Wild Ginger Apothecary's 7th Anniversary!

Today marks 7 years for Wild Ginger Apothecary. Beyond the immense gratitude to be here, to know all of you, there are parts of this journey I haven’t shared much. The past 7 years have been about becoming, transforming, growing, shifting, evolving. Now it seems after a 180 in the evolution of our community, we have arrived at where we’re meant to stay. I have felt the same for myself as I have grown, pushed, pulled, and bloomed right alongside my sweet small business.

So where did it all begin? My first career was in residential remodeling with my family business. Being a licensed builder in a male-dominated industry was exciting, empowering, challenging… but it wasn't my true soul work. So 16+ years ago, I switched gears. I added a part time gig at my favorite crystal shop in Ann Arbor, falling more and more in love with the natural healing world. I originally moved to Sarasota with dreams of opening a metaphysical shop in 2006, but the universe had other plans, throwing me into natural retail management. This was another industry I adored, furthering my obsession with natural and organic living, where I stayed for 8 years to come. I soaked up knowledge with roles in natural beauty, wellness, vitamins and supplements, and then ending in medical cannabis. That’s how the first evolution of WGA became what it was!

The middle part of the story was that I didn’t last 2 years in Sarasota that round. I couldn’t find my tribe, my community, my support, my inspiration. As a young person, I was hungry for like-minded friends, for being seen, for being able to live fully expressed. That deepened in my career shifts; each role getting closer to the dream, and each edit leaving me searching more and more for a healthy, mindful, conscious, open, expansive network to BELONG to. Wild Ginger was a dream project that took a lifetime to envision, a decade to create, and another 7 years to fine tune. On this path, I created a store that became a community, that turned out to be the place I’d been searching for my whole life. All who have come along, the friends and family we’ve created here, have been seemingly looking for the same thing.

The direction, vibe, even function of Wild Ginger has evolved and resulted in an arrival right where that dream started. I have always loved and been devoted to natural living, but our “eco-friendly health + beauty” beginnings weren’t broad enough for the mind/body/spirit connection I was missing. For the holistic, modern, metaphysical offerings I sought out in my youth to adulthood. I strayed from the roots of my dream and it turns out those roots continue to grow bigger until they sprout. Now here we are, not just an apothecary for natural living, but a space to let yourself BLOOM. From improved health with CBD and herbs, to soul and self care with mindfulness offerings: there is something for you, for me, for all of us. That has always been the core goal.

The ebb and flow of having a business is the fuel to the entrepreneur's inner fire. As a strong-willed, independent spirit that was often “too much” or “too bossy,” there was no other path that could have fulfilled me in this way. As I continued to finesse my dream and intuition, I got closer and closer to just what my soul was searching for… until we arrived here. Until I had all of you, and this space matured, and this real community was built. 

There were a lot of hard lessons that couldn’t have been avoided; I took the long, winding, rough road again and again.  Yet it was never the wrong path. It never is.  Sometimes we are redirected to get closer to our unique destination. I’m not a fan of the “don’t quit” workaholic mantra. In fact, if it doesn’t light you up, or affects your serenity, or distracts you from your bigger vision, you should quit. I quit a handful of careers, places, and relationships to arrive here. I never quit WGA when times were hard (and for the first several years and during a pandemic, there were many); not because of strength or ego, but because it still brings me joy. It still fills my heart. The work we do here - from the conscious items we sell to the classes and groups we offer - still come from a place of pure love, devotion, passion, care and conscious choice. I can't imagine any other path that could have brought me here.  Extra thanks to the superstar staff and team has been such a tremendous blessing through the years

If there’s a dream in your heart you can’t wait to fulfill - a job, a business, a move, a project - I’m here to cheer you on. It’s never too late to do what you love, and to love what you do, day in and day out. I might not teach many Desire Map or Inspired Business classes these days, but my passion lies eternally in the intention around that work. If I can do it, so can you. I would all love to hear about the magic you’re dreaming up next time you’re in. 

Thank you, thank you, thank you for being part of this journey. For listening to my dreams and visions, and for supporting them since day one. For discovering WGA, for discovering me, in the past 7 years. For continuing to return, for telling your friends, for bringing your family, for getting to know us, for letting us know you. WGA was never just a store, it has always been an experience, and for that I thank each and every one of you who have ever stepped through these doors for contributing to it. You have ALL been my biggest gift. 

Big love, always,
Nicole

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Our blank slate, July 2014!

Opening Day October 1st, 2014!

Divine Mommy YoniVersity 101

Divine Mommy YoniVersity 101 is a rich, juicy exploration of the Divine Feminine, the Divine Masculine, and the wild, wise Medicine Woman within. Week by week, we will create a Group Soul and journey deep into the needed restoration and rejuvenation of Feminine Empowerment. By utilizing the profound wisdom of our Blood and Birth Magick, we will convene with Mother Moon and Mother Earth to harness the potent knowing held within each layer of our Feminine Consciousness.

Together, as a Group of Sisters, we will create Sacred Space and rewrite our stories from the beginning.
- With strength and courage, we will recalibrate the social and cultural narrative of her-story.
- With dedication and devotion, we will uncover and release hidden belief systems.
- With love and passion, we will re-remember our Divine Birthrights of pleasure, creation, and bliss.
- With peace and clarity, we will reignite our inherent Matriarchal Instincts of connection and interdependence.
- With wisdom and grace, we will reinvigorate our relationships to intuition and instinct.

