Class Offerings at the NWSBS

All classes are held at The Northwest School for Botanical Studies unless otherwise specified. The directions to the school will be emailed once the student has registered for class or they can be mailed upon request. To register for class or for more information call Christa at (707)-826-7762 or send an email to: herbaleducation@gmail.com Listed below are descriptions of most of the classes offered at the school. If the times and dates are not posted above the class description, then that class is not being offered within the next six months, but it will be offered again in the future.

Herbal Medicine Making Course

Foundations of Herbalism Class 2007

The Herbal Medicine Making Class is a wonderful introductory class for individuals who want to learn how to create their own home pharmacy, as well as basic information about herbal medicine. The course covers numerous medicine making techniques and herbal terminology. Students learn how to make fresh and dry plant tinctures, vinegar and glycerin extracts, infused oils, salves, herbal teas, and body care products. Many recipes and handouts are shared freely with the students. Samples of the herbal products made in the class are included in the tuition fee. Advanced registration and a non-refundable deposit of seventy-five dollars are required to hold a space. The remainder of the balance can be paid on the first night of class.

Herbal Materia Medica I Class

The Tincture Pharmacy
The Tincture Pharmacy

This five week series covers numerous medicinal herbs with emphasis on easily cultivated or locally abundant plants. The class provides an in depth exploration of each plant discussed including the medicinal use of the plant based on clinical observation, when it is appropriate to use each herb and when it is not, optimum extraction methods and doses, Latin, and common names. Most of the herbs covered in this class are also covered in the Professional Herbalist Training Program.

Herb Walk at Redwood Roots Farm

NWSBS Garden
The NWSBS garden

The herb walk covers the medicinal uses of numerous native plants of Humboldt County as well as herbs which can be cultivated locally. The herb walk provides an information packed stroll through the gorgeous organic gardens at Redwood Roots Farm. Please bring or wear comfortable shoes or boots, appropriate outdoor gear, a hat, a clipboard or notebook, and a pen.


Aromatherapy Intensive Class

The Aromatherapy Intensive Class covers the therapeutic uses or numerous essential oils, as well as methods of application of the oils for both internal and external treatments. Students become familiar with quality distinction, related terminology, and contraindications. The class provides an understanding of the treatment of common infectious illnesses, muscle tension, injuries, and nervous system imbalances with aroma medicine.

Herbal Materia Medica II Class


Class Fieldtrip
Class Fieldtrip

This eight week series covers numerous medicinal herbs not yet covered in the MM I Class, with emphasis on local abundant plants. This class provides an in depth exploration of each plant discussed including: the medicinal uses of the plant based on clinical observation, when it is appropriate to use each herb and when it is not, optimum extraction methods and doses, Latin, and common names. Most of the herbs covered in this class are also covered in the Professional Herbalist Training Program.


Herbal Materia Medica III Class

This six week series covers an eclectic group of herbs not yet discussed in the Herbal Materia Medica I or II classes. The curriculum covers plants from the local bioregion, the East coast, some desert plants, as well as a few Chinese herbs. The Materia Medica I or II are the prerequisites for this class or teacher approval.

Herbal Erotica Class

The Herbal Erotica Class is a fun filled intensive which explores many sensual delights that tantalize the taste buds and warm the heart. Delicious erotic herbal treats ranging from edible pastes, powders and jams, cordials and elixirs, teas, sugar scrubs, truffles, and much more will be sampled in class. Aphrodisiac essential oils and herbs which enhance sexual vitality will also be discussed. Along with many inspiring recipes and ideas, students will go home with a cordial, massage oil, and several succulent treats.