Shows
The Plant PathMotherwort: The Lion Hearted HerbMotherwort, the “lion-hearted herb,” fills your heart with courage and soothes its inner wounds. This herb tends to the physical and emotional heart and is an indispensable part of the Materia medica. With its many uses and simple administration techniques, this herb is sure to become a favorite herb to support a healthy heart. In this week’s episode, you’ll learn: What Motherwort tastes like this and how this translates to its effects on the body This herb’s organ affinities, energetics, and herbal actions The emotional indications of Motherwort Motherwort’s astrological an...2025-07-2321 minThe Plant PathDiagnosis Identity, Trauma, and the Human ConditionIn this post, I’m delving into a concept that has been on my mind for the past few months. I call this concept “diagnosis identity,” and it’s about the nature of the human condition, the role of suffering in our lives, and how we navigate it. It’s about what we choose to do with suffering and illness, and a call to rise above our suffering, learn from it, and ultimately not allow it to take over our lives and become a part of our identity. In this piece, we’ll explore: Why suffering is...2025-07-1635 minThe Plant PathHoly Basil: The Sacred Herb of AyurvedaHoly basil is a sacred plant in the Indian and Ayurvedic traditions. There is a wide range of conditions for which it is used, both physically and psychologically. Holy Basil is one of nature's panaceas, making it a powerful plant to grow in your garden and stock in your home. In today’s plant profile, you’ll discover: Holy Basil’s unique taste and how it supports your nervous, digestive, immune system, and more Holy Basil's unique combination of adaptogenic and nervine properties to support the modern stressed condition" Spiritual...2025-07-1029 minThe Plant PathWhy Medical Herbalism Belongs on Every Herbalist’s ShelfI’m excited to bring you the second book in our review series, David Hoffman’s indispensable tome Medical Herbalism: The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine. This was one of my first serious herb books and also served as my university textbook. If I had to make one herb book recommendation to you, this would be in the top five, if not the top three. In this post, I’m going to walk you through what's in this book, what I like about it, and why I’m recommending it to you and all herbalist...2025-07-0228 minThe Plant PathLemon Balm: The Happiest Plant on EarthLemon Balm, the “happiest plant on Earth,” enchants with its vibrant lemony aroma and taste. Beloved for its calming effects, this aromatic herb brings a sense of peace and serenity, along with an uplifted feeling to the spirit. Loved for its calming and relaxing properties, this aromatic herb soothes tense digestion and eases an anxious mind. Whether sipping it as a delicious cup of tea or taking it in tincture form, there are numerous ways to enjoy this herb. Like a ray of sunshine, Lemon Balm infuses your days with joy and invites you to recon...2025-06-1831 minThe Plant PathCayenne and Lobelia: Two Distinct Herbs with Dynamic SynergyIn this episode, we take a high-level look at what happens when you combine two of the most contrasting—and complementary—herbs in North American herbalism: Cayenne (Capsicum annuum) and Lobelia (Lobelia inflata). One stimulates, one relaxes—and together they create a powerful synergy that supports circulation, respiration, and neuromuscular function. You’ll also hear insights on how their energetic and constitutional profiles apply to vāta patterns in Ayurveda and Mercury archetypes in astrology. 🔍 In this segment, you’ll learn: The core affinities and actions of Cayenne and Lobelia How stimulant and r...2025-06-1712 minThe Plant PathThe Dynamic Duo: Cayenne & Lobelia in Traditional HerbalismIn this episode, we dive into one of the most powerful herb pairs in North American herbalism—Cayenne (Capsicum annuum) and Lobelia (Lobelia inflata). These two plants represent the archetypal stimulant and relaxant, and when used together, they reveal deep patterns in how herbal energetics function. You’ll also discover how this triad—stimulant, relaxant, and tonic—connects to core principles found in Ayurveda, alchemy, and astrology. In this segment, you’ll learn: Why Cayenne and Lobelia are a dynamic herbal duo How traditional herbalists define stimulants and relaxants (beyond caffeine and chamomi...2025-06-1604 minThe Plant PathCayenne and LobeliaWelcome to the second installment in our Anatomy of a Formula series. In this post, we’ll examine a classic North American herbal duo: the archetypal stimulant, Cayenne (Capsicum annuum), and the archetypal relaxant, Lobelia (Lobelia inflata). If you missed the introductory post, which explored a brief history of formulation in Western herbalism and the strategic thinking behind herbal pairs and triplets, be sure to check it out[LINK]—it sets the stage for this series and what we’re diving into today. Here’s what you’ll learn