Shows
Herb Mentor RadioKimberly 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 episode, she opens up about her go-to herbal allies and the lessons she has gleaned along her own plant path.
Together, Tara and Kimberly dive into…
A special announcement about Herb Mentor Radio
Th...
2025-09-2655 min
Herb Mentor RadioHonoring John & An Interview with Rebecca Fils-AimeWe 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 LearningHerbs and HerbMentor up and running. As we do, John's spirit and values will remain at the heart of LearningHerbs.
Prior to John's passing, we recorded this interview with Rebecca Fils-Aime. Rebecca pairs be...
2025-07-171h 04
HerbRallyHerbs for Creativity with LearningHerbs' Tara RuthThis episode is brought to you by our HerbRally Schoolhouse members If you'd like to try your first month for free, use coupon code PODCAST at checkout! LEARN MORE & REGISTER | http://www.herbrally.com/schoolhouse In this episode of The Herbalist Hour I'm joined by Tara Ruth. Tara is the Content Director at one of my all-time favorite resources for herbalism, LearningHerbs. We chat about how she got into herbalism, how she got her job at LearningHerbs and what her role is there now, herbs for creativity, her se...
2025-06-141h 01
Herb Mentor RadioHerb Notes: Chickweed – The Mighty Spring GreenChickweed (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.
Want to learn more about the gifts of chickweed?
Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to learn about 3 benefits of chickweed.
And after learning these 3 benefits of chic...
2025-01-3002 min
Herb Mentor RadioEagleSong Gardener: Hawthorn & The Thorny Path to Herbal WisdomEagleSong 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.
EagleSong wasn’t just my first herbal mentor—she’s been the most influential in shaping my journey with plants. Her guidance laid the foundation for what would eventually become LearningHerbs, which is why we’re celebrating our 20th Anniversary with this epi...
2025-01-1758 min
Herb Mentor RadioHerb Notes: 3 Reasons Not To Run Out Of ThymeThyme 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, you might be wondering how you can learn more about other common herbs.
Download a FREE deck of our top 12 Herb Notes. You’ll lea...
2024-12-3102 min
Herb Mentor RadioHerbal Remedies for Sleep, Pain, and Winter Wellness–with John & TaraThe 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 insomnia and muscle tension.
Plus, John reveals a simple yet crucial tip for identifying St. John’s wort — you’ll definitely want to hear this one!
Whether you’re new to herbalism or a sea...
2024-12-131h 01
Herb Mentor RadioHerb Notes: Peppermint– A Digestive Soother, Nervous System Ally, And Natural Pain RelieverAs 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.
And after learning these 3 benefits of peppermint, you might be wondering how you can learn more about other common herbs.
Download a FREE deck of our top 12 Herb...
2024-12-0102 min
Herb Mentor RadioGabe Garms: Supercharge Your Herbal Allies with the Power of MisoHerbalist 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 — including how incredibly nutrient-dense they are — and his creativity and vast knowledge of fermentation totally blew me away.Gabe Garms is the founder of Creative Koji, a Pacific Northwest-based company dedicated to cra...
2024-11-1750 min
Herb Mentor RadioHerb Notes: 3 Modern Benefits for an Ancient SpiceIn 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 after learning these 3 benefits of turmeric, you might be wondering how you can learn more about other common herbs.
Download a FREE deck of our top 12 Herb Notes. You’ll lear...
2024-11-0202 min
Herb Mentor RadioLisa Fazio: Italian-American Folk HerbalismLisa 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 Medicina: The Tradition of Italian-American Folk Healing, we knew we had to invite her to the show. Her book is a beautiful collection of stories and deep connections to beloved plants such as garlic, St. John’...
2024-10-1955 min
Herb Mentor RadioHerb Notes: Cinnamon– An Ally For Digestion, The Immune System, And Oral HealthWith 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 Ruth to learn about 3 benefits of cinnamon.
And after learning these 3 benefits of cinnamon, you might be wondering how you can learn more about other common herbs.
H...
2024-09-2902 min
Herb Mentor RadioLucretia VanDyke: Listening When the Plants TalkChatting 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 meditation, holistic food and herbal medicine, and ancestor reverence into people's practices. She is the author of African American Herbalism: A Practical Guide to Healing Plants and Folk Traditions.
In this episode, Lucretia shares...
How...
2024-09-151h 06
Herb Mentor RadioHerb Notes: Rosemary's Benefits—Digestive Health, Hair Growth, and Memory SupportRosemary 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 health benefits of rosemary…
Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to learn about 3 benefits of rosemary.
And after learning these 3 benefits of rosemary, you might be wondering how you can learn mo...
2024-09-0102 min
Herb Mentor RadioAsia Suler: The Power of Plant CommunicationHave 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 pushed her into a deep search for healing, both within and without— led her to the altar of the green world. Chatting with Asia on HerbMentor Radio was deeply moving...
2024-08-1755 min
Herb Mentor RadioHerb Notes: Mullein’s Miracles - From Dry Coughs to Ear AchesI 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 might be wondering how you can learn more about other common herbs... Well, here’s the easy way to learn more about our favorite common herbs: download a FRE...
2024-07-2802 min
Herb Mentor RadioJiling Lin: Understanding the Five ElementsI 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 environmental stewardship in our bodies, communities, and world.
In our conversation with Jiling, she drew on her years of experience as an acupuncturist and herbalist to break down the Five...
2024-07-141h 03
Herb Mentor RadioHerb Notes: The Benefits of LindenWith 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 might be wondering how you can learn more about other common herbs... Well, here’s the easy way to learn more about our favorite common herbs: download a FREE deck of our top...
2024-06-3002 min
Herb Mentor RadioChristopher Hobbs: Demystifying Medicinal MushroomsChristopher 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 of plants, neither of us are as familiar with mushrooms. So it was an extra special treat to get to sit down with Christopher and dive into all things fungi.
