The Tree Dispensary

SOLD OUT – Please email courses@wealddown.co.uk to be added to the waiting list.

The Course

At a time when climate change and the desperate need to address it, in whatever ways we can, is the time for encouraging the planting of trees on a grand scale. Trees are so valuable to our planet, and here lies an opportunity to appreciate their worth to us, in so many ways. Since the industrial revolution and fewer people being familiar with the countryside, knowledge of the medicinal use of trees has declined.

This day course will start with a walk through the Museum’s grounds, to learn about the trees around us, and to take a glimpse into their history in medicine and usefulness today.

Through pictures, products and making recipes we will look at the uses of fruits, blossoms, leaves, barks, roots, wood, sap and resin to make medicines, splints for broken limbs, and so much more. The association of birds, animals and insects with trees and the interconnected nature of the ecology, including woodland plants, will make this a day full of interest. Over millennia, medicinal trees have also given foods, wines, flavourings, incense, dyes, inks and basketry materials.

Adding a rich folklore enhances the day. Find out about the ash, hawthorn, bay, birch, elder, lime, hazel, horse chestnut, oak and willow.

The Tutor

Christina Stapley BSc (Hons) MCPP is now a retired qualified medical herbalist with a degree in Phytotherapy (plant therapy). She has grown some 300 herbs, studied and used them for over 30 years. Her Hampshire garden was featured on television several times. She has written three books on cultivating and using herbs in cookery, fragrant recipes, wines and liqueurs, crafts and home remedies. Christina has also edited and interpreted a 17th century book of cookery and physic recipes.

Participant Information

Please bring with you a pen and paper and suitable clothing footwear as you will spend part of the day outside. The course may take place in an historic building which can be cool, it is advisable to wear warm layers.

Fee & Refreshments

£70 per person, including tuition, teas and coffees. Please let the Museum know in advance of any dietary requirements. The Museum café will be open for lunch or alternatively participants can bring their own packed lunch.