
Embark on a transformative journey with Herbal Emergence, a comprehensive online learning program blending healing Ayurvedic principles with bioregional holistic folk herbalism. This immersive, hands on course equips you with practical skills to craft remedies, understand plant energetics, and apply holistic healing principles. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced practitioner, Herbal Emergence provides the tools, knowledge, and spiritual connection to deepen your relationship with the plant world and unlock your potential as an herbalist.
Tuition:
Early-bird Special $1,850 $1,400 before September 15th!

Program Overview:
Our comprehensive Herbal Emergence program offers an in-depth journey into two powerful traditions of natural medicine. We will study the principles of Ayurveda and how they pertain to herbalism and all aspects of life, while simultaneously engaging with herbalism from a folk perspective.
This Dive Deep into the World of Ayurveda and Herbal Medicine Includes:

From the folk herbalism perspective, we will look through an energetic lens, exploring a broad spectrum of subjects including botany, how and when to use herbs, practicing herbalism with intention, a holistic approach to anatomy and physiology, medicine making, and the essence of re-remembering. You’ll learn practical skills such as foraging, creating infusions, tinctures, infused vinegars, oxymels, and more!
The Ayurveda portion introduces you to foundational concepts and how to apply them to your daily life. We will delve deep into tridoshic theory, the 20 Gunas (biocharacteristics), Eastern philosophy, meditation, and pranayama. You’ll learn about Ayurvedic practices such as Dinacharya (daily routines) and Ritucharya (cycles of nature), explore the doshas in detail, and understand concepts like Agni (digestive fire), Ama (toxins), and Dhatus (tissue levels). The course also covers Ayurvedic approaches to nutrition, lifestyle, consciousness studies, and medicinal herbs.
This program is semi-self-paced and includes hands-on activities and labs for enhanced learning. There will be opportunities to explore plants visually, audibly, tactilely, and energetically through videos, written materials, meditations, and experiential labs.

Meet Your Instructors:

Welcome to the Herbal Emergence program, where we—Kat Schnebes and Laura Cascardi—unite our expertise in Ayurvedic and folk herbalism to guide you on a profound journey through the world of natural medicine. With a shared passion for holistic healing and decades of combined experience, we are dedicated to providing you with authentic, practical, and enriching education. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge and skills to integrate these powerful traditions into your life, fostering a deeper connection with nature and your own well-being.
Laura Cascardi brings over 20 years of experience in herbalism and botanical studies to this program. A certified herbalist and co-founder of the Equinox Center of Herbal Studies, Laura has devoted her career to helping others heal and grow through herbalism. Her extensive experience in working with local flora, combined with her holistic approach to wellness, allows her to offer a unique perspective on folk herbalism. Laura’s passion for teaching and her commitment to fostering a deep connection with nature shine through in every lesson.
Kat Schnebes has nurtured a passion for nature and holistic healing from a young age. With a background in Biological Sciences and Botany from Colorado State University, Kat’s journey into holistic medicine deepened when she discovered Ayurvedic medicine at the Hawthorne Institute. She has spent years studying under renowned Ayurvedic experts like Dr. Vasant Lad and is dedicated to sharing her expertise in Ayurveda, botany, and herbalism with a wider audience. Kat’s teaching style is rooted in authenticity, aiming to inspire and empower her students with practical, accessible knowledge.
Together, Kat and Laura have crafted this program to provide you with a comprehensive and immersive experience, blending the time-honored wisdom of Ayurveda with the hands-on, intuitive practices of folk herbalism. Their combined expertise ensures that you will not only learn the principles and techniques of these traditions but also how to apply them in your own life for holistic well-being.
We invite you to join us in this journey to deepen your understanding of natural medicine, where you will explore the rich tapestry of herbalism through both Western and Eastern lenses, and discover new ways to nurture your health and wellness.
What Makes Us Unique:
By demystifying complex concepts and offering grassroots education, we’re not just teaching herbalism; we’re cultivating a community of informed, empowered individuals who can bring the healing power of plants into their daily lives and communities.

