September 23
*this class comes with a small amount of aromatic medicine for experiencing during class*
Aromatic medicine reaches far back into antiquity. Among humanity's oldest medicines are the fragrant compounds produced by plants, long used to support healing, ritual, and our participation in the more-than-human world. Throughout history, fragrance has occupied a unique place in human culture, serving as a bridge between body and psyche, the visible and invisible dimensions of life. Distillation is one means of concentrating and working with these aromatic substances, revealing both their practical virtues and their rich symbolic significance. Learning to work with these preparations safely, sustainably, and in relationship with the plants themselves offers a powerful avenue for personal and collective transformation.
During this class, you'll be introduced to the history, traditions, methods, and applications of aromatic medicine and botanical distillation. Together we'll explore how essential oils and hydrosols can support healing, deepen connection, and invite more conscious participation in the ongoing processes of life & soul tending.
You will also be sent a small vial of aromatic medicine so we can have an experience together towards the end of class.
Time: oct 7, 2026 7:30 PM Eastern time
About the instructor:
Ash Sierra is an artist, clinical herbalist, and distiller whose work explores the relationship between psyche, plants, and the imaginal dimensions of life. She is the founder of Ritual Botanica, an Appalachian apothecary devoted to botanical medicine, distillation, and community education. Drawing from over two decades of herbal practice, farming, astrology, contemplative traditions, and ecopsychology, as well as a master's degree in Depth Psychology, her work investigates aromatic medicine as a mode of inquiry through which the symbolic life of the psyche becomes perceptible and a deeper participation with the living world is cultivated. Since 2011, she has been devoted to the craft of distillation, exploring both its practical applications and rich alchemical lineage. She especially enjoys sharing this work with fellow plant people who appreciate a bit of magic.
You can find her tending land in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina.
How to Use
Drop dose in a small amount of water and consume.
cautions
Do not use if pregnant or breastfeeding. Always consult with a health professional before using, especially if you have a health condition or if you are taking medications.
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