"A Way of Life" Practical Herbalism Course Graduation Day!

Susanna introduced a combination 10-month immersive herbalism course that began in January and culminated with graduation day this October. Once a month, students attended a day long session combining herbal pioneer and superstar Rosemary Gladstar's Science and Art of Herbalism coupled with Susanna Reppert's years of herbal experience with her 'Way of Life' practical herbalism program. This unique blend of comprehensive information offered a full sensory experience in the classroom and in the garden. Students were able to see, touch, taste and smell the herbs while learning. The course covered medicinal herbalism with lifestyle tips about herbs from gardening, to culinary use, and even crafting. Based upon attendance, completion of various assignments, and class participation, students received dual certification from Rosemary Gladstar's Science and Art of Herbalism Course and Susanna Reppert's A Way of Life Practical Herbalism Course. And, graduation day was highlighted with a Wild Foods Pot Luck!

During the 10-month program, students packed their own lunch to enjoy during break. However, for the final class, a wild food pot luck luncheon was suggested for this last gathering of budding herbalists. And the herbal delicacies did not disappoint. A variety of jellies; from Dandelion, to Elderberry, to Sassafras, were offered with an equal variety of crackers and breads to sample. A flavorful fresh herbal cheese ball was served with wheat crackers.

There was a warm Wood Sorrel and Sweet Onion Tart served alongside Green Noodles with Parmesan Cheese. Tina Sams of the Essential Herbal shares some of the advance preparation done for her wild foods in this blog post here.

This artistic garden salad featured sorrel and nasturtium blossoms with an oil and vinegar dressing. A fresh fruit platter and crispy homemade seed crackers and a delicious blend of toasted granola could be found around the table.

Dehydrated Persimmons, colorful, chewy, and naturally sweet were unique in their simple beauty.

Several crockpots were filled with flavorful seasonal soups. Attendees enjoyed Jerusalem Artichoke Soup using artichokes harvested from The Rosemary House gardens.

Two yummy squash bisques offered a contrast in recipes, both delicious with a variety of autumnal seasonings. Of course everyone sampled and savored everything.

The dessert table was equally as varied and included Kousa Dogwood Pudding Cake, Vanilla Rosemary Cookies, Chocolate Zucchini Muffins (whole food plant based) and Peanut Butter Cookies, dairy free, gluten free and whole food plant based. There was a moist zucchini bread made with hemp seeds, too. Not shown were the unique beverages, an Autumnal Equinox blend with a variety of herbs and a cold brewed Raspberry Spritzer.

 Graduates received Certificates from both Rosemary Gladstar's Art and Science of Herbal Medicine and from Susanna Reppert's A Way of Life Practical Herbalism Course. 

May this foundation carry them forward on their herbal journey!

This course will be offered again starting in January 2023 and culminating with graduation in October. Detailed information can be found on our Special Events website here. 

A hearty congratulations to the first graduating class of "A Way of Life" Practical Herbalism Course.