INTRODUCTION TO HERBAL MEDICINE

Part of The Curious Naturalist’s Autumn and Winter Workshop Series, exploring the connections between nature, science, folklore and traditional craft.

History, Science and Traditional Plant Knowledge

Join The Curious Naturalist for a relaxed, beginner-friendly workshop exploring the history, science and traditional uses of medicinal herbs.

Led by Dr Amy Wyatt, this hands-on session is designed for anyone curious about plants, natural history, folklore, foraging and the ways people have worked with herbs across time. No previous experience is needed, just curiosity and a willingness to learn.

Together, we will explore how medicinal plants have been used traditionally, how plant knowledge has been passed down through observation, folklore and practical experience and what modern science can tell us about herbal preparations and the compounds found within plants.

We will look at a selection of familiar herbs and explore how different parts of a plant can be prepared and used. We will also discuss the differences between traditional use, folklore and scientific evidence, alongside the importance of safe, responsible and ethical herbal practice.

During the workshop, you will learn the basic principles behind herbal preparations and make your own small herbal tincture to label and take home.

This workshop is for curious beginners, gardeners, nature lovers, foragers and anyone who would like to develop a more informed relationship with medicinal plants.

What’s included:

• An introduction to the history of herbal medicine
• A look at common medicinal herbs and their traditional uses
• An accessible introduction to plant compounds and modern herbal science
• Guidance on basic herbal preparations
• A discussion of safe and ethical herbal practice
• All materials needed to create your own herbal tincture
• Your own labelled herbal preparation to take home

Event details:

Date: Saturday 26th September 2026
Time: 3:00pm–5:30pm
Location: Index, 19 High Street, Newport, NP20 1FW
Price: £25
Experience level: Beginner friendly — no prior experience needed

Who is this workshop for?

This workshop is suitable for complete beginners. You do not need any previous experience with herbalism, medicine, botany or foraging.

It is ideal for anyone interested in:

• Herbs and medicinal plants
• Natural history
• Herbal medicine
• Plant science
• Folklore and traditional knowledge
• Foraging
• Gardening
• Nature connection
• Creative, hands-on learning

What will I make?

You will prepare your own small herbal tincture to label and take home. You will be guided through the process and provided with information about the plant used, the preparation method and appropriate handling.

What do I need to bring?

You do not need to bring anything. All materials and equipment will be provided. You may wish to bring a notebook if you enjoy taking notes.

Important information:

This workshop is for educational purposes only and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

Herbal products are not automatically safe or suitable for everyone. Some herbs may interact with medicines or may not be appropriate during pregnancy, breastfeeding or for particular health conditions. Please speak to a qualified healthcare professional before using herbal products medicinally.

Please get in touch before booking if you have any allergies, sensitivities or access needs and I will do my best to support you.

Tickets are non-refundable unless the event is cancelled. If you can no longer attend, you are welcome to pass your ticket on to someone else.

Location:
Index, inside Chapter, NP20 1FW