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UNICOI – HERBalachia is excited to announce the return of its renowned in-person, hands-on herbal studies program for 2025. Offering an immersive experience in herbalism, the course focuses on learning through direct connection with nature, guided by experienced professionals.

Unlike the growing trend of online courses, HERBalachia remains committed to providing an authentic, in-person educational experience. Students will explore local plant species, participate in herb walks and field trips, and take part in hands-on activities like medicine making and ethical harvesting practices. The program is designed to foster a deep, meaningful connection with the plants, the environment and a community of like-minded individuals.

Key Program Highlights:

• 84 Hours of Herbal Learning: A comprehensive foundation in herbs, including the materia medica of 25 local herbs, hands-on classes, and practical applications for use in treating common illnesses, injury and boosting nutrition.
• Focus on Local Medicinals: Students will study 25 plants selected for their safety, ease of identification and usefulness. Instruction will cover scientific and common names, botanical identification, plant parts, preparation and dosage, and safety considerations.
• Herbal Energetics: Students will connect with plants through direct experience, engaging with them in their natural habitat to understand their energy, properties and uses.
• Hands-on Medicine Making: Finish the course with your own home apothecary, taking home samples of herbal decoctions, tinctures, infused oils, salves, syrups and more.
• Traditional Herbalism: The program introduces diverse herbal traditions, including Chinese, Ayurvedic, Native American and Appalachian folk practices.
• Botany and Plant Identification: Students will develop essential skills in plant identification and taxonomy, ensuring safe herbal use and understanding of plant communities.
• Wildcrafting and Stewardship: Emphasis is placed on ethical harvesting practices, plant protection and fostering a respectful relationship with nature.

As one past participant shared, “My heart and my head are full of love for plants, for these teachers and for this wonderful journey!” – V. Hanson.

The 2025 course will take place on weekends from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., starting April 5 and running through October. The program will be held at Blackberry Blossom Campground in Unicoi, Tenn., and includes approximately three to four hours of home study and assignments per week.

Course Schedule:

• April 5-6
• May 3-4
• June 7-8
• July 12-13
• August 2-3
• September 13-14
• October 4-5

HERBalachia’s faculty, which includes master’s degree herbalists, botany experts and Native American healers, have received rave reviews for their passion and generosity in sharing knowledge. Many instructors have been with the program since its inception in 2016, ensuring a rich and consistent learning experience.

Space is limited. Register now to secure your spot in this transformative herbal education program.

For more information or to register, visit www.HERBalachia.com/lifestyle-program.