Syllabus

HERB 0102
4 hours
Foundations of Botanical Medicine Making
Quality liquid extractions of herbal constituents
This comprehensive 4-hour course, HERB 0102, introduces students to the art and science of botanical medicine making through effective plant extraction methods. By integrating organic chemistry principles with sensory-rich somatic practices, participants will develop the skills to create quality herbal liquid extractions while deepening their relationship with plant allies. The course bridges scientific understanding with traditional wisdom, providing a solid foundation for anyone interested in herbal medicine preparation.
Course Description
This foundational course introduces students to the fascinating art and science of botanical medicine making through the effective extraction of plant constituents. Blending principles of organic chemistry with the intuitive and sensory-rich experience of somatic, organoleptic practices, students will deepen their understanding of herbal energetics and chemistry.
Participants will engage with plants in a relational manner, learning to skillfully craft herbal liquid extracts, tinctures, and glycerites, integrating science and tradition to forge meaningful connections with plant allies. This holistic approach allows students to develop both technical skills and intuitive awareness in their herbal practice.
Through hands-on experience and guided instruction, students will discover how different extraction methods influence the medicinal properties of herbal preparations. The course emphasizes the importance of understanding both the scientific principles and traditional knowledge that inform effective botanical medicine making.
Prerequisites
Open to All
This course welcomes students of all experience levels, with no prior knowledge of herbalism or chemistry required. The curriculum is designed to accommodate beginners while providing valuable insights for those with some herbal background.
Ideal Participants
While no formal prerequisites exist, this course is particularly beneficial for those with an interest in natural medicine, plant-based healing traditions, or a desire to create their own herbal preparations at home.
Recommended Qualities
An open mind, curiosity about plants and their properties, and willingness to engage in sensory experiences will enhance your learning journey in this course.
The inclusive nature of this course makes it accessible to herbalists, bodyworkers, wellness enthusiasts, and students interested in herbal medicine regardless of their background. The instructor will provide all necessary context for understanding the material, ensuring that every participant can fully engage with the content and practical exercises.
Course Format
Interactive Lectures & Discussions
Knowledge sharing through engaging presentations on botanical chemistry, extraction theory, and traditional herbal wisdom. Students are encouraged to participate in guided discussions that connect theoretical concepts to practical applications.
Hands-on Demonstrations
Step-by-step demonstrations of proper extraction techniques, including menstruum selection, herb preparation, and extraction methodology. Students will observe and then practice these techniques under guidance.
Organoleptic Experiences
Sensory exploration of herbs through taste, smell, touch, and visual assessment to develop discernment of plant qualities and extraction effectiveness. These experiences build intuitive understanding of herbal properties.
Guided Somatic Explorations
Body-centered practices that develop awareness of how herbs affect our physical and energetic systems, enhancing the ability to sense subtle qualities in plants and herbal preparations.
This multi-modal learning approach ensures that students engage with the material through various learning styles, creating a rich educational experience that addresses both the science and art of botanical medicine making. The intimate class setting allows for personalized attention and ample opportunity for questions and clarification.
Target Audience
This course is specifically designed for individuals seeking to deepen their understanding of medicinal plants through both chemistry and sensory experience. The curriculum caters to a diverse audience of healing arts practitioners and plant enthusiasts, providing valuable skills and knowledge that can be applied across various wellness modalities.
The content is particularly relevant for those who wish to incorporate botanical medicine into their existing practice or personal wellness routine. By understanding the chemistry behind plant extraction alongside traditional knowledge, participants gain a more comprehensive foundation for working with herbal medicines effectively and safely.
Herbalists
Both beginning and experienced herbalists looking to enhance their medicine-making skills with a deeper understanding of botanical chemistry and extraction principles.
Bodyworkers
Massage therapists, acupuncturists, and other bodywork practitioners interested in incorporating herbal preparations into their practice.
Holistic Health Students
Students of naturopathy, holistic nutrition, and integrative medicine seeking complementary skills in botanical medicine.
Wellness Practitioners
Health coaches, yoga instructors, and other wellness professionals looking to expand their knowledge of plant-based remedies.
Plant Enthusiasts
Gardeners, foragers, and nature lovers with an interest in developing a more intimate relationship with medicinal plants.
Learning Objectives
1
Explain Botanical Extraction Chemistry
Develop a working understanding of the fundamental chemical principles that govern effective plant extraction, including polarity, solubility, and the relationship between solvents and plant constituents.
2
Identify Major Botanical Constituents
Recognize the primary medicinal compounds in plants (alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenes, polysaccharides) and understand their solubility profiles to determine appropriate extraction methods.
3
Understand Plant Energetics
Interpret the energetic qualities of plants (warming, cooling, drying, moistening) and apply this knowledge to create balanced and effective herbal preparations for specific needs.
4
Perform Organoleptic Assessments
Use sensory evaluation skills to determine plant quality and extraction effectiveness through taste, smell, appearance, and feel of both raw herbs and finished preparations.
5
Prepare Herbal Extracts
Safely and effectively create herbal tinctures and glycerites using both traditional folk methods and precise ratio techniques, understanding when each approach is most appropriate.
6
Relate Somatically with Plants
Develop body awareness practices that enhance intuitive connections with plants, allowing for a deeper understanding of their effects and applications.
