still room (18th century n.)

a special place used for the preparation, distillation and storage of herbs, roots and flowers. It was in the still room that knowledge of these vital arts were passed from one generation to the next.

Homestead Herbalism

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Welcome to The Still Room at Pitch Pines

Nestled in the heart of South Jersey’s Pine Barrens, The Still Room is a gathering place for herbal education, community, and connection to the land. Led by herbalist and teacher Susan Hess, our programs bring traditional wisdom into modern life through hands-on learning and exploration.

We offer the yearlong Homestead Herbalism foundation course, guiding students through the seasons with practical skills in growing, harvesting, and creating with herbs. In addition, our community classes and special workshops invite learners of all levels to discover the beauty and uses of wild and cultivated plants, from nourishing foods to healing preparations and creative crafts.

Here, learning happens in a cozy classroom, flourishing gardens, and the surrounding fields and forests—rooted in the belief that herbal knowledge should be shared, practiced, and celebrated together.

Homestead Herbalism

Classes in NJ

Seeds & Stars

Community Classes

The Herbal Medicine Cookbook

The Herbal Medicine Cookbook, Susan Hess and Tina Sams

My very first book, shared from years of stirring the pot in my own home kitchen and herbal classroom!

  • *Discover how to utilize foods as medicine, the tastes and energetics of common herbs in every day cooking, my favorite kitchen tools and what you’ll need to get started.
  • *75 Seasonal Recipes for breakfast, soups and salads, main dishes, snacks and sides, condiments, beverages, and sweet treats.
  • *The “Condiments” chapter includes recipes to make ahead and stock your pantry: Basic herb-infused bone-broth, vinegars, shrubs, syrups, honeys, butters and pastes *30+ herb profiles for quick reference on taste, best preparation methods, and healing properties. 200 pages

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