The 10th International Herb Symposium Teachers
Teachers of the 10th International Herb Symposium
We feel unbelievably blessed to have the following individuals speak, teach and inspire at the 2011 International Herb Symposium. Representing several countries, various experiences and backgrounds, and a diversity of ideas and beliefs, the following herbal teachers are renowned in their communities, countries, and villages for their passion and dedication to the green nations. Many have been at the forefront of the Herbal Renaissance for decades and have contributed well known books, founded schools, opened clinics, created high quality products, and have spent their lives with their hands in the earth growing and gathering high quality medicinal herbs. All have deeply and in so many ways helped to grow the herbal community into the vibrant thriving community that it has become ~ and is becoming even now.
Celebrating the Healing Power of Plants
At the IHS, we strive to bring together plant lovers who represent the various aspects of herbalism from folk lore to clinical, farmer and gardener, to shamanic and plant spirit teachings. We strongly feel by interfacing and coming together in the spirit of the green, that we can best expand our green network, not only locally, but globally, creating a mycorrhizal network that is organically ‘shape shifting’ the world of health and healing into a healthier world for all.. We, all of us together, are part of a revolution in health care, and many of the herbalists who will be attending the IHS as speakers and participants alike have helped green the way…..
A Variety of Workshops for All Level of Experience & Level of Interest
There are a large variety of workshops for all level of herbal interest from beginner to practitioner. Also scheduled during each workshop session are herb walks (there is a 250 acre woodland attached to the college campus) and hands on demonstrations and crafts for those needing a break from the more ‘heady’ workshops. Craft type classes, herb walks and hands on demonstrations are not currently listed on the schedule or below with the teacher’s workshops. Please check back mid January for a complete listing of these classes.
The Nurses Path ~ CNE for Nurses
This year we are once again happy to welcome ‘Herbal Nurses’ and to provide CNE credits for nurses thanks once again to Debbie Chalko, RN. At each Workshop Session there will be at least two choices of classes that nurses can receive CNE credits for attending.
To apply for CNE credits, participants must register ahead of time.
Veterinarian Botanical Medicine Track
As a very special feature, we are hosting the Veterinarian Botanical Medicinal Association sponsored by VBMA and will be highlighting wholistic care of animals at the IHS this year. At each workshop session there will be a class that specializes in wholistic care of animals. Please see schedule. For Veterinarians who wish to receive credits for attending the classes, please register ahead of time.
Hands on Demonstrations, Herbal Crafts & Herb Walks
Please note: we haven’t included in the teachers class listings (see below) all of the herb walks, demonstrations and hands on type craft classes that are offered at the IHS. At each Workshop Session, there is at least one herb walk and either a ‘hands on’ demonstration and/or herbal craft class being offered. Please review the IHS Schedule for a complete listing of these classes.
Keynote Speaker:
Paul Stamets
Paul Stamets is one of the foremost experts in medicinal mushrooms in the U.S. He has written six popular mushroom-related books including Mycelium Running: How Mushrooms Can Help Save the World and is the founder of Fungi Perfecti, a medicinal and gourmet mushroom business. Paul is an advisor to the Program of Integrative Medicine at the University of Arizona Medical School, Tucson; on the Editorial Board of The International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms, and was appointed to the G.A.P./G.M.P. Board of the U.S. Pharmacopoeia. He is the sole source supplier and co-investigator of the first two NIH funded clinical studies using medicinal mushrooms in the United States and has been working with the NIH governed BioShield BioDefense Program since 2005 to develop new defenses against bioterrorism. Paul has received several environmental awards including the National Geographic Adventure’s Magazine’s Green-O-vator, the Argosy Foundation’s E-chievement Awards, Utne Reader recognized Paul as one of the 50 Visionaries of the Year (2008) and in 2010, Paul received the President’s Award from the Society of Ecological Restoration. Married to C. Dusty Yao, a fellow plant fanatic, who shares a passion for fungi and their love of the Old Growth forests, they believe that people properly armed with fungal wisdom can help save the planet. (www.fungi.com.).
Workshops: (1) Key Note Address: How Mushrooms Can Help Save the World;(2)Mycoremediation, Mycofiltration and Mycoremedies: the use of mycelial membranes to heal ecosystems
International Teachers
Rocio Alarcon (Ecuador/England)
A deeply compassionate healer and spiritual teacher, Rocio is loved and respected by all who know her. Rocio received her teachings from her mother, grandmother and shamans of the Amazonian Rainforest and Andes of Ecuador. She was a founding member of EcoCiencia, Ecuador’s leading ecological organization, and worked for over 20 years as an ethnobotanist in the tropical rainforests of South America. Rocio is currently living in England where she received her diploma in Holistic Therapies and continues to travel, teach and inspire.
Workshops: (1) Natural Care for Mothers & Infants; (2) Plants and Shamanism: Practical Activities in our daily life.
Friday 8 -12 Pre Conference Intensive Spiritual Bathing, Massage and Healing Ceremonies of Ecuador with Rocio Alarcon (Ecuador).
In this special intensive, Rocio will guide people through the experience of ‘spiritual bathing & massage’ using herbs, water, flower, and oils. These herbal baths are used to cleanse the spirit of negative energy and are also used for specific ailments. The properties of the plants and other ingredients can clean our negativities and make us feel more attractive and alive, ready to face the future with enthusiasm and positivism. Ancient healing ceremonies of the Andes will also be shared. Rocio is a gifted healer and is renowned throughout Ecuador & England for her healing gifts. Class will be hands-on/experiential.
