The Community Herbal Study Group is a monthly gathering to encourage connection, education, and a deeper appreciation for herbalism/plant medicine. This collaborative “knowledge share” creates a space where community members can explore the history, folklore, and medicinal properties of healing herbs in a supportive environment. As a facilitated study group (not a lecture), participants will learn together through the traditions of community and folk herbalism. Whether a seasoned herbalist or just beginning a journey with plants, all levels of experience are welcome.
Folk herbalism, often referred to as the “Wise Woman” tradition, is a community-based practice rooted in the nourishing and restorative properties of plants. It emphasizes a hands-on, ancestral relationship with the local environment, focusing on seasonal wellness and shared wisdom. This approach values the stories, folklore, and historical uses of plants alongside their physical benefits.
About the Facilitator:
Jessica Coffey is a Community Herbalist dedicated to sharing plant wisdom and ecological stewardship practices to foster wellness and connection within the local community. Guest speakers may be invited to contribute to and enhance the discussion.
Certified Community Herbalist: Completed an 8-month "Whole Living" herbalism and gardening program at Forrest Green Farm (Louisa, VA).
Foundational Training: Completed "Introduction to Herbalism" with Kat Maier at Sacred Plant Traditions (Charlottesville, VA).
Continuing Education: Currently enrolled in the "Herb of the Month" intensive with The Elderberry (Charlottesville, VA).
Field Study: Participating in the "Medicine of Place" botanical tour in Ireland (May 2026), studying culture and native flora with a collective of master herbalists.
Local Collaboration: Peer collaborator with Bon Air Botanicals, assisting in the facilitation of plant medicine-making classes.
Cost: by donation
The Monthly "Herbal Deep Dive"
Each meeting offers a multi-sensory exploration of a single herb to build "plant literacy" through direct experience.
Monograph: A brief overview of the herb’s botanical profile, history, and medicinal uses.
Knowledge Sharing: Open discussion to share personal experiences with the herb as well as traditional uses and lore.
Guided Tea Tasting: A guided tasting of the herb to understand its flavor profile and energetic qualities.
Sensory Study: Opportunities to touch, smell, and observe the herb in its various forms—from fresh and dried specimens to finished preparations like tinctures, syrups, and salves.
Garden Integration: When applicable, visiting or referencing the Living Water garden(s)/green space to observe the herb in its living state.