I’ve heard lots of different opinions on the use of AI over the past year. Is it going to revolutionize society? Maybe. But I have not been convinced that it will do so in a way that will benefit humanity, and I am even more skeptical about its impact on the natural world.

There are so many aspects to this conversation, but I have recently put my thoughts together about why I think the use of generative AI is at odds with the practice of herbalism. You can read that free post over on my Patreon page here.

What I didn’t say in that post is that we have a growing body of evidence that suggests the more we use generative AI, the worse our critical thinking gets (here is an article from Time). When we pair this with the fact that AI is often used to spread misleading or false information, it is obvious we are setting ourselves up for trouble.

Please be aware that in these times, our ability to question and be discerning is so important. Learning how to safely and competently practice herbalism takes time, study, and learning from those who came before (whether through books or classes). There are no shortcuts. And if we turn over our own ability to think about how we use herbalism in our lives to AI, can we even call ourselves herbalists?

There are so many layers to this onion. For me, I choose to use my own skills in my practice and preserve my relationships with the plants and the teachers that I have learned from.

Speaking of learning from teachers, there is still time to join my Post-Menopausal Wellness class this Saturday. Click the button below to register and reserve your spot. Or join my Patreon before Friday and get the class as part of your subscription!

I am also doing a Free Group Coaching Session with Cathy Skipper on January 15th. Come with your questions about holistic menopause, or just come to listen. Here’s the link to reserve your spot.

Keep making good medicine. And keep it human.

In good medicine,

April