This 29- week Goddess Circle is a bold invitation from your Higher Self and the call is not to be ignored.

Each Thursday, from 12:30-2pm, we will reactivate the Goddess within.

The cost for this Goddess Circle is $810.00 if paid in full (saving you $162!), $450.00 if paid per semester (Saving you $72!), or $108.00 if paid monthly. This is not a drop-in Group and participation is a request for the sanctity of the Group Soul.

Get in touch for more information and to register: jamie@divine-mommy.com

Divine Mommy YoniVersity 101 Weekly Schedule

FIRST SEMESTER

9/9 WEEK1: The Maternal Gift Economy
9/16 WEEK 2: Goddess Herstory
9/23 WEEK 3: The Language of the Goddess
9/30 WEEK 4: Goddess Healing Practical 
10/7 WEEK 5: The Crone
10/14 WEEK 6: The Maiden
10/21 WEEK 7: The Mother
11/4 WEEK 8: The Enchantress
11/11 WEEK 9: Reclaiming Menarche
11/18 WEEK 10: Creating the Moon Tent
12/2 WEEK 11: Blood and Birth Magick
12/9 WEEK 12: Reclaiming our Cyclical Wisdom
12/16 WEEK 13: Female Shamanic Dreaming
1/13 WEEK 14: Your Spirit Animals and Guides
1/20 WEEK 15: Healing Circle

SECOND SEMESTER

1/27 WEEK 16: Pleasure and Radiance
2/3 WEEK 17: Sacred Sexuality
2/10 WEEK 18: Sacred Union
2/17 WEEK 19: Forgiveness and Bliss 
2/24 WEEK 20: Cleansing and Passion
3/10 WEEK 21: Sacred Healing Circle
3/31 WEEK 22:  Healing Conception & In Utero
4/7 WEEK 23: The Mature Masculine
4/21 WEEK 24: Shadow Poles
4/28 WEEK 25: Actualized Masculine Energy 
5/5 WEEK 26: Chakra Activation
5/12 WEEK 27: Chakra Activation #2
5/19 WEEK 28: The Honorable Harvest
5/26 WEEK 29: Tibetan Dakini Wisdom

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Jamie Day, MS, LMFT, RDT is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Registered Drama Therapist, Creator of the Divine Mommy Movement, and Author of the upcoming ‘Soul-To-Sisterhood,’ book. Currently, Jamie works as a therapist in private practice with individuals, couples, and families, marrying her psychotherapy background with the potent and powerful work of the Sacred Feminine and the Sacred Masculine. Jamie has earned a Master of Science degree in both Marriage and Family Therapy and Interdisciplinary Arts from Nova Southeastern University. In addition, she also holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Musical Theatre Performance from Northern Kentucky University. Jamie has a diverse background of experience and has worked with survivors of human trafficking, at-risk adolescents and their families, anger management groups for teens, drama therapy groups for college students, expressive arts therapy groups for families facing chronic illness and loss, teen parents, homeless pregnant mothers, mothers in drug and alcohol recovery, families with children diagnosed with SPD and ASD, bereavement, Military Families, youth and adults living with PTSD, and survivors of sexual trauma. Jamie is also specially trained in Infant Mental Health, Trauma-Informed Care, The Circle of Security Parenting Model, and is a Parenting Educator. She brings more than 12 years of experience in working with clients as well as leading connective and supportive groups for women, families, and children. Her dedicated approach incorporates a solution-focused mindset that empowers, affirms, and invokes the strength within.

The Sophia Circle Journey

Join Jamie Day of Divine Mommy on Thursday mornings from 9:30-11:00 to create Sacred Space and be reminded of who you are.

The text below, taken directly from a flyer created by The Sophia Dragon Tribe, is a beautiful explanation of what to receive during our time together.

"Activate your higher self embodiment in this life changing 13-week Sophia Circle Journey through 'The Sophia Code' as a living transmission and sacred text. The Sophia Code is a modern Mystery School blueprint for accepting your sovereign divinity through the heart of Divine Feminine Christ consciousness. When you decide to work with 'The Sophia Code' you begin a powerful mentorship journey with our Divine Feminine Ascended Masters. Each of these Keycode mentors have walked the same heroic human journey that you are on now. Their mentorship reveals how possible it is to live in your highest divine potential every day."

The cost for this Journey is: $33.00 per circle or $429.00 for the 13-week activation.

The dates for this Group are: 9/9, 9/16, 9/23, 9/30, 10/7, 10/14, 10/21, 11/4, 11/11, 11/18, 12/2, 12/9, & 12/16.

Jamie was gifted this sacred transmission by a good friend several years ago and it has changed her life. So much so, that she became a certified Sophia Circle facilitator in order to share the work.

Get in touch to learn more about this Sacred Codex, the Ascended Masters, and your own Crystalline Light Body.

This Sacred Circle will be transformational, empowering, healing, and magickal!

Email: jamie@divine-mommy.com to register. Participants must purchase the book, "The Sophia Code.”

