Mushroom Medicine Making Series
Reishi
Friday, January 24 from 6-8 pm
Reishi mushrooms (Ganoderma lucidum), often referred to as the "mushroom of immortality," are highly valued in herbalism, particularly within Traditional Chinese Medicine. Known for their adaptogenic properties, they help the body manage stress and enhance immune function through compounds like triterpenes and polysaccharides, which also reduce inflammation. Join Ruthie as we explore Reishi with all of our senses. We’ll enjoy Reishi as a tea, sample a dish featuring this remarkable mushroom, and create our own medicine using Reishi and another blend we’ll prepare together. Please bring two 8 oz jars for your creations!
Turkey Tail
Turkey tail mushrooms (Trametes versicolor) are highly regarded in herbalism for their powerful immune-boosting properties. Rich in polysaccharides, they enhance the body’s immune response and promote overall wellness. In addition to their immune support, turkey tail provides antioxidant benefits and supports gut health through prebiotic fibers that nourish a healthy microbiome, making them a valuable addition to any herbal regimen. Join Ruthie as we explore Turkey Tail with all of our senses. We’ll enjoy Turkey Tail as a tea, sample a dish featuring this remarkable mushroom, and create our own medicine using Turkey Tail and another blend we’ll prepare together. Please bring two 8 oz jars for your creations!
Friday, March 14 from 6-8 pm
Cordyceps
Cordyceps mushrooms, particularly Cordyceps sinensis, are valued in herbalism for their energizing and performance-enhancing properties. Traditionally used in Chinese medicine, they are believed to boost stamina, increase energy levels, and enhance athletic performance by improving oxygen utilization and ATP production. Cordyceps also support immune function and possess antioxidant properties, helping to combat oxidative stress. Join Ruthie as we explore Cordyceps with all of our senses. We’ll enjoy Cordyceps as a tea, sample a dish featuring this remarkable mushroom, and create our own medicine using Cordyceps and another blend we’ll prepare together. Please bring two 8 oz jars for your creations!
Friday, June 27 from 6-8 pm
Lion’s Mane
Lion's mane (Hericium erinaceus) is a medicinal mushroom known for enhancing cognitive function, supporting nerve health, and promoting wellness. In herbalism, it's valued for its adaptogenic properties, helping the body manage stress and improve mental clarity. Traditionally used in Asian medicine, it’s incorporated into teas, tinctures, and supplements for its neuroprotective effects and benefits for immunity and emotional balance. Join Ruthie as we explore Lion’s Mane with all of our senses. We’ll enjoy Lion’s Mane as a tea, sample a dish featuring this remarkable mushroom, and create our own medicine using Lion’s Mane and another blend we’ll prepare together. Please bring two 8 oz jars for your creations!
Friday, August 29 from 6-8 pm
About the Teacher
Ruth Glass is a clinical and folk herbalist, as well as an instructor at Traditions School of Herbal Studies. She holds two degrees in education and is a graduate of Traditions, having completed both the Chinese Herbal Program and the Western Herbal Program. Ruth also serves as a supervisor for the Western and Chinese student clinic.
Her teaching focuses on herbal medica, herbal medicine making, herbal first aid, and bioregional herbalism. A former president of the local chapter of the American Herbalists Guild, Ruth still has an active role coordinating all chapters of the Guild across the country.
In addition to her herbal work, Ruth created Forest and Hearth, where she offers nature programs for children and elders, along with creative writing classes that integrate herbalism, writing, and music. You can find her seeing clients at Acupuncture and Herbal Therapies, volunteering with various organizations, handcrafting herbal and art projects, or hiking the beautiful trails around Tampa Bay!
Check her out at at the following social media handles: