About this Event
Appalachian back yards are where wild plant medicine, folklore, healing traditions, and nature-based wisdom intertwine. This immersive workshop will explore the deep-rooted history, lore, and traditional uses of the wild herbs and plants native to the luscious landscapes of Eastern TN and WNC.
From the Cherokee healers to the Granny Women of the Smoky Mountains, the Appalachian region has a rich herbal tradition, blending Indigenous knowledge with European folk medicine. Whether you are a beginner herbalist, a forager, or simply a nature enthusiast, this workshop will guide you through the hidden magic of local medicinal plants.
🍃 What You’ll Learn & Experience:
- Delve into Granny Women & Mountain Folk Remedies, Cherokee Herbalism, Rituals, Lore, and Magic History.
- Foraging Ethics & Guidelines – Learn how to harvest medicinal plants responsibly and sustainably to honor both the environment and traditional herbal wisdom.
- Guided Foraging Adventure – Discover wild herbs, edible plants, and medicinal allies that grow abundantly in most backyards or wild areas.
- Plant Identification & Field Guide Reading – Gain hands-on experience in how to properly identify wild medicinal plants and how to use field guides for confident, independent foraging.
- Harvesting Techniques – Learn how to ethically and effectively gather medicinal plants for personal use.
- Free Samples of herbal preparations with herbs covered in class.
- A small inventory of Appalachian Alchemy handcrafted herbal products, including tinctures, teas, salves, syrups, and skincare will be available for purchase after the class. These products will be aligned with the current Spring season. For special orders, reach out to [email protected].
✨ Why Attend?
- Fun for everyone—no prior foraging experience needed!
- Learn how to confidently identify, harvest, and use medicinal plants in your local area.
- Gain valuable plant knowledge that empowers you to build your own backyard apothecary.
- Connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for herbalism and natural wellness.
🌿 Join us for this hands-on herbal adventure in discovering the medicine growing all around! Limited spots available—sign up today!
✨ Handcrafted Herbal Potions will be served
📍 Event Details
Saturday, April 12 · 10 am - 12 pm
$25 per person
Limited to 15 participants
IMPORTANT: If you are not able to attend an event for which you have registered please so that we may offer that space to someone on the wait list. Thank you.
Registration required. Registration closes 24 hours prior to the event.
The registration fee is non-refundable unless the event is canceled by the facilitator.
Parking Information
Shakti in the Mountains Website
🌿 Led by Herbalist Lesley Vernon – Appalachian Herbalist & Educator
Lesley Vernon is a dedicated herbalist and educator passionate about sharing the rich plant traditions of Appalachia. Rooted in the wisdom of Folk Herbalism, she teaches others how to connect with nature and use plants for healing.
As the founder of Appalachian Alchemy, Lesley creates handcrafted herbal remedies using sustainably harvested native plants and cultivated herbs. Her workshops and plant walks offer a welcoming space to explore the magic, folklore, and practical uses of local medicinal plants.
Through storytelling and hands-on learning, Lesley inspires others to honor the land and rediscover the healing power of nature.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Shakti in the Mountains, 409 East Unaka Avenue, Johnson City, United States
USD 25.00
