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Friday Workshops

1 Friday Morning Workshops 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

11 - 12:30 Plenary Sessions ~ VISIONS OF HEALING

(1.) The Greening of Medicine w/Dr. Tieraona Low Dog, David Hoffmann and Dr. Juan Almendares (Honduras).   

A philosophical and inspirational discussion of the current state of health care and how a shifting, or “greening” of consciousness, could improve the health and wellbeing of the People, as well as the Earth.  These three inspiring visionaries will share their insights and thoughts w/open discussion following.

(2.) Spiritual Herbal Healing Practices w/Dona Enriqueta Contreras (Mexico), Rocio Alarcon (Ecuador) and Raylene Ha’alelea Kawaiae’a (Hawaii).

Herbs have been used traditionally for spiritual as well as physical healing practices.  These three powerful healers will share their own journey as healers and teachers as well as some of the healing traditions, ceremonies, songs, and herbs used in their countries. 

(3) Stewards of Healing Herbs, Plant Conservation & Preservation with Tim Blakley, Christopher Hobbs, Steven Foster and UpS Ex. Director Lynda LeMole.    

“I don't trust a garden (or gardener) that hasn’t any weeds. Some wildness and uncertainty is a condition that is an honest representation of life. “ ~ Christopher Hobbs

2 Friday Afternoon Workshops 2 - 4 p.m.

1. Herbalism and Sustainability w/David Hoffmann.

An exploration of how herbs, herbalists and herbalism can contribute to a viable, sustainable future. We will explore contributions to sustainability of health care systems, fair trade and community economics, and maintenance of ecosystem health.

2. Herbs in Clinical Practice; Reflections on 20 Years of Practice w/Stephen H. Buhner.

Little known herbal interventions, unusual plants and their medicine, updates on Lyme protocols, the intelligence of organ systems, establishing rapport and bonding with clients, secondary gains in disease,  the elegance of repertories, weaknesses in clinical training, the impact of practitioner belief systems on healing. A rant of brilliance and scope ~ be prepared to have unexamined beliefs challenged.  All invited.

3. Scent Listening for Herbalists; Reducing Stress with Aromatic Plants w/Mindy Green.  

As herbalists we all like to drink flowers, swig trees and wet our whistles with leaves, but how skilled are we at discerning the calming messages that ride the wind of scent? Experience an aromatic journey through history and the olfactory system as we learn to ignite the Spark of Holiness through fragrance – the ethereal and spiritual link between nature and humanity. We’ll discuss nervine teas, experience soothing plant aromas and learn stress reducing techniques to regain tranquility in our lives.

4. Trees: Their Magic, Their Medicine w/ Dr. Robin DiPasquale. 

The Magic and symbolism of trees is ancient knowledge.  We share their medicine from bark, buds and flowers.  This class will look at some historic ideas about trees in various cultures, as well as the medicine, including gemmotherapy, the potent gifts from the buds of trees. 

5. Case Studies in Vitalist Herbalism w/Paul Bergner. 

A series of case studies with follow-ups, demonstrating the herbal strategies in the vitalist paradigm will be presented.  Some specific strategies to be demonstrated are: dietary and botanical treatments to restore normal digestion in chronic disease; herbal and lifestyle strategies to restore normal circadian rhythm; case studies with the iatrogenic effects of pharmaceuticals causing the chief complaint; and case studies requiring detective work "outside the box" to remove an obstacle to cure. Intermed/Adv   

6. The Six Tissue States; Energetics of Traditional Western Herbalism w/Matthew Wood.

A survey of the most useful energetic systems. How to look at plants and people energetically.   How those astringents, bitters, flavonoids, and your favorite herbs fit into a simple energetic system. Inter/Adv.  

7. The Art of Creating Effective Herbal Formulas w/Amanda McQuade Crawford. 

Herb formulas for the specific person according to temperament of plant and person are improved by study of energetics. But where to begin?  This class will contrast three formulas for building effective formulas based on sacred geometry: the point, the line, the triangle, the square. begin/inter

8. Magical Herbs w/Susun Weed. 

Green magic is all around. It flies with the fairies, dances with the devas, is revealed in the secret language of plants, and is transferred in plant spirit medicine.  We’ll explore the magic of psychoactive plants, mojo bags, flying oils, love charms, and dream pillows.  We will learn how to combine our intentions with the energies of the plants to create more of what we want in life.

9. Plant Spirit Healing w/Pam Montgomery.

Plant Spirit Healing accesses the sentient nature of plants that have the capacity to raise consciousness to a level where true healing can take place. Going beyond symptomatic treatment Plant Spirit Healing addresses the source of dis-ease and brings alignment with one’s true self and path. More than a healing modality, this leading edge perspective carries an evolutionary imperative that will change your life. 

10. The Home Pharmacy w/Janice Schofield Eaton

Learn herbs to know, to grow, to wildcraft, and keep in stock for family and four-footed friends. This is a great introduction for beginners on the art and science of herbalism and all you need to know to get started. Examples to taste and to touch included. Begin/Inter

11. The Chinese Herb Garden in Botanical, Cultural & Seasonal Context w/ Jasmine Rose Oberste, M.S., L.Ac.

 An introduction to the Chinese calendar and slide show of Chinese Herbs growing and harvested.  Many of the photographs are from the Guangxi Medicinal Botanical Garden in southern China, the largest medicinal herb garden in Asia.  Class will conclude with recipes that include Chinese herbs which support our bodies' transition through the seasons. 

HW 12.  Weeds for your Needs w/Doug Elliott.

We will roam rich wooded areas of the campus focusing on the great variety of medicinal, edible, and otherwise useful wild plants - their botany, natural history and folklore, as well as their traditional and contemporary herbal uses.  

