As a long-practicing herbalist and herb teacher, I am often asked for my recommendations on how to best become an herbalist. Folks want to know which is the best course to take or which book to buy. And while I have many recommendations about all of those things, I think herbal medicine is best learnt by doing.

Just do the work of herbal medicine. Do the “herbwork” as I like to call it.

Only by working directly with the plants are we able to deepen our relationship with them. And only by seeing plants in action, by trying them and sharing them with others, do we learn to be herbalists. This isn’t a new concept. Historically, herbalists have always learned by apprenticing under a practicing herbalist – learning by watching and then doing the work. And that is also how I learned. I apprenticed under other herbalists and foot care workers. I volunteered at foot clinics and first aid stations and soup kitchens. I did the herbwork. 

And when I got to a place where I could in turn help create these kind of opportunities for others I did. And this is basis for our programming at Herbalista. The Solidarity Medicine Making Workshops, Herb Cart, Health Fair, Grow a Row Program, HerbCare Stations, Apprenticeship Program, Dublin Herb Bike, Learning Garden, Plant Rambles and Fire Cider Brigade were all created with this in mind. If you’re taking any of our Free School Online Courses you will also have noticed that at the end of every section we offer HERBWORK activities and suggestions to help you put your learning into practice.

We’ve a lot of herbal happenings coming up this Autumn in Atlanta and Dublin and would love to see you there! And if you don’t live near us, you can still do the work. Pick up some ingredients at the market and make a batch of fire cider. Invite a friend over and try your hand at a warming winter syrup. Save some seeds, volunteer at a local garden or go on an herb walk. Get involved in community projects. Serve a seasonal tea at a local soup kitchen. Walk the path and the journey will unfold. Just do the work and your herbal knowledge will deepen and grow. 

Herbally yours, 
Herbalista Lorna