Students need to bring a towel and quart water bottle
Brigitte Addington (Germany)
Brigitte is the founder of the Communication Centre for Herbalists Worldwide and has worked as a registered nurse for 30 years. She is a devoted herbal instructor and director of the annual Medicinal Plant and Wild Herb Congress. She was elected “herb Queen” of Thuringia in 2006 and is co-author of the book “The Wild of the Herbs and the Jewel in every Stone”. Her focus is on the medicinal and healing properties of edible wild plants and tree leaves right on our doorstep, as well as on communication with plant spirits.
Workshops: (1) Wild Food Arrangements from Germany ; (2) The Wild of the Herbs and the Jewel in Every Stone
Dr. Juan Almendares (Honduras)
Former Dean of the Honduran National College of Medicine, Dr. Almendares is a professor of medicine and the founder of the Honduras Health Exchange, and the Committee for Peace and the Prevention of Torture in Honduras. He runs a free clinic in Tegucigalpa specializing in homeopathic and natural treatment of physical and psychological trauma. He is the co-author of the herbal handbook Tierra, Vida, y Esperanza (Earth, Life and Hope, 1994).
Workshops; (1) Interdisciplinary, Complimentary Approach to Understanding and Healing Trauma;
(2)Ecological Approach to Clinical Interview & Practice
Isla Burgess (New Zealand)
Isla M Burgess MSc Dip Tchg, Dip HM. FNZAMH (New Zealand) An inspiring teacher, Isla has been an educator for the past 40 years, first as a teacher of Science and Biology and then as Director of the International College of Herbal Medicine (2000-2010) and Director of the Waikato Centre for Herbal Medicine, Waikato, New Zealand (1990-2000). She recently completed a MSc in Holistic Science through Schumacher College, Devon, England. Isla is currently researching the development and application of a new methodology for the assessment of the qualities that plants possess. She is the convener for the International Research Group for the Conservation of Medicinal Plants (www.irgcmp.org) and has appeared in two recent documentaries ‘Earth Whisperers Paptuanuku’ (New Zealand) and Numen (USA). She is the author of ‘Weeds Heal. A Working Herbal’.
Workshops: (1) Plant Directed Learning-Trusting Our Senses; (2) Deepening Our Relationship with Plants
Friday 8-12 Pre Conference Intensive:
The Plant/Person Relationship in Healing w/Isla Burgess (New Zealand)Developing the Plant/Person Relationship in Healing w/Isla Burgess (New Zealand).
Do we each have a plant ally? A plant that restores and maintains health? In this engaging workshop we will explore a new theory on healing through understanding the role Chaos and Complexity Science has in health and how our perception of the qualities that plants possess can assist us in finding our plant ‘ally’. It is where a shamanistic view of the world meets Quantum physics. By actively engaging in “doing science differently we uncover a different aspect of nature itself”. (Henry Bortoft, Physicist and Goethean Philosopher)
Enriqueta Contreras (Oaxaca, Mexico)
Grandmother Enriqueta is a highly respected and well known elder of the Meso-American Zapotecan indigenous people located in Oaxaca, Mexico. She is a descendant from a long line of Zapoetecan shamans that date back to 500 B.C.. Grandmother Enriqueta owns and operates a health clinic for her community, as well as for international visitors. Her history as a practicing midwife for more than sixty years has yielded a flawless career with no mother or infant ever lost during the birth process. In addition, she is a master herbalist and well known curandera (healer). She is accompanied by Maria Margarita Navar, her translator, apprentice, and teacher in her own right.
Workshops: (1) Traditional Uses of Medicinal Plants; (2) Respectful Conversation with Plants and Trees
Intensive Saturday 2 – 5:30
Healing Traditions & Plants from the Medicine Basket of Zapotec Grandmother Enriqueta w/Enriqueta Contreras (Oaxaca) and Maria Margarita (Texas)
In this inspiring Intensive, Grandmother Enriqueta will give an overview of forty traditional medicinal plants used by the Zapotecan people of Oaxaca, Mexico, from the perspective of an herbalist and master midwife. She draws from an impeccable record wiht over sixty years in practice, without infant or maternal mortality. Sharing her experience as a veteran herbalist with over 200 plants, their uses, contraindications and applications. Including the preparation of traditional herbal temascales (sweat baths) and post-partum herbal baths. Grandmother is a gifted healer, renowned in her country, and offers the traditional “limpia” or energetic adjustment to her community members with flowers, herbs, candles, bunches of basil, and profuse clouds of sacred copal. In this Intensive, Grandmother Enriqueta shares with us her knowledge of the healing plants known to her in her long-standing career as a master herbalist.
Caroline Gagnon (Canada)
Caroline combines the science and art of herbalism in a deep and passionate way. She is the co-founder and director of FloraMedicina School, a 4 year professional herb school, in Montreal and also founded the Herbalists Guild in Quebec. She has been in private practice for over 16 years and has a unique way of mentoring other herbalists in their practice.
Workshops: (1) Become a lymphomaniac! Understanding the Lymph System; (2)Understanding the Menstrual Cycle through the Yin Yang w/Caroline Gagnon (Canada).
