Plants & Farm StoriesAug 24, 2023
Day in the Life of an Herbaculture Intern
Most herbalists start their journey simply by getting curious about plants. As Herb Pharm
co-founder Sara Katz once said, “We started Herb Pharm because we were completely and utterly
fascinated by plants. We wanted to know these plants intimately and to experience their magic as often and
in as many ways as possible.”
Education has always been an important part of our ethos. We’re proud to say the Herbaculture Internship
Program Ed and Sara started over 40 years ago is still going strong! Keep reading to learn more about what
this program offers to budding plant enthusiasts from around the world.
See What It’s All About
The Herbaculture Internship Program is 10 weeks long and happens 3 times a year in the spring, summer and
fall. Monday through Thursday, interns get hands-on experience working with the farm crew performing
tasks like planting, harvesting, weeding and washing plants depending on the season. Students also
attend herbal classes and learn about body systems and the energetics of plants, make herbal
preparations and go on regional plant walks in southern Oregon.
Overall, it’s an amazing experience where students learn from our farmers and local herbalists while
enjoying a community living experience. The program itself is free, and interns all stay together in the
first house ever built on Herb Pharm’s property.
Meet Herb Pharm Intern, Carley
Carley was an Herbaculture intern in the spring of 2023 and documented some of her experience in our
program. According to her, the best thing about this program is “the opportunity to work, study and live
alongside like-minded individuals from diverse backgrounds.”
She described it as “an immersive and transformative experience that fosters personal and professional
growth in the field of herbalism.” She also added, “this internship is more than just a learning
experience. It's a chance to be part of a supportive community, make lasting connections and develop
both personally and professionally.”
The Future Looks Herbal
The most exciting thing about our Herbaculture Internship program is what our interns go on to do. Many
have started their own herb farms or schools. Some have continued their education to become naturopathic
doctors, midwives, acupuncturists or nutritionists. Our interns can take their herbal education and
apply it to a career that brings them joy, and we can’t think of anything better than that!
Feeling Curious?
If you want to learn more about this program, visit our Herbaculture Internship information page. And
follow along on Facebook or Instagram as we periodically share what our wonderful interns are up to!