Herbal Education
Kenzie McDonald has been learning and teaching about herbalism, agricultural practices and social justice since 2011. She is passionate about sharing knowledge and creating a safe space for people to learn and grow in their understanding of the world around them.
Previous Teaching history
Teacher and Counselor at Camp Bread and Butter at Bread and Butter Farm, Shelburne, VT, Summer 2017&2018. Learn more here.
Teaching Assistant, Spoonful Herbals Apprenticeship Program. Growing season of 2016 Learn more here.
Co-teacher of Herbal Kids' Camp at All Together Now in Montpelier, VT. August 1-12, 2016. Learn more here.
Fall Herbalism Class Series for Kids and Pre-Teens!
WHEN: Mondays, 3:30 - 5:30 pm from October 1st to November 12th (7 WEEKS!)
WHO: All experience levels and ages (6-12 years old)
WHERE: Bread and Butter Farm, 200 Leduc Farm Road, Shelburne, VT 05482
WHY: The magic of using plants for medicine is in all of us. Join to learn about the benefits of different plant for our bodies, how to communicate with plants, play outside in nature and make herbal remedies to take home! This season we will focus on magic and imagination with some playful creations in connection to Harry Potter.
This herbal-based educational series will highlight the magic and life of plants in the forest and in the field. We will learn about our individual lineage of herbal traditions and folklore. Our classes will incorporate yoga, hikes, fire-building and potions-making. Ready your children to weave a web of wild crafting in nature and experiencing the magical properties of plants of all kinds in the indoor and outdoor classroom.
Trauma Alchemy Tea Time
When: Wednesday, August 15th 6-8pm
Where: Railyard Apothecary @270 Battery St, Burlington, VT
Mercedes Mack and Kenzie McDonald will be holding a sacred space for connection and conversation about sexual trauma in a personal and intimate setting.
Some topics that will be touched are plant medicine, tarot, sexuality and self pleasure/pleasure within sexual trauma, collective sharing of healing modalities and self care practices, how the stars are aligning to aid our healing, and ways to see our patterns through existential kink.
The topics addressed will be guided by the collective and facilitated by Mercedes and Kenzie. This space is open to all with the specific intention for holding space for people who have experienced sexual trauma.
Herbalists Without Borders VT Chapter Gathering
When: Tuesday, August 21st, 6-8pm
Where: Railyard Apothecary @270 Battery St, Burlington, VT
Join Herbalists Without Borders VT Chapter to discuss herbal justice locally and globally, and next steps for the collective. We are organizing an upcoming Trauma Training and a fundraiser that will create a scholarship for BIPOC (meaning: Black, Indigenous, People of color), and people who identify as trans gendered to attend the training.
If you are just curious about HWB and what a Trauma Training could entail, or super excited about getting involved, all are welcome!
The Gut Brain Connection:
How to Manage Stress for Digestive Health
With Kristen Maniscalco and Kenzie McDonald
When: Thursday, September 6th, 6-8pm
Where: Railyard Apothecary @270 Battery St, Burlington, VT
This workshop will discuss the gut-brain connection, how the two are so closely related, and how these two systems can work together for optimal health and well-being. We will delve into the dysregulation many of us have experienced and provide methods to manage the close relationship between the mind and digestive processes.
Personal experiences will be shared and we will learn how to make medicine from plants that support this relationship.
Camp Bread and Butter Herbalism Week!
When: Monday to Firday, July 23-27, 9 am - 330 pm
Where: Bread and Butter Farm, South Burlington, VT
Herbalism- the art and craft of healing with plants. This is a new week theme at camp this year, which will highlight the magic and life of plants in the forest and in the field. We will learn about everything from plant communication to remedy making to herbal traditions and folklore. Ready your children to weave a Web of wild crafting in nature and experiencing the magical properties of plants of all kinds. Camp bread and butter is excited bring herbal medicine into a full week of fun and play!
Replenish: Sexual Trauma Recovery Using Plant Medicine and Tarot
When: Wednesday, May 16th, 6-8 pm
Where: Railyard Apothecary, Burlington, VT
with Mercedes Mack and Kenzie McDonald
"Everything, given time and nurturing, is moving towards balance and healing." Lisa Thomas Adeyemo, Somatics & Trauma Program Coordinator, generative somatics
In our time together, we will continue to explore recovery/healing in regards to sexual trauma within the framework of the Tarot, the five elements of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and plants for healing. We will spend time exploring the specific suits of the Tarot as they relate to TCM, Tarot spreads and suggestions for ongoing work with the Tarot.
We will incorporate plants in a ritual and cultural context through honoring the origins of these traditions and plants. We will define “realistic” ways to bring herbs and tarot into our lives habitually for self love and healing while acknowledging you know best how to place herbs and tarot into practice.
This class is created for people of all genders and sexual orientations.
$20 in advance, $22 the day of. If you register online the day of, you will be asked for $2 at the door.
WINTER HERBALISM CLASSES FOR HOMESCHOOLERS!
(7-WEEK SERIES // AGES 6 - 12)
When: Every Friday, March 9th to April 20th from 1-3 pm
Where: Bread and Butter Farm, Shelburne, VT
Cost: $20/class or $120 for series if paid in full on the first day of class.
Financial support available based on request.
This winter’s 7-week Herbal Class Series will facilitate the learning of herbal medicine through using the 7 chakras, the 7 planets, and deeper learning of 7 plants. We will deepen our experience of plants through the senses, science and magic within the indoor and outdoor classroom. We will collectively decide on a social justice endeavor to learn about and promote solidarity work through plant-based remedies and educating our local community.
Class series offerings also available on the Bread and Butter Website here.
WINTER HERBALISM CLASSES FOR KIDS!
(5-WEEK SERIES // AGES 6-12)
When: Every Monday, March 19th- April 16th from 3:30 to 5:30 pm
Where: Bread and Butter Farm, Shelburne, VT
Cost: $20/class or $90 for series if paid in full on the first day of class.
Financial support available based on request.
This herbal-based educational series will highlight the magic and life of plants in the forest and in the field. We will learn about everything from plant communication to scientific experiments to remedy making to herbal traditions and folklore. Ready your children to weave a web of wild crafting in nature and experiencing the magical properties of plants of all kinds in the indoor and outdoor classroom.
Class series offerings also available on the Bread and Butter Website here.
Herbal Justice Gathering: Herbalists Without Borders VT
When: Thursday, March 22nd, 6-8 pm
Where: Railyard Apothecary, Burlington, VT
with Kristin Henningsen and Kenzie McDonald
Herbal Justice is the empowerment of all people through the creation of self- and community-based sovereignty over one's own health and wellness in relationship with herbs. Join us for the first Herbal Justice Gathering hosted at Railyard Apothecary for the Herbalist Without Borders VT chapter. Herbalists Without Borders (HWB) embraces a collective vision of a global community where all people have access to affordable natural & botanical health and wellness.
