Herb Mentor Radio
Welcome to Herb Mentor Radio, your go-to herbal podcast for exploring the transformative world of herbs and herbal medicine, brought to you by LearningHerbs. Join hosts Kimberly Gallagher and Mimi Prunella Hernandez as they interview herbalists, sharing inspiring stories, practical tips, and time-tested wisdom. Discover how herbs can enhance your health, enrich your meals, and support your everyday life. Whether you’re a beginner to herbal education, curious about natural remedies, or an experienced herbalist seeking fresh insights, each episode is packed with actionable advice to help you unlock the healing power of plants.
Episodes
Herb Notes: The Benefits of Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is an ancient Ayurvedic herb with a fascinating reputation: its name roughly translates to “smell of a horse,” while a companion saying promises that it gives you the strength of a stallion.
Ashwagandha, or Withania somnifera, has been used medicinally for thousands of years, and Ayurveda has long valued it as a rejuvenating rasayana — an herb that nourishes, strengthens, and
Kimberly Gallagher & Lauren Morgan: Rhythms & Relationships
In this episode of HerbMentor Radio, Mimi Prunella welcomes Kimberly Gallagher and Lauren Morgan to explore Rhythms & Relationships, a new LearningHerbs course that invites us into a slower, more relational way of practicing herbalism.
Kimberly Gallagher is co-founder of LearningHerbs and HerbMentor, where she has spent years helping thousands of people cultivate joyful, practical rel
Herb Notes: The Benefits of Lavender
Lavender is one of herbalism's most recognized and beloved plants: familiar enough to live in a garden bed or a scented lotion, yet grounded in a body of clinical studies that most people never get to see.
Lavender, or Lavandula angustifolia, has been used medicinally for centuries across Europe and the Mediterranean, and it continues to impress modern scientific research. The Botanical S
Heather Wood Buzzard: Weedy Herbalism
This month on HerbMentor Radio, Kimberly Gallagher and Mimi Prunella welcome Appalachian herbalist, storyteller, and educator Heather Wood Buzzard for a delightful conversation celebrating the remarkable plants many people overlook. Together, they explore the world of weedy herbalism, where common plants become nourishing foods, trusted medicines, and lifelong teachers.
Heather shares the
Herb Notes: The Benefits of Hops
If you've ever sipped a cold IPA on a warm summer evening, you've already had a brush with one of herbalism's most interesting relaxing herbs. Hops (Humulus lupulus) is most famous as the plant behind craft beer's signature bitter flavor. Long before artisan breweries started putting together tasting notes about citrus undertones and fruity finishes, herbalists were treasuring hops for it
Brandon Ruiz: Garden Herbalism
Joining us is Brandon Ruiz, a community herbalist, educator, urban farmer, and author whose work beautifully weaves together gardening, foraging, culture, and community. Brandon shares how gardens become places where relationships grow, not only between people and plants, but between generations, neighborhoods, and cultural traditions.
Brandon takes us on a heartfelt journey to his grandp
Herb Notes: The Benefits of Holy Basil
Holy Basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum or Ocimum sanctum) has been revered in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years, but its health benefits are uniquely relevant to the demands of modern life.
Want to learn about the healing gifts of Holy Basil?
Follow along with herbalist Sorrel Hartford to learn about 3 benefits and key contraindications of Holy Basil.
And after learning these 3 benefits o
Shereel Washington: Topical Herbalism
In this episode of HerbMentor Radio, we continue our journey through National Geographic Herbal with Chapter Four: Topical Herbalism.To guide us into this deeply sensory and ancestral world, we are joined by herbalist Shereel Washington, founder of Ixalted Natural Body Care & Botanicals. Shereel brings a rich perspective rooted in folk herbalism, body care traditions, ancestral knowle
Mary Colvin: Apothecary Herbalism
In this episode of HerbMentor Radio, we continue our journey through National Geographic Herbal with Chapter Three: Apothecary Herbalism.To guide us into this hands-on and deeply personal aspect of herbal practice, we are joined by clinical herbalist and educator Mary Colvin, founder of Ancestral Herbology and author of The Herbalist’s Guide: How to Build and Use Your Own Apothecary. Mary
Herb Notes: The Benefits of Dill
Dill (Anethum graveolens) is a quiet yet powerful medicinal ally in gardens and kitchens around the world.
