Baba Yaga’s Secrets: Herbal Practices of the Slavic World

Class Details

Baba Yaga’s Secrets: Herbal Practices of the Slavic World

Baba Yaga is a powerful mythic figure of the Slavic world, the ancient cultures of the lands of Central and Eastern Europe. Baba Yaga is a popular character in Slavic fairy tales who lives in a magical house perched on chicken legs. She is often depicted as an old, terrifying hag who flies through the air in a mortar, using the pestle to guide her flight.

In ancient pre-Christian times, Baba Yaga was a powerful Goddess who presided over birth, life and death. Traditionally she is also connected to the use of plant medicine for healing, ceremony and magic. Unfortunately, due to religious and patriarchal forces, over time people forgot the true nature of Baba Yaga and she was only remembered as a fairy tale witch. This class is dedicated to remembering and honoring this ancient Slavic crone spirit. We will explore the story of the brave warrior girl Vasalisa and her encounter with Baga Yaga. This story will be our map to understanding the magical and practical use of plants in the Slavic world. We share some Slavic ritual uses of herbs and also discuss traditional Slavic herbs used for medicine and cooking.

• Class Date: Saturday, October 17, 2026
• Class Time: 10am – 1pm
• Cost: $42
• Location: Live Online. An access link will be emailed to all participants a few days prior to class.
• Registration is required.