We love herbs. That’s why we’re here, taking classes and making teas and generally delighting in their wonderfulness. But these plants don’t materialize into our hands, magic though they be. They arrive in our lives via a complex web of cultivation, crafting, and commerce.

Herbalism is an industry like any other, and it involves a network of people and ecosystems. As we buy & learn & interact with this complex web, it is crucial that we are aware, mindful and compassionate. Each purchase that we make, each word that we utter, carries power.

In this class, we will learn to use that power for good. We will explore issues in the herbal industry, from endangered plants to modern farming practices to the challenge of learning from other cultures without being appropriative.

These are urgent, important topics. If we do not protect the plants and the people who care for them, they will not be here to help & heal us in the ways that we’ve come to love.

We will explore:

• Use of sacred plants such as white sage and palo santo

• Compassionately working with traditional practices — the balance of privilege & respect

• How to use essential oils sustainably

• “At-Risk” Medicinal Plants — who they are and how you can help

• Sustainable consumption of medicinal mushrooms

• Perspectives on the importance of locally-grown plants — both ecological & energetic

• Resources for purchasing local & sustainably-grown herbs & herbal products

The “takeaway” for this class is a farm-grown herbal burning bundle, along with plenty of resources for sustainable consumption.

Monday, February 25th, 7:00-9:00pm

Sliding Scale: $35-$45

Pre-registration is required. Please register at least 8 hrs in advance.