Tincture Workshop
In the past few months, I have been exploring some more natural ways of getting and staying healthy, including a deep dive into the world of herbalism. I am particularly interested in a more natural way of keeping my immune system strong, my energy levels up, and my body as free from man-made toxins as possible, which includes the ever dominant pharmaceutical industry. In March, I had the wonderful opportunity to attend a live Tincture Workshop put on by Kaylee from The Honeystead, held at the beautiful Reitano Winery in Front Royal, Virginia.
I'd like to invite you to explore the beauty that the world has to offer, whether it's through the art of beekeeping, the wonders of herbalism, the adventure of foraging, or any other captivating journey you're curious about. As your friend on this path, I'm here to cheer you on! Remember, you will never know what you are capable of unless you try. - Kaylee (from her website)
Kaylee grew up in the Blue Ridge Mountains, surrounded by nature and natural living. With a formal education in the medical industry, Kaylee is able to interconnect the modern with the more holistic aspects of healthy living. She has heaps of knowledge of and experience with herbs, homesteading, beekeeping, and living our best natural lives, which she shares on her blog, in her book “The Beekeeper’s Apothecary”, and in her live classes. More on that soon!
Due to the slightly longer drive time, I decided to head south early, arriving at Reitano in time to enjoy a late lunch and a couple glasses of wine before the evening workshop started. Still within their first year of business, I was curious was on offer. Entering the tasting room was like walking into an elegant wedding reception – something they apparently specialize in – looking more like a ballroom than a winery tasting room. The food was amazing, and I believe changes with the seasons. The one beer I had was a nice rendition of a particular German-style beer I usually enjoy, and the two wines I tried were balanced, fruity, and tasty. If you’re ever in the area, I highly recommend this newer winery.
The winery closed an hour before the workshop started, which gave me some time to sit and read in my car. It was far too cold and windy to sit outside, although I would have enjoyed that if the temps were more welcoming. The grounds were gorgeous, with a large pond, some wooded areas, grape vines in neat rows, and stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Once the class started, the real fun began. Kaylee is warm and personable and knowledgeable and an excellent teacher, something I am sure she learned from her mother, who was also there assisting. The class was small – about 8 people – which allowed for good conversations, quick Q&As, and a bit of hands-on time. We were walked through the history and usage of tinctures in herbalism, and a thorough how-to for making our own, focusing on 3 specific herbs and their individual uses while briefly discussing alternatives and other herbs. Kaylee showed us how simple it was to prepare a tincture, mixing an herb with an appropriate menstruum (liquid for extracting the oils of the herbs) in front of the class and explaining different prescribed amounts based on the type of menstruum used. Kaylee had brought a tincture preparation with her, which was ready to for the final stage of straining and bottling, so we could see this in action. At the end of class, we were all given samples of the 3 herbs discussed in class for us to take home and create our own tinctures.
So let’s celebrate the small victories, savor the process, and keep building lives full of richness, resilience, and joy. I’m so glad you’re here. - Kaylee (from her website)
For anyone who has been here for any amount of time, you know I learn best in a hands-on method, actively doing what I am being taught with oversight and correction as needed. This class was exactly that in a fun and quick 3-hour class. I fully admit, the more I learn, the more I realize I know nothing. But Kaylee is a master and I am so grateful for her enthusiasm in sharing her wealth of knowledge. I keep checking Kaylee’s website to see if she adds more workshops, because I will certainly be signing up for more!
Remember to always Spin the Compass!
