Learning how to identify, cultivate and harness the powerful properties of plants is what has kept the Tauranga Herb Society flourishing for 40 years.

Tauranga Herb Society president Helen Loe says people become members of the group because they are keen to learn the best way to grow herbs.

'They also want to discover the many ways that these can be used.”

The society, which marks its 40^th year in 2022, offers education around the medicinal, culinary, cosmetic and craft uses of herbs.

Programme

Society members meet monthly for workshops that cover a wide range of herb-related topics. A year-round programme offers guest speakers, garden trips, craft displays and more.

There's also the once-a-month opportunity to access the extensive library that's been amassed by THS members during 40 years of existence.

Past president and life-member Pamela Mail was present at the very first meeting of Tauranga Herb Society. 'I was a young mum who wanted to find alternative ways to treat my children's minor ailments.”

She remembers the first meetings not even having herbal teas to serve – something members were quick to remedy. 'When we had a few more members join, who were interested in herbs for health, we started to make our own herbal teas.”

Surprised to find

Pamela believes that people today would be surprised at what they might find in their gardens.

'Plants like dandelion, chickweed and kawakawa can be easily used, if you know how.

'Some can be chopped up for salads, others for powerful ointments.”

Society members range in age from around 35 to 72, with two-thirds being women.

Just as varied are the backgrounds and life experiences of the members.

'We have naturopaths, herbalists, nurses, and professional herb growers,” says Helen.

'We even have a couple of retired, highly-qualified scientists who bring another aspect to the understanding of herbs.”

Younger members welcome

As well as the practical benefits of being a member, Helen believes an added bonus to be the relationships formed. 'To be immersed in conversation about herbs and the study of herbs with like-minded people is wonderful. The friendships formed are very special.”

Looking forward, Pamela would like to see more young people join the society.

'To have younger folks coming in would be fabulous. Mothers and fathers who want to learn how to manage the little things like coughs and eczema with their children would be great.”

Workshops are held for the members to learn how to make simple tinctures, ointments and creams.

For more information, visit www.herbs.org.nz/local-societies/tauranga-herb-society/