Julia Graves (Germany/France)
Known as a lively, engaging speaker, Julia is an herbalist, bodyworker and psychotherapist who has integrated her various trainings into a holistic approach in both her practice and teaching. Julia trained as an herbalist since childhood with her mother in her native Germany. As a teenager, she trained in cupping and anthroposophic massage with an elder naturopathic doctor. Julia went to medical school in Kiel, Germany, and completed a degree in Gestalt psychotherapy. She then lived in Findhorn, Scotland where she trained as a flower essence maker. She has since developed her own line of flower essences, the Lily Circle. In February 2010, Julia founded the Naturopathic Earthquake Victim Relief Clinic in Haiti which has helped thousands of people. She is the author of The Language of Plants, A Systematic Overview over the Doctrine of Signature.
Workshops: (1) The Language of Plants Part 1 - Doctrine of Signature Alive!; (2) The Language of Plants Part II - Disease Signatures
Friday 8-12, Preconference Intensive
Cupping for Herbalists w/Julia Graves (Germany/France).
Almost lost from the Western tradition of herbal and holistic treatment, Julia offers a hands-on cupping training from the Western and TCM point of view. Highly effective and relatively easy, this ancient art has a special healing effect that herbs or massage cannot duplicate. Once a household staple for common colds, muscle and back aches in traditional societies world-wide, it is now enjoying renewed interest. Revive your roots: in the old days, all herbalists knew to cup! Trained since her youth in the ancient European tradition, Julia teaches cupping as an integral part of what was once a holistic Western system of medicine and herbalism. The course has proven very informative for licensed acupuncturists and other health care professionals.
Please note: students will need to bring a towel & their own wool blanket to lie on, arnica massage oil, and if possible, bring your own hand pump cupping glasses which can be ordered from www.kamwo.com (Tae Keuk Bu Hang sets are high quality cupping glasses).
Christopher Hedley (England)
Christopher Hedley has been practicing and teaching herbal medicine for over 30 years and teaches Materia Medica and practical medicine making at Westminster University in England. He is renowned for his innovative and creative approach to the subject. Christopher’s main interests are practical medicine making and the history of herbal medicine. He’s currently working on developing research methods into herbal medicine which the herbal community could use for building links and moving forward together.
Workshops: (1) A Taste of Herbs; (2) The Story of Herbs; (3) From Birth to Death
Raylene Ha`alelea Kawaiae`a (Hawaii).
Raylene is one of the most well known and beloved teachers of Hula and Hawaiian culture and is incredibly respected for her gentle powerful teachings. Living in Kapa`au, on the island of Hawai`i, she works for the Queen Lili’uokalani Children’s Center, which works with Hawaiian orphaned and destitute children and has been sharing her understanding of her Hawaiian heritage and cultural practices and teaching hula since 1976.
Workshops: (1) Talk Story’ Healing Traditions & Hawaiian Wisdom; (2) The Bowl of Light
Intensive Saturday 9-12:30
Hawaiian Spirituality and Hula as Way of Life with Raylene Ha`alelea Kawaiae`a
Join Raylene as she shares the beauty and grace of the Hawaiian culture and its healing traditions. This Intensive will focus on Hula, a Hawaiian way of experiencing life through dance, songs, chant and storytelling. We will be learning about the traditions, practices and rituals of Hawaiian healing and hula. E Komo Mai, E Hula Kakou!
Come, Let’s dance hula!
Please wear comfortable clothing and/or a loose flowing skirt or paeru. Bring a towel or blanket to sit on, a face towel and water to drink.
Paolo Luzzi (Italy)
Biologist, author and herbalist, Paolo Luzzi has been the curator at “Giardino dei Semplici”, the Botanical Garden of Florence since 1982. His specialized fields of interest are in medical and poisonous plants, the Palms Collection, the plants of the Italian Renaissance gardens, the history of botanical gardens, the plants in the Italian folk tradition with particular reference to Tuscan plants. He is the author of many books and essays and has recently published a work on the religious symbolism in Medieval Tuscany. Paolo Luzzi has been our knowledgeable guide at Simpler’s Botanical Garden in Florence for the last several years when we visit Italy on our Plant Lover’s Journeys and it’s an honour to have him as a teacher at the IHS.
Workshops: (1) The Religious Symbolism of Plants in Medieval Tuscany ; (2) Traditional Medical Plants in Tuscany
From the United States ~
Mark Blumenthal (Texas)
Mark Blumenthal is the Founder and Executive Director of the American Botanical Council (ABC) and Editor/Publisher of HerbalGram, an international, peer-reviewed quarterly journal. For six years he was an Adjunct Associate Professor of Medicinal Chemistry at the University of Texas at Austin, College of Pharmacy, teaching the course "Herbs and Phytomedicines in Today's Pharmacy". Mark is the Senior Editor of the English translation of The Complete German Commission E Monographs – Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines (1998) and he has appeared on over 400 radio and television shows and has written over 500 articles, reviews and book chapters for many major publications. Recently, his name appeared with some of the most prestigious names in the natural health movement when he was awarded Natural Health Magazine’s Hall of Fame Award for “…opening America’s eye to the healing powers of herbs.” He has been a leader in the concerns for more rational regulations of herbal and natural product manufacturing, and education on alternative medicines for over 35 years.