The Herbal Emergence program stands out in the world of herbal education through its unique blend of grounded wisdom and practical accessibility. Unlike many courses that focus solely on either Western herbalism or Ayurveda, we offer a rare and comprehensive integration of both traditions, providing you with a holistic understanding of plant medicine.
Our approach is rooted in a deep, authentic connection to the earth and its healing practices, eschewing trendy pop-culture herbalism in favor of time-tested, folk-based methods. We believe that herbal wisdom should be accessible to everyone, which is why we focus on using everyday tools and affordable techniques that you can apply throughout your life.
This immersive journey into plant connection goes beyond theory – we literally bring the herbs to your doorstep with our specially curated boxes of plant materials and lab supplies. This hands-on, sensory-rich experience sets us apart, allowing you to develop a tangible relationship with the plants you’re studying.
With Herbal Emergence, you’re not just learning about herbs – you’re embarking on a transformative journey that connects you deeply with nature’s pharmacy.

Course Description:

Our intention with this course is to provide you with accessible, authentic, and accurate education. By the end of this course, you’ll have a solid grounding in both Western and Ayurvedic herbal traditions, enabling you to approach health and wellness from multiple, complementary perspectives.

Herbalism: Examine ethics, history, and energetics. Craft intention bags and master infusions, tisanes, and decoctions. Spotlight on Damiana.
Ayurveda: Uncover vedic origins, Sanskrit chanting, and core philosophies. Study five element , tridoshic theory, and daily routines (dinacharya).

Herbalism: Analyze digestive and reproductive health. Investigate common herbs for gut and reproductive wellness. Spotlight on Rose and Marshmallow.
Ayurveda: Dive deeper into Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas, their subtypes, and related herbs. Grasp concepts of Agni, Ama, and constitutional types.

Herbalism: Create herbal honeys, vinegars, oils, and salves. Discover herbs for healthy aging and botanical principles. Spotlight on Angelica.
Ayurveda: Examine seasonal routines (ritucharya), tissue states. (dhatus), and disease development (samprapti). Practice meditation and learn Ayurvedic nutrition.

Herbalism: Address herbs for children and nervous system support. Perfect tincture-making techniques. Spotlight on Arnica.
Ayurveda: Delve into chakras and gunas. Review Vata, Pitta, and Kapha remedies. Investigate Ayurvedic perspectives on the nervous system.

