
This lecture will help students understand the basics of herbalism and holistic nutrition, including its history and cultural significance.
In this lecture, students will Identify the different approaches to herbal medicine, such as Western herbalism, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and Ayurveda. We will also address the importance of recognizing key safety considerations, including dosage, contraindications, and potential interactions with medications.
Understand the fundamentals of plant identification, including leaf shape, flower structure, and growth patterns.
Recognize key herbal classifications (e.g., adaptogens, nervines, bitters) and their general functions.
In this lecture, students will define ethical wildcrafting and sustainable herbal practices, ensuring responsible sourcing and use of medicinal plants.
Understand the digestive system's function and its connection to overall health.
Identify key herbs that support digestion, such as ginger, peppermint, fennel, and chamomile. As well as, recognizing common digestive issues (e.g., bloating, indigestion, acid reflux) and how herbs can help alleviate symptoms.
Create simple herbal remedies for digestive health, including herbal teas, tinctures, and bitters. We will also take a look at incorporating digestive-supporting herbs into daily meals, improving gut health naturally.
Understand the basics of the immune system and how herbal remedies can support its function.
Identify key immune-boosting herbs, such as elderberry, echinacea, astragalus, and garlic. Differentiate between immune stimulants and immune modulators, and when to use each. Recognize common immune challenges, such as colds, flu, and seasonal allergies, and select appropriate herbal remedies.
Create herbal syrups, oxymels, and teas to support immune health and prevent illness naturally.
Understand the impact of stress on overall health and how the body responds to chronic stress.
Identify key adaptogenic and nervine herbs, such as ashwagandha, rhodiola, holy basil, and lemon balm, that help manage stress and boost energy. Differentiate between stimulating, calming, and balancing herbs and their appropriate use.
Create herbal blends for stress relief and sustained energy, including teas, tinctures, and infused honeys. Develop a simple daily herbal routine to naturally support stress resilience and vitality.
Understand the role of herbs in supporting women’s health, including hormonal balance, menstrual health, and menopause.
Identify key herbs for women’s wellness, such as red raspberry leaf, chasteberry (Vitex), dong quai, and motherwort. Recognize common hormonal imbalances and select appropriate herbal remedies to support cycle regulation, PMS relief, and menopausal transitions.
Prepare herbal infusions and decoctions specifically for women’s reproductive health.
"Introduction to Herbal Health and Nutrition" is taught as a 2 Part Series - this is Part 1. This course serves as an introduction to herbalism and holistic nutrition. It is offered in two parts to allow students to retain and interact with the information without becoming overwhelmed. Since this is a hands-on, interactive course, enrolled students will receive an "Herbal Toolbox" of actual herbs that will be discussed and utilized for assignments. Though not required, students are encouraged to enroll in Part 2, after successful completion, as both parts will prepare students for more in-depth courses in herbalism and holistic nutrition. The complete series has 36 lectures, 16 immersive assignments, 12 quizzes, and (2) 20 page Personal Herbal Journals. Introduction to Herbal Health and Nutrition course is perfect for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of natural health and incorporate herbal remedies into their daily life. Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience with herbal medicine, this course will provide a strong foundation in using herbs safely and effectively.
Part I:
Foundations of Herbal Health and Nutrition
The Basics of Plant Identification
The Role of Herbs in Digestion and Gut Health
Herbal Support for Immune Health
Herbs for Energy and Stress Management
Herbal Remedies for Women's Health