Unlocking Wellness Through Nature: Zibby Allen’s Journey to Health, Herbs, and Holistic Healing

Zibby Allen sits in her cosy living room in Scotland as she shares with me her personal wellbeing journey. Known to many as the charismatic Brie on Netflix’s Virgin River, Zibby’s journey encompasses far more than acting. Recently, she has taken on a new role as a health advocate, becoming well versed in herbs after managing her own complex health issues with natural remedies. Her story invites us to discover the power of herbal medicine, gentle remedies that nature provides.

Zibby’s inspiring journey uncovers how she overcame challenging diagnoses like Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) and adenomyosis, all while embracing the healing properties of herbs like nettle, oregano oil, fennel, and Scotland’s native bog myrtle. Through Zibby’s story, we explore the restorative potential of plants and the unexpected paths they can open for a more holistic and healthy life.

Embracing Herbalism as a Lifeline

Zibby’s journey into herbalism began with her health. After years of discomfort and elusive symptoms, she was eventually diagnosed with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS). “MCAS is a complex syndrome where the body’s mast cells react aggressively to everyday stimuli, including food and environmental elements,” Zibby explains. With mast cells being a crucial part of our immune system, their overactivation can lead to a myriad of symptoms, from digestive issues to skin problems and even pain associated with other conditions like adenomyosis.

Zibby’s journey toward a diagnosis of MCAS was not immediate. At the onset, she faced countless dead-ends in conventional medicine, which had no clear answers for her worsening health. The pain was soon identified as adenomyosis, a condition similar to endometriosis where uterine lining cells grow within the muscle walls of the uterus, causing intense pain and sometimes affecting fertility. “I realised that, as women, we’re often told that menstrual pain is just ‘part of life.’ But adenomyosis and endometriosis are serious, and they deserve more awareness.”

Her pivot toward herbal medicine was sparked by a serendipitous conversation with a family friend who introduced her to the concept of MCAS. Soon, Zibby began a deep dive into self-education, learning that an anti-inflammatory diet and histamine regulation might ease her symptoms. Then, something unusual happened: “I actually started dreaming about herbs,” she shares with a laugh. “At first, I thought I was just desperate for answers, but the dreams felt like a gentle nudge from somewhere deeper, guiding me to explore herbal remedies.”

Discovering Healing Herbs: Nettle, Fennel, Oregano Oil, and Bog Myrtle

One of the first herbs Zibby tried was nettle, which she describes as a “herbal powerhouse.” Known for its anti-inflammatory and antihistamine effects, nettle is renowned for supporting immune health, reducing allergy symptoms, and replenishing nutrients due to its high vitamin and mineral content. “I love nettle so much, and it’s honestly one of the most versatile herbs I’ve come across.” she notes. Zibby uses nettle in various ways—mostly in tea, but also in tinctures and cold brews that nourish her body and calm her symptoms.

Scotland, Zibby’s second home, introduced her to an intriguing herb called bog myrtle. Native to Scottish boglands, this herb has historically been used for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. “Bog myrtle is like Scotland’s secret wellness weapon. It’s been a huge support for me, especially when dealing with inflammation,” she explains. Rich in antioxidants, bog myrtle is also known for its skin benefits, helping to soothe irritation and promote a radiant complexion.

In addition to nettle and bog myrtle, she relies on other staples, such as oregano oil and fennel. Oregano oil, a potent antimicrobial, is her go-to for warding off infections, especially when she’s travelling. “I don’t leave home without it,” she laughs. It’s her immune booster in a bottle, ready to take on any travel bug. Meanwhile, fennel’s calming effects on digestion and its ability to balance blood sugar levels make it a staple in her daily wellness routine.

By making these herbs part of her routine, Zibby has found gentle but effective ways to support her body through the inevitable challenges of a busy life.