7
Integrate Science and Tradition
Skillfully combine scientific knowledge of organic chemistry with traditional herbal wisdom to create preparations that honor both approaches to botanical medicine.
Course Outline by Module
Module 1: Plant Energetics and Somatic Practices
Introduction to herbal energetics (warming, cooling, drying, moistening)
Taste systems across traditional medicine systems
Organoleptic evaluation and sensory awareness practices
Somatic exercises: building intuitive connections with plants
Module 2: Botanical Extraction Chemistry
Basic organic chemistry of herbal constituents and principles of solubility
Overview of primary botanical constituents (alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenes, polysaccharides)
Understanding constituent solubility and proper menstruum selection (water, alcohol, glycerin, honey, oil, vinegar, etc.)
Module 3: Hands-On Herbal Medicine Making
Practical demonstration and student crafting of herbal extractions
Techniques for creating effective preparations
Ratio vs. folk methods for tincture-making
Module 4: Integrative Practice and Reflection
Techniques for evaluating finished herbal extracts (color, taste, aroma)
Discussion on applications of herbal tinctures and glycerites
Introduction to specialty extraction techniques
Guided reflection: bridging chemistry, energetics, and somatic experiences
This carefully structured curriculum builds progressively from theoretical foundations to practical application, ensuring students develop both conceptual understanding and hands-on skills. Each module combines lecture material with experiential learning to reinforce concepts through multiple modalities.
Assessment
This course employs a holistic assessment approach that emphasizes active engagement, practical skill development, and reflective learning rather than traditional testing methods. The instructor will provide ongoing feedback throughout the course to help students refine their understanding and techniques.
Assessment is designed to be supportive and constructive, focusing on the development of practical skills that participants can immediately apply in their personal or professional herbal practice. The collaborative learning environment encourages peer feedback and group discussion as additional modes of assessment and learning.
1
Active Participation
Engagement in class discussions about botanical chemistry and extraction theory
Contribution to group conversations about sensory experiences
Involvement in somatic exercises and organoleptic evaluations
Asking questions and sharing observations
2
Practical Demonstration
Successful creation of at least one liquid herbal extract
Demonstration of proper technique in preparing tinctures or glycerites
Appropriate selection of menstruum based on herb characteristics
Safe handling and processing of botanical materials
3
Reflection and Sharing
Articulation of sensory experiences with herbs and extracts
Thoughtful reflection on the integration of science and tradition
Sharing insights about personal connections with plant allies
Group discussion of extraction results and observations
Materials Provided
Botanical Materials
Selection of fresh and dried medicinal herbs
Plant materials with diverse constituent profiles
Examples of various plant parts (roots, leaves, flowers, barks)
Samples of finished extracts for comparison
Extraction Solvents
Organic alcohol (various proofs)
Vegetable glycerin (food-grade)
Purified water
Apple cider vinegar (for demonstration)
Preparation Supplies
Amber glass bottles (1-2 oz)
Funnels and strainers
Measuring tools (graduated cylinders, scales)
Labels and permanent markers
"All materials have been carefully selected to provide students with the highest quality learning experience. Each participant will take home their own herbal creations along with the knowledge to continue crafting botanical medicines beyond the classroom."
In addition to physical materials, students will receive comprehensive printed handouts containing extraction guidelines, recipes, constituent charts, and reference information to support continued learning after the course. These resources include step-by-step instructions for various extraction methods, formulation suggestions, and safety considerations for working with botanical medicines at home.
Recommended Texts
Herbal Constituents: Foundations of Phytochemistry
By Lisa Ganora
An essential resource for understanding the chemical compounds within plants and their therapeutic actions, crucial for advanced herbalists.
The Modern Herbal Dispensatory
By Thomas Easley & Steven Horne
A comprehensive guide to preparing herbal remedies, covering various extraction methods, dosages, and contraindications for safe and effective use.
Medicinal Plants of the World
By Ben-Erik van Wyk & Michael Wink
An indispensable reference for identifying and understanding the global diversity of medicinal plants, their uses, and active compounds.
These texts complement the course material by providing deeper dives into botanical chemistry, practical medicine-making techniques, and extensive plant profiles, enriching your learning journey.
Closing Reflection
As the course concludes, participants will engage in a thoughtful reflection process to integrate their learning and consider how this knowledge will inform their future herbal practice. This final contemplative exercise encourages students to synthesize the scientific understanding, sensory experiences, and traditional wisdom explored throughout the course.
"How does engaging my senses and understanding the chemistry of plants deepen my relationship with botanical medicine?"
This central question invites students to consider the powerful synergy that emerges when modern scientific understanding is woven together with embodied, sensory knowledge of plants. By reflecting on this integration, participants can develop a more holistic approach to botanical medicine that honors both analytical and intuitive ways of knowing.
May this exploration enrich your connection with nature's wisdom and empower your herbal practice. As you carry this knowledge forward, remember that the most profound herbal understanding comes from this balanced approach—one that respects the chemistry of plants while remaining attentive to the subtle wisdom that can only be accessed through direct, embodied experience.
Students are encouraged to continue their reflective practice after the course by maintaining a journal of their herbal medicine making experiences, noting both technical details and sensory observations to deepen their understanding over time.