Everything the first shelf needs — nothing it doesn't

The beginner home apothecary checklist

The whole trick of starting is starting small: one shelf, a dozen jars, and a first afternoon of making. Here is the honest list — plus the pocket-sized version for travel.

Dried herbs

  • Chamomilethe evening cup
  • Peppermintafter meals
  • Elderberrycold season
  • Calendulasalves & skin
  • Lavenderrest & linens
  • Ginger rootwarmth
  • Nettledaily minerals
  • Thymesteams

Kitchen staples

  • Raw honey
  • Apple cider vinegar
  • Garlic & onion
  • Lemons
  • Cinnamon & turmeric

Tools of the trade

  • Glass jars, wide-mouth
  • Amber dropper bottles
  • Fine tea strainer
  • Mortar & pestle
  • Muslin bags
  • Labels & a pen
  • Small funnel

First preparations

  • Honey-ginger infusion
  • Elderberry syrup
  • Garlic honey
  • Chamomile evening tea
  • Lavender sleep sachet

The travel apothecary

The tin

  • Ginger tea bagsfor the road
  • Chamomile bagsfor strange beds
  • Peppermint bagsfor strange food

The extras

  • Honey sticksairport tea rescue
  • Epsom minishotel baths
  • A small balmone jar, many jobs

Keep this one — and get early access.

Steepie is a cozy little web app for your home apothecary: recipes, ratios, and a place to keep the ones you love. Join the beta waitlist and we’ll send the printable checklist along with your invite.

A spot at the kitchen table, just for you.

Early access to the beta. A welcome now, a little news later.

Steepie shares traditional and educational information about herbs and home rituals. It isn’t medical advice, and it’s no substitute for a professional when one is needed.