Herb Society of America
Hill Country UnitWho Are We?
The mission statement of the Herb Society of America is to “promote the knowledge, use and delight of herbs through educational programs, research and sharing the experience of its members with the community”. The Society is committed to protecting our global environment for the health and well-being of humankind and all growing things. We encourage gardeners to practice environmentally sound horticulture. The Motto of the Society is taken from the herbalist, John Parkinson: “For Use and Delight”
Herb Of The Month
Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis Miller.
- Aloe originated in the Africa/Arabia Peninsula and has been used for medicinal purposes in several cultures for millenia. Sumerian clay tablets in @2100 BC Mesopotamia documented its medical uses. Its ability to store water also made it a symbol of survival.
- Aloe is a succulent of the lily family and is revered as a natural healer. The cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and food industries use it extensively.
- Aloe exudes a sticky gel that soothes and promotes healing when applied to burns, coldsores, frostbite, bites, inflammation and abrasions. It has also been used for acne, psoriasis, and skin damage from radiation therapy.
-
It has been used orally for weight loss, diabetes and inflammatory bowel conditions. Be sure to check with your health care provider before consuming aloe vera.
-
Aloe is a perennial that grows 2 to 3 feet tall in our Central Texas climate. It prefers well-drained (sandy) neutral soil. It is quite low-maintenance, but it will not tolerate freezing temperatures.
The Hill Country Unit meets the third Wednesday of the month, September through May, at 9:30 a.m., in the Meeting Room of the Emily Ann Theatre & Gardens, 1101 FM 2325, Wimberley, TX.
Program Info
Herbal Tinctures
When: January 21, 2026
9:30 a.m.
Where: Emily Ann Theatre & Gardens
1101 FM-2325, Wimberley, TX 78676
Join us as Nanette Mackenroth, owner of Your Primal Life, presents a program on Herbal Tinctures. She will explain what tinctures are, how to use them, and steps to make your own tinctures at home. She will also have some of her products available for sale.
RSVP to Lisa Valentine at valentine_lisa@msn.com
Member Benefits
- Free or discounted admissions to participating gardens and arboreta nationwide though AHS Reciprocal Garden Program
- Specialized district and annual meetings
- Connection to fellow herb enthusiasts through the exclusive, online HSA Membership Directory
- Subscription to the annual journal THE HERBARIST as well as national and district newsletters
- Admission to the members-only section of HSA’s website, which includes special educational programs