Want to learn more about the healing gifts of dill?
Follow along with herbalist Sorrel Hartford to learn about 3 benefits and key contraindications of dill.
And after learning these 3 benefits of dill you might be wondering how you can learn more about other common herbs.
Here’s the
Patricia Kyritsi Howell: Greek Kitchen Herbalism
In this episode of HerbMentor Radio, we continue our journey through National Geographic Herbal with Chapter Two: Kitchen Herbalism.To guide us into this aromatic world, we are joined by Appalachian herbalist Patricia Kyritsi Howell, director of the BotanoLogos School of Herbal Studies and co-owner of Wild Crete Travel. Patricia brings a beautiful perspective shaped by both the mountains
Herb Notes: The Benefits of Fennel
Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) is a beloved culinary staple around the world, and an ancient herbal ally for common modern ailments.
Want to learn more about the healing gifts of fennel?
Follow along with herbalist Sorrel Hartford to learn about 3 medicinal benefits of fennel.
And after learning these 3 benefits of fennel you might be wondering how you can learn more about other common herbs
Kat Maier: Sensory Herbalism
In this episode of HerbMentor Radio, we begin our journey through National Geographic Herbal with the chapter that opens the entire path: Sensory Herbalism.To guide us into this deeply relational way of knowing plants, we are joined by Kat Maier, author of Energetic Herbalism and founder of Sacred Plant Traditions. Kat has spent decades helping students and practitioners understand the en
Herb Notes: The Benefits of Sage
Sage (Salvia officinalis) is a familiar garden plant with a long history as both a culinary staple and a revered herbal ally.
Want to learn more about the healing gifts of sage?
Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to learn about 3 benefits and key contraindications of sage.
And after learning these 3 benefits of sage you might be wondering how you can learn more about other common herbs
Community Herbalism: From Kitchen to Wildlands
Big news at HerbMentor Radio! We open this episode with an exciting announcement that Mimi Prunella Hernandez is joining HerbMentor Radio as a co-host alongside Kimberly Gallagher.
From there, we take time to get to know Mimi a bit better, her journey as a lifelong herbalist, author, and mentor, and what has shaped her herbal path. Mimi shares her excitement and joy about what she calls h
Herb Notes: The Benefits of Cardamom
Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) is a sweet, warming spice used in Ayurvedic medicine and beloved in kitchens around the world. It’s treasured in herbal medicine for its aromatic, stimulating gifts.
Want to learn more about the healing gifts of cardamom?
Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to learn about 3 benefits and key contraindications of cardamom.
And after learning these 3 benefit
Maria Noël Groves: Herbs for Gut Health
Gut health isn’t just about digestion: it’s the foundation of whole-body balance. Clinical herbalist and author Maria Noël Groves brings a practical and deeply empowering perspective to the conversation, helping demystify gut health and showing how herbs can gently and effectively support digestion and long-term vitality.
Maria is the author of several books, including but not limited to
Herb Notes: The Benefits of Clove
Clove (Syzygium aromaticum) is a pungent culinary delight that makes for a wonderful spice and herbal ally.
Want to learn more about the healing gifts of clove?
Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to learn about 3 benefits and key contraindications of clove.
And after learning these 3 benefits of clove you might be wondering how you can learn more about other common herbs.
Here’s the ea
Herb Notes: The Benefits of Ginger
Ginger (Zingiber officiniale) is far more than a spicy addition to your meals. This beloved plant has been used for centuries across the world as a powerful herbal remedy.
Want to learn more about the healing gifts of ginger?
Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to learn about 3 benefits and key contraindications of ginger.
