Session II : Advanced Herbal Science

Another multidimensional approach to the study of herbalism, this 252 hour course will expand upon the themes covered in Level 1, this time concentrating on specific health conditions, relevant herbal activities, and classroom case studies. Students will continue to expand their Material Medica as a more thorough investigation of plant constituent groups will be covered. Safe and responsible practice will be addressed as we explore herb-drug interactions and commStudents will continue to expand their Material Medica as a more thorough investigation of plant constituent groups will be covered. Safe and responsible practice will be addressed as we explore herb-drug interactions and common contraindications. Profiles in Herbal Businesses will inspire future professionals. A thorough study of flower essences will be presented.

This course will also introduce the art of herbal formulation through a “hands on” Herbal Remedies Lab. Healer, Heal Thyself will be the underlying theme of the course as we explore ways to nourish and connect ourselves with the plants, design our own medicine chests and first aid kits, and partake in several exercises devoted to practicing a wholesome way of health. Topics in Ethnobotany and an in depth study of the Eclectic tradition will ensure the students’ awareness of the world’s rich herbal history. With the holidays pending, this class will also enjoy using herbs festively and creatively with gift giving in mind! This course requires completion of Level 1 or equivalent instruction/experience as approved by the director.

Herbal Therapeutics

This advanced level course entails an investigation of over 75 different conditions and why they manifest in the body as well as what lifestyle, nutritional, and herbal options are available to support the body’s response. Various herbal protocols and formulation strategies will be investigated in a case study format. Ample time will be allowed for student discussion and participation. In addition, this class takes a look at various avenues of accessible herbal information from database searches to written resources. Students will learn how to access information regarding the latest on clinical trials and ongoing medical research. They will also learn to discern the validity of media reports around the research of herbs.

Plant Constituents and Materia Medica

An overview of some of the most active plant constituent groups will be presented. This introduction to phytochemistry as it relates to herbal healing will be taught in simple and friendly terminology. Topics will include polysaccharides, terpenes, phytoestrogens, alkaloids, phenols, resins, essential oils, and many more! Designed to coincide with the Plant constituents classes, The Materia Medica class is an opportunity to discuss over 35 selected herbs in depth. This class will take a “hands on” approach allowing the students to taste, smell, feel, and experience the herbs. Students will be encouraged to keep an organized notebook for referencing herbs in the future.

Seasonal Botany & Herb Walks

Guided herb walks and wildcrafting fieldtrips will emphasize wild herb identification, folklore, ethical wildcrafting, and wildcrafting regulations. Students can expect to become familiar with the “tools of the trade” as the course exposes the students to various tools needed for wildcrafting. Seasonal topics will include autumn root digging and winter tree identification as well as late winter greenhouse seedling production. The students will also be involved in a plant rescue mission

Profiles in Herbal Businesses

Successful Herbal business owners will share their insights, tips, and inspirations that they’ve gathered along the way. Practical aspects such as legal issues, tax laws, business licensing concerns, and marketing strategies will be presented. Students can expect exposure to many types of business topics such as the non-profit organization, apothecary building, retail management, clinical practicalities, greenhouse & nursery management, product development, sustainable wildcrafting, and integrative clinical practice.

Advanced Herbal Remedies Lab

Issues associated with herbal extraction, processing, and product development will be presented in a hands on format. In a continuation of level I lab work, students will be making a variety of remedies such as percolations, spirits, cordials, and herbal housecleaning products. The art of formulation will be practiced and each student will make their own herbal first aid kit.

Clinical Considerations

This class brings up issues relevant to the practicing herbalist such as ways to assess constitutional patterns from an Ayurvedic or TCM standpoint as well as facial, hair, skin, and nail patterns to look for. This class also offers an exploration of common herb-drug interactions, herbal contraindications, and red flags to look for when using herbs. Also discussed will be ethical considerations to take into account when engaged in client interactions and hints to enhance the practitioners communication skills.

Topics in Ethnobotany

A fascinating look at the world’s usage of plants from the hallucinogenic to the ritual, this class weaves together history and culture in an eye opening way! This class takes a look at various avenues of accessible herbal information from database searches to written resources. Students will learn how to access information regarding the latest on clinical trials and ongoing medical research. They will also learn to discern the validity of media reports around the research of herbs.

The Art of Flower Essence Therapy

This course will offer the student a deeper understanding of flower essences and the important role they can play in healing. We will cover the history of flower essences, emphasizing the original 38 Bach remedies. We will also explore North American essences. The effects of flower essences including practical uses and sensitivities will be thoroughly discussed. Class time will be spent making flower essences in the field. We will also explore essences for the chakras and learn how to select remedies and conduct case studies.

Energetic Herbalism

This class offers a continuation of our exploration of the energetic and spiritual communion between plants and humans. Aspects of intuitive healing, vibrational plant medicine, and the possibilities of an expanded awareness will be touched upon. Most class meetings will be outdoors and interactive. An introduction to aromatherapy will also be presented.

Holiday Herbal Festivity

An overwinter course gives us ample opportunity to celebrate the holildays. This fun and fascinating class will allow us to discuss the herbal lore and history surrounding the holidays. Students will get to make fun crafts and yummy treats related to Halloween, Christmas, and Valentine’s day. The true spirit of the holidays will come through as we explore fun and easy gift making and gift giving ideas.

Nutrition II

This continuation of Level I coursework will take a look at the pros and cons of various types of diets commonly seen today. Issues of food quality will be addressed as we explore organic foods, refined foods, cooking methods, and various other issues. Also the students will take a serious look at the rising trend of Metabolic Syndrome X and diabetes type 2.