HW. 13. First Aid Plant Walk w/June Ellen Bradley.  

While hiking or camping, how would you respond to a first aid need?  Using common weeds and Nature’s bounty, we will summon an entire pharmacy on the walk.  You will be amazed as you learn to see the woods in an entirely different way. Great walk for beginners.

“We just need to love one another and that’s it. That’s the alpha and the omega of it…. Healing occurs, it starts with and ends with loving each other, and caring for each other as much as we care for ourselves. It’s the golden rule, it’s the way it works in medicine, in politics and in every aspect of life. That would be my wish for people, if I had no other words to say, to love one another”
~ Dr. Bill Mitchell, from Numen, the Nature of Plants (May, 2006)

3 Friday Late-Afternoon Workshops 4:30 - 6 a.m.

(Please note; these * classes will run to 6:30)

* 1. Depression: An Integrated Approach w/Dr. Tieraona Low Dog.

An in-depth discussion of treatment strategies for depression in adults, adolescents, pregnancy, post-partum, peri-menopause and elders; including situations when self-care and natural approaches are appropriate and when referral to a mental health professional should be considered. Inter/Adv

*2. Plants and Shamanism: Practical Activities in our daily life w/Rocio Alarcon (Ecuador).

Rocio will share how shamanistic practices can support us against the stress and negativities that impact our daily life. She will share specific practices that use healing plants from our gardens and that are practiced in the Andes and tropical rain forest of Ecuador.

* 3.  Herbal Support during Menopause w/Kate Gilday.  

There are a number of foods/herbs that can nourish us through menopause, helping us move through the hot flashes, mood swings, osteoporosis and other health challenges we may face.  Black Cohosh, Vitex, Sage, Milky Oats and Vervain are a few of the herb allies you will meet in this class and learn how to use wisely as you move more gracefully through this powerful time of transition.

 * 4. The Doctrine of Signatures w/Brigitte Mars. 

We’ve all heard of this concept of how plants can give us hints as to their attributes by the way they look, grow, taste, and smell. Come explore this ancient concept that includes color, aroma, shape and even astrology and see its relevance for our present time.

* 5. Botany for Herbalists ~Some Surprises w/Christopher Hobbs.

 Christopher will bring you up to date on exciting and profound changes in our view of plant relationships. Did you know that horsetail is really a fern, plantain in the snapdragon family, and yerba santa is a borage? By learning more about the natural ancestral relationships of plants, herbalists can gain many new insights for understanding our green allies. Intermed 

*6. Growing and Harvesting Healing Herbs w/Michael Phillips.

Individual herbs that suit the small farm niche are a vital part of community medicine. Healing herbs need to be dried in such a way to preserve medicinal integrity along with the very spirit of the plant. Michael, an experienced herb grower, will share soil-building tips, plant specifics, wildcrafting do’s and don’ts, drying techniques, and marketing insights about herb farming.

7. Empowering Herbal Medicine & Managing Energy w/Dr. Quang Van Nguyen. 

How do we work with clients from a heart centered space and still maintain appropriate boundaries to prevent being drained or feeling burn-out?  Dr.Quang Van Nguyen will talk about how the practitioner can manage his or her own energy while working with clients in the healing arts including massage, acupuncture, nutritional or herbal consulting or otherwise.

8. Clinical Uses of Fresh Herbs and Medicinal Foods w/Bevin Clare.

Fresh herbs and medicinal foods add a vital and dynamic aspect to our herbal practice. Taste, experience and find out about their clinical applications and preparations in supporting wellness, immunity, fertility, and digestive and cardiovascular health. Inter/Adv 

9. Therapeutic Uses of Sea Vegetables with Dr. Ryan Drum. 

Ryan, considered one of the countries experts on medicinal uses of seaweed, will discuss the advances and trends in seaweed therapeutics. Recent Laboratory in vitro and in vivo studies using seaweeds and seaweed extracts have resulted in new therapeutic approaches to antiviral uses (HPV, HIV, Herpes), thyroid support, and obesity management. Case studies and effective therapeutic seaweed protocols will be shared.Inter/Adv.

10. Breast Health and Care, Naturally w/Dr. Mary Bove.

Breast care is an important part of breast disease prevention. In this class, Mary will share botanical and natural ways to improve breast health and prevent breast problems. Common breast complaints discussed include FCB disease, yeast infection of the nipple, atopic dermatitis, and breast infection. Intermed  

11. Medicine Hunt, the Search for Cures w/Chris Kilham.

The global search for new plant-based remedies leads to all continents and many cultures. In this seminar, we'll examine traditional medicinal plants from around the world, their cultures, their compounds, and their benefits.

12. Connecting to Mother Nature w/Dona Enriqueta Contreras.

Unfortunately, in this day and age, human beings are not connected to nature the way our ancestors used to be.  We must reconnect ourselves with all the Sacred elements of the Mother Earth in order to initiate our use and absorb the values of Mother Nature. Dona Enriqueta will share ceremonies and traditions used to connect with Nature, our source of life.

HW 13. Midsummer Medicines Medicinal Plant Walk w/Jim mcdonald.  

Join jim, Michigan herbalist, for a hike through wood, field & thicket and explore the world of the unique and ubiquitous plant medicines we share this land with.  We’ll discuss the identification, ethical harvest, medicinal & energetic uses of our green relations through a blend of story, experience and lore.

Remember, the active ingredient in plants is friendship ~ Kathleen Maier

Saturday Workshops

1 Saturday Morning Workshops 7 – 8 a.m.

1. ‘Talk Story’ Healing Traditions & Hawaiian Wisdom w/ Hawaiian Elder Raylene Ha`alelea Kawaiae`a (Hawaii).