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Jamie Day, MS, LMFT, RDT is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Registered Drama Therapist, Creator of the Divine Mommy Movement, and Author of the upcoming ‘Soul-To-Sisterhood,’ book. Currently, Jamie works as a therapist in private practice with individuals, couples, and families, marrying her psychotherapy background with the potent and powerful work of the Sacred Feminine and the Sacred Masculine. Jamie has earned a Master of Science degree in both Marriage and Family Therapy and Interdisciplinary Arts from Nova Southeastern University. In addition, she also holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Musical Theatre Performance from Northern Kentucky University. Jamie has a diverse background of experience and has worked with survivors of human trafficking, at-risk adolescents and their families, anger management groups for teens, drama therapy groups for college students, expressive arts therapy groups for families facing chronic illness and loss, teen parents, homeless pregnant mothers, mothers in drug and alcohol recovery, families with children diagnosed with SPD and ASD, bereavement, Military Families, youth and adults living with PTSD, and survivors of sexual trauma. Jamie is also specially trained in Infant Mental Health, Trauma-Informed Care, The Circle of Security Parenting Model, and is a Parenting Educator. She brings more than 12 years of experience in working with clients as well as leading connective and supportive groups for women, families, and children. Her dedicated approach incorporates a solution-focused mindset that empowers, affirms, and invokes the strength within.

Shamanic Drum Making Workshop

Join Stacey of Two Shaman Drums for a sacred Shamanic Drum Making Workshop at Wild Ginger Apothecary!

Come join Stacey on a spiritual journey to birth your very own shamanic frame drum! In this class we honor the four legged that gave their skin and we honor the trees that gave their bodies. During this workshop, she will guide you into birthing your sacred drum that will offer you wisdom and healing.

During the 3 hour class you will be guided to create your drum beater then you will birth your drum into creation. After, you will go on a shamanic journey to the spirit of the drum to see what wisdom your drum offers you!

This class includes all materials. Stacey will hand-dye your hide and laces the (one) color of your choice: Red, pink, blue, green, purple, turquoise, wine or natural. This magical journey to create your medicine drum will be shamanic based: come with an open heart and open mind.

Birthing a drum is a long held sacred tradition in indigenous cultures, and is done with much reverence.

$300 for the 3-hour workshop, including all supplies to make your own drum and mallet.

About Stacey:
“Blessings! I’m a Sarasota native, initiated as a shamanic practitioner in the Mayan Incan lineage. I make healing tools... rattles, drums, feathers and various items that people would use in their healing journey. It’s my greatest joy to help people heal thru these spiritual instruments. I also practice energy medicine: the root cause of emotional, physical and spiritual challenges. From stress in your work, to discord in your relationships, to financial lack to chronic pain is ENERGY! These challenges are a result of subtle blockages in your body’s energy field. Clearing these blockages helps release the old stories and patterns so you can live a more fulfilling life!”

Stacey teaches our monthly Drum Making Workshops as well as makes the Drums and Rattles in the shop!

For more info or to sign up, message nicole@wildgingerapothecary . Payment for class via cash, check or Venmo is required to save your space!

Healer Lisa Jewels Eckrich joins our community from Mount Shasta and Sedona

Offering weekly group journey circles and private one-on-one sessions.

The Vision: Journey Circle

Come experience a profound transformation and renewed sense of purpose in a fun Journey Circle. This is great for personal growth, healing and finding life direction. See your personal dreams unfold!

Many call this gateway a 'higher portal' an enlightened consciousness. It is believed that during this time a doorway opens or a 'veil lifts' to allow access to a higher realm of understanding and wisdom.

The energies of this gateway are all about 'Freedom' and often times 'Desire for Change'! Finding your soul partner - or what ever your dreams are- it gives one the power to attract this dream and in the perfect timing it unfolds.

This class can include sound healing, meditation, spiritual tools and more.

Crystal Energy Healing Sessions:

What is your unique path? These powerful one-on-one crystal healing sessions will help to illuminate with connection to your higher self for conscious awakening. Sessions include channeling, work with the Crystal Weaver, embedded crystalline codes, and more.

Lisa is a New Earth Consciousness Teacher, Crystal Messenger & Energy Specialist. She is devoted as a Gridworker, Conduit & Guide and carries within her a torch for our Conscious Awakening as One Unity Consciousness.

About Lisa:

Lisa is a Transformational Leader & Master Results Coach who inspires, empowers and guides people to live purposefully and powerfully. Since establishing her company in 2000, Lisa has guided so many to elevate the way they think, speak, and live. She teaches from real world experience. Her work unifies the world of business with essential wisdom of mind-body-spirit.

For over 2 decades she has researched and synthesized the most effective strategies in leadership, peak performance, and Self-mastery. Her unique blend of linguistics and cognitive neuroscience, unified with her understanding of ancient wisdom creates an integral learning environment for her students and community members. A master trainer of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) and a master of Hypnotherapy, Lisa is a leader in her industry, and her company is a global academy offering certification in these disciplines.

She offers courses, retreats, and life-changing experiences that improve and enrich lives by aligning participants with their Higher Self. She Incorporates the Frequency Codes of Monotomic Gold Energies and upgrades the energies with awesome results in shifting to connect to the Higher Self. Connecting with the Higher self allows the super powers to take over and the results everything is possible for miracles to unfold daily!

Crystals for Beginners

Crystals For Beginners

The world of crystals can be enchanting, magical, and a little overwhelming when you’re just starting out. If you’re new to crystals and their healing powers, not to worry, it’s much more intuitive than you may think and finding the right crystals—whether you’re creating a home altar or want to wear them in the form of jewelry—doesn’t need to be intimidating. 

