Herbs for health

Whether a practitioner of western medicine or a believer in alternative healing methods, treatments are used both internally and externally. This month two different classes show how to use herbs as a tool to improve one's health.

The Herb Ladies' Connie Walker hosts the course on Thursdays from March 4-25 entitled "The Basics of Herbal Medicine." A practicing herbalist for over twenty years, Walker teaches how to identify herbs and make medicines from them. Participants are shown how to create their own herbs garden so as to use the products for alleviate medical concerns. "Basics of Herbal Medicine," is scheduled from 7-9 p.m. and costs $75.

For those who would rather eat their herbs, Salem Hospital's Community Health Education Center opens its wellness kitchen's doors for their "Culinary Rx: Spice Things Up" class. Registered Dietician Dawn Gray leads this cooking class from 6-7:30 p.m. on March 15. More than aromatic and tastings, spices like turmeric and curry are shown to supposedly have many health benefits which Gray explains in a hands-on manner. This workshop costs $20 and registration is required. For more information or to register, visit www.salemhospital.org/chec.

Living well through disease

Being active and healthy comes easily when well, but managing one's health is a different lifestyle for those who suffer from chronic disease. Silverton Hospital offers a six week workshop from March 1 to April 5.

The free course, which is held from 5:30-8 p.m., is meant to teach real life skills for living an active, healthy existence despite the diagnosis of heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, pain or asthma.

Building confidence in health management skills is a key part of this interactive program. Participants share their stories and success to build a support group.

Registration is required for attendance. To sign up or for more information, call 503.873.5212.