This will be an action-based gathering, preparing herbal supplies to ship to communities requesting solidarity for herbal health clinics in Puerto Rico, San Francisco and Minnesota. We also want to create space for addressing social and environmental justice concerns, including but not limited to herbal access, disaster relief outreach, community solidarity, intersectionality, privilege and cultural relativism.
We hope for you to walk away with information about how to get involved, stay involved and how to deepen individual work of weaving together integrity, self care, and collective liberation within herbalism and health care.
Event is by donation ($5-20 if an amount is helpful) and no one is turned away for lack of funds. All proceeds feed the Herbal Justice Fund at Railyard Apothecary.
Replenish: Sexual Trauma Recovery Using Plant Medicine and Tarot
When: Monday, March 12th, 6-8 pm
Where: Railyard Apothecary, Burlington, VT
with Mercedes Mack and Kenzie McDonald
"Everything, given time and nurturing, is moving towards balance and healing." ~ Lisa Thomas Adeyemo
What does it mean when you or someone you love carries sexual trauma? How do we define sexual trauma in a culture of rape and lack of consent? How do we transform from victim to empowered? What can we focus on to generate change and growth?
Join Mercedes Mack and Kenzie McDonald as we explore these questions and share ways to heal from lingering physical, emotional and spiritual trauma with herbs, flowers, Tarot, magic, ritual and self love. This class is created for people of all genders and sexual orientations.
$20 in advance, $22 the day of. If you register online the day of, you will be asked for $2 at the door.
Magic and Intuition with Herbal Medicine For Kids!
NOFA VT Winter Conference @UVM, Burlington, VT (must be registered in the conference to participate)
Saturday, February 17th, 9 am-11:45 am
with Kenzie McDonald and Bekah Gordon
Curious about how plants can help us heal? Wondering how plants may be able to communicate with us? Join us to learn about intuition, gratitude, plant magic and active listening with plants through our senses and our hearts. Join us to taste, play and laugh with herbal traditions inside the classroom and out in nature.
Meet the presenters:
Kenzie is the organic herbal farmer of Wild Faith Herb Farm, clinical herbalist at Railyard Apothecary and educator for kids and adults based in Burlington, Vermont. Bekah is an organic farmer and children's educator at Bread and Butter farm's Village School and summer camp in South Burlington, Vermont.
AFFILIATIONS: Wild Faith Herb Farm, Bread and Butter Farm and Railyard Apothecary
6-week Herbal Learning Series for Coming of Age Herbalists!
Date: Every other Wednesday, September 20th to November 29th from 3:30 to 5:30
Location: We will be meeting at Wild Faith Herb Farm and Bread and Butter Farm, both in South Burlington.
Ages: 11-15 years old. The intention is to create a high level educational program for your children who are or are becoming teenagers.
This series is geared towards children coming of age into their path of herbalism and nature-based learning. WHAT IS HERBALISM? Herbalism is simply the use of plants to nourish and heal. We will be creating remedies, interacting with plants and deepening our awareness of global herbal medicine traditions. Discussions about magic and the healing power of plants will be had every class. We will also focus on the relationship of herbalism and social justice, and create remedies to send to communities requesting better access to herbal healing.
Cost: $20 per class plus a $5 supplies fee depending on the remedy made for that class. $100 total if you pay for all 8 classes at the first class. (financial assistance available based on request)
8-week Herbal Learning Series for Aspiring Herbalists!
Date: Fridays, September 22nd to November 10th from 2 to 4 pm
Location: We will be meeting at Wild Faith Herb Farm and Bread and Butter Farm, both in South Burlington.
Age: 6-12 years old
This series will be great for students interested in herbalism and nature/plant-based learning. WHAT IS HERBALISM? Herbalism is simply the use of plants to nourish and heal. Children will learn to listen to the plants, experience plant magic, practice their intuition and create herbal remedies. We will also cover the basics of traditional medicinal systems throughout the world and the relationship of herbalism and social justice. Magic, potions and fairies will appear in every class.
Cost: $20 per class plus a $5 supplies fee depending on the remedy made for that class. $140 if you pay for all 8 classes at the first class. (financial assistance available based on request)
Sexual Health Series: The Healing Properties of Kink and Sexual Energies
When: Tuesday, December 5th, 6-8 pm
Where: Railyard Apothecary, 270 Battery St, Burlington, VT
Cost is $18 in advance, $20 the day of. Facebook link here
Kink. “An unconventional (sexual) taste, fantasy, concept or behavior.” “Actualizing what others dream about.” Kink is the power of embodying what you want and getting it. Kink allows us to transform the way shame, judgement and self-limiting feelings occupy and control our lives by inviting in liberating communication, self expression and magic. Set yourself free to imagine your life filled with pleasure, abundance, play and enjoyment. In this class, Kenzie will define kink in intimate, magical and ritual terms while identifying how a practice of kink can be a gateway to herbs, self love and self care. Whether you already practice sexual or existential kink, or you are just curious of how herbs could possibly be involved in sexual play, you are welcome to join. This class is created for folks of all genders, sexual orientations and experience levels.
Sexual Health Series: Stay Juicy...DIY Herbal Lubrication
Date: Tuesday, November 7th, 2017 6-8 pm
Location: Railyard Apothecary @ 270 Battery St in Burlington, VT
What is the most underrated secret ingredient to healthy and pleasurable sex? The Juice. Whether it is internal hormones or external application, lubrication is essential to short term satisfaction and long term reproductive balance and integrity. Join us to talk about radical self care, improving sexual pleasure and ways in which lubrication can support overall wellness. We will also make a DIY lube to take home for personal use.
This class is created for folks of all genders, sexual orientations and experience levels.
Cost: $22 in advance, 25.00 at the door, supplies fee included
Sexual Health Series: Libido and Orgasm.
Empowerment through Connection to our Sexual Being.
Date: Tuesday, October 24th, 2017 6-8 pm
Location: Railyard Apothecary @ 270 Battery St in Burlington, VT
You deserve to enjoy. You deserve to love your body. You deserve self care. Join in a discussion about reframing the meaning of libido, sexual desire, to find out what it means for you, and how herbal self care practices can bring orgasm and pleasure into one’s life consensually. Self love, daily ritual and spirituality will be at the core of this conversation.
This class is created for folks of all genders, sexual orientations and experience levels.
