Alchemy is the ancient tradition that shaped modern chemistry, medicine, and herbalism. In this recorded class, we explore the history and philosophy of Western alchemy, tracing its roots from ancient Egypt through the great alchemical physicians who saw the transformation of matter as inseparable from the transformation of the self.
Then we move from philosophy into practice. Inside the Casa Curativa apothecary, you’ll witness a live essential oil distillation and experience a guided tasting of spagyric preparations — the alchemical form of herbal medicine that works with the full body, soul, and spirit of the plant.
Friday Weekly Class Replay:
Alchemy & Spagyrics:
The Living Art of Plant Transformation
Recorded Live on Friday, April 10, 2026
Casa Curativa: Tzununá, Lake Atitlán Guatemala
Hosted by: Julia Bentley | Casa Curativa’s Founder
Alchemy & Spagyrics Live Class Replay:
Class Notes:
Meet Julia: Founder of Casa Curativa…
Herbalist • Birth Doula • Founder + Owner of Casa Curativa • Connect on Instagram
Julia is the founder of Casa Curativa, a living herbal education center, permaculture center, and apothecary she has been cultivating for the past eight years. Her work weaves together herbal medicine, plant connection, and hands-on education rooted in the landscapes where she lives and practices.
She studied in person for two years with Sajah Popham at The School of Evolutionary Herbalism: an experience that profoundly shaped her worldview and deepened her understanding of the living intelligence of plants. She has also supported many women as a birth doula; supporting women through the threshold of becoming mothers and bringing new life into the world.
Julia’s daily practice moves between the apothecary and the natural world, where the plants themselves remain some of her greatest teachers. She loves helping people build meaningful relationships with herbs and guiding others to discover the same spark of understanding that transformed her own path.
Upcoming Casa Curativa Offerings:
Herbal Dieta @ Casa Curativa: February 2026 - May 2026
Join an immersive experience connecting deeply with the plant ally of your choosing: Blue Louts, Lavender, Nettle, Wild Rose, Ruda (Rue) or Tetradenia. Inspired by traditional plant dietas practiced in the Amazon, adjusted for the Western herbal enthusiast. During 6 days, you will directly experience the plant energetics present in the medicine you are working with. All Herbal Dietas include 3 meals a day, accommodation, daily plant baths and connection with the spagyric essence of your plant of choice.
Casa Curativa’s Herbal Apprenticeship: Now Enrolling
The Casa Curativa Apprenticeship is an immersive opportunity to step into the living practice of herbal medicine. Apprentices work closely with the plants, the apothecary, and the daily rhythms of the land while learning the foundations of herbal preparation, formulation, and small-batch medicine making.
Through hands-on experience in the gardens and apothecary, you’ll deepen your relationship with medicinal plants while supporting the work of a functioning herbal school and community space. This apprenticeship offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at how herbal medicine is grown, crafted, and shared.
Ideal for those who want practical skills, real experience, and a deeper relationship with the plants while participating in the day-to-day life of a working herbal apothecary.
Ready to learn more with Casa Curativa?
A free 4-part Connection with Plant Series with owner & founder of Casa Curativa, Julia Bentely.
Inside this series, you will:
Learn how to connect with plants as allies and companions.
Recognize subtle messages, synchronicities, and plant communication.
Use your senses to receive guidance and become a better herbalist.
Integrate plant wisdom into your daily life with reciprocity and respect.