The herbalism community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of John Gallagher, co-owner of LearningHerbs and a trailblazing figure in the world of herbal education.
John passed away after a courageous battle with stress, depression, insomnia, and anxiety. His passing has left a profound void in the hearts of countless students, colleagues, and friends who were touched by his generosity, warmth, and passion for the healing power of plants.
John Gallagher was more than an educator—he was a visionary. His contributions to modern herbal education helped usher in a new era of accessibility, creativity, and community.
He pioneered the first virtual herbal mentorship program of its kind, enabling people across the globe to study herbalism from the comfort of their homes. Through LearningHerbs, the platform he co-founded, John built a thriving hub for herbalists of all backgrounds to learn, connect, and grow.
His work didn’t stop with online courses. John also created an innovative herbalism board game designed to spark curiosity and joy in younger generations, making the learning of herbal traditions engaging and fun.
His podcast featured voices from all corners of the herbal world—students, teachers, authors, and plant medicine practitioners—fostering a deep appreciation for the many perspectives within the herbal community.
John had a unique ability to teach in a way that was not only informative but empowering. He left space for curiosity, intuition, and personal exploration, helping learners forge their own relationships with plants and healing traditions.
His teachings reached millions around the world, and it is no exaggeration to say that the herbal community as we know it today would not exist without his enduring contributions.
But beyond his groundbreaking work, John Gallagher will be remembered for who he was: a kind, gentle soul with a generous heart and an unwavering belief in the goodness of people and plants.
Friends and colleagues alike describe him as a mentor, a collaborator, and above all, a dear friend who brought joy and hope to every interaction. “For those who haven’t heard the sad news, John Gallagher of LearningHerbs has passed,” one colleague wrote.
“Heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones.” Messages like this have poured in from around the world, testifying to the love and admiration so many held for John.
His death is a sobering reminder that even those who bring light and healing into the lives of others may silently struggle with their own burdens. John’s openness about mental health in his final years is a call for greater compassion, awareness, and care for those fighting invisible battles.
As we remember John, we also celebrate a life lived with purpose. His work lives on in every herbal class taken through LearningHerbs, in every listener of his podcast, in every young learner inspired by his board game, and in every home apothecary nurtured by his wisdom.
John Gallagher’s legacy is not only one of knowledge but of kindness, creativity, and deep connection—with nature, with community, and with the heart.
May his memory continue to be a source of inspiration, and may we honor his life by continuing to spread the healing power of plants with the same warmth and generosity that defined his life.
He will be deeply missed, and forever remembered.