Cost: $18 in advance, 20.00 at the door
Sexual Health Series: The Reproductive Microbiome
...how to maintain a balanced flora for your secret garden
Date: Tuesday, October 10th, 2017 6-8 pm
Location: Railyard Apothecary @ 270 Battery St in Burlington, VT
In a healthy human body, the reproductive system is a place of microbiome wealth. Bacteria is essential to the health and wellbeing of our mind, emotions and physical body, including our most private places. However, it’s all about balance and diversity, without which our microbiome makeup can turn into a cycle of discomfort and disassociation. In this class we will develop an understanding of how the vaginal microbiome is impacted by lifestyle, stress, nutrition, hormones and menstruation. Participants will walk away with tangible solutions finding balance and diversity within their secret garden through lifestyle, nutrition and herbs.
This class is created for folks of all genders, sexual orientations and experience levels.
Cost: $18 in advance, 20.00 at the door
Materia Medica on Cacao, a Sacred Medicine
Date: Saturday, October 7th, 2017 1-2:30 pm
Location: Railyard Apothecary @ 270 Battery St in Burlington, VT
Join Kenzie, herbalist, herb farmer, and witch, to learn about the magic of cacao, or raw chocolate, a commonly consumed herbal medicine globally. A medicine of the heart, cacao is great for many physical ailments, as well as heart and spirit-based healing needs. We will discuss the origins of the plant, how it grows and the implications of capitalism on the wellbeing of this ancient plant medicine. Tasting the herbal treats provided is not mandatory, but highly suggested.
Railyard Apothecary holds “materia medica” classes twice monthly, where we share in-depth information on one of our favorite plants. These classes are meant to provide a thorough description of a plant, its history, its uses, and how to prep.
Cost: $10
Sexual Health Series: Aphrodisiacs for Arousal and Enjoyment
Tuesday, September 26th, 2017, 6-8 pm
Location: Railyard Apothecary @ 270 Battery St in Burlington, VT
Aphrodisiacs: traditionally something that stimulates sexual desire. Can herbs really alter human libido? Herbal aphrodisiacs not only act on sexual arousal, but also play a role in sensuality, nourishment, energy, relaxation and pleasure. Kenzie McDonald will demystify aphrodisiac as an herbal action, while speaking to the realities of libido in the Western world, full of stress and inflammation. She will enable participants to come away with an idea of how herbs, diet, and lifestyle can support a healthy, balanced, and enjoyable sexual wellness.
Cost: $18 in advance, $20 the day of
Pollinator Adventure and Ecology Exploration with two local beekeepers!
Date: Saturday, September 23rd, 2017, 10 am -12 pm
Location: Rock Point School, Burlington, VT
Ages: 6-12 years old
Join Gus Buchanan and Kenzie McDonald in an exploration with bees and our local pollinators. Gus, a natural beekeeper of 17 years and community educator, will invite participants to experience the bees he works with and interact with the ecology at rock point. Kenzie, an herbalist, herb farmer and novice beekeeper, will lead a pollinator plant walk and hands-on activities to integrate our understanding of pollinators and their role in the environment.
Cost: $20 per participant, financial assistance available based on request
Second LATE SUMMER HERBAL PLANT WALK for families!
Saturday, September 9th, 2017 from 10-12 pm.
Location: This walk will be held at Wild Faith Herb Farm in South Burlington.
This class will be geared towards both parents and kids. Children who attend the first plant walk will help in guiding this plant walk. The focus will be on identification, herbal medicine cabinet, healing properties of herbs and foraging methods.
Cost: $20 for the first family member and $10 for additional family members (financial assistance available based on request)
Please email me directly for more details on location and registration at wildfaithherbfarm@gmail.com
First LATE SUMMER HERBAL PLANT WALK for Kids!
Wednesday, August 30th, 2017 from 2-4 pm
Location: This walk will be held at Wild Faith Herb Farm in South Burlington.
Parents are welcome to walk with the children, although it will be geared towards them in particular. The focus will be on plant identification, healing property of herbs, honorable harvest and plant communication.
Cost: $20 per child (financial assistance available based on request)
Please email me directly for more details on location and registration at wildfaithherbfarm@gmail.com
KID'S SPRING TIME HERBAL CLASS SERIES
Fridays from 12-2 pm starting April 7th, ending May 5th, 2017, Facebook Link
An invitation to budding young herbalists! Starting April 7th, Kenzie McDonald will be teaching a class series hosted at Railyard in Burlington and Wild Faith Herb Farm in South Burlington for 5 weeks. These classes will focus on interactions in nature, traditional herbal systems, plant identification, medicine making and herbal justice.
This first class is planned for Railyard Apothecary, and the location for the following classes will be decided based on the weather. Parents are welcome to stay for the classes.
Ages: 6-12.
Price: $20, sliding scale available upon request based on financial need, or $75 if you pay for all 5 classes at the first class. Some (2-3) classes may request an additional $5 supplies fee for the herbal remedies we create to take home!
Global Herbalism Series: Senegal, West Africa
Thursday, April 20th, 2017, 6-8 pm, Railyard Apothecary in Burlington, VT.
While Senegal has always been one of West Africa's metropolitan, trade, and spiritual centers, the people of Senegal still practice traditional herbalism in their homes and communities today. Nearly all the people of Senegal speak the tribal language of Wolof. In Wolof, the word for Tree is Garab, which also means medicine or remedy. Spirituality and plants are at the root of the Senegalese culture in both the urban and rural environments, with Sufi Islam as the flower of their community tree. In this class we will discuss the connection of spirituality and traditional herbalism within the Wolof and Cerer peoples, the different modalities of healing, and the intersection of traditional herbalism and modernity.
Kenzie has traveled and lived in the Middle East, West Africa, Central America and the Caribbean islands. During her time abroad, Kenzie learned about permaculture, sustainable agriculture, herbalism and local languages and traditions. In 2010, Kenzie lived in Senegal, both in the capital of Dakar and in the rural village of Sessene. In 2017, Kenzie returned to deepen her relationship to the people and their herbal and spiritual traditions. Kenzie’s perspective is limited to her own experience, and while she is not an expert on any of the subjects she will cover in the workshop, she is passionate about the possible benefits of this kind of cross-cultural exchange of herbal wisdom.
Price: $15 in advance, $20 at the door. Proceeds donated to the community.
Herbs for Transgender Wellness and Transitioning
Wednesday, April 26th, 2017, 5:30-7:30 pm, Railyard Apothecary in Burlington, VT
Join Mica and Kenzie McDonald to learn about how herbs can support people at different stages in the process of transitioning their gender and/or sex. We will address herbal support for emotional changes, hormonal therapy, adrenal resilience, surgery recovery, and overall tonic care. This class is geared towards trans folks and allies, including family, friends, and health professionals.