I remember the first crystal that was given to me, a lovely small citrine. I was going through a difficult time in my early twenties and feeling very overwhelmed and depressed. A dear friend of mine handed me the light yellow crystal and told me to keep it in my pocket and anytime I felt sad, anxious, or depressed to simply reach my hand in my pocket and touch the crystal. To recharge its happy, positive energy he instructed me to place her in the sunshine, leave the crystal on the windowsill or take her outside with me on sunny days and let her absorb all the good sunshine vibes before placing her back in my pocket. I was skeptical at first, but the gentle reminder of the love of my friend every time I touched the citrine certainly did help alleviate my depression. 

If you’re a beginner to the world of crystals and you’re ready to dive in and find the right crystals for you, you may want to start by thinking about what kind of energy you either want to attract into or repel out of your life. The more you focus on what is it you want to cultivate from your new crystal friends, the clearer it will become as to which ones to seek out, or which ones will find you. Some excellent crystals to start working with as a beginner are:

Quartz:

The queen of the crystals, quartz comes in many colors and variations but clear quartz, white, cloudy, or clear in appearance is the best place to start your crystal quest. Clear quartz is considered a master healer and helps to absorb, store, regulate, and release energy. Keep a piece of quartz in your room or home to balance out the energy for yourself and for those who may visit you. You can pair clear quartz with other types of quartz, like rose quartz, to help amplify other properties as you begin to dive deeper into this world. 

Citrine:

Like my friend said, citrine is a little ball of happiness. Its color is reminiscent of sunshine, sunflowers, and all around joy. This happy little healer will help you focus on creative projects and lift your mood. Charge her in the sunshine and keep her close to you throughout the day for a little burst of sunshine anytime you need a pick-me-up.

Amethyst:

If you’re looking for something to help calm you down rather than pick you up, look to our powerful friend, amethyst. Purple in color this crystal helps dispel negative energy and thoughts, brings clarity, and promotes a stress-free environment. Purple has always been associated with royalty and amethyst may well be the high priestess of stones. Keep her next to your bed at night to help you relax and sleep deeply and restfully. 

Obsidian:

Protection, strength, and the ability to block out negative energy are found in this warrior. Black, sleek, shiny, and fierce obsidian was often used to make spearheads and knifes and it’s no wonder that this strong yet sexy stone is the protector crystal. You might consider wearing a piece of jewelry with obsidian if you’ve got some challenging tasks ahead or adorn your altar or safe space with a chunk of this powerful friend to remind you of your inner strength and your ability to stay strong in all situations. 

As you begin to deepen your understanding of the world of crystals you’ll fall even more in love with the beauty and wonder that these natural healing aides have to offer. See what organically comes your way as you open yourself up to the profound depths of these silent teachers. Whether you’re a beginner or even if you feel like an expert, there is always wisdom to be gained from the world of crystals and the more you are willing to listen, the louder you will hear them calling to you.  

How To Smudge With Sage

How To Smudge With Sage

Long, funky day at work? Have some strange interactions at the grocery store? Feel like there is some bad energy hanging around you or your space? You may be in need or a good smudging, or clearing, with sage.

Smudging your space, whether it’s your home, apartment, or workspace is a great way to clear out negative or heavy energy and cleanse or clear your environment. It’s a way to invite positive energy into your area and it’s a ceremony that you can do on your own, whenever you feel you need an energetic reset. 

What Kind Of Sage Should You Use?

Sage is a common kitchen herb and while it is delicious it’s not the same variety most often used in smudging ceremonies. White sage, or sacred sage is used to cleanse the mind, body, and spirit. It grows naturally throughout the southwestern states of the US and throughout northern Mexico. It’s often sold in a smudging stick, which is a bundle of leaves tied together with string. Lighting this bundle on fire and then blowing out the flame produces the aromatic smoke used in the smudging ceremony. 

Smudging Your House

You may find that once you’ve lit your sage you know exactly how you want to cleanse your space, but if you’re not sure how or where to start, consider starting at your front door to your house, apartment, or whatever space you want to cleanse. Allow the smoke to billow up from the bundle and let it waft throughout each area as you move from the entryway throughout the entire space. Some people say you should move clockwise, others say counter clockwise. Just move where your heart tells you to and allow the sage and the energy of the smoke to guide you as you enter each room and pay attention to each corner. 

If you’re in a closed space, make sure and open a window so that the smoke can eventually leave, taking the bad energy with it. Also, you don’t want to set off any smoke alarms if you’re in an apartment or a more confined location. 

Smudging Yourself

I like to smudge my own house every so often and clear out funky energies that can accumulate as I go about my daily life. I also like to smudge myself from time to time and you might enjoy it as well. To smudge yourself, light your sage stick on fire and blow out the flames. Then trace the outline of your body, starting at your foot, following the line of your leg, down to your other foot. Circle the sage around your mid-section, around one arm, then the next, and finally circle the smudging stick around your shoulders and head. Again, let the sage guide you as you cleanse yourself of bad juju that you don’t need to carry around. If you’re in ceremony with another like-minded individual, try saging each other. Starting with the backside first, outline all limbs, feet to arms, then move to the front body, outlining all limbs, and ending again with the shoulders and head. It can feel very relaxing to have someone you trust and feel comfortable with share in this process. 

