despite the procedure, persistent pain and discomfort lingered, prompting me to explore alternative paths beyond Western medicine.

Turning to herbalism, I delved into the intricate workings of body systems, learning how to harness the healing properties of herbs for both mind and body. This went beyond ingestion, encompassing the transformative experience of connecting with nature, studying plants, and understanding their role in ecosystems. Today, I am proudly 99% pain-free, and empowered by the knowledge that my body can heal without reliance on suppressing drugs or replacement hormones. This journey has been a testament to resilience and unwavering perseverance.

Contact Info:

• Website: agesapothecary.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/agesapothecary?igsh=MTc0OTVva3BpMmdiOA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AgesApothecaryLLC?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Image Credits
Original photos and designs from Chandra L Jones LMT