Go on a course: herbal medicine

Country Living online 15.04.2009

Learning about natural remedies. By Catherine Butler

feverfew plant There are just three rules of herbal medicine, according to our tutor, medical herbalist Christina Stapley: definitely identify the herb, if you would usually consult a doctor about it, still do so, and stick to the authorised dosage - herbs can be potent things.

We began by studying the herb garden at the back of the cottage in which our day-long class was based. As we identified and discussed each plant, I was amazed at the variety of uses: ribwort plantain - a weed that grows abundantly in my lawn - can be used as a plaster for a blister, a compress for sprains and to soothe insect bites.

Christina showed us various methods of preparing herbal remedies: from simple infusions to syrups, tinctures, and even ointments that we cooked over an open fire, which were decanted into pots for us to take home - the first potion in my herbal medicine chest.

For more information about herbal medicine courses, contact the Weald & Downland Open Air Museum, Singleton, Chichester, West Sussex (01243 811363; www.wealddown.co.uk). This course costs £50 including lunch.

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