If attending as an ally, please through the following website page prior to class:
http://www.transequality.org/issues/resources/supporting-the-transgender-people-in-your-life-a-guide-to-being-a-good-ally
Mica and Kenzie are an herbalist sibling duo, both of whom studied at VCIH and now work at the Railyard Apothecary and Burlington Herb Clinic. Mica has personal experience with hormonal and surgical transitioning FTM, and Kenzie specializes in emotional wellness through herbal support as well as education towards becoming a stronger ally.
Price: $20 in advance, $25 at the door. Sliding scale available upon request.
Global Herbalism Series: Cuba and the Caribbean Islands
Thursday, May 4th, 2017, 6-8pm, Railyard Apothecary in Burlington, VT.
Cuba, historically isolated from access to global technologies, has become known as a nation dedicated to local, organic food, and accessible healthcare. While healthcare is free, the industrial diet and lifestyle of a globalized world comes at a cost. Health concerns include issues of malnourishment, diabetes, heart disease, and autoimmune disease. In this class, we will discuss the reality of traditional herbalism in the context of Cuban culture, specifically focusing on Havana and the surrounding region. We will also discuss how industrialization is changing traditional herbalism used throughout the Caribbean and the world. This class will provide an overview of Cuban herbalism from the perspective of a traveling, American herbalist and agriculturalist.
In 2015, Kenzie visited the western region of Cuba to research the current status of its health care, organic agriculture, and herbalism. Kenzie’s perspective is limited to her own experience, and while she is not an expert on any of the subjects she will cover in the workshop, she is passionate about the possible benefits of this kind of cross-cultural exchange of herbal wisdom.
Price: $15 in advance, $20 at the door. Proceeds will be donated to the community.
ASTRO-MYTHOLOGY AND HERBAL LORE:
Dancing in the New Solar System
Saturday, March 11, 2017 from 3 PM - 5 PM, Grian Herbs Apothecary in Montpelier,
Saturday, March 18, 2017 from 3 PM - 5 PM, Railyard Herbal Apothecary in Burlington,
Come join Astrologer/Mythologist Kelley Hunter & Herbalist/Educator Kenzie McDonald to learn, share and color! A combination of stories from the stars and earthy herbal lore, shared through coloring pages, slide show images and creative play. Introducing recently discovered planetoids in the far solar system, named for global creator gods and goddesses.
For all ages: kids, adults and family-friendly
Price: $20, sliding scale available upon request based on financial need
Kelley Hunter, a long-time astrologer, is the author of Living Lilith: Four Dimensions of the Cosmic Feminine and the new Planetary Gods & Goddesses Coloring Book: Astronomy and Myths of the New Solar System. Director of HELIA Productions, she designs creative educational experiences for a wide range of groups and organizations. http://heliastar.com/
Discounted Coloring books available for purchase
MATERIA MEDICA: Mugwort, Artemis and Her Bow
Saturday, March 18th, 2017 1-2:30 pm, Railyard Apothecary in Burlington, VT.
Join Railyard Apothecary for our twice monthly “materia medica” classes where we share in-depth information on one of our favorite plants. These classes are meant to provide a thorough description of a plant, its history, its uses, and how to prepare it safely. Kenzie McDonald, clinical herbalist and herb farmer to learn and experience mugwort, Artemisia vulgaris. Mugwort grows wildly here in Vermont, engaging us through our internal and external environments. Mugwort is utilized in spring liver cleansing, functions as a female reproductive system balancer and synergizes with spiritual energetics through dreams and ceremony. With a balance of folklore and research, mugwort is one of Kenzie's favorite plant allies in the physical, emotional and spiritual realms. Join us to learn more!
Price: $10.
KID'S HERBAL WORKSHOP: FROM WINTER TO SPRING HERBAL WELLNESS
Friday, March 17th, 2017 from 12-2pm, Railyard Apothecary in Burlington, VT
Join Kenzie McDonald to learn, interact and play with medicinal herbs. We will focus on the relationship of herbs to winter immune wellness and spring cleansing, considering the spring equinox drawing near! This interactive workshop will bring a taste of nature, traditional herbal systems and medicine-making. We will specifically focus on some herbal lore from the Irish Herbal Traditions in reference to the holiday. Come join the fun and magic!
Ages: 6 to 12.
Price: $20, sliding scale available upon request based on financial need
Solidarity Fire Cider Workshop
Thursday, December 22nd, 2016 from 5 to 7 pm. Hosted at Railyard Apothecary in Burlington, VT.
Come join Guido Mase, Kara Buchanan and Kenzie McDonald to learn how to make Fire Cider. The final product will be sent to Standing Rock in solidarity with the water protectors. Fire Cider is a traditional medicine for all people...Great to increase warmth, immunity and circulation in the body. This workshop is family-friendly, and open for folks of all colors, genders, ages and abilities. The suggested donation for this class is $15-20. Proceeds will pay for use of space, supplies and shipment. No one will be turned away. Contact us with any questions you have.
Herbal Apprenticeship for Homeschoolers
10-week apprenticeship meeting Thursday afternoons, 1-4pm,
September 8th to November 10th, 2016. Meets at rotating Burlington-area locations.
This Fall's herbal program for homeschool students will meet at a different location for almost every class. We will visit farms, Railyard Apothecary, local parks, a local essential oil distillery, and much more. Topics will include the creation of herbal remedies, plant energetics, ecology, herbal justice, plant communication, plant identification, and a deep knowledge of local and native herbs. Curriculum geared towards ages 6-12. Payment for classes can be made by check or cash in the amount of $25-35 sliding scale per class. For dates, locations and topics of each class, please email.
Post-Harvest Processing of Medicinal Herbs for Market
Wednesday, September 14th, 2016, 6-8pm at VCIH in Montpelier AND Thursday, September 29th, 6-8pm at Railyard Apothecary in Montpelier.
Join Kenzie and NOFA-VT to discuss methods used for processing freshly harvested medicinal and culinary herbs into marketable products. This class will focus on post-harvest processing including washing, dehydrating, milling, packaging and storage of medicinal herbs. This lecture is geared towards any grower looking to add value to their freshly harvested medicinal and culinary herbs.
Traditional Herbalism in a Globalized World: A Case Study of Cuba.
Community class at the Vermont Center for Integrative Herbalism. May 4th, 2016.
Cuba, historically isolated from access to global technologies, has become known as a nation dedicated to local, organic food, and accessible healthcare. While healthcare is free, the industrial diet and lifestyle of a globalized world comes at a cost. Health concerns include issues of malnourishment, diabetes, heart disease, and auto-immune disease. In this class, we will discuss the reality of traditional herbalism in the context of Cuban culture, specifically focusing on Havana and the surrounding region. We will also discuss how industrialization is changing traditional herbalism used throughout the world. This class will provide an overview of Cuban herbalism from the perspective of a traveling, American herbalist and agriculturalist, and participants will leave with herbal recipes that are commonly used in Cuban homes.
