I have just returned from the Seven Springs Mountain Resort in Pennsylvania attending my very first American Herbalist Guild Symposium! I have been a member of the AHG since 2012, and have not had the opportunity to attend one of their seminars until now. The beauty of the surroundings aside, this was an opportunity to meet new people; as well as, learn from some of the most experienced herbalists in the country. I can't tell you how nice it is to be surrounded by others with the same passion as yourself! It was also nice to put faces with the names you have heard of for years!

I took many classes from several AHG Professional Members including "Safely Combining Herbs and Pharmaceuticals", "Appalachian Plants for the Female Reproductive System", "Herbal Considerations for Shingles Treatment", "Brain Pain: The Challenge of Migraines", and many guided plant walks. There were a variety of topics to choose from every day, and even social events! The next AHG Symposium in 2017 will be located in Oregon. I highly suggest to anyone wanting to learn more about herbs to join the Guild, and take advantage of the many resources available. Below is a picture of Partridgberry (Mitchella repens) used by many for female reproductive health found on one of the walks. This plant should not be wild harvested due to the low numbers in the wild. This plant is on the "Watch list" on the United Plant Savers website. Visit www.unitedplantsavers.org for more information.

I am personally working towards the goal of Professional Membership with the AHG, and am working with my mentor, Margi Flint, to reach that goal. I am looking forward to next year's symposium, and hope to see new faces there!