Jaynaya D'Esterre of DOSE Botanicals - https://www.dosebotanicals.com.au/

“As a practicing clinical and esoteric herbalist deeply rooted in Animist traditions, my work revolves around growing and making plant medicines. I’ve held a fascination with the occult and making sense of the natural & supernatural world since childhood. Later in life, throughout my formal studies in herbal medicine, I found a distinct absence of reverence for the animate tapestry so integral to the historical roots of Traditional Western Medicine - especially in contrast to Traditional Chinese Medicine, where their systems of energetics are still centred in the curriculum. From a young age, I found myself on the fringes of conventional paths, experimenting with entheogens and other spiritual practices which inevitably led me to encountering many self-proclaimed teachers whose authority felt performative and disconnected. That’s why discovering Benjamin Turale and the Temple of Mercury was so impactful for me. I’ve taken the Herbal Alchemy Class (a couple times), the Mineral & Metallic Alchemy Class, and the Talismanic Magic & Hermetic Sorcery Workshop. I had originally turned to books and online resources, and later Robert Bartlett’s 'Spagyricus Institute', to explore alchemical concepts and lab practices, which helped me greatly - but finding Benjamin, especially so close to home, has been a game-changer. His classes helped solidify concepts that hadn’t yet landed for me, offering practical, hands-on guidance that elevated both my understanding and my practice. Benjamin is a generous teacher whose mastery speaks for itself. His humble, grounded presence, deep respect for the work, and clear reverence for the initiatory path of the student make him a rare guide. He brings authenticity and dedication to his craft in a way that’s truly inspiring. Whether you’re entirely new to practical alchemy or already experienced there is so much to gain from Benjamin’s teachings. His transmissions are rich, the content and demonstrations are exceptional, and the community he gathers around these classes is always diverse, curious, and deeply engaged. I wholeheartedly recommend any offering through the Temple of Mercury."