And after learning these 3 benefits of ginger you might be wonde
Mimi Prunella Hernandez: Herbs for Post-Menopause
Menopause isn’t an ending: it’s an initiation. Herbalist Mimi Prunella Hernandez offers a refreshing, grounded, and deeply compassionate look at the post-menopausal years, breaking down stigma and opening the door to a new era of vitality, strength, and self-trust. She shares how simple, time-tested herbal allies can support the body through this powerful life chapter.
Mimi is a clinical
Lauren Morgan: Dreaming with the Plants
Dreams aren’t just random stories from the night: they’re powerful messengers. Herbalist and ceremonialist Lauren Morgan shares how you can begin (or deepen) an intentional dream practice, and how simple herbal allies can support the journey.
Lauren is a community herbalist, dreamer, Earth-based ceremonialist, author, mother, and host of the Herbs and Dreams podcast. She attended her firs
A Memorial for John Gallagher
On October 25th our dear friend Rosalee de la Forêt hosted an online memorial to honor our co-founder John Gallagher's life and legacy. Rosalee brought together people from all different eras of John's life to share their stories about John and what he brought to this world.
It was such a beautiful event that we wanted to share the recording here in case you weren't able to join us live.
Herb Notes: The Benefits of Oats
Oats (Avena sativa) are more than just a tasty breakfast cereal. This nutrient-dense plant is a gentle yet powerful tonic for the nervous system.
Want to learn more about the healing gifts of oats?
Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to learn about 3 benefits and key contraindications of oats.
And after learning these 3 benefits of oats you might be wondering how you can learn more abou
Jules Benefico: On Marketing and Astrology for Herbalists
Let’s be honest: when many herbalists hear the word marketing, they cringe. It can feel out of sync with the heart-centered work of healing. But what if marketing could actually be a sacred tool: one that helps your message and your medicine reach more people? In this episode, herbalist and marketing expert Jules Benefico shares simple, soulful ways to help you grow your herbal business w
Herb Notes: The Benefits of Burdock
Burdock grows abundantly as a “weed” along pathways and roadsides, but don’t let the everyday nature of this plant fool you: burdock, like so many prolific medicinal plants, offers many healing gifts.
Want to learn more about the healing gifts of burdock root?
Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to learn about 3 benefits and key contraindications of burdock.
And after learning these 3 b
Herb Notes: The Benefits of Rosehips
Roses (Rosa spp.) offer a bounty of healing gifts through their fragrant flowers and nutrient-dense fruits. Rosehips are chockfull of vitamin C: making them an incredibly supportive herbal ally.
Want to learn more about the healing gifts of rosehips?
Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to learn about 3 benefits and key contraindications of rosehips.
And after learning these 3 benefits o
Kimberly Gallagher: Big News on Herb Mentor Radio
This week’s Herb Mentor Radio is extra special. Tara sits down with Kimberly Gallagher, co-founder and CEO of LearningHerbs, for a heartfelt conversation that blends personal stories, plant wisdom, and an exciting announcement we can’t wait to share.
Kimberly has spent decades nurturing LearningHerbs from a small family dream into a vibrant community that now spans the globe. In this epi
Herb Notes: The Benefits of Oregano
Oregano (Origanum vulgare) is a bold, aromatic herb that’s probably sitting in your kitchen cupboard—but don’t let its everyday status fool you. This Mediterranean plant is a potent medicinal herb with a long history of use as a digestive aid, respiratory support, and antimicrobial remedy.
Want to learn more about the healing gifts of oregano?
Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to lear
Seraphina Capranos: The Science and Magic of Herbalism
This episode has been a long time coming. We've wanted to have Seraphina Capranos on the pod for years, and it was a joy to sit down and chat with her...
Seraphina is a homeopath and one of Canada's leading herbalists. She's been in clinical practice for over twenty years and is an international teacher, speaker, and mentor who has taught thousands of students. Rosemary Gladstar has laude
Herb Notes: Comfrey – Healing Bones, Sprains, & Soil
Comfrey (Symphytum officinale or "common comfrey") is a prolific plant that has an infamously mixed reputation as an incredible healing herb and potentially risky herbal ally. We'll get into all of this in the comfrey Herb Note.