In our conversation, Christopher draws on his decad...
2024-06-2353 min
Herb Mentor RadioHerb Notes: Lemon Balm—Real Aroma-Therapy and Essential BenefitsWhen 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 wondering how you can learn more about other common herbs...
Here’s the easy way to learn more about our favorite common herbs: download a FREE deck of our top 12 He...
2024-06-0202 min
Herb Mentor RadioChamomile, Herbs for Hair Growth, and Garden Companion PlantingJohn 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?
What else is chamomile tea good for?
And what herbs should I plant together?
In this episode we dive into the benefits of chamomile extracts (like chamomile tea and tincture), hair-strengthening herbs, and...
2024-05-1246 min
Herb Mentor RadioHerb Notes: The Heart of HawthornLet'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 Tara Ruth to learn about 3 benefits of hawthorn.
And after learning these 3 benefits you might be wondering how you can learn more about other common herbs...
Well, h...
2024-05-0402 min
Herb Mentor RadioJohn & Tara: Herbs for SpringSpring 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 you're ready to deepen your connection with the plants this season and learn how you can support your body throughout the season, you've come to the right place: in this episode of...
2024-04-131h 08
Herb Mentor RadioHerb Notes: Going Beyond Chamomile Tea with 3 Key BenefitsAs 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 flowersAfter learning these 3 benefits you might be wondering how you can learn more about chamomile...
Well, here’s the easy way to learn more about chamomile: download a FREE deck...
2024-04-0202 min
Herb Mentor RadioMaria Christodoulou: Celebrating Greek HerbalismMaria 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 personal stories, science, and history together to offer us a beautiful peek into traditional and contemporary Greek herbalism practices.
In our conversation, Maria shares...
The medicinal uses...
2024-03-1754 min
Herb Mentor RadioHerb Notes: Echinacea, Three Benefits and One CautionOh 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 learn about 3 benefits of echinacea.
And after learning these 3 benefits you might be wondering how you can learn more about echinacea..
Well, here’s the easy way to learn more about ec...
2024-03-0302 min
Herb Mentor RadioAnna Rósa Grasalæknir: Herbalism for RefugeesAnna 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 able to partner with a local woman, Eman, to teach hundreds of women in the camps.
These classes have now become the organization Helping Herbs, in...
2024-02-1157 min
Herb Mentor RadioHerb 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 learning these 3 benefits you might be wondering how you can learn more about elderberry...
Well, here’s the easy way to learn more about elderberry: download a FREE deck of our top 12 Herb Notes. You’ll learn all about elderb...
2024-02-0402 min
Herb Mentor RadioJohn & Tara’s Herbal Guide for The Whole YearHappy 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 is in love with hawthorn (wedding announcement will come shortly)
How to easily make garlic honey
How Oregon grape root sav...
2024-01-211h 07
Herb Mentor RadioHerb 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.
And after learning these 3 benefits you might be wondering how you can learn more about coffee...
Well, here’s the easy way to learn more about co...
2024-01-0703 min
Herb Mentor RadioElizabeth Guthrie: The Trauma Informed HerbalistOver 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 wellness practitioner with a PhD in Natural Medicine with a specialization in Naturopathic Psychology and a Master’s of Public Health in Functional Nutrition. They are the best-selling author of The Tr...
2023-12-1551 min
Herb Mentor RadioHerb Notes: The 3 Soothing Benefits of CalendulaJust 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 a variety of ways.
Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to learn about 3 benefits of calendula.
And after learning these 3 benefits you might be wondering how you can learn more ab...
2023-11-0103 min
Herb Mentor RadioNathan Wright: An Epic Chaga Foraging AdventureWhen 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 fascinating stories ever told on HerbMentor Radio: the story of Nathan's search for the tree that gifted him a 30 pound chaga mushroom decades ago....
2023-10-081h 10
Herb Mentor RadioHerb 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 these 3 benefits you might be wondering how you can learn more about aloe...
Well, here’s the easy way to learn mo...
2023-10-0103 min
Herb Mentor RadioSajah Popham: How Astrology Can Help You Become a Better HerbalistChances 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, get this, herbs!
Sajah Popham is the author of Evolutionary Herbalism: Science, Spirituality, and Medicine from the Heart of Nature. With his wife Whitney, he co- founded the School of Evolutionary Herbalism an...
2023-09-1458 min
Herb Mentor RadioHerb Notes: Garlic Is the Medicine of the PeopleGarlic 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 profile.
Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to learn about 3 benefits of garlic.
And after learning these 3 benefits you might be wondering how you can learn more about garlic...
2023-09-0203 min
Herb Mentor RadioElise & Jeff Higley: From Home Garden to Major Herb FarmElise 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 episode, by the way), they managed to start Oshala Farm and scale it to over 80 crops per year.
So whether you're already growing lots of...
2023-08-1952 min
Herb Mentor RadioHerb Notes: Going Beyond the Sting of NettlesWith 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 reaching for nettles a whole lot more — even if you're wearing a glove while you do it!
Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to learn about 3 be...
2023-08-0103 min
HerbRally🌱⏰ LearningHerbs' John Gallagher | The Herbalist Hour Ep. 50You can watch all of The Herbalist Hour interviews on HerbRally's YouTube channel. VIEW THE PLAYLIST We have reached Episode 50 of The Herbalist Hour! And who better to be on the show than LearningHerbs co-owner, John Gallagher? He's also the host of HerbMentor Radio which I have listened to since 2008, so it felt like a full circle moment for me to have him on the show. We cover a lot of ground in this episode; from John's childhood, his herbal mentors, business and marketing advice, LearningHerbs' beginnings and...
2023-07-261h 22
Herb Mentor RadioJason Knight: Survival Skills for HerbalistsWhether 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, the Seattle Mountaineers, and the cast of the award-winning film, Captain Fantastic.
In our latest episode of HerbMentor Radio, we chat with Jason, who has been teaching wilderness survival skills since 1997.
