The time to start herbal classes has come and here is a schedule of all classes to be given by Vicki L. Vosburg, Master Herbalist.  Come and learn about the world of herbs and how we can make them work for us!  Sip some tea, take some notes, join in making some of the herbal preparations.  We’ll have a great time!

All classes must be pre-paid, so hurry and get your money in to secure your reservations.  These classes will be held at The Herb Pantry. All classes will be held on Saturday mornings starting at 9am.  Some classes will end at 11am and others will end at 12pm, so be sure and check what class you interested in.

Herbal teas and water will be available for you.  All classes have hand-outs with information on the subject at hand and recipes, if applicable. 

Vicki, the Master Herbalist, will be giving information on Western herbs and their interaction with the body.  Please bring paper and pen or pencil for taking notes.


Note:  The herbal medicine should only be taken under the supervision o a trained, credentialed Herbalist.  These classes are not designed to diagnose conditions nor to prescribe medicines, but rather to inform students of the possibilities herbs offer to help the body heal itself, or keep itself in a state of health.

Herbal Class

Schedule for 2010 / 2011

Anti-Inflammatories & Anti-Depressants

November 6, 2010    Saturday 9am to 11am    $17.00 per person

It goes without saying that everyone gets the blues from time to time.  Depression that won’t let up, however, is a serious disorder.  For Anti-Inflammatories, let’s talk about the herbs that we can use that will work with the body not against it.
With this class we will discuss the Herbal Category of Diuretics:  These are herbs used to eliminate excess fluid, aid the process of detoxification through the kidneys and treat urinary infections.

Herbal Tonics for Chronic Ailments

December 11, 2010    Saturday 9am to 11am    $17.00 per person

For chronic symptoms that drag on or come and go, a different set of herbs are appropriate – the tonics.  Learn about the stimulating tonics and the nourishing tonics, when to use them and for what ailments.
With this class we will discuss the Herbal category of Aromatic Stomachic’s:  This category treats digestive disturbances associated with phlegm and fluid congestion in the abdomen.

Stress Management

January 15, 2011    Saturday 9am to 11am    $17.00 per person

As the pace of modern life continues to speed up, and we are exposed to toxins in the air, water and food that sustain us, many people feel increasingly stressed.  This stress takes its toll on our health, back and neck pain, and digestive disturbances can be caused or worsened by stress.  Emotionally, stress can cause anxiety, depression, and other unhealthy states.  Herbal medicine offers effective, safe remedies for these ailments and for the stress that underlies them.  This class will present herbal strategies for managing stress and for preventing or treating its possible effects.
With this class we will go over the Herbal Category on Sedative and Nervines:  The Chinese medicine has two classes of sedatives.  The first is stronger sedative, or tranquilizers.  The second consists of mild sedative herbs, and Western herbal medicine have “nervines” which fall between the two categories above.

Herbal Remedies that Relieve Pain

February 12, 2011    Saturday 9am to 11am    $17.00 per person

Herbal treatments for pain include formulas to be taken internally, as well as salves and poultices, which are applied topically.  In this class we will discuss the underlying mechanism of pain, and present treatment options for a wide variety of painful conditions, including headache, back pain, arthritis, and fibromyalgia.
Additional to this class is information on Herbal Category of Substances for Topical Application:  These substances are mainly toxic minerals and herbs used topically for parasites, swelling, pain, injuries, bleeding, inflammation and the healing of skin lesions.

Hormonal Balancing

March 19, 2011    Saturday 9am to 11am    $17.00 per person

Herbal remedies and dietary changes can safely treat symptoms of hormonal imbalances, without side effects.  Many symptoms related to under- or over- active thyroid function can be treated with herbs.
Premenstrual symptoms can also be treated with herbal medicine: cramping, mood swings, bloating, and fatigue can all be managed with herbs.  Menopause symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia and poor memory also respond well to herbal remedies, which treat both the symptoms and their underlying causes.
Along with this class we will be going over the Herbal Category of Laxatives: Herbs in this category increase elimination and regulate colon function.

Arthritis

April 9, 2011        Saturday 9am to 11am    $17.00 per person

Arthritis is an inflammation of the joints and is an ailment of the body that is an old chronic condition.  There are many forms of arthritis and we will discuss them.  Learn which herbs are used to help with the pain of this ailment and how to prevent it and take care of it.
With this class we will discuss the Herbal Category of Stimulants:  Herbal stimulants are used to raise the general vitality of the body.

Making Salves and Oil Infusions

May 14, 2011        Saturday 9am to 12pm    $30.00 per person

No matter how good that commercial salve is, none will compare with the herbal salves you make quickly and inexpensively at home.  We will start with making oil infusions which is the precursor to herbal salves.  Then continue on to making salves.  We will make a few different kinds so that you can take home a small container of each.  All product and containers will be provided.

Making Tinctures

June 11, 2011        Saturday 9am to 12pm    $30.00 per person

Tinctures are a fluid extract of a plant.  The use of this form of herbal medicine is the fastest way to get an herb into the body…under the tongue.  It goes directly into the bloodstream.  And for some ailments that is exactly what we need!  Learn how to make Tinctures to put into your own medicine cabinet.  We will be making an alcohol based tincture and a glycerin/water base tincture.  You will need to bring two 1 gallon clear glass jars and all other items will be provided.