The Hawaiian culture has developed over millenniums and is rich, intricate, complex and filled with story and legend. Much of the teaching of cultural and spiritual values is done through sharing story.  Raylene will talk story with us, sharing, asking questions, and opening our hearts/minds to a new way of seeing and being in the world.

2. Interdisciplinary, Complimentary Approach to Understanding and Healing Trauma w/Dr. Almendares. (Honduras)

 Millions of people in the world today suffer from trauma, a crippling condition which disables its victims and can haunt them for decades.  In this workshop we will look at an interdisciplinary, complimentary approach to understanding and healing trauma. Dr. Almendares will share his experiences working with the Center for Prevention of Torture and alternative therapies used in the treatment of torture survivors.  A compassionate doctor, humanitarian and torture survivor, Dr. Almendares is the founder of the Center for Prevention of Torture.  Inter/Adv

3. Daily Lifestyle Impact on Long Term Health w/Dr. Quang Van Nguyen (Vietnam).

In traditional Chinese medicine, we recognize that many seemingly small details of daily life have incredible impact on our long term health.  Dr. Quang Van Nguyen will discuss lifestyle adjustments and present Chinese herbal formulas to help resolve minor health imbalances and promote long term physical and emotional well-being.

4. High Heels, Handbags and Hormones ~ Women and Back Pain w/Michelle Lyons (Ireland).

Find out how to protect your spine. What is good posture? The right type of yoga and Pilates for spinal health. How can you strengthen your spinal muscles quickly and effectively? Foods to eat, foods to avoid. Supplements and herbs – what really works? Stress management and relaxation techniques all are topics that will be covered in this informative class.

5. Mushrooms in Cancer Therapy w/George Vaughan.

   Medicinal mushrooms have been found to be very effective for cancer therapy both when used by themselves and in conjunction with other herbs. Mushrooms have also been found to be very beneficial when used as adjunct or adjuvant therapy for those patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation.  This class will provide an overview of some of the most effective medicinal mushrooms for cancer therapy and provide information on use, dosage and preparations.

6. Using Herbs Aggressively to Reverse “Terminal” or “Incurable” Disease w/Dr. Michael Friedman.

 Dr. Friedman will discuss patient case studies in which patients were able to recover from terminal liver cancer, Parkinson’s disease, and Diabetic Nephropathy using herbs as a primary treatment. Inter/Adv.

7. Graceful Aging ~ A Holistic Approach w/Mindy Green.

The wellness revolution has reached the beauty industry with botanical ingredients, but what else can we do to stave off the inevitable aging process besides applying hopeful creams? Plenty! We will discuss numerous spa techniques that can be duplicated at home for a fraction of the cost, and learn about youth enhancing foods, herbs, essential oils and lifestyle dos and don’ts to maximize health and wellness and keep you looking your best, regardless of the years you’ve lived.

8. Epigenomics and Herbalism w/Dr. Ryan Drum.

Epigenomics is the discovery and study of inheritable characteristics that occur without changes in DNA base-pair sequences. Epigenetic factors could greatly influence herbal therapeutic efficacy, and other traditional healing modalities. This will be a discussion of the latest cutting edge research. Adv.

9. Herbal Medicine for Guys w/Michael Phillips.

Not your typical Men’s Health Workshop where the ladies discuss a guy’s shortcomings and what he could do better, this is one guy speaking to other guys about “guy conditions” and what makes sense plant-wise to feel better. Herbal husbands learn much over the years about blunt wounds, aching joints, sore muscles, acid reflux, heart support, and how to improperly deal with stress. Whatever the medicine, we always include some Monty Python inspired humor to round out the dose! (everyone welcome).

10. Traditional Uses of Medicinal Plants  w/Dona Enriqueta Contreras (Mexico)

This workshop focuses on the importance of health in a traditional sense using qualities of traditional healing from an indigenous perspective. Each illness has its beginnings and secondary unfoldings.  We will learn to detect the root of illness at the psychosomatic level and apply medicinal plants in the context of shock, vibrational cleansing, anxiety, loneliness and sadness.

HW 11. Plants as Teachers; an Experiential Plant Walk w/Pam Montgomery.

  The best teachers you will ever have are the plants themselves. Through direct experience you can engage your senses to gain greater understanding of the edible and medicinal properties of plants.  Through depth perception and coherent exchange you gain access to the vast wisdom and healing abilities of plants.

HW 12. Edible & Medicinal Wild Herb Walk w/Guido Mase’.

Join Guido as he shares botanical identification, medicinal applications, clinical usage and other interesting tidbits of the local and naturalized flora. Int/Adv (Meet in Dimple #1)

Understanding and Treating Lyme Disease, a panel discussion. Join several herbal practitioners as they discuss herbal and wholistic protocols for treating Lyme disease and also strive to develop a better understanding of the disease itself.  Case studies will be presented.  Panel members still to be announced.  

“I am excited to see M.D.’s becoming comfortable with herbs, but what really thrills me is seeing three year olds putting plants on boo-boos.  That is the revolution” ~ Susun Weed

2 Saturday Mid-Morning Workshops 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (Please note; these * classes will run till 1)

1. Rawvolution: An Introduction to Raw Foods w/Brigitte Mars.

 Are you tired of feeling cooked, burnt, fried and toasted? Want to feel more fresh alive and vital? Come to this talk and demonstration on how simple it is to incorporate living foods into your lifestyle.

