There is a great deal of confusion about herbs these days. What makes an herb a plant? Do herbs need a special place in the garden or require special care? What herbs are safe to use for healing and cooking?
Queens Botanical Garden horticulturist Cynthia Reed has answers to these questions and more. Join her as QBG continues its fascinating series on food and herbs. The winter programs focus on healing with food — exploring the relationship of what we eat and how we feel. Space is limited, so arrive early to guarantee a seat. And be sure to check out QBG’s herb programs coming in the spring.
Healing with Food, Part I
Saturday, Jan. 10, 1 p.m.
Learn about food and its relationship to a healthy life from the major herbal and dietary traditions of the West and the Orient. Dietary healing, particularly those practices that purify and energize the body, will be discussed.
Healing with Food, Part II
Saturday, Jan. 17, 1 p.m.
This program continues to explore the interplay of Asian healing traditions and modern nutrition. Food is a foundation medicine and profoundly affects all systems of the body. Diet can be used for prevention and treatment, lessening the need for other medicines and aiding herbal treatment.
Basic Concepts of Ayurveda
Saturday, Jan. 31, 1 p.m.
The basic tenets of Ayurveda, such as the Tridosha, will be discussed. This workshop looks at how we can apply this ancient healing tradition to our daily lives.
Herbs of Ayurveda
Sunday, Feb. 8, 1 p.m.
This session builds on the basic concepts of Ayurveda. Herbs used in this tradition, especially the commonly used Western herbs that can be utilized, will be explored.
Located at 43-50 Main Street, in Flushing, the Queens Botanical Garden is easily accessible by car, train, or bus. Admission is free. Parking is available in the Garden’s lot on Dahlia Avenue. For travel directions and more information call 718-886-3800.