Medicinal Plants and a Visit to the Krug Forest

By Tamara Anderson

Posted July 22, 2026

In Uncategorized

Harvesting Solstice Wort

Tincture Making

Heavy rains provided a much-needed reprieve from wildfire smoke. The day started with the sound of loons flying overhead. There was a light breeze, clean air and a blue sky. In the morning, the plant apprenticeship group made an immune boosting tincture using dried herbs. This was an excellent opportunity to learn more about formulating herbal remedies.

Solstice Wort

Next, it was time to collect St. John’s Wort – or “Solstice Wort” named after its timely summer solstice appearance. Herbalist Kyle Denton says, “St. John’s Wort captures light when the sun is at its highest and makes it available as medicine.” He also says, “St. John’s Wort restores the light within us. When humans are under stress, we leak light.” This joyful plant restores connection, soothes pain and is an excellent liver tonic. Our intention for harvesting Solstice Wort is to infuse in olive oil for salve-making later in the year.

Shrubs and Cordials

After a delicious sharing of cherry, raspberry and mixed berry herbal shrubs and an elderflower-rose cordial, the apprentices were off to the Krug Forest.

In the Krug forest, we worked through some plant identification for skullcap, lobelia, heal-all, wild mint, boneset and many other herbal allies. A garter snake captured our attention by eating a small green frog nearby. Later in the afternoon, we enjoyed a tea meditation with Spicebush leaves beside a lovely wetland.

Over the weekend, Alexis shared much herbal wisdom through story-telling and hands-on interaction with the plants. He invited us all to try a wide variety of medicinal teas. He spoke passionately about plant and human energetics, formulations, medicine-making and lived experience with the healing plant allies. What a great weekend! Thank you, Alexis!