Holistic Herbalism Beginner Program

Registration for 2025 will begin in January or February 2025. Stay tuned!

Do you want to learn about growing, harvesting medicinal herbs? Are you a hands-on learner who loves the outdoors? Are you looking for an experienced teacher who is deeply invested in learning to be in relationship with the land based on reciprocity, humility and respect?

This five month introductory herbalism program is taught through both a sensory and scientific lens, designed to give you a solid introduction to herbalism and practical skills for integrating medicinal plants into your daily life. Come get your hands dirty (literally and figuratively), share community with other plant enthusiasts, and explore your budding passion for herbs.

The program will take place on the beautiful 80+ acre farm of Annapolis Seeds where we will tend herb gardens together, make herbal medicines, and delve deep into specific plants and foundational concepts of herbalism. You will walk away from this program with more confidence growing and using herbs, and more curiosity, respect and excitement for the incredible potential for healing that the natural world offers at your doorstep. No previous experience necessary.

Schedule:

10 Wednesdays, 10am-4:30pm

May 22; June 5, 19; July 3, 17; August 14, 28; September 11, 25; October 9

Location:

Annapolis Seeds Farm, Nictaux Nova Scotia

Topics covered include:

  • Introduction to the history, ethics and approaches of herbalism

  • Herbal actions and qualities guided by our senses

  • How to harvest and use 30+ local abundant plants

  • How to make potent herbal preparations including tinctures, teas, honeys, oils, salves, and topical applications from fresh and dry herbs

  • Growing your own medicinal herbs

  • Ethical wild-harvesting

  • Herbalist’s approach to holistic support for the nervous, immune, digestive, circulatory and respiratory systems

Cost:

Early bird discount if you register by March 30th: $1050 +hst. After March 15: $1200 +hst

Limited discounts available for low-income and BIPOC participants.

Notes:

  • This program takes place entirely outdoors. There are sheltered areas from rain (yurt, outdoor kitchen) but students are requested to dress appropriately for the weather

  • This is a LIVE program. If you miss a class, it is your responsibility to request handouts from Ember and get class notes from a classmate

  • While what you learn in this program may benefit your health, individualized health recommendations are not offered in this program

  • A deposit of $100 is required to hold your spot, which goes towards your tuition

  • Monthly payment plans are available, more information available upon registration

  • There will be some required textbooks and readings for homework, up to 1-2 hours per month.

  • The number of people in the program will be about 8-15