Want to learn more about the healing gifts of comfrey?
Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to learn about 3 benefits and key contraindications of comfrey.
And a
Honoring John & An Interview with Rebecca Fils-Aime
We begin this episode with the heartbreaking news that our beloved HerbMentor Radio co-host, John Gallagher, passed away in June. John was a visionary who dedicated his life to helping people connect with nature.
He believed in making herbal learning accessible, creative, and empowering—and he touched countless lives through his work. We will honor John and his life's work by keeping Lear
Rosemary Gladstar: The Generosity of Plants
It's not everyday you get to sit down and chat with an herbal legend—and that's exactly what we did in this episode of HerbMentor Radio!Rosemary Gladstar is a star figure in the field of modern herbalism, internationally renowned for technical knowledge and stewardship in the global herbalist community. She has been learning, teaching and writing about herbs for over 40 years and is the a
Herb Notes: St. John’s Wort – Uplift Your Mood, Ease Your Pain, Heal Your Skin
St. John's wort's Latin name is Hypericum perforatum—named for the hypericin content in the plant's flowers and the tiny perforations in the leaves. These hypericin-rich flowers offer many healing gifts.
Want to learn more about the gifts of St. John's wort?
Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to learn about 3 benefits of St. John's wort.
And after learning these 3 benefits o
Rosalee de la Forêt: Cooling Inflammation
Inflammation is a big buzz word in the wellness world these days, but what exactly is inflammation? And how can it really be the root cause of a seemingly endless number of chronic conditions?
Luckily, we have Rosalee de la Forêt to help us sort through the ins and outs of inflammation. Rosalee is a clinical herbalist, author of Alchemy of Herbs and Wild Remedies, and an expert in herbal
Herb Notes: Roses – How They Soothe the Heart, Skin & Body
Let’s stop and smell the roses, shall we? Known for their luxurious scent and heartwarming blooms, rose petals (Rosa spp.) are a balm for the soul. Beyond the beauty of their flowers, roses offer many healing gifts.
Want to learn more about roses?
Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to learn about 3 benefits of rose petals.
And after learning these 3 benefits of rose, you mig
Tesia Love: Understanding Ayurveda
Tesia Love is a clinical Ayurvedic specialist, herbalist, and licensed massage and bodywork therapist who helps people restore balance through traditional healing.
In this episode, Tesia shares her wisdom on Ayurveda—a 3,000-year-old system of medicine that offers a practical framework for understanding herbs and how they interact with the human body.
When learning about herbs, it’s
Herb Notes: Violets – Soothing Skin, Easing Coughs, and Lifting Spirits
With their heart-shaped leaves and beautiful flowers, violets (Viola odorata) are a delight for the heart and soul. Beyond their charming looks, violets also offer many healing gifts.
Want to learn more about the gifts of violet?
Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to learn about 3 benefits of violet.
And after learning these 3 benefits of violet, you might be wondering how
Rita Hogan: Demystifying Canine Herbalism
Rita Hogan is a clinical herbalist with over 20 years of experience specializing in holistic canine care. She blends Western herbalism, food energetics, homeopathy, and natural therapies to support dogs’ health naturally. Growing up on a farm, she learned the power of plants from her father, which sparked a lifelong passion for herbal medicine and led to her work as a consultant, educator
Herb Notes: Chickweed – The Mighty Spring Green
Chickweed (Stellaria media) is often one of the first signs of spring: this springtime green sprouts up as temperatures increase, beckoning us all to celebrate the arrival of the new season.
