BVI Residents Explore Traditional Medicinal Plants
Around 40 Virgin Islands residents participated in a cultural education workshop hosted by the Department of Culture to learn about local bush and medicinal plants. Led by herbalist Arona Fahie Forbes, the interactive session focused on safeguarding indigenous knowledge and promoting natural wellness. The workshop is part of an ongoing series by the government to preserve traditional Virgin Islands heritage.
Approximately 40 residents from across the Virgin Islands deepened their understanding of local bush and medicinal plants during a cultural education workshop hosted by the Department of Culture, strengthening ongoing efforts to preserve traditional knowledge and promote healthier living through natural practices.
The interactive workshop was facilitated by herbalist Mrs. Arona Fahie Forbes, a former Acting Chief Agricultural Officer, farmer, businesswoman, and author. During the session, participants explored the practical uses, health benefits, and deep-rooted cultural significance of a wide variety of locally known medicinal plants.
Attendees were able to inspect live plant specimens directly while learning about historical applications and how natural remedies continue to support modern wellness. Anne Lennard welcomed attendees and underscored the vital importance of preserving indigenous practices for future generations. "We came together to learn, share and preserve the knowledge, traditions and practices that are an important part of our Virgin Islands culture.
It was encouraging to see so many persons interested in safeguarding knowledge passed down through generations," Lennard said. She added that local flora represents far more than just the island landscape. "They carry stories, they carry traditions and, most importantly, they carry knowledge that connects us to our land and to those who came before us.
When you know the plants, you know the land." The medicinal plants session is part of an ongoing cultural educational workshop series organized by the Department of Culture. The initiative aims to document, safeguard, and pass down essential aspects of Virgin Islands history, heritage, and lifestyle skills to the wider community.
The department has announced that its next workshop will highlight the traditional art of making Virgin Islands Guavaberry Liqueur, facilitated by Ms. Members of the public seeking more information about upcoming cultural sessions and registration details can contact the Department of Culture directly.
Primary source: BVI Government