Herbal preparations and handcrafts to be focus of Monday youth program

The last of the "You Are Here" free summer programs for youth at Decorah Public Library will take place on Monday, August 1st from 3-5 pm with a session based on community herbalist Kristine Brown's Herbal Roots Zine.  The materials provide a wealth of hands-on opportunities for youth and adults alike to learn about the medicinal properties of plants.

Herbal Roots makes it clear from the start that herbs are much more than just the spices that we put in the soup pot.  Many common plants in our gardens, meadows and wooded areas have unique properties and have been used by native healers and their apprentices for many generations.  Much of this knowledge is in danger of being lost, as more people live in urban areas, lose interest in cultivating herbal medicines, or simple don't have opportunities to learn from others with this knowledge.  

In "Mullein Man, the Queen of Skin and Friends" anyone 10 and older will have an opportunity identify and learn about unique properties of five different common plants-- mullein, yarrow, plantain, red clover and calendula—and to make various herbal preparations and handcrafted items with them.

Space is limited for this program, so in order to assure enough space and supplies for everyone, preregistration is requested.  Drop-ins are welcome, however, as space is available.  Participants are asked to bring 1 or 2 clean jars, 8 ounces or less, with lids.
 
For more information and to sign up, please call Heidi Swets at the library at 382-3717 or email youthservices@decorah.lib.ia.us.