2.  Essential Oil production in the Aromatic Plant w/Rhiannon Harris (Provence, France).

  Where, why and how? This class explores different aspects of essential oil production within the plant, the role of essential oils and the relevance of these aspects to the practicing aromatherapist/herbalist. Beginner/Inter

3. Reading the Body; Tools of Assessment w/Margi Flint.

  This class will be spent learning to read the face, tongue and nails as assessment tools.  We’ll discuss signs of hot, cold, damp and dry conditions, significance of tissue color in diagnosis and the use of pulse analysis when selecting remedies.  This knowledge is a valuable tool for practitioners, and will alter the way you look at all those who sit before you. Hands on participation.  inter/adv

4.  Aromatherapy Product Making w/Tim Blakley.

In this hands-on class, we’ll start with various formulas and how they can be incorporated into products.  We’ll cover blending and formulating as well as basic safety.  From there we go into the product making where each attendee will be able to make at least 2-3 products to take home including, Spritzer, Massage, Bath Salts, Personal oil blends, body polishes and more.  Beginner

5. A Child’s Materia Medica w/Dr. Mary Bove

.  Herbal medicine has much to offer in the way of kid friendly herbs which can offer an effective natural treatment for many of the common health concerns and illnesses which effect children. This class will look specific herbs, herbal preparations, and dosing for children.

6. Sexy Herbs: Optimizing Sexual Health, Performance & Pleasure with Herbs w/Ed Smith.

  Class will cover h erbal sexual tonics for men and women, nutrition for sexual health and herbal aphrodisiacs and eroto- enhancers. Treatment of sexual maladies: infertility, impotence and erectile dysfunction, frigidity, etc. Class includes a colorful slideshow.

7. Sage and the Nervous System w/Aaron Jenks.

The ethnobotanical and pharmacological evidence for the use of Salvia  in the treatment of pain, anxiety, and insomnia.  Sage species are especially indicated in nervous system complaints. My research explores the traditional use of these plants as well as contemporary pharmacological/biochemical research. The presentation will show photos of the plants (and hands-on samples where available) and describe their therapeutic application. Inter/Adv 

8. What Herbs Grow Here? w/Steven Foster.

Join Steven for a virtual herb walk through the fields and forests of New England to gain a better sense of the herbs around you.  Steven Foster began his herbal career in Maine, and will share information on the identification and use of 50 of the most important herbs found in the Northeast.

9.  Enteric Infections and Herbal Strategies w/Bevin Clare.

Learn about the most common types of parasitic, bacterial and viral causes of diarrhea, their differential diagnosis, and strategies for rebalancing the digestive system after infection. Will include  discussion on treating ‘traveler’s diarrhea’, the most common infection acquired abroad.  Intermed.

10. San Pedro Cactus and the Art of the Ancient South American Cultures w/Michelle Viteri (Ecuador/England).

We’ll discuss the ethnobotanical, spiritual and medicinal uses of this ancient sacred plant with specific emphasis on the uses of San Pedro in traditional South American Cultures.  Cultivation, preparation, and ceremonial uses will be shared.

11. The Healing Path of Flower Essence Therapy w/Kate Gilday.

Each flower holds the radiance of the sun and can impart its unique vibration to the person receiving it, healing some of the emotional and spiritual wounds that keep us from seeing the light and blossoming of our human souls. In our time together you will learn what flower essences are, how to prepare and use them for yourself, family and animal friends as you move more gently along your life path with the help of the flowers.

12. Four Humour Medicine and the Minerva Garden in Salerno, Italy w/Robin Dipasquale.

The Minerva Garden in Salerno, Italy, was the first simpler’s garden in Europe, created in the 13th century for the purpose of teaching herbs as medicine.  It was originally built based on the four humour principles correlating to the four elements. This class will discuss the application of the four humour principles in herbal clinical medicine, interspersed with stories and photos of this beautiful garden.

HW 13. A Walk on the Wild Side: Learning Wild Plants  w/ Matthais & Andrea Reisen.

  Let’s wander beyond the tame lawns and find the wild ones’ growing on the edges, in the meadows and the wooded glades. We’ll taste, touch and smell as we go along letting our learning be a sensual delight while gaining first-hand knowledge and experience of the plants we encounter.

“Talking to plants is one way of talking directly to Spirit” ~ Rosemary Gladstar

3 Saturday Afternoon Work Shops 2 - 3:30 p.m.

“In our every deliberation, we must consider the impact of our decisions on the next seven generations… on those faces that are yet beneath the ground” ~ The Great Law of the Six Nations of the Iroquois Confederacy

1. Treatment and Prevention of Infections with Herbal Medicine w/Christopher Hobbs.

Christopher will review the most effective herbs for treating many kinds of infection including gut infections, Lyme disease, giardia, skin infections, and more. Review the traditional use, chemistry, pharmacology, toxicology, and modern clinical uses of the most effective herbs. Inter/Adv

 

2. “Kunye’ Tibetan Massage w/Dr. Phuntsog Wangmo (Tibet).

Kunye is the type of massage that is taught in the Tibetan Medical Tradition and is an exclusive therapeutic practice of that tradition.  It is a therapy that is mentioned in some very ancient major texts of the Bon and of the Buddhists. This is a special opportunity to learn the practice of Kunye in this country. Everyone welcome to attend, but especially recommended for massage practitioners.

   

3. The Bowl of Light w/ Raylene Ha`alelea Kawaiae`a (Hawaii).

The story of my Kupuna (ancestors) tells me that each of us was given a bowl filled with light. The question is, how do we keep it filled in the today’s world?  An empowering “talk story” discussion, of Hawaiian values and walking the talk that will give you amazing insights into your own ‘bowl of light’.

