National Institute of Medical Herbalists

Herbal Medicine Week 2009

This year Western Herbal Medicine Week is from 20th to 27th June

There is a resurgent interest in herbal medicine in the United Kingdom therefore Herbal Medicine Week has been cast as deliberately wide as possible to encourage maximum participation in exploring every conceivable aspect of herbal medicine – what it is, how it works, who is qualified to administer it.  There will also be an emphasis on herbal medicine in British culture with explorations of the rich heritage of what was, for centuries, the primary and orthodox medical tradition in this country.

A mass herbal walk on Midsummer’s Eve

The highlight of the week is to be a mass herbal walk on Midsummer’s Eve Tuesday 23rd June.  Herbalists all over the country are being encouraged to lead herbal walks through parks, gardens and countryside, showing members of the public the incredible herbal diversity in even the smallest stretches of open space.  The choice of date is deliberate, as in A Midsummer Night’s Dream Shakespeare displayed his considerable knowledge of herbs and their uses.

Herbal walks typically last about an hour and take place in localized venues – check the List of Events to see if there is one near you.  As well as providing an educative experience the walks encompass gentle exercise and a relaxing way to socialize with new people.  A small charge may be levied in some cases.  Participants should wear comfortable shoes and appropriate clothing.  Places are limited, so you are advised to book in advance.  Children should be accompanied by parent/guardian.

As well as the romance of Midsummer and the beauty of Shakespeare’s lines, herbalists on the walks will also be explaining the importance of herbal therapies and their effectiveness for particular conditions.  Herbalism takes a holistic approach, and many individuals have responded well to this.

Click on the link Herbal Medicine Week Downloads at the left of the text for more information about events in your area.