Crafting Wellness Rituals

One of Zibby’s favourite herbal practices is creating cold brews of medicinal teas, especially during busy filming schedules. “I’m a tea drinker now, through and through,” she says. But these days, Zibby’s cold brews are a bit different. She prepares nutrient-rich teas from herbs like nettle, raspberry leaf, and fennel, which she brews overnight for a refreshing, nutrifying drink.

For immune support, especially during the colder months, Zibby creates traditional tinctures with high-potency alcohol, which extract and preserve the medicinal properties of herbs like echinacea and elderberry.“It’s such a simple way to carry a bit of herbal support wherever I go.”

However, her daily herbal practices are not limited to self-care. Zibby often makes customised teas and tinctures for her friends and co-stars, addressing everything from sleep issues to skincare. “It brings me joy to create something nourishing for them, and they love the gentle healing that herbs provide.”

Bridging Modern Medicine and Natural Remedies

For Zibby, the journey with herbs has taught her that modern medicine and natural remedies can go hand-in-hand. In fact, her current MCAS specialist was surprised by how well she had managed her own symptoms through herbal remedies, noting that her approach was highly effective.

She believes this dual approach can empower others to seek balance in their own lives. While conventional medicine offers diagnostics and acute care, Zibby feels that herbalism nurtures her body’s long-term wellness. “Herbs are about alignment, tuning in with the rhythms of the earth and your own body. They’ve taught me how to listen to myself more closely,” she reflects.

Cultivating Connection with “I Like You Very Much”

Alongside her advocacy for wellness, Zibby celebrates another form of connection—friendship—through her podcast I Like You Very Much, which she co-hosts with close friend and Virgin River co-star, Alexandra Breckenridge. “Alex and I share a deep, friendship bond,” Zibby says. “The podcast grew from our desire to celebrate that friendship and explore those same bonds with others.”

This intimate podcast, available on most major platforms, explores topics like friendship, wellness, and emotional connection. Each episode reflects Zibby’s personal philosophy: that close relationships, much like herbalism, can nurture and heal. A portion of the podcast’s profits also support Save the Children, reflecting Zibby’s commitment to giving back.

“Friendships need just as much nurturing as the body does,” Zibby shares. “Alex and I want to remind listeners that connection is medicine, too. It’s just as important as any tincture or tea you could drink.”

Beyond her work on Virgin River—which is set to release its sixth season on 19 December, with a seventh season now confirmed—Zibby is immersed in projects that showcase her passion for authentic, female-driven narratives. Alongside her podcast, she’s been quietly producing and developing new stories that explore the resilience and complexity of women’s lives. One of these projects is a film set in Greece about two sisters forced to reconcile their estranged relationship following their mother’s passing—a story, she says, that’s “just stunning” in its exploration of familial bonds. She’s also secured the rights to a true story about three women in the early 1900s who defied Victorian norms, embarking on an audacious journey to Santa Fe to carve out lives on their own terms. Zibby is committed to bringing such rich, women-centered stories to life, balancing this creative work alongside her dedication to natural wellness, herbalism, and her growing podcast audience.

Taking the First Step: An Invitation to Explore Herbal Wellness

For those curious about herbalism, Zibby’s simple approach to herbs like nettle, fennel, or ginger are inspiring. You don’t have to know everything to start. Just try a cup of nettle tea or add oregano oil to your wellness routine. Herbs are gentle but powerful. They meet you where you are and grow with you.

Zibby’s journey illustrates the power of nature, resilience, and self-awareness in creating a balanced, healthy life. Her experiences show that while healing may sometimes seem elusive, there are countless remedies available in the plants around us. Whether through a warming cup of tea, a nourishing tincture, or a simple cold brew, nature offers an array of ways to connect, heal, and thrive.

As we end our conversation, we reflected on both her podcast and her herbal journey: Herbalism is a journey, one that asks you to be patient, to slow down, and to listen. I think that’s where the magic lies.

Photo Credit: Corinne Moffat