Often dismissed as a "common weed," the chickweed plant's growth comes at just the right time—it offers many healing gifts that can support our bodies during the transition from winter to spring
EagleSong Gardener: Hawthorn & The Thorny Path to Herbal Wisdom
EagleSong Gardener is an EarthKeeper, a grandmother, and a lifelong adventurer, with over 50 years of experience homesteading, practicing herbal medicine, and teaching. Her unique approach is grounded in observing the rhythms of nature and understanding how life weaves its patterns through the seasons. She inspires others to connect with the earth in practical and meaningful ways.
EagleSo
Herb Notes: 3 Reasons Not To Run Out Of Thyme
Thyme offers a familiar, pungent taste to every dish it graces. Beyond its culinary gifts, thyme (Thymus vulgaris) also has a rich history as a medicinal herb with a wide range of benefits.
Want to learn more about the gifts of thyme?
Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to learn about 3 benefits of thyme in this edition of Herb Notes.
And after learning these 3 benefits of thyme,
Herbal Remedies for Sleep, Pain, and Winter Wellness–with John & Tara
The most wonderful time of the year brings your most pressing herbal questions! In this episode of HerbMentor Radio, we explore:
What herbs are best for sleep?
Which herbs ease pain naturally?
What makes a great herbal coffee substitute?
Discover the benefits of herbs like California poppy, passionflower, ginger, and turmeric, as Tara shares her go-to remedies for common ailments like i
Herb Notes: Peppermint– A Digestive Soother, Nervous System Ally, And Natural Pain Reliever
As one of the most popular herbal teas in the world, peppermint's ubiquitous flavor can bring a sense of familiarity and comfort. Peppermint (Mentha x piperita) is more than just a tasty beverage though: the peppermint plant has a rich history of medicinal usage.
Want to learn more about the gifts of peppermint? Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to learn about 3 benefits of peppermint
Gabe Garms: Supercharge Your Herbal Allies with the Power of Miso
Herbalist and artisanal miso maker Gabe Garms joins us to chat about herbal misos, regenerative farming, and fermentation.
Before I met Gabe this past summer, I thought that miso could only be made with soybeans. Little did I know that miso can be made with ingredients like dandelion root, mushrooms, and even bacon. Gabe opened my eyes to the exciting world of herbal misos — in
Herb Notes: 3 Modern Benefits for an Ancient Spice
In recent years, turmeric (Curcuma longa) has exploded in popularity. Chances are your favorite coffeeshop might now even include a golden milk turmeric latte on the menu. Turmeric, however, is not just a fad: this vibrant herb is a traditional Ayurvedic remedy with centuries’ of use as a traditional remedy.
Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to learn about 3 benefits of turmeric.
And
Lisa Fazio: Italian-American Folk Herbalism
Lisa Fazio takes us on a journey through Italian-American folk herbalism, the healing power of food as medicine, and the medicinal properties of herbs like garlic, St. John’s wort, and olive. She shares her personal stories and ancestral wisdom, making this conversation a true gift for anyone passionate about herbal traditions.
When we first came across Lisa’s new book, Della Medicin
Herb Notes: Cinnamon– An Ally For Digestion, The Immune System, And Oral Health
With its familiar sweet and pungent taste, cinnamon is a common spice that makes an exceptionally tasty addition to every meal it graces. Cinnamon’s gifts go far beyond its flavor, however: in fact, herbalists know that cinnamon offers many healing gifts.
Want to learn more about the gifts of cinnamon? Let’s dive into three key health benefits of cinnamon…
Follow along with herbalist Tara
Lucretia VanDyke: Listening When the Plants Talk
Chatting with Lucretia VanDyke for the first time ever immediately felt like catching up with a dear friend — we were totally transported and never wanted the conversation to end.
Lucretia is a phenomenal storyteller who weaves her tales with reverence, humor, and thorough research. As one of the foremost experts on Southern folk healing arts, she integrate rituals, plant spirit meditatio
Herb Notes: Rosemary's Benefits—Digestive Health, Hair Growth, and Memory Support
Rosemary is most popularly known as a tasty culinary herb. Indeed, rosemary’s aromatic leaves have a special place in many beloved dishes — adding a distinct, pungent taste. Herbalists know, though, that rosemary’s beneficial properties extend far beyond its flavor: this fragrant herb boasts many healing gifts.
