A PASSIONATE HERBAL TEACHER

KARIN PLANKER

Karin Planker tells us more about local flora

Karin Planker is in her element. She was born in Val Gardena and is the bridge between two worlds, a bridge which helps many people. As an herbal expert and teacher, she uses her knowledge about plants and their effects in her work with mothers, children, and patients in general. We took a spring stroll across wild meadows with Karin, walking down memory lane to when she was a child. An herbal teacher – what is that all about, then?

An herbal teacher is a specialist, trained professional who teaches knowledge about plants such as herbs, flowers, trees and their use and applications to promote health as well as bringing people closer to nature.

Not your regular day job then. How did you find out about it?

As a child, I loved to while away the day sitting in a field and tasting flowers and herbs. I had fallen under the spell of plants and nature as a child, you see. And I also like the holistic aspect of natural medicine.

Do you think there is one plant in Val Gardena which stands out or can be applied to multiple uses?

There are plenty, actually. Yet my favourite plant is yarrow. It is rich in mineral salts, which is why I make an herbal salt using the leaves and petals of the yarrow and use it to dress my salads or spice my sauces. It is a way for me to introduce those salts into my body. I also make an oil extract which I use for an amazing hand cream. If I sometimes have digestion problems from overeating, I will have yarrow tea – this stimulates digestion thanks to its bittering agents. During my yearly detox routine, I also prepare yarrow liver compresses, which can greatly support the liver in its detox function.

How does the world of flowers and herbs work, anyway? Do they grow back quickly? Do you often see the same species, or do you see new ones every year?

The world of flowers and herbs is very dependable and, luckily, we find a variety of different species in our beautiful valley. Depending on the weather, you could also see some plants grow for the first time in some years.

When can we best admire the Flowering Dolomites? Is there a specific period?

In this period, there are different flowers and herbs which can be admired. Depending on the amount of snow and type of weather, in Val Gardena the first spring flowers awaken from heir slumber at the end of April/beginning of May. The blooming period starts at the end of May – June/ July. But even in August and in September you can find meadows covered in flowers – in those places the harvesting of hay does not occur.

The future: what effect will tourism have on local flora?

Tourism will not have a negative impact on the local flora if we treat our most valued good (nature) well. It is important for all people, locals as well as guests, to stick to the beaten path and not pluck protected species.

Colourful flora

The Passo Sella in full bloom Beautiful nature