EXPR 340 The Antioch Apothecary: Teas and Tinctures, Syrups and Salves
In this course students will gain an overview of the history of medicinal plants, the role of women in traditional healing practices, and an introduction to plant communication. The course includes: study of the Doctrine of Signatures, indigenous and enslaved herbal traditions, and the decolonization of herbalism. We also learn of the significance of Ohio to herbalism in America; from the 19th Century Eclectics to the current work of United Plant Savers and the establishment of medicinal plant sanctuaries in a time of extinction. This is a hands-on course where students will make teas, tinctures, balms, vinegars, tonics, syrups, salves and poultices for treating many common ailments. They will also visit the idea of the use of anthropogenic invasives as "resilience teachers" in crafting plant medicine. At the end of the course, students will walk away with a variety of remedies made from common plants.