Historically, Appalachia Granny Women were the midwives and healers in the Appalachia when doctors were few. They combined their own folk remedies with the herbal remedies they learned from the neighboring Cherokee.
Mary has splendid gardens filled with herbs and flowers that she uses in her remedies and teas. There is almost never a time when you see her that she doesn't have at least one gathering bag around her with her botanicals. She is always prepared should someone need a little help, or even just a smile and hug.