in this epsisode: Why Cayen...2025-06-1132 minThe Plant PathAnatomy of a FormulaHave you been studying herbs for a while, but you still feel unsure about how to combine them into an effective formula? Or maybe you’re newer to herbalism and ready to dive into the art and science of formulation? Formulation is one of my favorite parts of herbal medicine, so I’m excited to kick off a new series called The Anatomy of a Formula. I love the synergy that emerges when herbs are combined in intelligent, intentional ways—and the specificity you can achieve when formulating for a particular person. It’s both powerful...2025-05-2833 minThe Plant PathThe Seasonal Allergy Strategy Part 2Welcome to Part 2 of the Allergy Strategy. In this episode, we'll explore the two key approaches to working with allergies and intolerances: prevention and acute care. Whether it's you, your loved ones, or your clients dealing with seasonal allergies, you'll find plenty of tools here to support the process—and many of these strategies can also be applied to other types of allergies. If you haven't had a chance to read Part One yet, I recommend starting there: https://tinyurl.com/tuw2358m as it covers the foundational concepts we'll be buil...2025-05-2143 minThe Plant PathInterview with Pam MontgomeryHave you ever wondered how to understand plants on a deeper level, beyond “This herb is good for that thing?” If so, you won’t want to skip this post! I am excited to be joined today by my colleague, friend, and teacher, Pam Montgomery. Pam is an herbalist, author, international teacher, earth elder, and new paradigm thinker who passionately embraces her role as a spokesperson for the green beings. She has investigated plants and their intelligent spiritual nature for over three decades. Pam is the author of Co-Creating with Nature: Healing...2025-04-231h 03The Plant PathThe Zodiacal Study StrategyHave you ever felt overwhelmed trying to learn herbal medicine and astrology? This is one of the biggest challenges I hear from people studying herbalism on its own… throw astrology on top of it, and it just seems like too much. They say, “I was already overwhelmed trying to learn how to become a great herbalist. And now, to practice this way, I have to learn the massive system of astrology too. I'm busy with my day job, family, home, and garden, and it's too much.” But it doesn’t have to be that...2025-04-1646 minThe Plant PathTop 3 Spring TonicsSpring is the season of renewal—and the perfect time to support your body with cleansing and nourishing herbs. Last week, we covered the overall concept of the spring cleanse and whether it's a good thing for us to do in our modern culture. We got a birds-eye view of the qualities and characteristics of herbs that would fit into this category. Ready to learn more about spring cleansing and which herbs to prioritize? In this episode, I’m spotlighting my three favorite spring tonic herbs. I’ll tell you why these ar...2025-04-1043 minThe Plant PathThe Spring CleanseThe premise of cleansing is popular in alternative medicine circles, seen as one of the most important ways to get and stay healthy. But is it really? Is our modern take on cleansing the same as it was traditionally? And most importantly, is cleansing really appropriate for anyone and everyone? We’ll cover all that and more in our exploration of the spring cleanse. Here’s what I’ll cover: What happens in the spring transition that necessitates a cleanse? The qualities that predominate in winter and what that means for you The...2025-04-0231 minThe Plant PathAstrological Medicine: Scientific vs. Pragmatic TruthHave you ever wondered how science views medical astrology or whether it has been proven "true?" Should we consider astrology a valid tool for understanding health, or is it just pseudoscience? Astrological medicine is a central part of our approach to herbal medicine here at The School of Evolutionary Herbalism, so it's a topic we discuss regularly. Today, we're breaking down medical astrology's relationship to scientific and pragmatic truth and proof, and what really matters. Here's what you'll find in this episode: The goal of the tools we use—what...2025-03-2630 minThe Plant PathPlanetary Sympathy and AstrotherapeuticsMost traditions of herbal medicine across the world use the fundamental principle of antipathetic medicine in their approach to therapeutics. But in the practice of alchemical medicine—based on Paracelsianism— and in astro-herbalism, another approach is commonly used: sympathetic medicine. In this episode, we’ll explore some of the principles of sympathetic medicine, how it differs from the antipathetic approach, and how we can work with it to deepen our understanding of plant to planet correspondences. Here’s an overview of what you’ll learn: The key differences between sympathetic and antipathetic medicine ...2025-03-1933 minThe Plant PathPlanetary Sympathy and AstrotherapeuticsMost traditions of herbal medicine across the world use the fundamental