Herbstalk, a unique plant education event that encompasses hands-on herbal workshops, urban plant walks and a marketplace of local herbal vendors, returns to the Armory in Somerville on June 8 and 9. The weekend features herbal education classes for beginners and more advanced students alike.

“Herbstalk is not a professional conference in the traditional sense, but rather a community conference, a skill-share and a gathering place,” says organizer Steph Zabel. “For laypeople, it’s a place to be inspired and connect with the local herbal resources at their disposal. For herbalists, it’s a way to share and gain knowledge, promote their business or practice, and become more visible to the community at large.”

Classes offered will cover such topics as herbal medicine-making, plant identification, herbal stress relief, aromatherapy and using herbs with children. Attendees can also take part in more specialized classes on men’s reproductive health, holistic dental care, herbs for pregnancy, digestive disorders, Lyme disease, autism and chronic illness.

“Through education, Herbstalk seeks to change the perception that herbalism is something strange, dangerous or on the fringe,” says Zabel. “In fact, it’s a natural, easy and healthful part of daily life and a vital connection to the natural world and the plants that sustain us.”

Cost: Varies. Location: The Armory, 191 Highland Ave., Somerville. For more information call 617-453-2070, email [email protected] or visit Herbstalk.org.