Workshops: (1) Health Benefits of Tea; (2) Media reporting & misreporting of Herbs and Herbal Medicine; A Crisis in Consumer Confidence; (3) Humorous Health
Bevin Clare (Maryland)
Bevin Clare is a clinical herbalist, nutritionist, and plant lover. She is the Clinical Division Chair of the Herbal Medicine Program at Tai Sophia Institute in Maryland where she teaches and practices. Bevin holds a MS in Infectious Disease from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine based on her years of travel around the globe and witnessing the power of plants. She serves on the board of directors of United Plant Savers and of the American Herbalists Guild. Bevin works to bring plants into the lives of people through food, medicine, and spirit.
Workshops: (1) A Live Clinical Session: Guiding the Client to Health; (2) Medicinal Plants Beyond the Basics: A wild weed walk of the lesser used medicines
Doug Elliott (North Carolina)
Whether he's pointing out poison ivy, pontificating on poke sallet, crooning about creasy greens, jiving about ginseng, or extolling the virtues of dandelions, herbalist, author and storyteller, Doug Elliott is known for his lively presentations as well as his broad, practical, scientific and cultural knowledge of useful wild plants. Elliott has spent a great deal of time with traditional country folk and indigenous people, learning their stories, folklore and traditional ways of relating to plants. He has been a featured storyteller at the National Storytelling Festival in Jonesborough, TN and has conducted workshops and programs at the American Museum of Natural History in New York, the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto, and the Smithsonian Institution. Doug is the author of five books and has produced a number of award winning recordings of stories and songs. His first book, WILD ROOTS, An Underground Botany and Forager's Guide, published thirty years ago, is considered an "underground" classic.
Workshops: (1) Weeds for your Needs; (2) Weeds, Woodslore and Wildwoods Wisdom; Stories, Songs and Lore Celebreating the Healing Plants; (3) Adventures in the Bee Yard
Dr. Michael Friedman (Vermont)
Dr. Michael Friedman is a graduate of the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine and a former Professor of Endocrinology at the University of Bridgeport. He directs and hosts the annual Restorative Medicine Conference for medical professionals. He resides in Vermont with his plant passionate wife, Sarika. Together they run WTS Herbal Company.
Workshops: (1) Medical Herbalism and Autoimmune Thyroid Disease; (2) Using Herbs as a Primary Treatment for Cancer
Cascade Anderson Geller ( Oregon)
Since the 1970's, Cascade has been connecting people and plants. She was a founding member of Everett House Healing Center, associate professor of botanical medicine at the National College of Naturopathic Medicine for thirteen years, has served on the faculty of Bastyr College, Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine and the California School of Herbal Studies. She speaks, lives and loves plants and is a beloved herbal teacher, inspiring thousands of people. She has led travel adventures to Belize, Ecuador and France, combining her love of plants, people and travel.
Workshops; (1) Formulating for the Digestive Tract; (2) Herbal Parenting
Pre Conference Intensive Friday 8-1:
Wild Plant and Botan-Eyezing Walk w/Cascade Anderson Geller
There’s never enough time for herb walking and/or botanizing at herb events, so we’ve added a 5 hour intensive with Cascade, one of the best botanizers/herbalists around. There are many famous herbs, trees, and shrubs to be found growing on the Wheaton campus and surrounding 200 acre woodland. Plan on walking about 2 miles, roundtrip, on trails through woods and fields. Emphasis will be on developing your botan-eyes and the details about how to harvest and prepare the plants in a reverent and sustainable manner.
Please note; this class will end at 1 and will include a picnic lunch.
Class is limited to 25 participants so register early.
Kate Gilday (New York)
Kate Gilday is a practicing herbalist, Ayurvedic health consultant and flower essence practitioner who lives in the Adirondack Park in upstate New York where she also offers health and healing workshops at Woodland Essence Teaching Center . Over 15 years ago, Kate and her husband Don co-created a small family business, Woodland Essence, preparing forest botanicals and flower essences of the Northeast Woodlands. Kate is also a registered New York State Guide, bringing people out into wild places as she shares her love of nature, song and healing in canoe and backpacking trips, and the workshops she teaches throughout the Northeast.
Workshops: (1) Forest Wisdom; (2) Addressing Chronic Illness with Herbs and Heart; (3) Safe Herbal Support for Those Receiving Radiation or Chemotherapy
Rosemary Gladstar (Vermont)
Rosemary has been practicing, living, learning, teaching and writing about herbs for over 35 years. Along with creating community and loving people, herbs are her passion and joy in life. She is the author of nine books including the popular Herbal Healing for Women and Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Well Being. She is the founder/director of International Herb Symposium Herbal Retreat Center, a founding member of United Plant Savers, and directs both the International Herb Symposium and the NE Women’s Herbal Conference. Somewhere in the midst of all this, she finds time to travel the world, seeking new plants, meeting new people, and loving life.
Workshops: The Gypsy Herbalist; Traveler’s First Aide; (2) Stewards of Healing Herbs ~ Planting the Future.
David Hoffmann (California)
A Fellow of Britain’s National Institute of Medical Herbalists, David Hoffmann has been a phytotherapist for 30 years. He is one of the founding members and a past president of the American Herbalist Guild, and is on the advisory board of the American Botanical Council and United Plant Savers. He promotes phytotherapy throughout the English speaking world, including Australia, New Zealand and Canada. He teaches at the California School of Herbal Studies and is visiting faculty at Bastyr University. The author of 17 books, his latest is a textbook on science and clinical skills for phytotherapists entitled Medical Herbalism published by Inner Traditions. An activist for far too long (!) he ran for parliament in the UK for the Green Party in 1983.