...
2023-07-1557 min
Herb Mentor RadioHerb Notes: The Resilient and Restorative DandelionGrowing 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.
Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to learn about 3 benefits of dandelion.
And after learning these 3 benefits you might be wondering how you can learn more about dandelion...
Well, here’s the easy way to learn more about plantain: download a FREE deck of...
2023-07-0403 min
Herb Mentor RadioChanchal Cabrera: On Holistic Cancer CareIt’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.
Drawing on her decades of experience supporting people with cancer, medical herbalist Chanchal Cabrera has distilled her learnings into an accessible book for both everyday people and practitioners, Holistic Cancer Care: An Herbal Approach to Preventing Cancer, Helping Patients Thrive during Treatment, and Minimizing the Risk of Recurrence.
In this conversation, we delve into the realms of prevention and cancer support during treatment, gaining invaluable insi...
2023-06-1848 min
Herb Mentor RadioHerb Notes: The Backyard Healing Secrets of PlantainChances 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 common herb offers many extraordinary healing gifts. Not only is plantain a first aid superstar, it also helps with more chronic issues too.
Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth...
2023-06-0603 min
Herb Mentor RadioNadine Joseph: From Burnout to Herbal Adaptogen EntrepreneurNadine 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 adaptogen blends for skin, brain, and stress support.
In this episode Nadine shares her journey from making adaptogen blends in her kitchen to now nationally distributing Peak & Valley products with major companies like CVS and The Vitamin Shoppe.
2023-05-2056 min
Herb Mentor RadioHerb Notes: 3 Healing Ways to Use CatnipWhen 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 plant that hypes up cats has a calming effect on our human nervous systems. Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to learn about 3 surprising benefits of catni...
2023-05-0903 min
Herb Mentor RadioShereel Washington: On Black North American Herbalism Recipes & Story MedicineShereel Washington graduated from the California School of Herbal Studies Community Herbalist Program in Clinical Herbalism, and she has completed over 1200 hours of herbal craft making training. She is an instructor in Scarlet Sage's Community Herbalist Program & in the Land of Verse Apprentice Herbal Certification Program, as well as in herbal classes and intensives at the Northern California Women’s Herbal Symposium in Mendocino. Shereel also teaches dance and qi gong at the Deep Root Center for Spiritual Studies MOVE: Spirit & Rhythm Dance Program in Oakland, CA.
Early in this episode Shereel invites us to unpack the te...
2023-04-231h 00
Herb Mentor RadioHerb Notes: Medicinal Uses of YarrowYarrow’s leaf and flower are most typically used by Western herbalists, but there is also traditional usage of the roots. In this article, I’ll focus on the medicinal uses of yarrow leaf and flower.
Yarrow’s leaf and flower are most typically used by Western herbalists, but there is also traditional usage of the roots. In this podcast, I’ll focus on the medicinal uses of yarrow leaf and flower.
Want to learn more about the medicinal uses of yarrow?
Now that we’ve just scratched the surface of the many benefits o...
2023-04-0302 min
Herb Mentor RadioNada Beydoun & Fatima Matar: the Life-Changing Magic of Milkweed for Monarch ButterfliesNada Beydoun is a registered herbalist with a BSc. in Microbiology and Immunology and Masters in Applied Human Nutrition. Her interests include SWANA region herbal medicines, and she has a community work background in refugee settlement and empowerment.
And Fatima Matar is a passionate gardener supporting the work of growing and bringing awareness to milkweed and Monarchs since 2019. Outside of driving around with a backseat filled with milkweed plants, you can find her doing photography as a freelance photographer.
And Nada and Fatima just so happen to be cousins! Several years ago, after learning about...
2023-03-1844 min
Herb Mentor RadioChrista Sinadinos: Bridging the Gap Between Culinary & Medicinal HerbsChrista Sinadinos is the author of The Essential Guide to Western Botanical Medicine, and is the founder and director of the Northwest School for Botanical Studies in Fieldbrook, California, where she has trained hundreds of students. She has more than 25 years of experience as a clinician, teacher, gardener, and medicine maker.
In this episode, we have one of those aha moments with Christa. We were chatting about herbal garnishes like parsley, and Christa said...
When we think about any of the herbs that people use to decorate the plate, they often are good for digestion.
2023-02-1244 min
Herb Mentor RadioRosemary Gladstar & Susan Leopold: Come for the Plants, Stay for the PartyRosemary Gladstar is literally 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 author of 11 books. Rosemary is the founding president of United Plant Savers and founder and past director of the International Herb Symposium.
Susan Leopold is an ethnobotanist and passionate defender of biodiversity. Over the past 20 years, Susan has worked extensively with Indigenous peoples in Peru and Costa Rica. She is the Executive Director of United Plant Savers an...
2023-01-1545 min
Herb Mentor RadioJohn & Tara's Magical Winter Special: Stress-Relieving Herbs for the New YearSo, usually we interview a special guest on the pod, but today to bring in the new year we're chatting just the two of us all about herbs for wintertime.
Winter really asks us to slow down, rest, and dream about our year to come.
But many of us don’t have the time and space to actually slow down right now. Whether we’re recovering from the festivities of the holiday season, working, or caring for our families, modern life sure makes it hard to slow down.
Luckily, we can still draw on h...
2022-12-2128 min
Herb Mentor RadioDr. Keren Dolan: Functional Nutrition Meets HerbalismDr. Keren Dolan is a Doctor of Clinical Nutrition, Registered Herbalist with the American Herbalists Guild, and Holistic Aromatherapist. Emphasizing integrative Functional Nutrition, her goal as a clinician is promoting wellness and resilience through advanced nutritional strategies and targeted botanical interventions.
So, we didn't exactly make this conversation easy for Dr. Dolan — knowing that she had such an extensive background in clinical nutrition, herbalism, and aromatherapy, we couldn't help but ask her some pretty big questions...
