Unearthing Ancestral Wisdom: How Lucretia Vandyke’s African American Herbalism Revitalizes Soap and Candle Crafting on Long Island .

When the scent of fresh rosemary mingles with the amber glow of a hand‑poured candle, the experience can feel like a bridge between past and present. In the lush landscape of Long Island’s artisanal communities, a new generation of makers is turning to the pages of "African American Herbalism" by Lucretia Vandyke to anchor their creations in centuries‑old traditions. The book isn’t simply a reference; it’s a living guide that blends planetary correspondences, cultural narratives, and practical recipes for herbal soap recipes and candle rituals Long Island creators crave.



What makes this herbalism book for artisan soap and body oils stand out is its unapologetic focus on African American heritage. Vandyke weaves stories of enslaved women who tended communal gardens, of herbal healers who whispered blessings over boiling cauldrons, and of modern mystics who harness those same botanicals for self‑care rituals. The result is a roadmap that feels both scholarly and intimately personal, providing a foundation for anyone who wishes to embed deeper meaning into their product lines.



One of the most compelling sections is the planetary correspondences and herbal candle making guide. Here, readers learn how each moon phase, each planetary ruler, can be paired with specific herbs to amplify intentions. For example, a candle infused with lavender and frankincense, lit during a Virgo new moon, can be used to invite clarity and purification—perfect for a boutique focusing on holistic wellness. The guide doesn’t just list correspondences; it explains the cultural origins of each pairing, allowing artisans to honor the lineage while customizing their own rituals.



Beyond candles, Vandyke delivers a treasure trove of natural body oil blends from African American herbalism.