The Farm Apothecary: Beginner Herbalism

This beginner-friendly class introduces the foundations of herbal energetics — the traditional way herbalists understand how plants interact with the whole person. Rather than memorizing remedies, you will learn how to think like an herbalist: observing the body, understanding plant qualities, and matching herbs to individual needs.
Together we will explore the history and theory of herbal medicine and learn about key herbal actions such as diaphoretic, expectorant, stimulant, and nervine herbs. You will also learn the three primary energetic qualities used in herbalism — temperature, moisture, and tone — and how to recognize them through taste, season, plant characteristics, and where and how a plant grows.
We will discuss how the body presents in both wellness and illness and how warming or cooling herbs can be used to support common conditions such as colds and fevers.
Participants will work directly with a variety of herbs including chamomile, mint, thyme, cinnamon, marshmallow, licorice, and dandelion. Herbs are sourced from local farms: Ancient Herbals (Shirland, IL) and Third Great Farm (Pecatonica, IL).
By the end of the workshop, you will:
Understand the basics of herbal energetics
Gain confidence selecting herbs for everyday wellness
Learn how to support the body during illness
Develop a sensory relationship with medicinal plants
Each participant will create and take home their own custom herbal blend along with printed notes for future reference.
No prior experience is necessary — just curiosity and a willingness to taste, smell, and learn.