February 27 Blog 2
There’s a story steeped in every cup of tea at Up the Hill at Loakin—a tale of tradition, community, and the quiet power of nature. For June, the certified herbalist and founder behind this First Nations-owned business, botanical teas are more than blends; they’re a bridge between ancestral wisdom and modern wellness.
Rooted in Tradition
June’s journey began with her ancestors, as she learned about the ancient cultural practices and the wisdom of the plants. She also learned under the guidance of a medical herbalist, where she learned to honor plants as living allies. “Botanical teas use the entire plant—roots, leaves, berries—to create something greater than the sum of its parts,” she explains. Unlike mass-produced teas, each blend at Up the Hill is crafted with ingredients harvested from the wild landscapes of British Columbia. The Saskatoon Green Tea, for instance, combines antioxidant-rich green tea with wild Saskatoon berries, a staple in Indigenous diets for centuries.
Teas with a Purpose
Every blend has a story:
- Moontime Tea: Created to support women during menstruation, this tea blends cramp bark, ginger, and chamomile. “It’s about honoring the body’s natural rhythms,” June says.
- Immune Boosting Tea: Born during the COVID-19 pandemic, this blend was crafted at the request of a First Nations community. It features yarrow (to break fevers) and elderberry (antiviral), offering a natural shield during flu season.
- Rose Petal Blend: A sensory escape, this tea uses petals handpicked from local gardens. “It’s like sipping on sunshine,” June laughs.
Community and Sustainability
June’s work is deeply tied to her community. She partners with Indigenous harvesters to gather nettle, rosehips, and other plants, ensuring ethical practices. “When you sip our teas, you’re tasting the land and the care of those who nurture it,” she says.
A Cup of Connection
For June, tea is a ritual of connection—to the earth, to heritage, and to others. “When I blend teas, I think of the hands that planted, harvested, and shared these plants long before me,” she reflects.
Explore our teas and their stories. Each purchase supports Indigenous harvesters and keeps tradition alive.
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