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Thank you to all those who joined together on the Autumn Herbal Retreat in SW France.
I think it is fair to say we had a great time and the sun shone down from a perfectly clear blue sky. We set out to remember some of the folk remedies, at the moment lost to us, by swapping stories our mothers and grandmothers told about the use of herbs when they were young. It is surprising how much of the lore told by the cunning folk comes back. In a relaxed and soothing atmosphere surrounded by nature all sorts of things are remembered and shared. From poultices to potions!
Jacqueline was a superb host as usual, making sure we had all the right equipment at hand in her enormous kitchen.
Pauline was nominated as the grand wizard. This meant she was in charge of the large wooden spoon with which to stir the salve on the stove.
Shelley and Andrew volunteered to go and gently pick some hawthorn leaves down in the valley to make some tincture, on the way they forgot to tuck their socks into their boots, so they came back later all 'smitten and bitten' and made good use of the salve we'd made for insect bites!The proof is in the pudding and all that.
Maggie told us that she was a novelist and that she'd come along to learn about herbs and also, a little inspiration for her next novel. I think she left inspired!
The whole experience was enjoyed by all those who came along, even Andrew who was the only chap among six ladies.