4. Drugs and the Mind w/Chris Kilham.

  Psychoactive plants, from coffee to ayahuasca, occupy a unique and highly valued place in traditional societies, modern life, and medicine. In this seminar we'll examine many of the psychoactive plants, where they come from, what they do, and the benefits they offer.

5. Tranquil Heart and Mind through Ayurveda w/Anne McIntyre (UK).

Using the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda  we can discover much about our mental constitutions and gain more understanding of our inner selves. We will discover how balancing our Doshas in a very practical way through herbs, foods and lifestyle can help us to find inner calm and happiness and free us from suffering the pain of low self esteem, phobias, anxiety and depression. Begin/inter

  6. Traveler’s First Aide w/Rosemary Gladstar.

Herbal first aide remedies and tips from an herbal gypsy.  When traveling it pays to be prepared. What favorite remedies do fellow traveler’s have to share? What goes into a traveler’s first kit?  Rosemary will share her favorite remedies for healthy traveling and a sample traveler’s first aide kit peppered with stories of her travels, first aide along the route, and a colorful slide show.

7. Bio-communication, Our Exquisite Birthright w/James Green.

Realize it or not, we talk continually with plants, animals, living foods, and the cells of our body.  We’ll look at some of the recent ‘discoveries’ that clearly demonstrate the impeccable intelligence of our cells and kinship with all life and explore the cutting edge of consciousness research and how it relates to plants, our relationship with  them, and healing.

8. Prostate Power w/Susun Weed.

Baby boomer numbers are swelling and so are their prostates.  Your loved ones and your clients need help dealing with a problem that affects virtually every man in America.  There are, of course, delicious foods, and easy life-style changes that can reduce the risk of prostate enlargement (BPH), prostatitis, and prostate cancer.  This workshop will include research from Susun’s upcoming book, “Down There the Wise Woman Way, A Guide for everyone with Genitals”. Women welcome

9. The Twelve Organ Systems w/Matthew Wood.

  A comparison of the TCM and Western astrological systems, Rudolf Steiner, and biomedicine with physical, psychological, and spiritual analogies. Inter/Adv.

10. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease w/David Hoffmann.

An exploration of the etiology, pathophysiology and various treatment options for this all too common problem. Inter/Adv

11. The Dream Path w/Crotalo Sesamo (Italy).

 We always dream, even when we are awake. This precious ‘inner sense’ can be trained so that we can participate in different realities in our daily life. There is a magical dimension of dreams, not the psychological or the psychoanalytic one, and it is possible to experience lucid dream, actively interpreting and guiding our own dreams.

HW 12. A Walk in the ‘Wild’ w/Janice Schofield Eaton (Alaska/New Zealand).

  Explore the wondrous 'weeds' and herbs of the Wheaton campus in this herb walk that will focus on edible and medicinal plants and how to identify them. Beginners welcome.

HW13. Walk with the Senses w/CoreyPine Shane.

On this herb walk, we will identify common and uncommon medicinal plants, then use our senses to understand the actions and energies of those plants in a very direct way. We will especially focus on common plants that aren’t commonly used in modern herbalism.

“Over the years in the US it has been my deep pleasure and honor to experience the vibrant, living tradition that is the diversity of US herbalism. To me it is Viriditas at work on a cultural level. This profoundly important phenomena should be cherished, not formalized or structured to death”
~David Hoffmann

4 Saturday Afternoon Special Intensive Playshops 4 - 7 PM

These hands on `playshops’ (more play than work!) are offered for respite from a heady weekend.  All materials, samples, and handouts are included.  $35 fee.  Be sure to register ahead of time at the IHS Information Booth. Playshops don’t overlapwith  other workshops, but do overlap Sat. afternoon Intensives.

1. Natural Cosmetics and Herbal Skin Care with Kate Rakosky.

Discover how to create exquisite natural skin care products using herbs and flowers from your garden and common kitchen ingredients.  Participants will discover how to recreate a spa in their own homes.  This is a hands-on participatory, fun opportunity to make moisturizing facial/body creams, massage oils, facial scrubs and masques, herbal facial steams/footbaths, bath salts, salt/ sugar scrubs, toners/spritzers, body and tooth powder, herbal mouthwash, and a luscious lip balm. Great Fun & Great Products!  Recipes and samples to take with you.  (Craigen Hall-Basement)

2.  Herbal First Aide; Making an Herbal First Aide Kit for Home and Travel with Nancy Phillips.

What are herbalist’s favorite remedies for home and travel? Just what goes into a good herbal first aide kit? Join community herbalist, Nancy Phillips, for this informative hands-on participatory class. You’ll learn about herbal first aide for the home and travel, and how to make herbal products such as salves, tincture, liniments, and other remedies for your first aide kit. Demonstration, recipes and samples shared.  Great class for beginners!

5 Saturday Late Afternoon Workshops Various Times

“Don’t hurry; Don’t worry. You’re only here for a short visit. So be sure to stop and smell the flowers” ~ W. Hagen (1892 ~ 1969)

1.Henna Delights with Henna Queens, Andrea Reisen & Penny Clare.

Have you always wanted to henna your hair, but never dared?! Here's your opportunity! The Henna Queens are back! We'll help you select best color(s) to bring out the henna lights in your own hair.  We'll provide the henna in a rainbow of colors from blonde to brown to red (and colors in between)! Colors are always stunning, but never guaranteed!  Must bring a towel (preferably old & absolutely not the college towels!!), old t- shirt, plastic bag, and hairpins. $5 material fee. 

2.Introduction to Palmistry with Linda Patterson.

  Have you always wanted to read palms?  This is your opportunity! Join professional palm reader and herbalist, Linda Patterson to learn what secrets your palms hold and how to unlock the mysteries of reading between the lines.

