Farmstead Herbals brings November workshops to Makers Mill

WOLFEBORO — More than a decade after teaching herbal salve workshops with G.A.L.A., the organization now known as Makers Mill, local herbalist Jessica Cole is returning to share her love of plants, traditional herbal medicine, and hands-on learning through two November workshops.

Cole previously operated Sumner Brook Herbals, offering small-batch herbal preparations at the Wolfeboro Farmers Market, including her popular Chaga Chai tea and memorably named “Bug Free or Die” bug spray. After stepping away from selling her products while raising her three children, she's returning to her herbal work under a new name, Farmstead Herbals.

Her small-batch herbal teas, seasonal syrups, and other preparations are currently available exclusively at Makers Mill, where she's also beginning to share her knowledge through a new series of classes.

And with winter just around the corner, the timing couldn't be better.

“The plants are all around us, and there is so much to learn and prepare from the herbs growing right in our own backyards,” said Cole. “When we learn to safely and mindfully harvest and use the plants around us, we can support our well-being and connect more deeply with the natural world. Even just smelling the flowers and herbs is medicine.”

From 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., on Sunday, Nov. 22, , Cole will lead Backyard Herbalism: Medicinal Roots & Winter Syrups. Participants will explore traditional uses of roots such as astragalus, echinacea, burdock, dandelion, and yellow dock, along with plant identification, sustainable harvesting, preparation, and herbal syrup-making.

From 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on the following Sunday, Nov. 29, Cole will offer Backyard Herbalism: Winter Teas for Health & Calm.

This cozy, hands-on workshop explores herbs traditionally used for relaxation and seasonal wellness, including nettle, lemon balm, holy basil, hops, motherwort, and milky oats. Participants will sample herbal teas, learn blending techniques, and create a personalized winter tea blend to take home.

For Cole, herbalism is about more than making remedies. It's about slowing down, paying attention to the seasons, and rediscovering the relationship between people and plants.

Both workshops welcome beginners and anyone curious about herbs. Through hands-on learning, participants can explore traditional plant knowledge, develop practical skills, and connect with the plants growing around them, reflecting Makers Mill's mission of learning and sharing together.

Space is limited, and advance registration is encouraged. Find class details and register at makersmill.org/herbs. For questions about the workshops, contact Jessica at jess@farmsteadherbals.com.