Want to learn more about the many gifts of rosemary? Let's dive into three key
Asia Suler: The Power of Plant Communication
Have you ever had one of those moments in life when suddenly everything change? There's a before this moment and an after this moment — and nothing will ever be the same. That's how Tara and I felt after meeting Asia Suler.
Asia Suler is an herbalist and earth intuitive. She began her journey after began her journey after early years of chronic pain and illness. The experience— which push
Herb Notes: Mullein’s Miracles - From Dry Coughs to Ear Aches
I saw mullein (Verbascum spp.) growing all around me for years before I knew its name, let alone its many healing gifts. Now when I see mullein growing upwards of 7 feet tall by sidewalks and trailsides alike, I smile and say hi to this nourishing plant ally.
Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to learn about 3 benefits of mullein.
And after learning the benefits of mullein, you mi
Jiling Lin: Understanding the Five Elements
I have been waiting for years to get to dive deep into the Five Elements on HerbMentor Radio, so it was a special treat when Jiling Lin stopped by to chat with us about the principles of Five Elements.
Jiling Lin is a Licensed Acupuncturist, herbalist, and artist. Her integrative medical practice in Ventura, CA and holistic workshops, retreats, and writings empower thriving health and env
Herb Notes: The Benefits of Linden
With its heart shaped leaves and fragrant flowers, linden (Tilia spp. and aka lime tree) is a beautiful tree often found on city blocks. While most people value linden trees for their beauty and shade, herbalists know that linden flowers also offer many healing gifts.
Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to learn about 3 benefits of linden.
And after learning these 3 benefits you mi
Christopher Hobbs: Demystifying Medicinal Mushrooms
Christopher Hobbs is a world-renowned, fourth-generation herbalist, licensed acupuncturist, and mycologist with a passion for medicinal mushrooms. He’s also a prolific author, and his most recent book is Christopher Hobb’s Medicinal Mushrooms: The Essential Guide, which we highly recommend as a trusted resource on mushrooms.
Though Tara and I are both pretty well-versed in the world
Herb Notes: Lemon Balm—Real Aroma-Therapy and Essential Benefits
When life gives you lemon balm, you're in luck! With its uplifting citrusy scent, lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) certainly is a balm for the soul. Beloved by herbalists and pollinators alike, this abundant plants makes a wonderful addition to any herb garden.
Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to learn about 3 benefits of lemon balm.
And after learning these 3 benefits you might be w
Chamomile, Herbs for Hair Growth, and Garden Companion Planting
John and Tara answer some hairy herbal questions today. Since LearningHerbs' began twenty years ago, we've gotten so many incredible questions about herbal medicine from our community, and we're excited to discuss a few of them today.
So sit back, brew up a relaxing cup of chamomile tea, and enjoy our deep dive into questions like...
What herbs are good for hair growth?
W
Herb Notes: The Heart of Hawthorn
Let's get to the heart of the matter, shall we? When it comes to hawthorn, the first thing herbalists tend to think about is the organ that pumps blood throughout our bodies: the heart. And while hawthorn can be a wonderful herbal ally for the heart, there's so much more to know about hawthorn's benefits beyond its affinity for the cardiovascular system.
Follow along with herbalist
John & Tara: Herbs for Spring
Spring is (finally) here! With this season of new growth and warmer days, comes the opportunity to connect with all the plants freshly sprouting up around us.In your neighborhood you might notice "weeds" like cleavers, chickweed, plantain, and dandelion. Or perhaps you're tending your own herb garden and getting to watch the seeds you planted transform into tiny but mighty seedlings.If yo
Amanda McQuade Crawford
In this episode of Herb Mentor Radio, John Gallagher interviews Amanda McQuade Crawford, an experienced herbalist and author. Amanda is a prominent figure in herbal medicine, having authored books like "Herbal Remedies for Women" and "Herbal Menopause." She is a member of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists, a founding member of the American Herbalist Guild, and the founder of th
Herb Notes: Going Beyond Chamomile Tea with 3 Key Benefits
As one of the most popular herbal teas in the world, this calming herb has managed to find a special place in many of our hearts — and our supermarkets! Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) is a gentle herb that is most well known for soothing our nerves, but its gifts go far beyond nervous system support.
Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to learn about 3 benefits of chamomile flowersAf
Maria Christodoulou: Celebrating Greek Herbalism
Maria Christodoulou had been living in New York City for years when she decided it was finally time to move to Greece and dive more fully into the wisdom and whimsy of ancient Greek herbal medicine.
This journey took her to Athens where she currently offers educational tours and classes steeped in ancestral herbal medicine and mythology.
In this episode of HerbMentor Radio, Maria weaves p
Herb Notes: Echinacea, Three Benefits and One Caution
Oh echinacea, how I love thee! This beautiful plant, also known as purple coneflower, not only supports pollinators with its abundant blooms but also offers many benefits for us humans too. Echinacea (Echinacea angustifolia, E. purpurea) is most well-known for helping to address colds and flu, but its gifts go far beyond internal immune support.
Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to le
Anna Rósa Grasalæknir: Herbalism for Refugees
Anna Rósa Grasalæknir had been following the refugee crisis in Iraq for quite some time when she started to wonder, "Would the refugee women in these camps like to take herbal classes?"
This question kickstarted a journey that took her from her native Iceland to the Kurdistan Region of Iraq where she taught classes on making ointments with local herbs. The classes were a hit, and she was
Herb Notes: Elderberry (Top 3 Benefits + Which Color Berry NOT to Eat)
Elderberry (Sambucus cerulea, S. nigra, S. canadensis) boasts many benefits and is most well-known as a gentle immune-supporting, antiviral herb. The benefits of elderberries go way beyond its immune-bolstering properties, though. What's more, the flowers of elder also boast many healing gifts.
Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to learn about 3 benefits of elder. And after l
John & Tara’s Herbal Guide for The Whole Year
Happy New Year! To welcome you into 2024, we decided to do things a little differently this month: we’re chatting just the two of us. You can consider this episode your herbal guide to the whole year.
Together we go season by season and share our favorite herbs and remedies to work with — and don’t worry, we only go on a few epic tangents along the way.
In this episode we share…
Why Tara
Herb Notes: Coffee! It's complicated.
As one of the most popular beverages in the world, coffee is regularly enjoyed as a daily ritual that offers people a boost of energy. Coffee, though, is more than just a ubiquitous beverage: this complex herb offers many healing gifts, and when used in excess it can also present challenges for many coffee drinkers.
Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to learn about 3 benefits of coffee
Elizabeth Guthrie: The Trauma Informed Herbalist
Over the past few years, the term "trauma informed" has become a bit of a buzzword. But what does it actually mean to be trauma informed? And how can a trauma informed framework help us become better herbalists? In our latest episode of HerbMentor Radio, we're joined by trauma informed herbalist Dr. Elizabeth Guthrie, who helps us answer these (and many more) questions.
Elizabeth is a wel
Herb Notes: The 3 Soothing Benefits of Calendula
Just one look at a radiant calendula (Calendula officinalis) flower is enough to make anyone fall in love.
With its uplifting blossoms and dainty leaves, it's no wonder that this easy-to-grow plant has become an incredibly popular ornamental. But calendula's gifts go far beyond its looks — this common herb has long been used in traditional herbal remedies to support health and vitality in
Nathan Wright: An Epic Chaga Foraging Adventure
When Nathan Wright hopped on our HerbMentor Radio call, he readily admitted that he wasn't really in the podcast recording mood. And it totally made sense — after all, he had just returned from an epic adventure in the Michigan wilderness and was still adjusting to being back in the swing of everyday life.
And little did we know when we got on this call that we were in for one of the most
Herb Notes: Which Part of Aloe Do You Use?