How can we weave nutrition and herbalism together?
What does "nourishment" actually mean?
And what is aromatherapy?
Dr. Dolan gr...
2022-12-1555 min
Herb Mentor RadioCorinna Wood: Transforming Fall Roots into Healing RemediesCorinna Wood teaches earth-based herbalism in the Wise Woman Herbal Tradition and focuses on inner-growth and transformation. She was co-founder of Red Moon Herbs and her Southeast Wise Woman Herbal Conference ran for 15 years.
Grab a cup of tea and your favorite blanket — it's time to get cozy and learn all about herbs for fall! Corinna draws on her years of experience as an herbalist and educator to share how we can nourish our bodies this season and beyond with herbal roots.
In this episode you'll learn how to make healing remedies with prolific roots li...
2022-10-1551 min
Herb Mentor RadioMimi Prunella Hernandez: Kitchen HerbalismMimi Prunella Hernandez has dedicated her life’s work to serving as an advocate for both traditional and herbal pathways while building cultural bridges of understanding. As an herbalist she draws upon the influence of her Granny Healers and her background in biochemistry to weave together an herbal practice that’s rooted in folk traditions and modern science.
In our conversation, Mimi shows us how to think beyond capsules and tinctures and easily bring herbs into our kitchens. The phrase “food is medicine” gets casually tossed around a lot these days, but Mimi really lives by this principl...
2022-09-1549 min
Herb Mentor RadioTasha & Devon Greenwood: How an Herbal Love Story is Creating a Hub for Queer CommunityWhen you enter MXED GREENS apothecary, one of the first things you'll notice is the deep care that herbalists Tasha and Devon Greenwood have put it into every detail of this herb shop...
From the cozy self care station to the herbal zine library to the handmade signs outlining their sliding scale model, MXED GREENS is a space that centers the deeply rooted wellness of its community.
In this episode of HerbMentor Radio, Tasha and Devon draw on their experience as new business owners and practicing clinical herbalists to share...
Their #1 piece of advice...
2022-08-1453 min
Herb Mentor Radiojim mcdonald: Why There’s No “Best Way” to Learn About HerbsWhen you first start studying herbs it can feel like you need to find the best herb school, the best herb books, and the best way to study herbs in order to become a "real herbalist"...
But after studying and teaching herbalism for the last few decades, jim mcdonald (a Michigan herbalist who blends traditional folk influences and mixes it up with a bit of 19th century eclectic and physiomedical vitalism) can definitively say that there’s no one “right way” to learn about herbs. Rather than racing to find the right answer to every herbal question as qui...
2022-07-171h 02
Herb Mentor RadioJuliet Blankespoor: The Healing Garden & the Key to Having an Herbal Green ThumbJuliet Blankespoor shares 5 easy-to-grow herbs for container gardening with medicinal benefits that range from immune support to gentle skin care to first aid essentials — with just these 5 herbs you’ll be well on your way to having a full blown home apothecary.
With her B.A. in Botany and her new book The Healing Garden, it could be easy to assume that Juliet must have always had a green thumb... but Juliet reveals that she didn’t start gardening until her 20s, and her first garden was a total flop!
Listen as Juliet guides us through...
2022-06-1449 min
Herb Mentor RadioAbi Huff: Ancestral HerbalismSome of Abi Huff’s earliest plant memories begin in her mother’s garden: delighting in the abundant beds of sugar cane and taro root, and climbing the apricot tree to feast on its delicious fruit. Abi carries these stories in her transformative work as an ever-evolving community and clinical herbalist, educator, medicine maker, intuitive life strategist, healing justice organizer, and overall plant nerd.
In this episode, we dive into Abi’s work as a politicized herbalist and how to create more inclusion within herbalism. We also discuss food as medicine and how ancestral healing is deeply intertwine...
2022-05-1746 min
Herb Mentor RadioCoreyPine Shane: Southeast Medicinal Plants & Herbal MatchmakingExplore the healing plants of the Southeast with CoreyPine Shane, including mimosa and sweet gum trees. Also, how to discover a plant’s personality so you can become an herbal matchmaker. This is a great episode for all you wildcrafters.
CoreyPine Shane is a Holistic Clinical Herbalist who founded the Blue Ridge School of Herbal Medicine in 1999. He is the author of Southeast Medicinal Plants: 106 Wild Herbs for Health and Wellness and has taught at schools and conferences across the country and in Europe. CoreyPine has written extensively on herbal medicine and is a professional member of th...
2022-03-3050 min
Herb Mentor RadioJocelyn Boreta: The Story of the Botanical BusJocelyn Boreta is the cofounder of the Botanical Bus, the granddaughter of a farmworker, and a community organizer committed to cultivating health equity through the empowerment of indigenous knowledge and self-healing communities.
Long before the Botanical Bus became a bilingual mobile herb clinic serving Latinx and Indigenous farmworkers in Sonoma County, the seeds of this project were sprouting as Jocelyn Boreta and other local herbalists met weekly at a community garden to share their herbal knowledge. And when the devastating 2017 North Bay fires hit, they knew it was time to address health inequities in their community and...
2022-01-2735 min
Herb Mentor RadioAmanda McQuade CrawfordIn 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 the National College of Phytotherapy. Amanda discusses her upcoming book, "Herbs, Nutrition, and Other Natural Therapies," and her work at the International Herb Symposium. The conversation dives into topics including managing hot flashes, addressing adrenal fatigue, and Amanda's activism...
2017-01-221h 07
Herb Mentor Radio7Song7Song is an herbalist, naturalist, and director of the Northeast School of Botanical Medicine in Ithaca, NY.
He is known throughout the herbal community as someone passionate about meeting new plants, someone who loves to help people whereever he travels, and as the “herbal first aid guy.” He has run the first aid tent at the Rainbow Gatherings for years.