Teaching Assistant, Spoonful Herbals Apprenticeship Program. Growing season of 2016 Learn more here.
Co-teacher of Herbal Kids' Camp at All Together Now in Montpelier, VT. August 1-12, 2016. Learn more here.
Fall Herbalism Class Series for Kids and Pre-Teens!
WHEN: Mondays, 3:30 - 5:30 pm from October 1st to November 12th (7 WEEKS!)
WHO: All experience levels and ages (6-12 years old)
WHERE: Bread and Butter Farm, 200 Leduc Farm Road, Shelburne, VT 05482
WHY: The magic of using plants for medicine is in all of us. Join to learn about the benefits of different plant for our bodies, how to communicate with plants, play outside in nature and make herbal remedies to take home! This season we will focus on magic and imagination with some playful creations in connection to Harry Potter.
This herbal-based educational series will highlight the magic and life of plants in the forest and in the field. We will learn about our individual lineage of herbal traditions and folklore. Our classes will incorporate yoga, hikes, fire-building and potions-making. Ready your children to weave a web of wild crafting in nature and experiencing the magical properties of plants of all kinds in the indoor and outdoor classroom.
Trauma Alchemy Tea Time
When: Wednesday, August 15th 6-8pm
Where: Railyard Apothecary @270 Battery St, Burlington, VT
Mercedes Mack and Kenzie McDonald will be holding a sacred space for connection and conversation about sexual trauma in a personal and intimate setting.
Some topics that will be touched are plant medicine, tarot, sexuality and self pleasure/pleasure within sexual trauma, collective sharing of healing modalities and self care practices, how the stars are aligning to aid our healing, and ways to see our patterns through existential kink.
The topics addressed will be guided by the collective and facilitated by Mercedes and Kenzie. This space is open to all with the specific intention for holding space for people who have experienced sexual trauma.
Herbalists Without Borders VT Chapter Gathering
When: Tuesday, August 21st, 6-8pm
Where: Railyard Apothecary @270 Battery St, Burlington, VT
Join Herbalists Without Borders VT Chapter to discuss herbal justice locally and globally, and next steps for the collective. We are organizing an upcoming Trauma Training and a fundraiser that will create a scholarship for BIPOC (meaning: Black, Indigenous, People of color), and people who identify as trans gendered to attend the training.
If you are just curious about HWB and what a Trauma Training could entail, or super excited about getting involved, all are welcome!
The Gut Brain Connection:
How to Manage Stress for Digestive Health
With Kristen Maniscalco and Kenzie McDonald
When: Thursday, September 6th, 6-8pm
Where: Railyard Apothecary @270 Battery St, Burlington, VT
This workshop will discuss the gut-brain connection, how the two are so closely related, and how these two systems can work together for optimal health and well-being. We will delve into the dysregulation many of us have experienced and provide methods to manage the close relationship between the mind and digestive processes.
Personal experiences will be shared and we will learn how to make medicine from plants that support this relationship.
Camp Bread and Butter Herbalism Week!
When: Monday to Firday, July 23-27, 9 am - 330 pm
Where: Bread and Butter Farm, South Burlington, VT
Herbalism- the art and craft of healing with plants. This is a new week theme at camp this year, which will highlight the magic and life of plants in the forest and in the field. We will learn about everything from plant communication to remedy making to herbal traditions and folklore. Ready your children to weave a Web of wild crafting in nature and experiencing the magical properties of plants of all kinds. Camp bread and butter is excited bring herbal medicine into a full week of fun and play!
Replenish: Sexual Trauma Recovery Using Plant Medicine and Tarot
When: Wednesday, May 16th, 6-8 pm
Where: Railyard Apothecary, Burlington, VT
with Mercedes Mack and Kenzie McDonald
"Everything, given time and nurturing, is moving towards balance and healing." Lisa Thomas Adeyemo, Somatics & Trauma Program Coordinator, generative somatics
In our time together, we will continue to explore recovery/healing in regards to sexual trauma within the framework of the Tarot, the five elements of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and plants for healing. We will spend time exploring the specific suits of the Tarot as they relate to TCM, Tarot spreads and suggestions for ongoing work with the Tarot.
We will incorporate plants in a ritual and cultural context through honoring the origins of these traditions and plants. We will define “realistic” ways to bring herbs and tarot into our lives habitually for self love and healing while acknowledging you know best how to place herbs and tarot into practice.
This class is created for people of all genders and sexual orientations.
$20 in advance, $22 the day of. If you register online the day of, you will be asked for $2 at the door.
WINTER HERBALISM CLASSES FOR HOMESCHOOLERS!
(7-WEEK SERIES // AGES 6 - 12)
When: Every Friday, March 9th to April 20th from 1-3 pm
Where: Bread and Butter Farm, Shelburne, VT
Cost: $20/class or $120 for series if paid in full on the first day of class.
Financial support available based on request.
This winter’s 7-week Herbal Class Series will facilitate the learning of herbal medicine through using the 7 chakras, the 7 planets, and deeper learning of 7 plants. We will deepen our experience of plants through the senses, science and magic within the indoor and outdoor classroom. We will collectively decide on a social justice endeavor to learn about and promote solidarity work through plant-based remedies and educating our local community.
Class series offerings also available on the Bread and Butter Website here.
WINTER HERBALISM CLASSES FOR KIDS!
(5-WEEK SERIES // AGES 6-12)
When: Every Monday, March 19th- April 16th from 3:30 to 5:30 pm
Where: Bread and Butter Farm, Shelburne, VT
Cost: $20/class or $90 for series if paid in full on the first day of class.
Financial support available based on request.
This herbal-based educational series will highlight the magic and life of plants in the forest and in the field. We will learn about everything from plant communication to scientific experiments to remedy making to herbal traditions and folklore. Ready your children to weave a web of wild crafting in nature and experiencing the magical properties of plants of all kinds in the indoor and outdoor classroom.
Class series offerings also available on the Bread and Butter Website here.
Herbal Justice Gathering: Herbalists Without Borders VT
When: Thursday, March 22nd, 6-8 pm
Where: Railyard Apothecary, Burlington, VT
with Kristin Henningsen and Kenzie McDonald
Herbal Justice is the empowerment of all people through the creation of self- and community-based sovereignty over one's own health and wellness in relationship with herbs. Join us for the first Herbal Justice Gathering hosted at Railyard Apothecary for the Herbalist Without Borders VT chapter. Herbalists Without Borders (HWB) embraces a collective vision of a global community where all people have access to affordable natural & botanical health and wellness.