Sage Alternatives

White sage has been used as a powerful tool in Native American culture for hundreds if not thousands of years and with all natural resources, the popularity of white sage for smudging has had an impact on the native plant. Make sure you can ethically source the white sage you are purchasing or consider using an alternative such as juniper, rosemary, cedar, or even other varieties of sage. The main idea behind smudging is to use the smoke to clear away negative energy so as long as there is plenty of smoke and a scent that brings you joy, you can find serenity in the ceremony. 

And remember to make sure your smudge stick is completely out before you walk away from it. Smudging is a fire ceremony and you always want to be very careful and respectful when working with fire. Keep a ceramic dish, an abalone shell, or even just a glass ashtray on hand to snub out your smudge stick when you’re all done cleansing your space. 

Happy smudging!

All About Tarot Cards

Tarot Cards

Tarot cards can seem as intriguing as Ouija boards and palm readings and while the history of tarot cards might seem to take away some of the allure, the imagery, meaning, and centuries’ old skill of divination through card reading is anything less than magical.

With their roots tied to 14th century playing cards and Italian entertainment, tarot cards have evolved over the past half millennium and are still very alive and well today. So much so that themed tarot card decks are available in just about every genre you can imagine. No matter what your interest is, there is likely a deck of tarot cards to suit it. So what is it that is so appealing after more than 500 years that still has us asking the cards for advice?

Tarot Card Readings 

Having your cards read by a practiced cartomancer, or card reader, can be very revealing indeed. But is it really fortune telling?

The first time I had my cards read it was in a small shop off the main street in Oakland, California. A women foretold of a journey that I would be taking in the near future. She wasn’t wrong, but in hindsight I may have provided her with that information myself, rather than the cards speaking to her. Years later, living in Costa Rica, I had a neighbor who would perform card readings when the mood struck her. I remember her explaining to me that the cards didn’t predict the future or hold all the answers to our unknown questions, but what they did do, was reveal to us that which we on some level already knew but needed to hear from an outside source. 

I had my own deck of tarot cards that was given to be years prior but I had no idea how to use them. I’d simply flip through from time to time, but that was about it. After living next door to my divination neighbor I become more comfortable with the idea of doing my own readings. 

Basic Tarot Card Reading

A basic set up that she taught me was to shuffle the cards while concentrating on something that was concerning me, troubling me, exciting me, or perplexing me. Basically whatever was weighing heavily on my mind. After shuffling with the intention clear in my mind’s eye, I flipped over three cards: one representing the past, one the current situation, and one where the situation was headed. The cards, especially the more I work more with my own deck, always seem to be spot on with their finger on the pulse. As my neighbor said, they don’t tell me how it’s all going to work out but rather tap into the emotional relationship that I have with the situation and what’s really weighing on my mind. 

Advanced Tarot Card Reading

While my neighbor and other more experienced card readers have more involved and advanced layouts that they like to use, I myself have not reached that level of mastery, but the book that came with my deck of tarot cards does have several advanced reading layouts that I can practice with. And while tuning into my own intuition is part of the magic, going to an experienced card reader for an advanced tarot reading is something that I would highly recommend, even if you have your own deck at home. 

The real magic with tarot cards, just like mediation, is tuning into yourself, sitting with situations and finding out how you really feel about them. If you think of tarot cards more as a mirror and less as a crystal ball, you’ll find that the answers are all there in front of you, just as they are all there inside of you as well. 

Delta 8 THC

Delta 8 THC

Is weed legal? Well, that question seems to become more and more complicated to answer with some states legalizing medical marijuana, some states legalizing recreational marijuana, and some states not legalizing any of it. And while the US federal government passed the Farm Bill of 2018 defining all hemp-derived cannabinoids and products with a Delta-9-THC level below 0.3 percent as legal, there still seems to be a lot of confusion about what is and isn’t against the law. 

Delta 8 THC vs Delta 9 THC

Marijuana plants contain over 100 different cannabinoids and the by far the most well-known, or rather the most infamous, is Delta 9 THC, the cannabinoid responsible for getting you “high”. According to the federal government Delta 9 THC is still considered a scheduled 1 substance, meaning it’s considered as illegal and dangerous as heroine or ecstasy ,and as crazy as it sounds, Delta 9 THC is considered more dangerous than methamphetamine or cocaine according to the DEA. But what about Delta 8 THC?

Delta 8 THC is an analog cannabinoid of Delta 9 and while the difference comes down to just a single carbon bond between the two cannabinoids, it makes a huge difference in the world of medicinal marijuana. And with that slight difference on a molecular level we see a very real difference in the effects that Delta 8 has on people. Delta 8 is known to be less anxiety-provoking, less sedating and leaves people more clear headed. In other words, it’s all the benefits of Delta 9 THC without any of the sometime negative side effects that the strong variant can produce. 

The issue of legality is still somewhat debated though as under the Farm Bill of 2018 cannabinoids derived from hemp plants, rather than marijuana plants which have a higher Delta 9 THC content, should be legal, it seems there are some people who still feel as though Delta 8 THC is gray area. 

Delta 8 THC Products

While there still seems to be some confusion concerning the full legality of Delta 8, just like CBD is legal and yet still struggling to be accepted on a full blown mainstream level, Delta 8 THC is picking up speed and the products available show that. Much like CBD, you can now find Delta 8 THC in vape form, in tinctures, as gummies, and even infused in beverages. Many stores are selling their range of products online so even if you find yourself in a state that has decided that Delta 8 is completely illegal, you may still be able to order and receive products from vendors in states where the laws are more open and progressive. 

If you’re still feeling a little confused about the difference between CBD, Delta 8, and Delta 9 THC, think of it like this: CBD is the mildest medicine available with the no psychotropic qualities, Delta 8 is stronger medicine with mild psychotropic qualities, and Delta 9 THC is the strongest medicine with the highest psychotropic properties. All of them can be beneficial when taken the proper way, it just depends on what it is you are hoping to achieve by consuming the medicine. 

What is CBD?

What Is CBD?

You’ve probably heard people talking about CBD at some point, but you might not be totally clear on what exactly it is. It’ become a major player in the world of health and wellness and while there is still much more to be discovered about CBD and what all of it’s benefits are, there are some things that we already know for sure. 

CBD vs THC

CBD is short for Cannabidiol, one of the more than 100 cannabinoids found in marijuana. THC, which you probably have also heard of, is the most famous cannabinoid and the one that makes you “high”. While CBD is a main active ingredient in marijuana, it doesn’t have the same effect as THC does, but it does have many benefits. And while CBD can be derived from the marijuana plant itself, it can also be derived from hemp plants, which are essentially marijuana plants with a lower THC content.

Benefits of CBD

Anti-Anxiety:

While THC can cause anxiety, CBD may be just the answer to combating it. In fact of the main reasons why CBD is gaining popularity is due to it’s calming effect and the non-addictive way it helps people deal with anxiety. After my mom passed away several years ago, I was an emotional wreck and didn’t even realize that I was in fact suffering from anxiety, something that I had never experienced before. I felt like something was always wrong, always about to go wrong, and it made sitting still, making plans, and simply existing down right impossible. A friend of mine who had at times used Xanax to deal with anxiety recommended I try CBD and see if that helped at all. I found some CBD infused honey and began to add them to my morning coffees. I didn’t feel anything. 

But that was just the thing: I didn’t anything. I didn’t feel the sense of panic or dread that at any moment something was going to go horribly wrong. Instead I felt an absence of panic, an absence of dread, an absence of anxiety. I was able to sit and read a book without having a breakdown, and I was able to slowly get back into routines without my mind running a mile a minute. I didn’t develop an addiction or dependency to the CBD-infused honey sticks, like can happen with Xanax and other anti-anxiety medications. Rather, when enough time and healing had taken place, I was able to stop using the honey in my morning coffee, though I know use a CBD oil tincture for cramps and discomfort around my menstruation. 

Sleep Aid:

Falling right in line with CBD as an anti-anxiety aide, it’s not hard to imagine how it can help relax the body and the mind to assist in a good night’s sleep. Anxiety and trouble sleeping can often go hand in hand and while you might be fine throughout the day, your brain can still kick up on you in the last moments before closing your eyes, suddenly reminding you of all things you were supposed to do back in 2005 that you ever got around to. If this is the case, a little CBD in your bedtime routine might be just the thing. 

Pain Reliever:

CBD can be an effective pain reliever especially for chronic pain and can help to reduce inflammation in the body. In a world where more and more people are being prescribed and becoming addicted to opioid pain relievers, CBD might be the answer to what is a growing and horrifying problem we’re facing. 

While there is still much to learn about the benefits of uses of CBD what we do know is that is a medicine we are remembering. A plant that we have used throughout of collective history, which was once referred, then vilified and now returning to the forefront of healing. 

Delta-8 Arrives to Wild Ginger Apothecary

What is Delta-8?

Delta-8 is found in cannabis and has a similar molecular structure to THC, with a much lower psychotropic potency.  You will feel a pleasant "buzz" but you won't feel “stoned.” Delta-8 does share some similarities with THC. Some report that it helps stimulate appetite, reduce nausea, help calm stress, and ease aches and pains. 

How does Delta-8 work?

Delta-8 is the hemp-derived CBD alternative that you can physically feel working in your body.

For many, it provides a total sense of well-being. Unlike CBD isolate that binds exclusively to the CB1 receptor, Delta-8 binds to both the CB1 and CB2 receptor, increasing its therapeutic efficacy.

How does Delta-8 compare to Delta-9 and CBD?

There are more than 100 cannabinoids present in the cannabis plant. While we have some foundational knowledge about the primary cannabinoids, delta-9-THC and cannabidiol (CBD), we know less about the secondary, or minor, cannabinoids.

Delta-8-THC is a minor cannabinoid, occurring in the plant in very small concentrations. Delta-8-THC is also known to be a degraded form of THC, and is not directly produced by cannabinoid-synthesizing enzymes within the plant. When THC is stored for a period of time, it degrades into delta-8-THC.

From a chemical or structural perspective, delta-8-THC differs from delta-9-THC due to the location of a critical chemical bond. Both delta-8 and delta-9-THC contain double bonds in their molecular chain. Delta-8-THC contains that bond on the 8th carbon chain, while delta-9-THC contains the bond on the 9th carbon chain. Although it’s a subtle difference, it has noticeable effects on how the body’s endocannabinoid receptors bind and respond to the molecule. 

In addition, delta-9-THC is less stable than delta-8-THC. Delta-9 THC is easily oxidized to become cannabinol (CBN) or delta-8-THC. Delta-8-THC is stable, does not oxidize to become cannabinol, and boasts a prolonged shelf life. Such stability is desirable in a medicinal compound. Delta-8-THC is also about half as strong as delta-9. 