7Song is an herbal practitioner and Director of Holistic Medicine at the Ithaca Free Clinic. He also teaches nationwide at herbal conferences and gatherings, as well as the California School of Herbal Studies.
In t...
2016-03-2454 min
Herb Mentor RadioEagleSongI am truly honored to share with you a mentor that…well, let’s put it this way. There would be no HerbMentor.com without her. Also, I doubt I would be an acupuncturist as well if I had never met EagleSong.
EagleSong is not only an extraordinary herbalist and gardener, but also one of the most grounded teachers and mentors you’ll ever meet. She has an eloquent way of sharing her views of health, herbs, sustainable living, gardening, and so much more. EagleSong was the first to teach me how to step back and look at the...
2016-03-2448 min
Herb Mentor RadioJames JungwirthJames Jungwirth and his family run Naturespirit Herbs, located in the Siskiyou Mountains of southwestern Oregon. They are harvesters of edible and medicinal wild seaweed, herbs and mushrooms. They are also clinical herbalists and producers of high quality herbal medicines.
I met James at the Northwest Herbfest in Oregon last summer. I was immediately drawn to his table, which was filled with the most beautifully harvested sea vegetables I have ever seen. If you have ever ordered kelp or other seaweed from Mountain Rose Herbs, there is a good chance you have purchased their handy work.
2016-03-241h 08
Herb Mentor RadioKiva RoseKiva Rose is an herbalist in the Anima Medicine Woman Tradition. She teaches and practices down to earth herbalism, nutrition and healing based on the same principles our ancestors followed within an adaptive and contemporary context.
Kiva is the author of The Medicine Woman’s Herbal, an in depth guide to common nourishing herbs, traditional and wild foods, and healing the Medicine Woman way. She makes her home in the Mogollon Mountains of the Gila bioregion of New Mexico, where she and her partners, Wolf and Loba, live in a small off the grid cabin at the An...
2016-03-241h 15
Herb Mentor RadioMaria AtwoodMaria Atwood, CNHP is a Certified Natural Health Professional and has produced a DVD called Cook Your Way to Wellness. Her focus is on fermented foods and nourishment, in the tradition of our ancestors, the Weston Price Foundation and Sally Fallon. Sally Fallon is the author of the celebrated book Nourishing Traditions, who said Maria’s DVD is "A great companion to Nourishing Traditions! Perfect for beginners new to Nourishing Traditions principles."
In this interview, Maria and I talk about the origins of this traditional style of nutrition, why it’s so good for us, as well as s...
2016-03-241h 24
Herb Mentor RadioRicho CechRIcho Cech is a village herbalist, conservationist, and expert on making herbal extracts. For many years he was a developer at HerbPharm. He and his wife Mayche are owners of Horizon Herbs, an organic medicinal herb seed company based in Williams, Oregon. Their mission is to sow seeds worldwide for the benefit of people plants and the planet.
Richo is author of the books Making Plant Medicine and Growing At-Risk Medicinal Herbs. His Horizon Herbs catalog is well known not only for its variety of hard to find extracts and seeds, but also as a treasure trove...
2016-03-2457 min
Herb Mentor RadioStephen Harrod BuhnerStephen Harrod Buhner is an Earth poet and the award-winning author of books on nature, indigenous cultures, the environment, and herbal medicine. He comes from a long line of healers including Leroy Burney, Surgeon General of the United States under Eisenhower and Kennedy, and Elizabeth Lusterheide, a midwife and herbalist who worked in rural Indiana in the early nineteenth century.
The greatest influence on his work, however, has been his great-grandfather C.G. Harrod who primarily used botanical medicines, also in rural Indiana, when he began his work as a physician in 1911.
Stephen’s work ha...
2016-03-241h 06
Herb Mentor RadioWildman Steve Brill"Wildman" Steve Brill is known as America’s Best Known Forager. His 1986 arrest in Central Park made international headlines and set his career as an environmental educator in motion.
Wildman has appeared on every news channel as well as David Letterman and many other talk shows.
His books include Identifying and Harvesting Edible and Medicinal Plants in Wild (and Not-So-Wild) Places and The Wild Vegetarian Cookbook.
Visit http://www.wildmanstevebrill.com
2016-03-2459 min
Herb Mentor RadioTammi HartungTammi Hartung, M.H., is a medical herbalist, certified organic grower, and consultant to the Natural Products Industry. She has taught at the Rocky Mountain Center for Botanical Studies, the School of Natural Medicine, and has lectured internationally. Tammi and her husband Chris own and operate Desert Canyon Farm in Colorado, where they grow over 175 medicinal, rare, and native plants.
Tammi is the author of Growing 101 Herbs That Heal: Gardening Techniques, Recipes, and Remedies.
2016-03-241h 05
Herb Mentor RadioBetzy BancroftWhen my good friend Mark worked at Tom Brown’s Tracker School, he often talked about a great herbalist who worked there named Betzy. Now, I finally get to meet her! She is an accomplished herbalist in many areas, and she is currently working with United Plant Savers!
United Plant Savers’ mission is to protect native medicinal plants of the United States and Canada and their native habitat while ensuring an abundant renewable supply of medicinal plants for generations to come.
I ask Betzy all about sustainable and ethical wildcrafting, her journey as an herbalist, and...
2016-03-241h 06
Herb Mentor RadioJessica MooreJessica Moore is a mom who has a passion for herbs. When her baby had a diaper rash, she whipped up an amazing balm that healed it. To make a long story short, she founded an awesome herbal remedy company out of that experience. Many who come to LearningHerbs often wonder how to learn about herbs and take that passion into the world. We’ll see how Jessica did it, and we’ll also ask her some of her favorite herbal first aid secrets.
2016-03-241h 09
Herb Mentor RadioDr. Peter Gail: King of DandelionsPeter Gail, Ph.D. has been studying, writing about edible and medicinal plants for half a century. Author of 13 books, including The Dandelion Celebration, he is an esteemed elder of botany and champion of weeds. He has had a big impact on awareness of pesticide use dangers through environmental awareness.