Early-bird Special $1,850 $1,400 before September 15th!
Frequently Asked Questions:
How long does the program take to complete?
The Herbal Emergence program is designed to be both comprehensive and flexible, accommodating various learning paces. Here’s what you can expect:
- Total Required Time: Approximately 150 hours of coursework and study.
- Standard Completion Time: We provide a full year to complete the program, which is ample time for most students.
- Recommended Pace: On average, watching one lecture per week and completing the associated studying is a comfortable and effective rhythm.
- Live Support: At this pace, we offer live Q&A sessions for each module to enhance your learning experience.
- Flexibility: You’re welcome to progress faster if your schedule allows. We’re here to support you regardless of your chosen pace.
- Extended Access: For those who need additional time, we offer a paid option to extend beyond the one-year period.
Our goal is to provide a thorough education while respecting your individual learning style and life commitments. Whether you prefer a steady weekly routine or an accelerated approach, we’re here to assist you throughout your herbal education journey.
How is this program different from other online herbalism courses?
The Herbal Emergence program stands out by blending grounded wisdom with practical accessibility. Unlike courses that focus solely on herbalism or Ayurveda, we integrate both traditions for a holistic understanding of plant medicine. Rooted in authentic, earth-based practices, we prioritize time-tested, folk methods over trendy approaches. Our accessible education uses everyday tools and affordable techniques. The immersive experience includes curated boxes of plant materials, fostering a tangible connection to the plants. Herbal Emergence isn’t just about learning herbs—it’s a transformative journey into nature’s pharmacy, empowering you to bring plant healing into daily life.
Is there a payment plan available?
We do require full payment upon enrollment.
Are the herbs and supplies really included in the price?
Absolutely! We believe in full transparency and accessibility when it comes to herbal education. Here’s what you need to know:
Time Consideration: To receive credit for the course, you’ll need to complete it within one year. We offer an option to extend this period for a small fee if needed.
All-Inclusive Pricing: The course fee of $1600 includes all necessary herbs and supplies, valued at $475. This represents a significant bonus value built into your tuition.
Accessibility is Key: We firmly believe that herbal knowledge should be accessible to all who seek it. By including all materials in the upfront cost, we ensure that everyone can fully participate in the program without worrying about additional expenses.
What’s your refund policy?
If you are not satisfied with the course within 48 hours after the first day of class starts, we will refund your tuition.
If you decide to resign before class begins and we have already sent your herbs, course materials, and books, they will not be refunded.
Will I learn about herb-drug interactions and safety precautions?
When we introduce herbs we will absolutely mention when and when not to use them. That being said, always make sure to double check your drug interactions before recommending an herb to a client or friend. Safety first!
Can I work at my own pace, or are there set class times?
Yes, you can work at your own pace. All the lectures are pre-recorded. However, we highly recommend you take your time with the course to allow the information to take root.
If you want to cruise through the program you may, and you still have access to direct contact with us and the live Q&A sessions. There are no mandatory set class times.
Can I start my own herbal practice after completing this program?
Yes, and no. The path to professional practice involves several important considerations:
- Legal Landscape: Currently, there is no federal certification for herbalists in the United States. Some health freedom states have “safe harbor” laws that provide certain protections for complementary and alternative health practitioners, including herbalists and Ayurvedic practitioners. As of now, eleven states have such laws, but regulations can vary.
- Professional Recognition: While our program is accredited by the American Herbalists Guild (AHG), it’s important to note that becoming a Registered Herbalist with AHG requires additional steps beyond this course.
- Scope of Practice: This program is designed to provide you with a solid understanding of herbal medicine for personal use and to support the health of those around you. However, we recommend that graduates do not immediately launch into clinical practice based solely on this course.
We encourage graduates to view this program as a stepping stone in their herbal education journey. Further study, mentorship, and practical experience are crucial for developing the expertise needed for professional practice.
- Ethical Considerations: We emphasize the importance of practicing within your scope of knowledge, always prioritizing safety, and respecting legal and ethical boundaries.
Our goal is to empower you with knowledge while instilling a deep respect for the responsibility that comes with using herbal medicine. We recommend thoroughly researching your local laws and considering additional training if you aspire to professional practice. Remember, even without a formal practice, the knowledge gained in this course can significantly enhance your personal wellness journey and your ability to support your community’s health in safe and responsible ways.
Are there any in-person components to this course?
Not for the Herbal Emergence online program, but if you’re interested in live courses we offer 4 in-person years of herbal studies in Fort Collins, Colorado.
Who is this program suitable for?
A: The Herbal Emergence program is designed for a diverse audience:
- Beginners curious about herbalism and Ayurveda
- Health enthusiasts seeking natural wellness approaches
- Experienced herbalists looking to deepen their knowledge
- Individuals wanting to take charge of their personal health
- Those interested in sustainable, earth-centered practices
- Anyone passionate about plant medicine and holistic healing
Can I interact with other students during the course
Yes, we have a student forum
How much time should I expect to dedicate to this program each week?
This program is built to be done slowly over a 1 year time period with ~3 hours of commitment per week, but it can be done faster.
What kind of support will I receive during the program?
The program is designed to accommodate diverse schedules and learning preferences. In addition to the lectures, herbs, and course material you will receive:
- Live Q&A Sessions: We offer a total of four such sessions, scheduled three months apart. These sessions serve a dual purpose: they provide an opportunity to dive deeper into the material, and they also help you gauge your progress and stay on track with the course timeline.
Access to us via email: We will be available to you through the year of your course to answer any questions or clarifications you need. We are here to support your journey.
Is this a certified or accredited course?
We are proudly accredited by the American Herbalists Guild (AHG), a respected organization in the field of herbalism. This accreditation reflects our commitment to maintaining high educational standards and providing quality herbal education.
You will receive a 150 hour certificate of completion that can be used toward becoming a registered herbalist under the AHG.
It’s important to note that in the field of herbalism, accreditation works differently than in traditional academic institutions. As the AHG explains, accreditation in herbalism is primarily focused on ensuring that a program meets accepted educational standards, operates with fiscal stability, and adheres to legal requirements.
While AHG accreditation does not confer the same benefits as regional or state accreditation (such as financial aid eligibility or guaranteed transfer of credits), it does signify that our program has been evaluated and approved by experts in the field. This endorsement assures students that they are receiving a comprehensive, well-structured education in herbalism that aligns with professional standards.
Do I need prior experience in herbalism or Ayurveda to join?
The Herbal Emergence program is designed to accommodate a wide range of learners. While it serves as an excellent foundation for beginners with little to no prior experience in herbalism or Ayurveda, the curriculum also offers valuable insights and techniques for more experienced practitioners. Our comprehensive approach ensures that novices will gain a solid grounding in herbal practices, while seasoned herbalists can deepen their knowledge, explore new perspectives, and refine their skills. Whether you’re just starting your herbal journey or looking to expand your existing practice, this program has something to offer everyone passionate about plant medicine and holistic healing.