Workshops; (1) Bringing Back the Green-The Evolution of Herbalism: Are We Prepared for the 21st Century? (2) Herbs, ‘Natural Products’, and Cell Signaling; (3) Psychoactive Plants
Aaron Jenks (California)
Aaron Jenks, received his Ph.D. in Plant Biology at University of California, Riverside, studying the ethnobotany and molecular systematics of New World Sages [Salvia subgenus Calosphace], in particular the hallucinogenic sage, Salvia divinorum. He is the proud nephew of his botanical hero and mentor, Rosemary Gladstar, with whom he has studied Western herbalism while interning at International Herb Symposium, VT. Aaron is currently a stay-at-home father for his two beautiful children. In his spare time, he concocts herbal medicines and potions including la Fée Verte, spends time in ritual adoration of the Spirit Mandragora, and is an avid student of the Sagely Muse S. divinorum and researcher of all things shamanic. He is published in peer-reviewed journals, and has presented his research at many scientific and herbal conferences, both domestically and internationally
Workshops: (1) Ritual, Religion, and Divination; Sacred Uses of Sage (Salvia spp.) (2) Sage and the Nervous System
Chris Kilham (Massachusetts)
Chris Kilham is Explorer in Residence at the University Of Massachusetts at Amherst, where he teaches ethnobotany. Known as the ‘Medicine Hunter’, he conducts research on medicinal plants worldwide. He is the author of fourteen books including Tales from the Medicine Trail and Psyche Delicacies, published by Rodale. Chris is the FOX News Medicine Hunter, is a regular guest on The Dr Oz Show, and has appeared on hundreds of TV and radio programs around the world. CNN calls him "The Indiana Jones of natural medicine."
Workshops: (1) Medicine Hunt ~ Adaptogens in China; (2) The Shaman's Pharmacy
Phyllis Light (Alabama) RH(AHG), LMT, MA
Phyllis D. Light is an herbalist and healer with almost 30 years of clinical experience. She is traditionally trained in Appalachian Folk Medicine and began her studies with her Cherokee/Creek grandmother, and later with Tommie Bass, in the deep woods of North Alabama. Phyllis maintains a private practice in Arab, AL where she supports an integrative approach to well-being and a preventive health model based on healthy lifestyle choices. She also teaches at symposia, clinics and herb schools around the country. Phyllis offers herbal and natural health classes and a practitioner program for herbalists at the Appalachian Center for Herbal Studies in Arab, AL. She is a member of the Cherokee Tribe of Northeast Alabama, on the board of directors of Herbs for Orphans in Haiti and involved in the Common Ground Clinic in New Orleans. Phyllis is also a consultant for the Alabama Medicinal Plant Grower’s Association. She also teaches classes on Energy work and Shamanic techniques.
Workshops: (1) Signs of the Times: Astrology for Health. Earth, Water, Air and Fire; (2) The Art and Science of the Intake
Intensive Friday 2:30-6
The Practices and Principles of Southern & Appalachian Medicine w/Phyllis Light.
The regional folk medicine of Southern Appalachia and the lower South is a combination of the European humoral system, Native American plant use, and African healing techniques overlaid with Scots-Irish folk medicine. In this Intensive, Phyllis will discuss the traditional causes of health problems, seasonal patterns and influences, spiritual/magical influences, and the influence of the land upon the medicine. The class will explore the Southern blood types: sweet, sour, bitter, salty; the blood patterns: high/low, thick/thin, weak/strong, good/bad as a way of assessing constitutional imbalances; and the elements; fire, earth, air and water. The principles of SAFM provide a practical method of viewing health and constitutional imbalances and offers a common sense approach for achieving or regaining health. Intermediate Level.
Kathleen Maier, AHG, PA (Virginia)
Kathleen Maier, AHG. PA has been a practicing herbalist for over twenty years. She is currently director of Sacred Plant Traditions in Charlottesville, VA where she offers a Three Year Clinical/Community Herbalist training program. Kathleen’s studies of plants began as a Peace Corps volunteer in Chile and her training as a Physician’s Assistant allows her to weave the language of medicine we know today with traditional energetic systems. She is co-author on a soon to be released book ,Bush Medicine of San Salvador Island, Bahamas. She is an avid supporter and participant of UpS.
Workshops: (1) Cholesterol – Getting to the Heart of the Matter; (2) Entheogens and the Dying Process
Chris Marano , RH, AHG, MA, BS (Massachusetts)
Chris Marano, RH (AHG), MA, BS, is a master clinical herbalist with a health-care practice in the Pioneer Valley of Massachusetts. He is founder of Clearpath School of Herbal Medicine and Clearpath Herbals. He is a registered herbalist in the American Herbalist Guild (AHG), professional member of the Northeast Herbal Association (NEHA), veteran teacher, author, meditation instructor, and has degrees in pre-medicine, Chinese philosophy and science education from Columbia University, a graduate degree from The Herbal Therapeutics School of Botanic Medicine, Zen and Chinese philosophy training from the Institute of Chung-hwa Chinese and Buddhist Culture, and years of training with medicine elders of the Cherokee and Anishinaabe tradition. He also teaches Clinical Herbalism at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst. chris@clearpathherbals.com; www.clearpathherbals.com.
