This class explores prehistoric herbalism, with a unique approach to understanding how our ancient ancestors used medicinal plants. Our most loved plants can often be seen in ancient artwork and in archeological finds, some of which go back over 50,000 years. We will explore how zoopharmacognasy, the study of how animals use plant medicine, can help us imagine how our earliest ancestors practiced instinctual herbalism. Most importantly. the teachings of elders who rely on oral history, folk traditions and grandma’s home remedies often contain crucial information about the uses and symbolism of humanity’s favorite plants.
Topics include
- What is prehistoric herbalism?
- How do animals use plants as medicine?
- Humanity’s first medical writings
- Finding plants in fossils & artifacts
- Prehistoric trade & plant symbols
- Shamanic plants in ancient cultures