Mechanism of Action 

Delta-8-THC binds to the CB1 receptor like delta-9-THC, but its affinity for the receptor is different due to its slightly altered molecular structure. The CB1 receptor is responsible for mediating most of the psychotropic effects of THC. 

This differential binding may be responsible for the reported clearer high with reduced anxiety, and greater ability to concentrate often associated with delta-8-THC. It’s possible that its unique molecular structure also impacts the chemical’s effects on other receptors and neural pathways.

New Item: Qwin Cartridges

Just in: Qwin’s Delta-8 Vape Cartridges. At only $45 for 1g, these are a great value to feel better! Cartridge They contain only whole-plant hemp extract (Δ8 derived from Cannabis Sativa L. lab-tested >0.3% Δ9 THC) and botanical terpenes.

Qwin’s Flavor Profiles:
Orange Squeeze: A sweet citrus flavor with a creative, upbeat experience. (Sativa)
Fruity Gangster: An earthy, lemon flavor with a happy, uplifted experience. (Sativa-dominant Hybrid)
Lychee-Do: A sweet and earthy citrus and berry flavor with a relieving and uplifting experience.  (Indica-Dominant Hybrid)
Rainbow Kush: A spicy, sweet fruity flavor with a pleasant, creative experience. (Indica-Dominant Hybrid)
Moonies: Our custom strain that has a grape and blueberry flavor with a soothing experience.  (Indica-Dominant Hybrid)

New item: Pur Sensory Gummies

What to know about Pūr8: The efficacy and stability of delta-8  make it an extremely valuable hemp-derived chemical compound. Pur8’s benefits and effects serve consumers of all types, and it illustrates the power of individual chemical constituents within hemp. As science defines and refines the applications for hemp’s eclectic collection of cannabinoids, we will benefit.

Dozens of Delta 8 Products in-store now! Come see us!

Spread Love Signs by local artist Brandon Thrift

We’re so thrilled to have local artist Brandon Thrift’s Spread Love Signs in-stock at Wild Ginger Apothecary! Brandon has become an inspirational force in Sarasota with his cheerful and bright art.

Spread Love

Based in Sarasota has brought some amazing collaborations with businesses, local landmarks, fellow artists and more.

Artist Brandon Thrift

As featured in The Observer, Brandon has been traveling around the United States, leaving his feel-good art wherever he lands!

Brandon Thrift knew his place in the world. 

He liked to make music and share that music with others. The 25-year old drummer would constantly get up on stage with his band and play to cheering crowds in Sarasota. 

That certainty ended along with group events in general when the pandemic arrived. Losing his main source of artistic expression was a blow to Thrift.

“There was a lot of downtime,” he said. "There was a lot of time to overthink and kind of mull in the darkness and, and let all of the negativity consume me … but creative expression will find a way regardless.”

He started exploring new outlets to showcase his creativity. It wasn’t long before he knew painting was the medium for him — he said it felt right.

"It was electric,” he said. “That connection is nonstop. You just want to do it forever and ever and you forget to eat and you forget to drink water.”

 His style of painting — originally abstract expressionism in the vein of Jackson Pollack — began to shift as Thrift explored. 

He realized he wanted to be more expressive with words, and have his art convey a feeling that would help people. The vessel for that came to him in a flash — “Spread Love”.

“It's two syllables, it's enrolled anybody can absorb that subconsciously or consciously,” Thrift said. “It's received theoretically 100% of people that see it.”

Thrift was already planning a nearly three-week road trip across the American Southwest, and decided to bring his message and art along with him, sharing it with as many people as he could.

The new artist has visited countless states across the country, leaving behind painted “Spread Love” signs at landmarks and hotspots. You might have seen his work painted across a tarp hung up in New Orleans, on a piece of wood overlooking the Grand Canyon, or on a surfboard left near a World War II bunker in California. He's left hundreds more.

He’s recently returned home, and says he’s been forever changed by the experience.

“It was a divine intervention of timing and purpose,” he said.

Thrift didn’t have a destination in mind when he set out on his trip on June 1, but he did have a direction. He drove through New Orleans, Texas, New Mexico, California, Oregon and Colorado over the course of more than 12,000 miles. In each city, he would stop at a Michael’s store to pick up paint supplies and find tables, desks, and furniture on Craiglist to break down and use as canvases. 

He preferred those makeshift canvases as a way to recycle things that would be tossed away anyway. Some were small pieces of wood while others were large tarps he would hang in New Orleans. He’d research where he was traveling ahead of time and place them in photographic areas or places with high foot traffic

Thrift would create these works in parking lots and parks all over the Southwest, and was able to get a batch of signs painted and finished in around five hours if the weather permitted. People would often walk up to him to see what he was doing, and they would trade stories. Thrift said that sense of connection was one of his favorite parts of his trip.

"There was this little girl whose father I stayed with and she was you could tell in her eyes," Thrift said. "That she was so inspired by what I was doing. How much was just you could see her beaming at at the thought of what an impact it could potentially make."

He returned home June 23 and feels he's come a long way. His initial trip was just that — the first in additional trips to spread his message to other parts of the country. Thrift is brainstorming a trip up the east coast in the future. 

“I think it’s moved me but it’s also motivated me to do so much more and see what’s out there,” Thrift said. “This is a never ending project.”

