Complementary Therapies: How to “Spike” an Herb

A Touch of Herbal Therapy

Okay so in my first post about sage I promised I would show you what a “spike” is and how to use it—here you go!
A spike is simply a way to access the aromatic constituents of a plant. I use a spike when walking to take a break from a stressful situation, before and after a difficult counseling session, and if I’m in the city and want to mentally slow down. As part of counseling I might use a spike if my client feels trapped by anxiety and cant get out of their circular thoughts  and emotions long enough to work on them in session. I also might ask a couple in marital counseling to try it if they are so angry that they are unable to respond productively to each other.
It is simple enough that my 7 year old frequently spikes a plant and shares it with me when hiking around Rexburg. Not all of my kids are into it but a few of them are and it is fun to see them get excited about how to self-heal while getting to know the wonderful resources in our area.

Steps to Creating an Herbal Spike

Step 1, pick up the herb and place it between your thumb and index figure.

Step 1

I like to smell it to see what it smells like before I spike it so you might want to smell it and get an idea what you are dealing with before Step 2.
Step 2, crumple it up so that it is in a ball that can be easily smashed and rolled by your figures.

Step 2

Step 3, hold it to your nose and smell it while your smash and roll it between your figures.

Step 3

I hope this was helpful and please give us a call or schedule an appointment (individual counseling, marital counseling, herbal therapy, and yoga) if you think we can assist you in your wellness journey.
Take care and be well,

Luke Einerson, LAMFT, AFC
Doctoral Candidate
Certified Herbalist
www.IntegratedCounselingandWellness.com

Warning: This and all of my online posts should not be construed as medical advice. I view my online posts regarding herbs as a form of community herbalism designed to educate folks on local herbs and potential uses—nothing more. Just like anything used in excess or ignorance, herbs can be harmful to your health if not used properly. Especially if your current medications and state of physical and mental health are not considered. If you are not 100% sure of an herbs safety please see a trained herbalist or take the time to get educated to better understand the herbs contraindications.