principle of antipathetic medicine in their approach to therapeutics. But in the practice of alchemical medicine—based on Paracelsianism— and in astro-herbalism, another approach is commonly used: sympathetic medicine. In this episode, we’ll explore some of the principles of sympathetic medicine, how it differs from the antipathetic approach, and how we can work with it to deepen our understanding of plant to planet correspondences. Here’s an overview of what you’ll learn: The key differences between sympathetic and antipathetic medicine ...2025-03-1231 minThe Plant PathAstral Polarities & Organ SystemsIn medical astrology, astral polarities offer profound insights into the body’s interconnected systems, revealing hidden relationships between organ functions and celestial archetypes. By studying opposing zodiac signs, we gain a deeper understanding of how the various parts of the body interact. This perspective aligns with holistic traditions like Ayurveda, which recognize the dynamic interplay between organs, emotions, and physiological processes. Each axis in astrology represents a functional system within the body rather than isolated structures. These polarities provide a framework for understanding health imbalances and how bodily systems influence one another. In this...2025-03-0534 minThe Plant PathBook Review: Medical Astrology by Judith HillToday we begin our new book review series, and I’m kicking it off by reviewing Judith Hill’s foundational text, “Medical Astrology: A Guide to Planetary Pathology.” This is an essential book on medical astrology, and should be a staple reference in your library if you’re interested in the astro-herbalism approach. In this post you’ll learn what this book has to offer, including: The six sign polarities and how they influence organ systems The planetary qualities and their role in health The lunar nodes and their connection to...2025-02-2620 minThe Plant PathThe Herbal Actions of MugwortMugwort is a plant famed for its effects on dreaming, but its medicinal properties and actions do so much more than that. With a distinct effect on the nervous, digestive, hepatobiliary, and reproductive systems, Mugwort navigates, regulates, and balances the highways that connect them all. In today’s video, you’ll discover: Mugwort’s role in digestion How its bitter, choleretic, and cholagogue properties support liver health and relieve stagnation. -Its unique dual action on the nervous system Why Mugwort can both stimulate sluggish nerves and calm overactive ones Mugwort & dreaming – How this plant enhances vivid and lucid dreams...2025-02-2006 minThe Plant PathThe Actions of ElecampaneElecampane has become one of my personal favorite respiratory remedies over the years, not just for its medicinal benefits for many of the common respiratory woes people face today, but as a choice restorative agent. Whether you make it into a tincture or enjoy the syrup, Elecampane is a remedy every herbalist should know. In this episode, you'll learn: Elecampane's role as a stimulant expectorant for cold, damp, unproductive coughs How it encourages deeper, more productive coughing to clear stagnant mucus Its use as a stimulant diaphoretic to break fevers and warm the body Wh...2025-02-0611 minThe Plant PathHow to Strategically Study HerbsHave you ever crammed for an exam, only to forget everything a few weeks later? Cramming never works, especially in herbal medicine. Memorizing facts might get you through a test, but it won’t prepare you to help real people. If you want your knowledge to stick—not just in your mind but in your heart—there’s a better way. By studying herbs strategically, you’ll gain the confidence and competence to make a genuine impact as an herbalist. In today’s episode, you’ll learn: Why memorizing lists of herbal facts just isn’t enough ...2025-01-1542 minThe Plant PathAdaptogens and the Holistic Approach to FatigueAdaptogenic herbs are everywhere these days, offering promises of being the ultimate cure for fatigue and the secret to boundless energy. But here’s the truth: adaptogens are one of the most misunderstood and misused herbal remedies out there these days. When used incorrectly, they can backfire, potentially worsening fatigue instead of helping it. Many people fall into the trap of misusing these herbs, chasing quick fixes without addressing the underlying causes of their exhaustion. To truly address fatigue, you need to dig deeper to understand what’s draining you, how adaptogens work, and where they f...2024-12-1156 minThe Plant PathKeeping Warm: Countering the Cold with Warming HerbsThere’s something about winter that makes us want to bundle up and get warm. And while many of us do this with sweaters, a beanie, and thick wool socks, there’s another critical way we stay warm: Through the herbs and food we eat. In many herbal traditions, plants are often split into warming or cooling. A cooling herb might be great in summer, but it can leave you feeling off-balance during the cold winter