Spread Love Signs

Stop in for your own Spread Love sign at Wild Ginger. We have small canvases available for $25! Then follow Brandon’s journey and artistic creations via his Instagram: @artbybrandonthrift!

Questions To Ask When Buying CBD

We’ve just welcomed Moon Mother Hemp to our Wild Ginger Apothecary CBD lineup! We love this tasty, affordable, women-owned, Certified Organic CBD company. Below is some of their advice for questions to ask when buying CBD. Stop in to try a sample of their oils next time you’re in!

What questions should you ask when buying CBD?

We know it can feel daunting to find CBD products you feel comfortable purchasing.

Here’s a quick list of questions to help you feel empowered when selecting quality CBD:

Are the products made with certified organic hemp?⠀

This is one of the most important  questions to ask when buying CBD. What is the quality of the hemp used? Because hemp is a bioaccumulator it takes up any toxins in the soil. Hemp that’s not grown in certified organic soil, can transfer toxins to the consumer. At Moon Mother, we sun grow our own certified organic hemp in Boulder, CO.

What extraction method is used?⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Extraction is how raw hemp material turns into refined, easy to use products. Look for companies that avoid extraction with harsh solvents involving hydrocarbons. Seek brands that opt for CO2, alcohol or lipid infusion methods. Because we care to preserve the beneficial plant properties, energetics included, we opt for clean CO2 extraction in our full spectrum CBD.

Are third party testing reports readily available to review?

CBD is not currently regulated by the FDA. Therefore, tests performed on end products by third party sites are an indicator of transparency and help to ensure that what you’re buying is in the bottle.

A Certificate of Analysis report shows product purity, presence of heavy metals, pesticides, microbes, as well as potency! You’ll find them under the ‘About’ tab of their website.

Above all, we encourage you to take your time, do your research and reach out to our team if you have questions about incorporating CBD into your lifestyle!

Healing Crystals and Stones

Tumbled Crystals and Stones A-Z!

We are a trusted source for crystals and stones from around the world. We have hundreds of tumbled stones that are pocket-size for healing or intention work. Tumbled stones are small, rounded, brightly polished pieces of rocks and minerals. They are made by placing raw or rough rocks in a machine called a rock tumbler, which tumbles them until their edges and surfaces are smooth and polished.

A few of our favorites…

Amazonite
Amethyst
Angelite
Apache Tears
Aquamarine
Aura Quartz (Blue or Gold)
Aventurine
Banded Agate
Black Onyx
Black Tourmaline
Blue Lace Agate
Calcite (Green)
Carnelian
Celestide
Chalcedony
Chrysocolla
Chrysoprase
Chrysoprase
Citron
Citrine
Clear Quartz
Crazy Lace Agate
Dalmatian
Epidote
Fluorite
Garnet
Hematite
Howlite
Jasper (Red)
Jasper (Ocean)
Jasper (Picture)
Jet
Kyanite
Labradorite
Lapis
Lepodolite
Malachite
Mookite
Moonstone
Obsidian
Onyx
Opalite
Pyrite
Rhodonite
Rose Quartz
Ruby Zoisite
Rutilated Quartz
Selenite
Serpentine
Smoky Quartz
Sodalite
Sunstone
Tiger's Eye
Unakite

Raw + Specimen Stones

We offer numerous hand-selected raw stones and rough cut stones, gems and minerals.

What is a raw gemstone? An uncut un-shaped gemstone of gem grade is called 'rough'. It is how the stone is found in its natural form, often in the ground, just as mother nature created it. They are also called raw gems but the ‘proper’ name is rough.

Crystal Points

Crystal points are favorites for intention boards and grids. Crystal points essentially reveal which direction the crystal energy flows from. In addition, the points on a crystal foster our ability to focus and gain mental clarity. Simply put, crystal points direct energy inward or outward and enhance the healing properties of a crystal.

Quartz points are a wonderful addition to any crystal collection and a must-have for crystal healing. They can consist of naturally straight crystal points with either a single or double termination. Quartz points are believed to focus the energy of the crystal and can be used as healing and cleansing tools.

Tarot for Bachelorette Parties, Bridal Showers and Weddings: In-Person or Virtual!

Book your Tarot Readings for Bachelorette Parties, Bridal Shower or Wedding with our professional readers. We can schedule in-person at a location of your choice, in-store or studio at Wild Ginger Apothecary, or virtual for your group! The perfect addition to your event in Sarasota or Siesta Key.

Minimum 2 hour booking for private events. Feel free to contact us for event coordinating ideas.

Tarot for Bachelorette Parties

Start your celebratory night with group or individual Tarot Readings! You can host at Wild Ginger Apothecary alongside a private yoga or meditation, or even BYOB and games. Or we can come to your location of choice — your home, hotel, bar or restaurant! (Or ask us for local ideas!)

Tarot for Bridal Showers and Bridal Parties

Mix up the luncheon with Tarot Readings for your Bridal Shower! You can arrange as a gallery group reading or schedule private 15 minute readings for each attendee!

Tarot for Girls Night Out

Looking for a different Girls Night Out? Schedule a reader and an after-hours private party at Wild Ginger or the location of your choice! You can even BYOB and arrange catered appetizers or dinner!

Tarot for Weddings

Keep your guests entertained with an option to the dance floor! Our reader(s) can come to your Wedding Reception for as little as 2 hours to provide insightful readings or your wedding guests or party.