USA Today called him the King of Dandelions. Good Morning America, the Wizard of Weeds. Many call him Dr. Dandelion.
He founded the Dandelion Cook off, the Defenders of the Dandelion, and created a coffee-like beverage called DandyBlend.
Dr. Gail is the director...
2016-03-2458 min
Herb Mentor RadioAviva RommAviva Romm began studying herbal medicine and midwifery in 1981. A Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) and herbalist, practicing since 1985, Aviva is recognized internationally as an accomplished specialist in the areas of herbal medicine for gynecology, obstetrics, and pediatrics.
Her numerous books are now regarded as standards for mothers, midwives, herbalists, and other health professionals using herbs for women’s and children’s health. Additionally, she has written numerous articles, has been published in medical journals, and has contributed to several major integrative medicine textbooks. Forthcoming is her latest book, Textbook of Herbal Medicine for Women (Churchill/Elsevier, 2008).
Av...
2016-03-241h 16
Herb Mentor Radiojim mcdonald: Herbal Energetics and FeversJim McDonald returns to HerbMentor Radio for a special episode on fevers and herbal energetics. What is a fever, why do they happen, and what are the popular myths? The difference between stimulating and relaxing diaphoretics as well as detailed descriptions of many herbs with diaphoretic properties.
Diaphoretics are herbs that direct circulation, open pores, ventilate the body, and allow perspiration. This 105-minute lesson is sure to clear up any confusion you may have had about herbs and fevers.
You can visit Jim Mcdonald at http://HerbCraft.org. His site has many wonderful and extended...
2016-03-241h 44
Herb Mentor RadioLinda Runyon: Returns to HerbMentor RadioLinda Runyon is an expert in wild foods and has been teaching since the 1970s. Though she has a lifelong love of nature, she really learned her stuff when she spent 13 years with her family homesteading in rural New York State, without indoor plumbing, electricity, or running water.
Linda has turned her amazing life story into many publications, namely her wild foods field guide called The Essential Wild Food Survival Guide (formerly From Crabgrass Muffins to Pine Needle Tea) and a brand new DVD called Linda Runyon’s Master Class on Wild Food Survival. She is also th...
2016-03-241h 18
Herb Mentor RadioRyan DrumDr. Ryan Drum joins us from his remote location on Waldon Island, WA, where he lives in a cabin he built 30 years ago. We are lucky to have him since he is one of the few of the island's 40 inhabitants who get cell reception (there are no electric or phone lines on the island). It is on that island where he gathers, processes, and sells some of the very best sea veggies money can buy.
Ryan is a practicing community-supported medical herbalist, herbal educator, and professional medicinal herb wildcrafter. He taught botany and other subjects for years...
2016-03-241h 17
Herb Mentor RadioRobert Dale Rogers: The Fungal PharmacyRobert Rogers has been a student of native plants and fungi from the Canadian prairies for over 40 years. He teaches plant medicine at Grant McEwan University and the Northern Start College of Mystical Studies in Edmonton, Canada. Robert is a professional member of the American Herbalist Guild, and chair of the medicinal mushroom committee of the North American Mycological Association. He is also on the editorial board of the International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms.
Robert is the author of 14 books, including his latest, The Fungal Pharmacy, The Complete Guide to Medicinal Mushrooms & Lichens of North America.
2016-03-241h 00
Herb Mentor RadioDr. James Duke: Herbs of the BibleDr. James Duke is an ethnobotanist with a Ph.D. in botany from UNC, served with Missouri Botanical Garden in his earlier years, and for over 3 decades in several posts with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. He was chief of the Medicinal Plant Resources Laboratory and chief of the USDA’s Economic Botany Lab. One of the most frequented parts of the USDA website is the ethnobotanical and phytochemical database he created before retiring.
Dr. Duke has written more than 30 books including the best selling Green Pharmacy, Dr. Duke’s Essential Herbs, Herbs of the Bible, Hand...
2016-03-241h 11
Herb Mentor RadioDemetria Clark: Herbal Healing for ChildrenDemetria Clark has written one of the best books on using herbs with kids we’ve seen: Herbal Healing for Children: A Parent’s Guide to Treatments for Common Childhood Illnesses.
Demetria is a North American herbalist specializing in herbals for pregnancy, birth, postpartum, nursing, and children. She is a traditional family herbalist. She has worked with families for over 20 years as an herbalist, aromatherapist, midwife, doula, and traditional medicine maker. She works extensively in the US and Europe, blending the two traditions. Demetria lectures extensively on herbal care for sexuality, pregnancy, and woman’s health.
Deme...
2016-03-241h 21
Herb Mentor RadioJon Young: Mentoring Kids & Nature ConnectionAuthor and naturalist Jon Young takes you behind the scenes of Wildcraft! and LearningHerbs.com in a special episode called “Mentoring Kids & Nature Connection.”
Why are relationships with nature more important than information? What is Nature Deficit Disorder? Does your child have it? What is the number one secret to nature's connection? How do you share curiosity with kids? What are “kid trails,” and how can we bring them back?
This interview covers how to discover your child’s passions and connect with them in nature. Jon’s world-acclaimed Art of Mentoring curriculum is the engine of Le...
2016-03-241h 03
Herb Mentor RadioJ.T.: Community Herbalism & Urban WildcraftingJ.T. is a Seattle-based herbalist and mom. She’s an old friend of mine who started the same herbal apprenticeship that I did in 1998 before my son Rowan was born.
Since she started learning about local plants and how to use them, J.T. has come up with creative ways of gathering herbs and using them to nourish her family. Like myself, J.T. is a family and community-centered herbalist. Not only does she keep her family healthy and help them when they are sick, she also shares her knowledge of herbalism with others in her co...