3.Herbal Update: The latest Research, Regulation and Market Trends" w/ Mark Blumenthal

of the American Botanical Counsel and founder/editor of HerbalGram. Join Mark in this lively, entertaining and informative update/discussion on the latest herbal research and herbal regulations.   

4.The Herbal Nurses Forum: Building a Professional Practice with Nurse-Herbalists Bonnie Kavanagh & Marguerite Uhlmann-Bower.

The focus of this open forum will be to update on professional practice issues and continue dialogue for nurses who wish to include herbs and herbalism in their practice.

5.Useful Wild Plants of New England with Arthur Haines.

Plants were used extensively by aboriginal people for cordage, hafting materials, clothing, hunting weapons, insect repellents, etc.  This hands-on participatory workshop is intended to show ways that native people used wild plants for their daily living.  Many hand-made items will be available for show, including baskets, clothing, hafted stone blades, clay pots, and cordage from different plants. Class will include hands on demonstrations.  (Please note: class size is limited to 12 students.  Sign up ahead of time at the IHS Info booth)  

6.The Wonders of Wayside Weeds… a Medicinal Plant Walk w/jim mcdonald.

Common weedy plants are the foundation of most herbalists’ repertories, and for good reason.  We’ll take a deeper look at the specific indications and the surprising and overlooked uses of some of our most beloved medicinal plants.

7.Stewards of Healing Herbs; Medicinal Plant Conservation and Cultivation.

  A beautiful slide presentation of At Risk North American Plants followed by a discussion of what we can each do to help preserve our native plants and herbal traditions. Facilitated by UpS Ex. Director Lynda LeMole and UpS board members.

8.Botanica Artista; Art & Plants with June Ellen Bradley, artist and herbalist.

  Anyone can draw.  And anyone can see the energy of plants.  Join June Ellen exploring ‘the truth of the green’ with pen and paper in hand.  Following a short meditation on a plant, June Ellen will give instructions on how to draw both botanically and energetically.  $5 material fee for pen and drawing paper (or bring your own).

9.Planting the Seeds of Herbalism w/Kathleen Gould.

Once the herbal seed has been planted in your spirit, what do you do next? Come visit with Kathleen as she shares her journey into herbalism and how you can take your next step. Her inspirational stories will leave you knowing you too can make a difference and fulfill your herbal dreams.

10.Afternoon Yoga Session.

Tired of so much sitting? Your body feeling stiff? Stretch; open your body, mind, and spirit with these simple yet powerful yoga postures.

11.Yoga Journey to the Heart of the Rose w/Lydia Russell-McDade.

Join Lydia for an inspiring and uplifting Plant Spirit Yoga Journey!  We will flow through a graceful and strengthening series of yoga poses, designed to reveal the heart-opening nature of the Rose and to bring alive its healing essence within our own bodies.  This will be a moderately challenging yoga practice; not recommended for beginners.   Bring a yoga mat and a blanket.

Sunday Workshops

1 Sunday Morning Workshops 9 - 10:30 a.m.

1.  Whole Herbs, Little Chemicals, and Spirit w/Amanda McQuade Crawford.

 As global patterns of dis-ease challenge our planet's health, we can find solutions for the earth and for us in green medicine. Bridging from the physical science to the invisible thread of Vital Force, we'll see how healing tannins, cooling plant acids, and other little chemicals work in our bodies and in the greater planetary body. Inter/Adv. LCD projector/screen

2. Diabetes Prevention and Treatment w/Christopher Hobbs

3.  Wholistic Care of Our Animal Companions.

Using herbs and natural foods to keep our pets healthy and disease free. We’ll discuss safe effective herbs to use for animals, the pros and cons of the various natural food diets available today, and herbal protocols for various illness’s that are common to our four legged companions.

4. Insulin Resistance: Pathophysiology and Natural Therapeuticsw/Paul Bergner.

Insulin resistance is an underlying root of much of modern chronic disease, including heart disease, diabetes, obesity, common cancers, degenerative neurological disease, and reproductive disorders. This pathological process will be described, and a protocol of dietary, nutritional, lifestyle, and herbal treatments developed over a decade of practice and refinement will be offered, with case studies. Inter/Adv.

5. The Quantum Herbalist w/James Green.

  A quantum herbalist is grounded in the worldview of the new physics, called quantum physics. In contrast to the classical physics which sees the world as a linear, mechanical, deterministic machine, the quantum herbalist is grounded in the primacy of consciousness. Join James in an exciting discussion of Quantum Herbalism, Herbs and Health.

6. Ritual, Religion, and Divination; Sacred Uses of Sage (Salvia spp.) w/Aaron Jenks.

  This talk will explore the sacred uses of Salvia species by indigenous American cultures, including the use of “nucchu” in Inca religious traditions; “mirto” in the ritual treatment of the folk-illnesses “susto” and “espanto”; and the use of “ska pastora” in divination and healing. Inter/adv.

7. Celtic Spirituality, Celtic Healing w/Michelle Lyons (Ireland).

The Celts were a flourishing and dynamic race, who made their way from Northern India to spread throughout Europe. Healthy living was a duty for the Celts. They practiced plant medicine, sacred movement and meditation, and lived with a veneration and respect for their environment. In this class, we will re-discover the roots of traditional healing, mythologies and doctrine of signatures, explore the time-honoured medicine used by the Celts.

 8. Living with Cancer w/Margi Flint.

 This class will focus on empowering people to improve their health by consuming life-enhancing, nutrient dense foods and herbs to strengthen the body both to prevent and to treat cancer. We’ll discuss life giving foods, Pre-biotics, Probiotics, Enzymes,  & Amino acids, and the  use of stews, brews, teas, powders, pastes and tinctures to treat cancer as well as effective topical treatments.