This will be an action-based gathering, preparing herbal supplies to ship to communities requesting solidarity for herbal health clinics in Puerto Rico, San Francisco and Minnesota. We also want to create space for addressing social and environmental justice concerns, including but not limited to herbal access, disaster relief outreach, community solidarity, intersectionality, privilege and cultural relativism.
We hope for you to walk away with information about how to get involved, stay involved and how to deepen individual work of weaving together integrity, self care, and collective liberation within herbalism and health care.
Event is by donation ($5-20 if an amount is helpful) and no one is turned away for lack of funds. All proceeds feed the Herbal Justice Fund at Railyard Apothecary.
Replenish: Sexual Trauma Recovery Using Plant Medicine and Tarot
When: Monday, March 12th, 6-8 pm
Where: Railyard Apothecary, Burlington, VT
with Mercedes Mack and Kenzie McDonald
"Everything, given time and nurturing, is moving towards balance and healing." ~ Lisa Thomas Adeyemo
What does it mean when you or someone you love carries sexual trauma? How do we define sexual trauma in a culture of rape and lack of consent? How do we transform from victim to empowered? What can we focus on to generate change and growth?
Join Mercedes Mack and Kenzie McDonald as we explore these questions and share ways to heal from lingering physical, emotional and spiritual trauma with herbs, flowers, Tarot, magic, ritual and self love. This class is created for people of all genders and sexual orientations.
$20 in advance, $22 the day of. If you register online the day of, you will be asked for $2 at the door.
Magic and Intuition with Herbal Medicine For Kids!
NOFA VT Winter Conference @UVM, Burlington, VT (must be registered in the conference to participate)
Saturday, February 17th, 9 am-11:45 am
with Kenzie McDonald and Bekah Gordon
Curious about how plants can help us heal? Wondering how plants may be able to communicate with us? Join us to learn about intuition, gratitude, plant magic and active listening with plants through our senses and our hearts. Join us to taste, play and laugh with herbal traditions inside the classroom and out in nature.
Meet the presenters:
Kenzie is the organic herbal farmer of Wild Faith Herb Farm, clinical herbalist at Railyard Apothecary and educator for kids and adults based in Burlington, Vermont. Bekah is an organic farmer and children's educator at Bread and Butter farm's Village School and summer camp in South Burlington, Vermont.
AFFILIATIONS: Wild Faith Herb Farm, Bread and Butter Farm and Railyard Apothecary
6-week Herbal Learning Series for Coming of Age Herbalists!
Date: Every other Wednesday, September 20th to November 29th from 3:30 to 5:30
Location: We will be meeting at Wild Faith Herb Farm and Bread and Butter Farm, both in South Burlington.
Ages: 11-15 years old. The intention is to create a high level educational program for your children who are or are becoming teenagers.
This series is geared towards children coming of age into their path of herbalism and nature-based learning. WHAT IS HERBALISM? Herbalism is simply the use of plants to nourish and heal. We will be creating remedies, interacting with plants and deepening our awareness of global herbal medicine traditions. Discussions about magic and the healing power of plants will be had every class. We will also focus on the relationship of herbalism and social justice, and create remedies to send to communities requesting better access to herbal healing.
Cost: $20 per class plus a $5 supplies fee depending on the remedy made for that class. $100 total if you pay for all 8 classes at the first class. (financial assistance available based on request)
8-week Herbal Learning Series for Aspiring Herbalists!
Date: Fridays, September 22nd to November 10th from 2 to 4 pm
Location: We will be meeting at Wild Faith Herb Farm and Bread and Butter Farm, both in South Burlington.
Age: 6-12 years old
This series will be great for students interested in herbalism and nature/plant-based learning. WHAT IS HERBALISM? Herbalism is simply the use of plants to nourish and heal. Children will learn to listen to the plants, experience plant magic, practice their intuition and create herbal remedies. We will also cover the basics of traditional medicinal systems throughout the world and the relationship of herbalism and social justice. Magic, potions and fairies will appear in every class.
Cost: $20 per class plus a $5 supplies fee depending on the remedy made for that class. $140 if you pay for all 8 classes at the first class. (financial assistance available based on request)
Sexual Health Series: The Healing Properties of Kink and Sexual Energies
When: Tuesday, December 5th, 6-8 pm
Where: Railyard Apothecary, 270 Battery St, Burlington, VT
Cost is $18 in advance, $20 the day of. Facebook link here
Kink. “An unconventional (sexual) taste, fantasy, concept or behavior.” “Actualizing what others dream about.” Kink is the power of embodying what you want and getting it. Kink allows us to transform the way shame, judgement and self-limiting feelings occupy and control our lives by inviting in liberating communication, self expression and magic. Set yourself free to imagine your life filled with pleasure, abundance, play and enjoyment. In this class, Kenzie will define kink in intimate, magical and ritual terms while identifying how a practice of kink can be a gateway to herbs, self love and self care. Whether you already practice sexual or existential kink, or you are just curious of how herbs could possibly be involved in sexual play, you are welcome to join. This class is created for folks of all genders, sexual orientations and experience levels.
Sexual Health Series: Stay Juicy...DIY Herbal Lubrication
Date: Tuesday, November 7th, 2017 6-8 pm
Location: Railyard Apothecary @ 270 Battery St in Burlington, VT
What is the most underrated secret ingredient to healthy and pleasurable sex? The Juice. Whether it is internal hormones or external application, lubrication is essential to short term satisfaction and long term reproductive balance and integrity. Join us to talk about radical self care, improving sexual pleasure and ways in which lubrication can support overall wellness. We will also make a DIY lube to take home for personal use.
This class is created for folks of all genders, sexual orientations and experience levels.
Cost: $22 in advance, 25.00 at the door, supplies fee included
Sexual Health Series: Libido and Orgasm.
Empowerment through Connection to our Sexual Being.
Date: Tuesday, October 24th, 2017 6-8 pm
Location: Railyard Apothecary @ 270 Battery St in Burlington, VT
You deserve to enjoy. You deserve to love your body. You deserve self care. Join in a discussion about reframing the meaning of libido, sexual desire, to find out what it means for you, and how herbal self care practices can bring orgasm and pleasure into one’s life consensually. Self love, daily ritual and spirituality will be at the core of this conversation.
This class is created for folks of all genders, sexual orientations and experience levels.