2016-03-2449 min
Herb Mentor RadioTodd Caldecott: Ancient Medicine in a Modern WorldTodd Caldecott is a Medical Herbalist and practitioner of Ayurvedic medicine, author of the textbook Ayurveda: The Divine Science of Life, Food as Medicine: The Theory and Practice of Food and an editor of a text on Nepalese ethnobotany called Ayurveda in Nepal.
Todd teaches and practices in the Vancouver, BC area in Canada. He also works as a consultant in the natural products industry. Todd was also the Director of Clinical Herbal Studies at Wild Rose College and is a professional member of the American Herbalists Guild.
Todd’s practice integrates Western Clinical Herbalism wi...
2016-03-241h 17
Herb Mentor RadioBrigitte Mars: Doctrine of SignaturesBrigitte Mars is an herbalist, author, raw foods chef, and nutritional consultant from Boulder, Colorado. Brigitte has been teaching for over 40 years, most recently Naropa University, Boulder College of Massage, and Bauman College of Holistic Nutrition. Brigitte is a professional member of The American Herbalists Guild.
Her many book titles include The Desktop Guide to Herbal Medicine, Addiction-Free Naturally, Beauty by Nature, Natural First Aid, Dandelion Medicine, Healing Herbal Teas, Rawsome! and Sex, Health and Love.
In this interview, we focus on the doctrine of signatures.
Visit Brigitte at http://BrigitteMars.com
2016-03-241h 04
Herb Mentor RadioDavid Bruce Leonard: Hawaiian HerbalismDavid Bruce Leonard is a practitioner and teacher of all five branches of Chinese medicine: acupuncture, herbal medicine, massage, food medicine, and martial arts. Besides studying traditional medicines with healers in Asia, North and South America, David also studied Hawaiian native plants for over 20 years and is the author of Medicine at Your Feet: Healing Plants of the Hawaiian Kingdom and Wild Wisdom: Listening to the Heart of Nature. David is Dean of Oriental Medicine at the Hawaii College of Oriental Medicine and founder of Earth Medicine Institute.
In this episode of HerbMentor Radio, David explores Hawaiian...
2016-03-2449 min
Herb Mentor RadioEmily Ruff: Medicinal Herbs of FloridaEmily Ruff is a community herbalist and health educator who has practiced the art and science of plant healing for over a decade. Her studies have taken her to three continents, where she has studied under indigenous healers of many traditions. She also apprenticed for many years with Rosemary Gladstar. Emily founded Orenda Herbals and is director of the Florida School of Holistic Living. Through the school, she founded the Community Herbal Clinic and the Florida Herbal Conference.
The Florida Herbal Conference is February 15-17, 2013 in Orlando. Headline herbal teachers are Matthew Wood and Phyllis Light. Workshops...
2016-03-2458 min
Herb Mentor RadioJohn Gallagher: Fifth Anniversary ConfessionsThe microphone is turned as John Gallagher, host of HerbMentor Radio, is interviewed by Rosalee de la Forêt in 2012. HerbMentor members asked for it, and John was happy to sit down and reveal the string of random events that lead to the creation of HerbMentor.
How did spraying weeds with herbicide begin John on his herbal journey? Why is a dandelion in the LearningHerbs logo? How is Bruce Springsteen responsible for how John creates and markets products? How and why did he start LearningHerbs? What is in LearningHerbs’ future? It’s all here in this fun-filled, actio...
2016-03-241h 11
Herb Mentor RadioMargi Flint: The Practicing HerbalistMargi Flint practices herbalism in the seacoast town of Marblehead, Massachusetts, and over the last 30 years has become their village herbalist. She is an adjunct professor at North Shore Community College, The Tufts University School of Medicine, Bastyr University, Pacific Rim College, and the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy. Margi is the author of the textbook, The Practicing Herbalist: Meeting with Clients, Reading the Body. She also lectures internationally and is a professional member of the American Herbalists Guild.
In this interview, Margi discusses her work as a practicing herbalist, how she mentors, facial diagnostics as well as...
2016-03-241h 02
Herb Mentor RadioDona EnriquetaA well-known and respected member of the Meso-American Zapotecan people located in Oaxaca, Dona Enriqueta Contreras is a descendant of a long line of Zapoteca shamans that date back to 500 B.C. Dona Enriqueta owns and operates a health clinic for her community, as well as for international visitors, in the small town of San Francisco Tutla.
Her history as a practicing midwife of more than fifty years has yielded her a flawless career with no mother or child ever lost during the birth process… an extraordinary feat, even by western standards. She travels the world disseminating he...
2016-03-2438 min
Herb Mentor RadioDavid HoffmannDavid Hoffmann, B.Sc., F.N.I.M.H. has traveled the world, run for Parliament on a Green Party ticket, and has been an activist in the Green and Peace movements for longer than he cares to remember. He is the author of 17 books, his latest is a textbook on science and clinical skills for phytotherapists entitled Medical Herbalism, published by Inner Traditions. These accomplishments aside, David, a Fellow of Britain’s National Institute of Medical Herbalists, has been a phytotherapist (that’s a practitioner of herbal medicine) for over 30 years.
David promotes herbal medicine around the...
2016-03-241h 13
Herb Mentor RadioWill Endres: Tale of an Appalachian WildcrafterWill Endres is an herbalist, wildcrafter, and outdoor guide with more than 40 years of experience. Originally from West Virginia, Will studied 28 years with herb doctor and healer CF “Catfish” Gray. He has had many herbal elders and has been deeply influenced by the traditional Cherokee approach to plants and medicine. Will runs “Will’s Wild Herbs” in North Carolina, and has been in business for 37 years. Living and working in the woods has given him a uniquely intimate knowledge of the natural world. He offers year-round walks, talks, classes, and apprenticeships.
In this episode, we hear about the unique...