9. The Heart-Brain-Emotion Interaction and Hypertension w/Robin Dipasquale.

Hildegard of Bingen wrote, “It is not the brain that thinks, but rather the heart.”  This class will explore the ways that emotions impact our health and well being, focusing on the cardiovascular system.  We will look at HTN, its etiologies, and ways of treatment using herbal medicine through this emotional pathway. Inter/Adv

10.Cleansing through Herbs, Diet, and Fastingw/Nancy Phillips

  Cleansing programs - particularly fasting - are the oldest known medical treatment on earth and completely a natural process. Cleansing can be rejuvenating for physical, mental and spiritual well-being. An individualized program for cleansing is the key. Today we will look at a variety of programs that you can pick and choose from to help you to overall good health.

11. Wholistic Approach to an Influenza Pandemic w/Michael Phillips.

Michael will discuss how our immune system deals with virulent influenza and what can be done to support the right kind of immune response. We’ll look at readily-available herbs known for their anti-viral activity. Lessons learned from past pandemics point the way to homegrown remedies that are far more equalitarian than government solutions!

12. Embracing Deer Medicine, the Flower of Kindness w/Bonnie Kavanagh and Marguerite Uhlmann-Bower.

How do we, as holistic healers interface our work in a society that values the materialistic and thinks from a fear based mind? This class offers an open-hearted view in better aligning ourselves with our clients needs as well as our own. We will look into such concerns as: ‘the should and shouldn'ts’ of therapeutic protocols, ‘to insure or not to insure?’, how do we work with client demographics and corporate herbalism?

HW 13.  Forest Healers; Trees and Native Woodland Plants as Medicine for Body & Soul w/Kate Gilday.

The Northeast woodlands are home to many species of healing trees and plants, quietly holding the resonance of the past and hopeful future of wilderness.  The grace, presence and healing the trees hold is more than the medicine they provide.  They connect us back to the land, to the wild essence of our own inner landscape, to the consciousness and practical nature of this environment.  Let’s walk among the tall ones and learn of their gifts and the native, at-risk plants they nurture and protect. 

The best time to plant a tree was twenty years ago. The second best time is now
~ anonymous

2 Sunday Mid-Morning Workshops 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

“Unknowingly, we plough the dust of stars, blown around us by the wind, and drink the universe in a glass of rain”
~ Ihab Hassah

1. Natural Care for Mothers, infants and Children w/Rocio Alarcon & daughter Michelle Viteri (Ecuador/England).

From mother, daughter, granddaughter team, you’ll learn about traditional herbs and diet used for pregnancy, birth, lactation and infancy. Healing massage for both mama and baby will be shared, along with ceremonial and cleansing bathing and a special technique called ‘hipping’. These helpful tips and more from a household where 4 generations of powerful women still live together!

2. Therapeutic Uses of Essential Oils w/Tim Blakley.

We’ll discuss oil quality, safety, and, most importantly, the therapeutic uses of oils. We’ll cover in depth over 30 oils, both common and less common. Oils for cold and flu season, as antimicrobials, skin uses, stress reduction and more will be covered. Participants will leave with the ability to make a variety of therapeutic blends. Intermed

3. Ayurvedic Help for Cancer w/Anne McIntyre (UK).

Ayurvedic cancer treatment includes recommendations for lifestyle and use of specific foods and herbs which are not only helpful in preventing the progression of the disease but also make the patients feel better and more comfortable in mind and body. Inter/Adv

4. Immune System Modulation with Mushrooms for Treating Immunodeficiency, Autoimmune Diseases and Inflammation w/George Vaughan.

The ability of medicinal mushrooms to modulate the immune system makes them very effective for the treatment of a wide variety of immune-related diseases including compromised immune systems, autoimmune disorders, asthma, allergies and inflammation. This class will cover the different types of mushrooms which are most effective for specific disorders and diseases and will include specific examples with case studies.

5. Sacred Plant Medicine w/Stephen H. Buhner.

Through a unique blend of storytelling, personal reflection, experiential exercises, and information gleaned from the study of indigenous cultures and the wild plants Stephen shares the ancient experience of sacred plant medicine. This workshop explores: the visionary source of all plant knowledge, how people talk to plants and the plants to them, the use of sacred plant medicine in healing, and how all of this fits into the wonderful web of life on this Earth.

6. The “Monas’ of Gynecology w/Dr. Phuntsog Wangmo (Tibet).

This class will focus on the cause and conditional causes of gynecological disease according to Tibetan medicinal practices. The etiology, clinical symptom(s) diagnosis, and treatment methods will be shared. Dr. Wangmo will share effective Tibetan remedies for nourishing and supporting women through menopause.Adv

7. Respectful Collection of Plants w/Dona Enriqueta Contreras (Mexico).

Dona Enriqueta will share rituals and ceremonies she’s been taught by her elders for the proper gathering of medicinal plants. Offering copal and incense and prayer to the Mother Earth infuses the plants with their curative essence that we then offer to our patients.

8. The Fascinating Art of Beekeeping w/Todd Hardie.

Todd, of Honey Gardens Apiaries in Ferrisburgh, VT, will share 30 years of beekeeping, the practical, idealistic, and supernatural, moving with the spirit, stories of marketing, plant medicine from the honey house. Join Todd in an informal discussion.

9. Psychoactive Plants w/David Hoffmann.

What are they, where are they, how do they work, why do they work, and why are they vilified?