Workshops: (1)The Skinny on Metabolic Syndrome; (2) Qi & Blood, Yin & Essence: a Chinese Herbal Perspective on Deficiency Disorders; (3) Wild Plant IdentificationWalk
Guido Mase’ (an ‘Italian Vermont’ herbalist)
Guido is a beloved and well known Vermont herbalist who was trained as an herbalist by his grandfather and father in Italy. He is the founder of Grian Herbs, co-founder of the Vermont Center for Integrative Herbalism, has a busy private herbal practice in the Central Vermont Area, grows and/or gathers much of his own plant medicine, and is the father to a beautiful little girl. Guido is wise beyond his years and clearly channels the ancients and brings their teachings back to us.
Workshops: (1) Herbal and Natural Treatment Protocols for Men’s Health; (2) A History of Medicine in the United States; (3) Wild Plant Identification Walk
Dale Pendell (California)
Author of the award-winning Pharmako trilogy, a literary history of psychoactive plants, Dale’s poetry is widely anthologized, most recently in The Wisdom Book of American Buddhist Poetry. Besides writing, Dale has been a consultant for herbal product development, botanical surveys, and is a computer scientist.
Workshops: (1) Mind Plants/Plant Teachers; (2) Absinthe, the Genus Artemisia and the Lore of the Green Fairy
Michael Phillips (New Hampshire)
Michael is a farmer, writer, carpenter, orchard consultant, and well respected teacher who lives with his wife Nancy and daughter Grace on Heartsong Farm in northern New Hampshire where they grow apples and a variety of medicinal herbs. Michael is the author of The Apple Grower and co-author with Nancy of The Herbalist’s Way. His book, the Apple Grower is generally regarded as ‘must reading’ for anyone interested in growing apples.
Workshops: The Tree Doctor Is In; (2) Herbal Medicine for Guys; (3) Wholistic Approach to an Influenza Pandemic
Nancy Phillips (New Hampshire)
Nancy is a community herbalist, teacher and farmer. She and her husband, Michael, own Heartsong Farm, an herb farm, organic orchard, and educational center in the northern mountains of NH. Nancy and Michael are co-authors of The Herbalist’s Way: Sharing Plant Medicines with Family and Community. Nancy models the herbal way, teaching, growing, making medicines and serving as a community practitioner in her small community.
Workshops: Ten Favorite Herbs for Family Health; (2) Keeping You and Your Microflora Happy
INTENSIVE Saturday 4-7;
Herbal Preparations 101 w/Nancy Phillips.
Join Nancy, community herbalist and co-author of The Herbal’s Way/the Village Herbalist for a course on how to make your own herbal remedies. This hands-on class will jump start you into making excellent quality herbal infused oils, salves, medicinal strength teas, tinctures, liniments, herbal pills, and capsules. We’ll review the pros and cons of various methods and discuss some of the best resources available. This will be a `hands-on-learn-by-doing’ class. Lots of samples, recipes, and step by step instructions. Great class for beginners! Class size limited; register early.
Matthias and Andrea Reisen (New York)
Andrea and Matthais are the founders of Healing Spirits Educational Center and Herb Farm in Avoca, NY. They are well known for their high quality ethically wildcrafted and organically cultivated herbs and also for their ability to ‘make do’ with what they have when it comes to equipment and devices. They offer workshops based on earth centered herbalism and purification lodges throughout the year. They are gifted body therapists, healers and teachers that work in direct communication with the plants.
Workshops: (1) The Dirty Dozen; (2) Spiritual Agriculture & Herbalism; (3) Summer Solstice Celebration w/Rocio Alarcon and others….
Intensive Saturday 9-12:30
A Grower's Invitation for the Cultivation, Harvesting and Drying of Medicinal Herbs w/ Herb farmers extraordinaire Matthias & Andrea Reisen of Healing Spirits Herb Farm and Jeff & Melanie Carpenter of Zack Woods Herb Farm.
This is the intensive for those interested in any aspect of producing medicinal herbs. Medicinal herbs have a unique appeal to the general public. They provide a sustainable livelihood for people wanting a connection to the land and community herbalism. Learn special techniques for the production of medicinal herbs and how to preserve the integrity and spirit of the plant. Experienced and successful herb farmers/growers will share soil building protocol,plant specifics, wildcrafting-growing dos and don'ts, drying techniques and marketing insights about herb production. All welcome but geared toward Intermed/Adv.
Melanie and Jeff Carpenter (Vermont)
Plant lovers Melanie and Jeff Carpenter are the founders of Zack Woods Herb Farm, a certified organic medicinal herb farm in northern Vermont where they produce high quality dried and fresh medicinal herbs and live potted nursery plants. When not running the farm and chasing their energetic 4 year old daughter Lily, Melanie is a middle school principal and Jeff is the co-director of the IHS and is currently consulting on a medicinal herb farm and healing and wellness center for women and young girls in Liberia.
Workshop Intensive: A Grower's Invitation for the Cultivation, Harvesting and Drying of Medicinal Herbs
Timothy Scott (Vermont)
Timothy Scott is an acupuncturist, herbalist, gardener, and writer, with a master’s degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine and undergraduate studies in psychology and general health sciences. Specializing in the natural treatment of Lyme disease, Tim has a busy private practice and, with his wife, runs a health care clinic and herbal apothecary in Brattleboro, Vermont. Tim’s philosophy is rooted in Deep Ecology, sacred plant medicine, Buddhist, Taoist, and Native American traditions, natural farming/permaculture, and reading the natural landscape. Invasive Plant Medicine is his premiere book released in August 2010, the first of its kind to demonstrate the ecological benefits and healing abilities of invasive plants.