2016-03-1058 min
Herb Mentor RadioSandor Katz: The Art of FermentationSandor Katz returns to HerbMentor Radio in celebration of his new book, The Art of Fermentation: An In-Depth Exploration of Essential Concepts and Processes from Around the World. This nearly 500-page volume gives practical information on fermenting vegetables, fruits, grains, milk, beans, meats, and more. It has a forward by Michael Pollan and is published by Chelsea Green.
Sandor is also the author of Wild Fermentation: The Flavor, Nutrition, and Craft of Live-Culture Foods and The Revolution Will Not Be Microwaved: Inside America’s Underground Food Movement. Starting with sauerkraut, Sandor has been fermenting foods for years. As...
2015-08-131h 01
Herb Mentor RadioRosemary Gladstar: Wild Greens & Spring RemediesRosemary Gladstar covers the importance of wild greens, both nutritionally and energetically. Dandelions, plantain, nettle, chickweed, and many more favorites will be covered. In addition to her favorite ways to prepare wild greens, Rosemary will also cover ethical wild harvesting. It’s time to clean out the closets and leave the winter blues behind!
Rosemary Gladstar is the author of many books, including Rosemary Gladstar’s Medicinal Herbs: A Beginner’s Guide, Rosemary Gladstar’s Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Health, and Herbal Healing for Women. Rosemary has been inspiring herbalists for nearly 40 years with the herbal schools, conferen...
2015-08-131h 11
Herb Mentor RadioPatrick Jones, DVM: Herbs for Dogs & CatsDr. Patrick Jones is a veterinarian with a passion for herbs. He grew up close to the land, and his interest in herbs eventually led to him treating animals with herbal remedies. He has a private practice and is also does formulation, support, and training for Silver Lining Herbs. Patrick's wife LoriAnn is also an herbalist, and together they have raised 15 children. Patrick practices veterinary medicine in Twin Falls, ID.
Patrick is also a long-time HerbMentor member and a regular presence in the forum. In this episode of HerbMentor Radio, Dr. Jones answers many questions that HerbMentor...
2015-08-131h 11
Herb Mentor RadioChanchal Cabrera: Herbs & Chronic IllnessChanchal Cabrera, MSc, FNIMH, (RH)AHG is a medical herbalist whose clinical specialty is helping people manage cancer and chronic disease. Chanchal has held the faculty chair in Botanical Medicine at the Boucher Institute of Naturopathic Medicine in New Westminster since 2004. She serves on the board of advisors of Dominion Herbal College in Burnaby, on the editorial board of Medical Herbalism clinical newsletter and she publishes widely in professional journals and lectures internationally on medical herbalism, nutrition, and health. Chanchal is the author of the book Fibromyalgia – A Journey Toward Healing. published by Contemporary Books.
Chanchal is a...
2015-08-1357 min
Herb Mentor RadioDavid Winston: AdaptogensDavid Winston RH (AHG), is an herbalist and ethnobotanist with over 40 years of training in Cherokee, Chinese and Western herbal traditions. He has had a clinical practice for over 30 years and is an herbal consultant to physicians throughout North America. David founded an herbal manufacturing company called Herbalist & Alchemist as well as David Winston’s Center for Herbal Studies. David is the author of many books including Adaptogens: Herbs for Strength, Stamina, and Stress Relief. He is also a founding member of the American Herbalists Guild and a founding advisory board member of United Plant Savers.
In th...
2015-08-131h 11
Herb Mentor RadioGuido Masé: The Wild Medicine SolutionGuido Masé is a clinical herbalist, educator, and garden steward specializing in holistic Western herbalism. He is a founding co-director of the Vermont Center for Integrative Herbalism in Montpelier, VT, and a professional member of the American Herbalist Guild, the American Botanical Council, and United Plant Savers. He has worked extensively in the herbal products industry, with a focus on local and sustainable growing, harvesting, and production. Guido is the author of the new book, The Wild Medicine Solution: Healing with Aromatic, Bitter and Tonic Plants, published by Healing Arts Press.
In this interview, Guido discusses how t...
2015-08-131h 04
Herb Mentor RadioDina Falconi: Foraging & FeastingDina Falconi returns to HerbMentor Radio to give us a great foundation in harvesting wild edibles and preparing them into delicious dishes. Dina is the author of the new book, Foraging, and Feasting: A Field Guide and Wild Food Cookbook. We start the interview with the fascinating way Dina self-published this book under her own publishing company. This is informative to anyone who might have an herbal product idea.
Then, Dina gets into the basics of wild foods foraging, such as plant ID, where and when to harvest, safety, how you can get started. Then Dina shares...
2015-08-131h 10
Herb Mentor RadioK.P. Khalsa: Answers in Herbal HealingKarta Purkh Singh Khalsa, Yogaraj (Ayurveda), DN-C, RH, LMT, NCTMB, CC, NAMAPM, has over 40 years of experience in holistic medicine and is one of the foremost natural healing experts in North America. He is the president of the American Herbalists Guild and is a respected teacher, writer, and lecturer. As the author of over 3,000 published health articles, K.P. has written or edited 30 books on a variety of health topics including major works on massage, Ayurveda, Chinese medicine, and physiology. His latest book, The Way of Ayurvedic Herbs, co-authored with Michael Tierra, brings to life Ayurveda in an understandable...
2015-08-131h 07
Herb Mentor RadioLeslie Alexander: Dental HerbalismLeslie Alexander, Ph.D., RH (AHG) is a medical herbalist and co-author of the new book Dental Herbalism, Natural Therapies for the Mouth. Leslie is a professional member of the American Herbalist Guild and co-owner of Restoration Herbs in Pennsylvania. She is a member of the American Academy for Oral Systemic Health and the American Botanical Council.
In this interview, Leslie discusses the ecology of the mouth, how the mouth is a microcosm of the body, how stress affects our dental health, natural oral hygiene, and some of her favorite dental herbal recipes such as tooth powder...
2015-08-1356 min