BOUNTIFUL SPRING: MEDICINAL PLANTS OF CALIFORNIA

As the rains begin to recede and the days lengthen, we are reminded that spring has arrived. All around, lush carpets of green span the horizon as many plants begin their annual ascent towards the sun. Join us as we explore the diverse array of medicinal plants found growing throughout this vibrant landscape. Roots, barks, and the succulent edible “greens” of the season will be the primary focus of our study. The morning session will consist of a lecture/slide-show highlighting the basic taxonomical and chemical characteristics of selected medicinal plants. After lunch we will stroll nearby trails while observing, experiencing, and discussing many of the medicinal plants found growing there. Medicinal uses, identification tips, preparation methods, harvesting ethics, and botanical safety issues will be addressed on our walk. Anyone curious about the healing potential of our local flora will find this class not only insightful, but self empowering as well.