Workshops; (1) Invasive Plant Medicine; (2) Natural Healing for Lyme Disease ; (3) Invasive Plant Walk
Ed Smith (Oregon)
Herbal Ed Smith has been actively involved in the herbal community for over 35 years as a teacher, lecturer, and advocate for quality herbs and herbal products. He is the founder of Herb Pharm, co-founded The Foundation for Natural Living Institute, and was a founding member of United Plant Savers. Ed is actively involved in the preservation of native medicinal plants and through his company, Herb Pharm, has been a long time supporter of the International Herb Symposium and other Symposia nationwide.
Workshops; (1) The Botanical Adventures of Herbal Ed; (2)Traditional Thai Herbal Medicine
Dr. Michael Tierra, AHG (California)
Dr. Tierra has been a clinical herbalist and teacher for over 40 years and has a busy practice in Santa Cruz, California. He is a California state licensed acupuncturist, the author of several popular books on herbal medicine including The Way of Herbs and Planetary Herbology. He is the formulator and founder of Planetary Herb Formulas, co-founder of the American School of Herbology and the Founder of The American Herbalists Guild (AHG).
Workshops: (1) The Art of Herbal Formulation; (2) Ayurvedic Herbs and Formulas for Western Herbalists
INTENSIVE: Saturday 2-5:30
Pulse & Tongue Diagnosis w/Michael Tierra
Pulse diagnosis has always been regarded as the confirming aspect of Traditional, Western, Chinese and Ayurvedic herbal medicine, this course will empower your ability to make an accurate pulse reading. We will also discuss and demonstrate Tongue diagnosis and its importance as a vital part of differential diagnosis. Tongue diagnosis is a very useful method to help determine the root cause of an illness and thus, a more efficient treatment strategy. Useful, for beginning through advanced practitioners and patients too. Learn how to recognize various tongue characteristics, what they mean, and how to treat them. Intermed/Adv
Greg Tilford (Montana)
Greg Tilford is a well- known author, consultant and teacher in the field of veterinary botanical medicine. He is an active international lecturer and educator at leading educational institutions throughout America and abroad. A respected pioneer of the natural pet care industry, he is the formulating herbalist and president of two Montana-based companies that produce natural supplements for companion animals: Animals'™ Apawthecary Co. and Animal Essentials Inc. He is author of four other books on herbs and herbal medicines, including From Earth to Herbalist, Herbal Remedies for Dogs & Cats, and The EcoHerbalist’s Fieldbook.
Workshops: (1) Holistic Animal Herbalism: Putting the Health Needs of Companion Animals into Real Life Perspective; (2) Holistic Herbal Approaches to Common Pet Ailments
David Winston RH (AHG)
David Winston is a clinical herbalist and ethnobotanist with over 40 years of training in Cherokee, Chinese and Western/Eclectic herbal traditions. He has had a clinical practice for over 34 years and is an herbal consultant to physicians, herbalists and researchers. He is an internationally known lecturer and the author/co-author of five books including Adaptogens, Herbs for Strength, Stamina and Stress Relief and Herbal Therapy and Supplements, A Scientific and Traditional Approach. David is the president of Herbalist & Alchemist, Inc., founder/dean of David Winston’s Center for Herbal Studies, a two year clinical training program and the director of the Herbal Therapeutics Research Library.
Workshops: (1) Adaptogens: Herbs for Strength, Stamina and Stress Relief; (2) Alternatives for ADD/ADHD
INTENSIVE Friday 2:30-6
Talking Leaves; an Indigenous Language of Plants w/David Winston.
The Cherokee and other indigenous peoples have long known the best way to learn about plants is from the plants themselves. We will explore the three languages of plants (the physical, symbolic and subtle/intuitive) and learn how the green nation can guide us in personal and planetary health. By understanding these basic concepts, you will be able to simply taste, smell, touch and look at any plant and gain profound insights into their uses for physical, emotional and spiritual healing. The class will include traditional stories, clear guidance on the use of these techniques and give participants the ability to understand a new language
Donna Bryant Winston (New Jersey)
Donna Bryant Winston is a public health nurse, herbalist, and educator. She currently manages a small inner city health clinic, educating the surrounding community on natural therapies, combining her nursing skills and knowledge with her herbal background. She is a wonderfully inspiring educator and teaches workshops internationally and has helped coordinate the International Herb Symposium and the Women’s Herbal Conference over the past 14 years.
Workshops; (1) The Importance of Sleep; (2) Smoking Cessation – A Natural Alternative
PLAYSHOP INTENSIVE Saturday 4 -7
The Secrets of Soapmaking with Donna Winston.
Join Donna in this delightfully fun, hands-on, workshop as we discuss the history of soap and go through every step of the soap making process, sharing tips and techniques along the way. You will learn how to incorporate herbs, essential oils, and natural ingredients into your luxurious handmade soaps. We’ll make a goat’s milk soap in class. Participants will leave feeling confident about making soap on their own. Class includes supplies, handouts, recipes, and samples.