10. Essential Oils in the Palliative Care Environment ~ Potentials and Challenges w/Rhiannon Harris.

This presentation explores the use of essential oils in palliative care, using case examples and providing important guidelines to the therapist. Adv

11. Hands on Phytochemistry w/Michael Ford.

Understanding solubility enhances herbalist’s formulation skills. Hands-on activities designed to demonstrate how to get the most out of your herbs, choosing different menstruums, and the art of making emulsions (creams & lotions).

12. Contact with the Plant world: Research from the Federation of Damanhur w/Crotalo Sesamo (Italy).

Crotalo Sesamo, Director of the Olami Damanhur University in Italy will share highlights of Damanhur’s 25 years of experience in field of plant research and their findings on plant sensitivity and communication with the plant world.

HW. 13. Weeds for your Needs w/Doug Elliott.

We will roam rich wooded areas of the campus focusing on the great variety of medicinal, edible, and otherwise useful wild plants - their botany, natural history and folklore, as well as their traditional and contemporary herbal uses.  Please note; Doug will cover different herbs that on his earlier walk.

Herbalists and Health Freedom w/special guest Diane Miller. Diane Miller is an attorney, dedicating her legal talents to health freedom. As Legal and Public Policy Director of the National Health Freedom Coalition (NHFC) and NHFA, and Co-Chair of the World Health Freedom Assembly, Diane is active in providing information and resources to health freedom decision-makers across the country. We’ve invited Diane to join us this weekend to provide an overview of policies and trends that will affect the future of health care in this country and what you can do to make a difference.

“People from a planet without flowers would think we must be mad with JOY the whole time to have such things about us!”
~ Iris Murdock (1919 ~ 1999)

3 Sunday Afternoon Workshops 1:30 - 3 p.m.

Walk the Earth in Beauty and Power; Spiritual Principles for Health, Wealth & Happiness

1. Ecological Approach to Therapy w/Dr. Juan Almendares (Honduras).

Dr. Almendares will present an ecological model of therapy and treatment which incorporates integrative health, vision and practice. Inter/Adv

2. Sex and Smell – Do Women Really Need Men? w/Mindy Green.

The subject of sexual attraction is unique to each gender and involves the biology and physiology of scent mapping, pheromone production and perception, receptor binding, and more. We will discuss how scent affects brain wave patterning of men and women, and how pheromones affect us and those we come in contact with. We will discuss herbs for sexual health and answer the title question, which will assuredly be very politically correct.

3. Two Buds and a Leaf w/Ryan Drum.

Three herbs, Poplar Buds, Grindelia Buds, and Fig leaves, each provide non-aqueous healing constituents (resins, gums, and latex, respectively). Understanding their botany and ethnobotany can improve using their unique properties and uses.

4. International Programs for Medicinal Plant Conservation: What Works! w/Steven Foster.

Herb and medicinal plant conservation has always been a concern, but since 1988, a concerted international effort by people who care has created numerous programs around the world that do more than talk—they work! Steven will share his experience in working in international programs with a focus on herb conservation.

5. The Dirty Dozen w/Matthias & Andrea Reisen.

A dozen favorite roots:  how they grow, why they grow where they do and what that means to us, how to harvest them, and our favorite ways of using them.

6. Traditional Thai Medicine: Therapeutic uses of Thai Herbs, Spices & Foods w/Ed Smith.

Class will cover the history of traditional herbal medicine in Thailand, and how it is being incorporated into the modern healthcare system. The pharmacological and therapeutic application of herbs, foods and spices used in traditional and modern Thai medicine and topical use of herbs in traditional Thai massage. Class includes a colorful slideshow.

7. A Holistic Medical Herbal Approach to Thyroid Dysfunction w/Dr. Michael Friedman.

An overview of pathophysiology and laboratory testing of thyroid dysfunction will be discussed within a holistic context of healing therapies. The use of botanicals, bioidentical hormones, nutrition, vitamins, minerals and lifestyle counseling as a restorative treatment approach towards healing for thyroid disease will be discussed. Case studies of patients treated for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Fibromyalgia, Hashimotos Disease, Graves Disease, and Toxic Multi Nodular goiter will be discussed in detail. Adv

8. Edible and Medicinal Plants of Alaska and the Pacific Northwest w/Janice Schofield Eaton.

Enjoy a visual tour of the herbs in diverse Alaskan habitats from tundra to coast. Discover tonic, specific and heroic plants of the far north, and countless ways to use them in your life. Includes a gorgeous powerpoint slide show.

9. A History of Medicine in the United States w/Guido Mase’.

Herbalism is only recently been 'alternative'. It is upsetting to hear technological medicine described as 'traditional'. Learn the wanderings of health care in the United States through the 19th and 20th centuries, exploring the ascendance of homeopathy, eclectic medicine, and the criminal vagaries of 'regular' doctors and the AMA. An important 'back story' for herbalists – never taught at modern medical schools.

10. Understanding and Treating Lyme Disease; a Wholistic Approach.

HW 11. Tree Spirits Tree Walk w/Susun Weed.

Please join me for a magical time in the presence of the trees of Wheaton and the surrounding forest. We will sit in silent communion with special trees, as well as talking about their uses.

HW 12. Symplocarpus and sassafras: Unusual Plants of New England w/Bevin Clare.

Have you learned the basics? Seen enough of dandelion, burdock and violet and want to meet some of the rarer plants growing in the unique ecosystems that surround us? Join Bevin for a final to meet some of the more hidden and less common medicinal plants of New England. Inter/Adv.

“Most people think too much. Get them to laugh and half their troubles and sickness will go away and the blessed herbs will do the rest”
~ Miss Hortense Robinson (Belizean elder midwife and herbalist)

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