Cost: $18 in advance, 20.00 at the door
Sexual Health Series: The Reproductive Microbiome
...how to maintain a balanced flora for your secret garden
Date: Tuesday, October 10th, 2017 6-8 pm
Location: Railyard Apothecary @ 270 Battery St in Burlington, VT
In a healthy human body, the reproductive system is a place of microbiome wealth. Bacteria is essential to the health and wellbeing of our mind, emotions and physical body, including our most private places. However, it’s all about balance and diversity, without which our microbiome makeup can turn into a cycle of discomfort and disassociation. In this class we will develop an understanding of how the vaginal microbiome is impacted by lifestyle, stress, nutrition, hormones and menstruation. Participants will walk away with tangible solutions finding balance and diversity within their secret garden through lifestyle, nutrition and herbs.
This class is created for folks of all genders, sexual orientations and experience levels.
Cost: $18 in advance, 20.00 at the door
Materia Medica on Cacao, a Sacred Medicine
Date: Saturday, October 7th, 2017 1-2:30 pm
Location: Railyard Apothecary @ 270 Battery St in Burlington, VT
Join Kenzie, herbalist, herb farmer, and witch, to learn about the magic of cacao, or raw chocolate, a commonly consumed herbal medicine globally. A medicine of the heart, cacao is great for many physical ailments, as well as heart and spirit-based healing needs. We will discuss the origins of the plant, how it grows and the implications of capitalism on the wellbeing of this ancient plant medicine. Tasting the herbal treats provided is not mandatory, but highly suggested.
Railyard Apothecary holds “materia medica” classes twice monthly, where we share in-depth information on one of our favorite plants. These classes are meant to provide a thorough description of a plant, its history, its uses, and how to prep.
Cost: $10
Sexual Health Series: Aphrodisiacs for Arousal and Enjoyment
Tuesday, September 26th, 2017, 6-8 pm
Location: Railyard Apothecary @ 270 Battery St in Burlington, VT
Aphrodisiacs: traditionally something that stimulates sexual desire. Can herbs really alter human libido? Herbal aphrodisiacs not only act on sexual arousal, but also play a role in sensuality, nourishment, energy, relaxation and pleasure. Kenzie McDonald will demystify aphrodisiac as an herbal action, while speaking to the realities of libido in the Western world, full of stress and inflammation. She will enable participants to come away with an idea of how herbs, diet, and lifestyle can support a healthy, balanced, and enjoyable sexual wellness.
Cost: $18 in advance, $20 the day of
Pollinator Adventure and Ecology Exploration with two local beekeepers!
Date: Saturday, September 23rd, 2017, 10 am -12 pm
Location: Rock Point School, Burlington, VT
Ages: 6-12 years old
Join Gus Buchanan and Kenzie McDonald in an exploration with bees and our local pollinators. Gus, a natural beekeeper of 17 years and community educator, will invite participants to experience the bees he works with and interact with the ecology at rock point. Kenzie, an herbalist, herb farmer and novice beekeeper, will lead a pollinator plant walk and hands-on activities to integrate our understanding of pollinators and their role in the environment.
Cost: $20 per participant, financial assistance available based on request
Second LATE SUMMER HERBAL PLANT WALK for families!
Saturday, September 9th, 2017 from 10-12 pm.
Location: This walk will be held at Wild Faith Herb Farm in South Burlington.
This class will be geared towards both parents and kids. Children who attend the first plant walk will help in guiding this plant walk. The focus will be on identification, herbal medicine cabinet, healing properties of herbs and foraging methods.
Cost: $20 for the first family member and $10 for additional family members (financial assistance available based on request)
Please email me directly for more details on location and registration at wildfaithherbfarm@gmail.com
First LATE SUMMER HERBAL PLANT WALK for Kids!
Wednesday, August 30th, 2017 from 2-4 pm
Location: This walk will be held at Wild Faith Herb Farm in South Burlington.
Parents are welcome to walk with the children, although it will be geared towards them in particular. The focus will be on plant identification, healing property of herbs, honorable harvest and plant communication.
Cost: $20 per child (financial assistance available based on request)
Please email me directly for more details on location and registration at wildfaithherbfarm@gmail.com
KID'S SPRING TIME HERBAL CLASS SERIES
Fridays from 12-2 pm starting April 7th, ending May 5th, 2017, Facebook Link
An invitation to budding young herbalists! Starting April 7th, Kenzie McDonald will be teaching a class series hosted at Railyard in Burlington and Wild Faith Herb Farm in South Burlington for 5 weeks. These classes will focus on interactions in nature, traditional herbal systems, plant identification, medicine making and herbal justice.
This first class is planned for Railyard Apothecary, and the location for the following classes will be decided based on the weather. Parents are welcome to stay for the classes.
Ages: 6-12.
Price: $20, sliding scale available upon request based on financial need, or $75 if you pay for all 5 classes at the first class. Some (2-3) classes may request an additional $5 supplies fee for the herbal remedies we create to take home!
Global Herbalism Series: Senegal, West Africa
Thursday, April 20th, 2017, 6-8 pm, Railyard Apothecary in Burlington, VT.
While Senegal has always been one of West Africa's metropolitan, trade, and spiritual centers, the people of Senegal still practice traditional herbalism in their homes and communities today. Nearly all the people of Senegal speak the tribal language of Wolof. In Wolof, the word for Tree is Garab, which also means medicine or remedy. Spirituality and plants are at the root of the Senegalese culture in both the urban and rural environments, with Sufi Islam as the flower of their community tree. In this class we will discuss the connection of spirituality and traditional herbalism within the Wolof and Cerer peoples, the different modalities of healing, and the intersection of traditional herbalism and modernity.
Kenzie has traveled and lived in the Middle East, West Africa, Central America and the Caribbean islands. During her time abroad, Kenzie learned about permaculture, sustainable agriculture, herbalism and local languages and traditions. In 2010, Kenzie lived in Senegal, both in the capital of Dakar and in the rural village of Sessene. In 2017, Kenzie returned to deepen her relationship to the people and their herbal and spiritual traditions. Kenzie’s perspective is limited to her own experience, and while she is not an expert on any of the subjects she will cover in the workshop, she is passionate about the possible benefits of this kind of cross-cultural exchange of herbal wisdom.
Price: $15 in advance, $20 at the door. Proceeds donated to the community.
Herbs for Transgender Wellness and Transitioning
Wednesday, April 26th, 2017, 5:30-7:30 pm, Railyard Apothecary in Burlington, VT
Join Mica and Kenzie McDonald to learn about how herbs can support people at different stages in the process of transitioning their gender and/or sex. We will address herbal support for emotional changes, hormonal therapy, adrenal resilience, surgery recovery, and overall tonic care. This class is geared towards trans folks and allies, including family, friends, and health professionals.
If attending as an ally, please through the following website page prior to class:
http://www.transequality.org/issues/resources/supporting-the-transgender-people-in-your-life-a-guide-to-being-a-good-ally
Mica and Kenzie are an herbalist sibling duo, both of whom studied at VCIH and now work at the Railyard Apothecary and Burlington Herb Clinic. Mica has personal experience with hormonal and surgical transitioning FTM, and Kenzie specializes in emotional wellness through herbal support as well as education towards becoming a stronger ally.