Most people are familiar with Aloe vera as an undemanding houseplant that can be called upon in times of sunburn.
And while it is true that the inner filet of the Aloe vera plant is one of our go-to plant allies for mild sunburns, this succulent plant also offers so many more healing gifts.
Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to learn about 3 benefits of Aloe vera.
And after learning th
Sajah Popham: How Astrology Can Help You Become a Better Herbalist
Chances are you've probably read your horoscope — and I bet sometimes that horoscope was uncannily spot on and sometimes it totally missed the mark. This is how most people encounter astrology and where most people's curiosity about this ancient art stops. But astrology is so much more than just a horoscope: this complex system can teach us a whole lot about ourselves, each other, and, ge
Herb Notes: Garlic Is the Medicine of the People
Garlic is the medicine of the people.
From its pungent aroma that fills our kitchens to its centuries-old reputation as a medicinal wonder, garlic holds a special place in both culinary and herbalism traditions. While many people think of garlic only as a tasty addition to their favorite meals, herbalists know that this humble bulbs boasts many benefits that extend far beyond its flavor
Elise & Jeff Higley: From Home Garden to Major Herb Farm
Elise and Jeff Higley's herb farm was born out of a simple need: they wanted high quality herbs for the teas they loved to drink everyday. So, combining Elises's passion for herbalism and Jeff's passion for farming, they started to grow herbs in their own backyard.
But they didn't stop there! In spite of the many odds stacked against U.S. herb farmers (which Elise and Jeff detail in this
Herb Notes: Going Beyond the Sting of Nettles
With a name like "stinging nettle," you might think you want to avoid a nettles patch at all costs. Sure, the fresh leaves and stems of stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) can irritate the skin upon contact, but here's the thing: stinging nettles are also full of many healing gifts.
It may seem counterintuitive, but once you learn more about the magic of nettles, we have a feeling you'll be r
Jason Knight: Survival Skills for Herbalists
Whether you're an adventurous wildcrafter or an herbalist who always sticks to the trail, knowing key survival skills is an essential part of your herbal toolkit.
Jason Knight is the co-founder of Alderleaf Wilderness College, one of the leading outdoor schools in the United States offering training in wilderness survival to a broad range of clients, including the US Forest Service, REI,
Herb Notes: The Resilient and Restorative Dandelion
Growing out of sidewalk cracks and wild meadows alike, dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) is a persistent plant that can teach us about resilience and adaptability. While it may be despised by lawn purists, herbalists recognize that dandelion isn't a pesky weed: rather, dandelion is an important plant with many healing gifts.
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Chanchal Cabrera: On Holistic Cancer Care
It’s not everyday you meet a seasoned herbalist with over 35 years of clinical experience. And it’s even rarer to meet one who is an expert in holistic oncology.
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Herb Notes: The Backyard Healing Secrets of Plantain
Chances are you've probably stepped on your fair share of the herb plantain (Plantago major, P. rugelii, and P. lanceolata). This abundant medicinal plant loves to grow within pathways and even the most well-manicured lawns. It's so prolific, in fact, that when many people see it growing wildly in their yard they weed it out and hope it doesn't come back.
But herbalists know that this com
Nadine Joseph: From Burnout to Herbal Adaptogen Entrepreneur
Nadine Joseph used to work as a chronically stressed neuroscience researcher. Faced with intense burnout, she turned to herbs and fell in love with adaptogens. After experiencing the transformative effects of calming adaptogens, she felt determined to share these powerful herbs with more people.
Nadine founded Peak & Valley, an herbal products business that sells ethically sourced ada
Herb Notes: 3 Healing Ways to Use Catnip
When most people think of catnip (Nepeta cataria), they think of it as that plant that makes our feline friends get very hyper. But here’s the thing,: catnip isn’t just for cats! Catnip tea and tincture too offers many healing gifts to us humans as well — perhaps the most surprising of all is that catnip calms and relaxes humans.
Yes, that’s right. The leaves and flowering tops of this pl
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