Paul Strauss, renowned herbalist, wildcrafter, and inspiration to herbal students and professionals all over the country, is the subject of a new independent film, The Sanctity of Sanctuary, produced and directed by Blis DeVault.
Born in New York, Strauss’ life eventually led him to Rutland, Ohio, in the foothills of Appalachia, where he rehabilitated land left bare by mining. Paul was integral in creating the United Plant Savers Sanctuary to preserve endangered medicinal plants.
At 19, Strauss was adopted by a Native American family, inspiring and cultivating his relationship with nature and the earth. Today, with over 40 years of farming experience and extensive knowledge of indigenous herbal plants, Strauss is called on by herbalists from all over the world for his expertise, and he continues to hold classes on his 300-acre organic farm.
In her film, DeVault illustrates Strauss’ love affair with his farm and his passion to make the earth a better place to live. The film inspires sustainable living, and highlights the concept of conscious rehabilitation of the earth.