How Lightning Sparked a Movement ~ Mother Island Botanicals Begins

Awakened by Lightning: The Story Behind Mother Island Botanicals

They say lightning never strikes the same place twice — but once was enough to change everything.

Mother Island Botanicals was born from a moment of raw, electric awakening. A near-lethal lightning strike became the spark that reignited my purpose: to blend ancient herbal wisdom with modern botanical science — and help others heal, naturally.

We expertly weave together time-honored plant medicine and contemporary research to craft vibrant teas, tisanes, herbal formulas, and natural body care. Every product reflects our commitment to Certified Organic, non-GMO, Fair Trade, and sustainably sourced botanicals. 

Roots That Run Deep

My journey began long before that storm. I was blessed to grow up among Elders — herbalists, midwives, and energy healers — who taught me how to listen to plants and to the quiet intelligence of the earth.

I remember herbs hanging from rafters, the scent of sage and chamomile in the air, and evenings by the fire learning the stories of Mother Island — our small blue-green planet and her vast web of life.

Those early teachings shaped my belief that true wellness is holistic — body, mind, emotion, and spirit in harmony. The healing power of nature became my compass, leading me across mountains, deserts, and oceans in search of the world’s most respected healing traditions.

Science Meets Spirit

My path led me to formal studies in psychology, naturopathic wellness, clinical herbal medicine, aromatherapy, and therapeutic nutrition. I spent years in private practice as both a family therapist and a holistic herbalist — always listening, always learning from both people and plants.

Even while helping families heal emotional wounds, I’d find myself in wild meadows gathering herbs — what I lovingly call “fields of formulas.” Mother Nature has a way of arranging her botanicals by purpose: a patch for liver health here, a grove for immune strength there.

That harmony between nature’s intuition and modern research inspired the foundation of Mother Island Botanicals. Every blend, every drop, every jar reflects that union — crafted with knowledge, infused with heart.

The Path Forward

Today, I continue to create herbal formulas and teach others — from herbalists and naturopathic doctors to nutritionists, nurses, and veterinarians — about the art and science of botanical healing.

Through Mother Island Botanicals, we share the wisdom of nature in practical, beautiful, and effective ways.

Our mission is simple: to make everyday wellness both attainable and sacred — a reconnection to the healing rhythms of our living planet.

Life is a journey of discovery and resilience. We’re honored to walk this path with you — offering the very best of the earth’s apothecary for your body, your home, and your spirit.

In the highest light, life, and love —
Portia and Our Mother Island Crew, Healing ourselves, healing the planet — since 1980.