Welcome to The Ginkgo Tree!
What we offer
Our passion is herbal education; offering a diploma course, blog, retreat center, botanical sanctuary and lecturing.
It is on this quaint family farm, that many a bride has joyfully said "I do".
- Barn Wedding Venue – Dreaming of a classic rustic wedding on a private farm? Dating back to the 1800’s, Dogwood and Brambles farm maintains its original beauty and charm. It features a century old barn and farmhouse. The barn overlooks our horses pasture field and pond. The natural beauty of the surrounding property is picturesque; with mature trees, gardens, and wild spaces. Click here for more information.
- Back To Your Roots Herbal Retreat -Since 2012, we have brought together budding herbalists, healers, and plant lovers to share their wisdom of herbs and natural healing. Click here for more information.
- Herbal Education – A passionate herbal educator, Penelope teaches The Ginkgo Tree Herbal Course (1-2 yrs, diploma upon completion). Guests are always welcome! Click here for more information. Penelope also offers an informative blog on herbs, DIY herbal recipes and farmsteading tips.
- Lecturing –Penelope has lectured throughout Canada and the USA; lecturing at The Restorative Medicine Conference, New England Herbal Conference, American Herbalist Guild, Canadian Herb Conference, Vancouver Island Herb Conference, Back To Your Roots Herbal Retreat, Heartwood, Toronto Botanical Gardens, Canada Blooms, and other various organizations and conferences.
- Botanical Sanctuary Our mission is to protect native medicinal plants and their native habitat while ensuring an abundant renewable supply of medicinal plants for generations to come. We are thrilled to be a Botanical Sanctuary member with United Plant Savers .
- Herb and Wild Edible walks – Spring, Summer, Fall herb walks and "At Risk" herb walks offered throughout the year. Private or group walks welcome.
What is Herbalism?
The term herb refers to a plant used for medicinal purposes. The medicinal benefits of herbs have been known for centuries. Humans have always been dependent on plants for medicine, food and healing. The healing properties of herbs have not changed through the centuries - what was a healing herb a few hundred years ago is still a healing herb today. Many of the benefits of herbs are not so much based on scientific study but rather on the consistent observations made by herbal practitioners through the centuries.
Herbs, when properly used, are safe, gentle and effective. Herbs should be treated like other medicines in that it is important to follow the recommendations made by a well-experienced herbalist.
FAQ's
Q: What is a tincture?
A: A tincture is a herbal preparation where the fresh or dried herb is steeped in alcohol for at least one month. The alcohol draws out the medicinal properties of the herb. At the end of the steeping period, the liquid is separated from the plant material and the resulting liquid is a tincture.
Q: How quickly should I see results with herbal medicine?
A: The answer depends on what condition is being treated and what the treatment plan is. Results may take up to a year depending on the complexity of the condition and whether the condition is acute or chronic in nature.
Q: Is herbal medicine safe?
A: Herbal medicine can be very safe when taken under the supervision of a Registered Herbalist or Naturopath. Please discuss with your health care practitioner.
