Chasing Birch and Balsam

In the spirit of several Nordic folk medicine traditions, trees have been a source of not only myth and magic, but also food, shelter, and medicine for thousands of years. In this half-day workshop, join herbalist Gigi Risberg Stafne in learning about the woodland nutritional and medicinal benefits of white birch bark balanced with earthy balsam fir needles. Learn about the traditional uses of these two trees, which are familiar to us in the Upper Midwest and found in Nordic healing arts traditions of both ancient and contemporary Northern cultures.  During the workshop, participants will craft a northern botanical extract and an infused oil for the skin during the changing seasons! Students will take home 2-3 herbal preparations.

Prerequisites:

Skill level: Open to all skill levels.

Ages: Suitable for ages 16+.

Tools and Materials:

A $50 materials fee is payable to the instructor in class and covers all materials.