Price: $20 in advance, $25 at the door. Sliding scale available upon request.
Global Herbalism Series: Cuba and the Caribbean Islands
Thursday, May 4th, 2017, 6-8pm, Railyard Apothecary in Burlington, VT.
Cuba, historically isolated from access to global technologies, has become known as a nation dedicated to local, organic food, and accessible healthcare. While healthcare is free, the industrial diet and lifestyle of a globalized world comes at a cost. Health concerns include issues of malnourishment, diabetes, heart disease, and autoimmune disease. In this class, we will discuss the reality of traditional herbalism in the context of Cuban culture, specifically focusing on Havana and the surrounding region. We will also discuss how industrialization is changing traditional herbalism used throughout the Caribbean and the world. This class will provide an overview of Cuban herbalism from the perspective of a traveling, American herbalist and agriculturalist.
In 2015, Kenzie visited the western region of Cuba to research the current status of its health care, organic agriculture, and herbalism. Kenzie’s perspective is limited to her own experience, and while she is not an expert on any of the subjects she will cover in the workshop, she is passionate about the possible benefits of this kind of cross-cultural exchange of herbal wisdom.
Price: $15 in advance, $20 at the door. Proceeds will be donated to the community.
ASTRO-MYTHOLOGY AND HERBAL LORE:
Dancing in the New Solar System
Saturday, March 11, 2017 from 3 PM - 5 PM, Grian Herbs Apothecary in Montpelier,
Saturday, March 18, 2017 from 3 PM - 5 PM, Railyard Herbal Apothecary in Burlington,
Come join Astrologer/Mythologist Kelley Hunter & Herbalist/Educator Kenzie McDonald to learn, share and color! A combination of stories from the stars and earthy herbal lore, shared through coloring pages, slide show images and creative play. Introducing recently discovered planetoids in the far solar system, named for global creator gods and goddesses.
For all ages: kids, adults and family-friendly
Price: $20, sliding scale available upon request based on financial need
Kelley Hunter, a long-time astrologer, is the author of Living Lilith: Four Dimensions of the Cosmic Feminine and the new Planetary Gods & Goddesses Coloring Book: Astronomy and Myths of the New Solar System. Director of HELIA Productions, she designs creative educational experiences for a wide range of groups and organizations. http://heliastar.com/
Discounted Coloring books available for purchase
MATERIA MEDICA: Mugwort, Artemis and Her Bow
Saturday, March 18th, 2017 1-2:30 pm, Railyard Apothecary in Burlington, VT.
Join Railyard Apothecary for our twice monthly “materia medica” classes where we share in-depth information on one of our favorite plants. These classes are meant to provide a thorough description of a plant, its history, its uses, and how to prepare it safely. Kenzie McDonald, clinical herbalist and herb farmer to learn and experience mugwort, Artemisia vulgaris. Mugwort grows wildly here in Vermont, engaging us through our internal and external environments. Mugwort is utilized in spring liver cleansing, functions as a female reproductive system balancer and synergizes with spiritual energetics through dreams and ceremony. With a balance of folklore and research, mugwort is one of Kenzie's favorite plant allies in the physical, emotional and spiritual realms. Join us to learn more!
Price: $10.
KID'S HERBAL WORKSHOP: FROM WINTER TO SPRING HERBAL WELLNESS
Friday, March 17th, 2017 from 12-2pm, Railyard Apothecary in Burlington, VT
Join Kenzie McDonald to learn, interact and play with medicinal herbs. We will focus on the relationship of herbs to winter immune wellness and spring cleansing, considering the spring equinox drawing near! This interactive workshop will bring a taste of nature, traditional herbal systems and medicine-making. We will specifically focus on some herbal lore from the Irish Herbal Traditions in reference to the holiday. Come join the fun and magic!
Ages: 6 to 12.
Price: $20, sliding scale available upon request based on financial need
Solidarity Fire Cider Workshop
Thursday, December 22nd, 2016 from 5 to 7 pm. Hosted at Railyard Apothecary in Burlington, VT.
Come join Guido Mase, Kara Buchanan and Kenzie McDonald to learn how to make Fire Cider. The final product will be sent to Standing Rock in solidarity with the water protectors. Fire Cider is a traditional medicine for all people...Great to increase warmth, immunity and circulation in the body. This workshop is family-friendly, and open for folks of all colors, genders, ages and abilities. The suggested donation for this class is $15-20. Proceeds will pay for use of space, supplies and shipment. No one will be turned away. Contact us with any questions you have.
Herbal Apprenticeship for Homeschoolers
10-week apprenticeship meeting Thursday afternoons, 1-4pm,
September 8th to November 10th, 2016. Meets at rotating Burlington-area locations.
This Fall's herbal program for homeschool students will meet at a different location for almost every class. We will visit farms, Railyard Apothecary, local parks, a local essential oil distillery, and much more. Topics will include the creation of herbal remedies, plant energetics, ecology, herbal justice, plant communication, plant identification, and a deep knowledge of local and native herbs. Curriculum geared towards ages 6-12. Payment for classes can be made by check or cash in the amount of $25-35 sliding scale per class. For dates, locations and topics of each class, please email.
Post-Harvest Processing of Medicinal Herbs for Market
Wednesday, September 14th, 2016, 6-8pm at VCIH in Montpelier AND Thursday, September 29th, 6-8pm at Railyard Apothecary in Montpelier.
Join Kenzie and NOFA-VT to discuss methods used for processing freshly harvested medicinal and culinary herbs into marketable products. This class will focus on post-harvest processing including washing, dehydrating, milling, packaging and storage of medicinal herbs. This lecture is geared towards any grower looking to add value to their freshly harvested medicinal and culinary herbs.
Traditional Herbalism in a Globalized World: A Case Study of Cuba.
Community class at the Vermont Center for Integrative Herbalism. May 4th, 2016.
Cuba, historically isolated from access to global technologies, has become known as a nation dedicated to local, organic food, and accessible healthcare. While healthcare is free, the industrial diet and lifestyle of a globalized world comes at a cost. Health concerns include issues of malnourishment, diabetes, heart disease, and auto-immune disease. In this class, we will discuss the reality of traditional herbalism in the context of Cuban culture, specifically focusing on Havana and the surrounding region. We will also discuss how industrialization is changing traditional herbalism used throughout the world. This class will provide an overview of Cuban herbalism from the perspective of a traveling, American herbalist and agriculturalist, and participants will leave with herbal recipes that are commonly used in Cuban homes.