Join us for a transformative gathering in the heart of Cincinnati, Ohio, to celebrate the rich history, spirituality, and eclectic roots of herbalism.

The International Herb Symposium

Founded more than 25 years ago by Rosemary Gladstar, this biennial event continues to be a place for herbalists from across the globe to exchange information about the healing power of plants. The Symposium holds a special place among herbal conferences, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds and ways of working with medicinals.


Announcing the 17th IHS

Theme: Herbal Traditions, Spirituality and the Eclectic Roots of Modern Day Herbalism

This symposium is a unique opportunity to build community, honor the crossroads of plant medicine, and explore how herbal knowledge flows through history—like the mighty Ohio River—connecting us all.

Through five core tracks, you’ll dive deep into:

  • Eclectic Medicine
  • Alchemy & Plant Spirit
  • Cultural Traditions
  • Kitchen Apothecary & Medicine Making
  • Reciprocity

Together, we will uplift the herbalist community, reflect on the challenges and triumphs of plant medicine in the past, address the challenges we face today, and envision a sustainable future for herbalism.


Why Attend?

  • Build connections in the herbalist community.
  • Explore the history and spirituality of herbalism.
  • Learn from renowned educators and practitioners.
  • Support the mission of United Plant Savers.

Event Details

Location: Memorial Hall, Downtown Cincinnati
Cost:

  • $425.00 In-Person Event Registration
  • $325.00 Early Bird Registration for UpS Members (opens March 1, 2025)
  • $275.00 Online (Access to special live streams + specially recorded classes for 18 months)

Capacity: Limited to 600 participants (Expected to sell out early—no refunds, but tickets are transferable).

Memorial Hall offers ample parking and is close to hotels, Airbnbs, and dining options. Washington Park, directly in front of the venue, is a perfect spot for picnics and gatherings with fellow attendees.

Coffee, snacks, and a vendor marketplace will be available throughout the event. Proceeds from the symposium support United Plant Savers, advocating for at-risk native medicinal plants in trade.


Registration Opens Soon!

Spaces are limited, and tickets are expected to sell out quickly. Plan to secure your spot early to be part of this incredible gathering of herbalists, healers, and plant enthusiasts. Early bird registration will open March 1st for United Plant Savers members only. Subscribe to our newsletter using the link at the bottom of this page to get notified when registration opens.


Friday, Sept 12, 2025

  • 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Intensive Workshops (Pre-registration required)
  • 12:30 PM: Opening Circle
  • 1:30 – 2:45 PM: Class Session 1 (5 class options)
  • 3:00 – 4:15 PM: Class Session 2 (5 class options)
  • 4:30 – 5:45 PM: Class Session 3 (5 class options)
  • Evening: Vendor Space, Dinner on Your Own, Evening Mixer

Saturday, Sept 13, 2025

  • 8:00 AM: Morning Yoga/Stretch
  • 9:00 – 10:30 AM: Class Session 4 (5 class options)
  • 10:45 – 12:00 PM: Class Session 5 (5 class options)
  • 12:00 – 2:00 PM: Lunch Break & Vendor Marketplace
  • 2:00 – 3:30 PM: Class Session 6 (5 class options)
  • 4:00 – 5:00 PM: Class Session 7 (5 class options)
  • 5:15 – 6:30 PM: Gathering in the Main Auditorium

Sunday, Sept 14, 2025

  • 9:30 – 10:45 AM: Class Session 8 (5 class options)
  • 11:15 – 12:30 PM: Class Session 9 (5 class options)
  • 12:30 – 2:00 PM: Lunch Break & Herbal Market
  • 2:00 – 3:30 PM: Herb Walks
  • 4:00 PM: Closing Ceremony

Monday, Sept 15, 2025

  • All Day: Sustainable Herbal Business Workshop (Hosted by AHPA – separate registration required)
  • Free Hikes at United Plant Savers Sanctuary (Camping opportunities available)

📚 Open Hours at the Lloyd Library: Visit throughout the weekend to explore their extensive herbal collections.

Tuesday–Wednesday, Sept 16–17, 2025

  • AHPA Botanical Congress (Separate registration required)

All people are welcome at the International Herb Symposium.

People of all racial identities, national or ethnic origins, ancestries, ages, religions or religious creeds, abilities, sexual orientations, gender & non-gender conforming identities, skin colors, and body sizes are joyfully invited to this biennial gathering.

EXPLORE PAST CLASSES

Discover the
IHS Learning Center

  • 150 courses from past Symposiums
  • Taught by esteemed educators
  • For herbal students of all levels
LEARN MORE

The International Herb Symposium and IHS Learning Center are both a benefit for United Plant Savers. When you register, you’ll be helping to protect native medicinal plants.