VETERINARY BOTANIC MEDICINE (VBMA TRACK)
A country or civilization can be judged by the way it treats its animals ~ Mahatma Gandhi
We are honored to have the following veterinarians and herbalists who specialize in wholistic care of animals join us at the IHS. They will be offering their expertise on wholistic animal care emphasizing botanical medicine. Participants of the IHS are welcome to join in any of the classes offered as part of the VBMA TRACK.
Dr. Hubert Karreman, DVM
Dr. Hubert Karreman is a 1995 graduate from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. He has been a dairy practitioner for 15 years in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, predominantly working with certified organic dairy farms. He is an internationally recognized expert in the non-antibiotic treatment of infectious disease. He recently finished a 5 year term on the USDA National Organic Standards Board and was on the AVMA Taskforce for Complementary and Alternative Veterinary Medicine, which wrote the current AVMA Guidelines on CAVM. He recently founded Bovinity Health, a company based on providing functional alternatives to antibiotics and hormones. His first book Treating Dairy Cows Naturally: Thoughts and Strategies is available from Acres USA and his second book, The Barn Guide to Treating Dairy Cows Naturally, also published by Acres USA, will be available in December. He is president-elect of the Veterinary Botanical Medicine Association. Dr. Karreman will be talking about Health for Organic Livestock
Dr. Liz Hassinger, DVM
Dr. Liz Hassinger is a 1989 graduate of Tuft's Veterinary School and has completed post graduate study in small animal medicine and surgery. She has practiced in Southern Rhode Island since 1991. Dr. Hassinger has completed the training and requirements for certification in Veterinary Acupuncture through the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society. She studied animal chiropractic at the Healing Oasis School and is certified by the American Veterinary Chiropractic Association. She has completed studies in homeopathy through the Renaissance School of homeopathy, and studied herbal medicine through Tufts University and International Herb Symposium Herbs. Dr. Hassinger's talk will deal with Unique Veterinarian topics and their Herbal Cures. Her second session will deal with the unique needs of cancer patients both with herbal medicines and nutritional support.
Dr. Cindy Lankenau, DVM
Dr. Cindy Lankenau is a holistic mixed animal veterinarian currently practicing in western N.Y. She graduated from Cornell’s College of Veterinary Medicine in 1981 and is certified in acupuncture, homeopathy, chiropractic and herbal medicine. Since 1991, she has been exclusively using alternative modalities. She is currently the president of the VBMA and has lectured at the University of Buffalo's Mini- Vet School, AHVMA, and IVAS. Dr. Lankenau’s talk will discuss the recognition and treatment of vaccine induced diseases.
Dr. Bruce Ferguson, DVM, MS,
Dr. Ferguson received his DVM in 1992 from the University of Florida. He studied with the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society in 1997 and began attending Chi Institute of Chinese Medicine (www.tcvm.com) classes in 1998. Bruce studied Tui Na in Beijing and, along with Dr. Xie, developed a TCVM Tui Na course now offered at the Chi Institute. Bruce lectures at veterinary colleges and at scientific meetings nationally and internationally in the field of TCVM. Bruce is now living in Perth, Western Australia, and is an Adjunct Senior Lecturer at Murdoch University’s Veterinary School where he runs a TCVM consultancy, lectures to final year veterinary students, and offers a popular 2 week long Special Topics rotation in TCVM to select final year veterinary students. Dr. Ferguson will be speaking on Holistic Veterinary Care
Dr. Stephen Tobin, DVM.
Dr. Stephen Tobin is a holistic veterinarian who provides treatment using homeopathic herbs and nutrition and runs a full-service veterinary clinic in Meriden, Connecticut. A member of The Academy of Veterinary Homeopathy, The National Center For Homeopathy, The Connecticut Veterinary Medical Association, and The International Association For Veterinary Homeopathy, as well as past president of The American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association, Dr. Tobin lectures and publishes on animal care regularly.
Dr. Laurie Dohmen, DVM
Dr. Laurie Dohmen is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine. She has always had a mixed animal practice in central Delaware. She has sat on the DVMA board, and the board of her local SPCA while working there as a staff veterinarian. After almost 10 years, Dr. Dohmen went back to school learn a variety of holistic modalities and revamp her practice to be primarily holistic yet integrative. She is now a Practitioner of Bach Flower Essences, and an Herbalist trained through Rosemary Gladstar’s on-site apprenticeship and her home study course. Dr. Dohmen has also completed the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society’s Veterinary Acupuncture training and the Chi Institute’s Veterinary Food Therapy course. Dr. Dohmen will be sharing some of her personal remedies for various commonly seen veterinary conditions.
Greg Tilford
Greg Tilford is a well- known author, consultant and teacher in the field of veterinary botanical medicine. He is an active international lecturer and educator at leading educational institutions throughout America and abroad. A respected pioneer of the natural pet care industry, he is the formulating herbalist and president of two Montana-based companies that produce natural supplements for companion animals: Animals'™ Apawthecary Co. and Animal Essentials Inc. He is author of four other books on herbs and herbal medicines, including From Earth to Herbalist, Herbal Remedies for Dogs & Cats, and The EcoHerbalist’s Fieldbook.
Workshops: Holistic Animal Herbalism: Putting the Health Needs of Companion Animals into Real Life Perspective; (2) Holistic Herbal Approaches to Common Pet Ailments
The Schedule >>>