Herbal Medicine 101: Adaptogens: Energizing Herbs and Mushrooms

Meet ancient allies that have supported us for thousands of years. Adaptogens have been used across the world to support our brains, immune systems, nervous, and digestive systems. They are a class of herbs and mushrooms all of their own that promote longevity and improve our energy.

In this class, we will explore traditional adaptogens such as ashwagandha and schisandra, as well as their local counterparts such as nettle, oatstraw, and red clover. We will also learn about local mushrooms such as maitake, reishi, and turkey tail to learn about their benefits, preparations, and harvesting techniques. We will learn how to prepare these herbs in nourishing ways and work with them as long-term allies.

This is a hands-on introductory herbal workshop where we will learn plant identification, sustainable harvesting practices, and make remedies designed to build long-term health.

About the instructor: Alexandra Radoaca is an herbalist, wilderness guide, and sound practitioner. She focuses on building health through nourishment and working with local, accessible, abundant plants. She believes that herbalism is accessible to everyone. All we need is to follow our curiosity and get our hands in the dirt, the plants teach us the rest! She is the founder of Mindful Wilderness, an organization focused on herbal education and Vulgaris Herbs, an herbal shop in Sugar Loaf, NY. She is a New York State-certified camping and hiking guide and a Wilderness First Responder.