months. That’s why it’s important to turn to warming herbs and spices that heat us up from the inside out. By...2024-11-1348 minThe Plant PathEchinacea: Not Just an Immune StimulantWhen you hear Echinacea, chances are you think of its immune-boosting properties. But did you know that this popular use is relatively new? Traditionally, Echinacea was used for entirely different reasons. By rediscovering its original applications, we can break free from the idea that Echinacea is just a “cough, cold and flu” herb and appreciate the many ways it supports the body holistically. In today’s episode, you’ll learn: What makes Echinacea’s flavor so unique and why it creates that signature tingling sensation The best time to use...2024-10-3028 minThe Plant PathThe Ginkgo MythGinkgo is famous for its ability to boost your memory, focus, and concentration . . . but if that’s true, why didn’t I feel any of these results when taking some Ginkgo tincture? The truth is, there’s a big misunderstanding about Ginkgo and the way it works. Understanding the Ginkgo myth makes the difference between getting those brain-boosting properties versus drinking a horrible tasting tea or taking a standard tincture that doesn’t do much at all. By understanding the science behind Ginkgo, the myth, and the truth around this plant, you can har...2024-10-1633 minThe Plant PathThe Danger of Herbal FadsIf you walk into a hip smoothie shop or health food store, you’ll undoubtedly be flooded with the newest “superfoods” and cure-all herbs. Like so many things in our modern culture, herbal medicine also has its own “fads,” as it seems as if there’s almost a new one in style each season. Although it may seem harmless at first and they may be a good gateway into the realm of herbal medicine, herbal fads may not necessarily be a good thing. Most of the time, they’re promoted by big supplement companies looking to inflate their bottom l...2024-08-2834 minThe Plant PathPhytopharmaceuticals, Standardized and Whole Plant ExtractsThese days, supplement shelves are filled with all kinds of different products based on plants. Tinctures, teas, whole plant preparations, standardized extractions, phytopharmaceuticals . . . but what’s the difference between them? These are the most common types of herbal extracts you’ll encounter, and they all have their own unique properties and uses. Each of these extracts has a different level of strength in the body, with phytopharmaceuticals nearing the potency of conventional drugs. We’re often taught that stronger is better, but is that true for herbal extracts? By understanding the three main categories of herbal e...2024-08-2131 minThe Plant PathHerb-Drug Interactions: Fact Fiction or Somewhere BetweenHave you ever felt anxious about giving herbs to someone who's already taking medications? Many herbalists feel hesitant to help people taking prescribed drugs because of concerns about herb-drug interactions. But how much do we really need to worry about this? Herbs can impact how drugs are absorbed and metabolized, which can actually be helpful at times, but very risky at other times. By understanding how herbs and drugs interact, you can feel confident in providing your clients with the care they need, even if they’re taking medications. In today’s blog...2024-08-1434 minThe Plant PathMeadowsweet: Not Just “Herbal Aspirin”Meadowsweet is often thought of as herbal aspirin. Even though it’s no secret that its compounds were originally used to formulate and synthesize aspirin, can you really use it in the same way? If you want to get the same results from Meadowsweet as aspirin, you would have to drink quarts of the tea, which is tough to do because it’s incredibly bitter. Not only would you be feeling pretty nauseous by the end, but you would also only get the strength of a baby aspirin, if you’re lucky! Even...2024-07-1726 minThe Plant PathDo You Need to Know Phytochemistry to Be a Great Herbalist?Phytochemistry is a fascinating study, but it can be incredibly complicated and confusing at times. Understandably, there are many herbalists who’d prefer to avoid learning it all together. The big question is: Do you really need to know phytochemistry to be a great herbalist? There are many paths you can take as an herbalist. You can meet with clients, make herbal medicine, wildcraft, and so much more. As you’ll see, phytochemistry plays a different role in each of these paths. In today’s episdode, you’ll discover: What phytoc...2024-07-0331 minThe Plant PathThe Truth About Pyrrolizidine AlkaloidsPyrrolizidine alkaloids are natural compounds found in certain herbs. Despite their long history of safe use in herbal traditions, they are often misunderstood and feared, discouraging people from working with these potent medicinal herbs. By learning more about these compounds and how to safely use herbs containing them, you can confidently incorporate them into your herbal practice. In today’s episode, you’ll discover: What pyrrolizidine alkaloids are and why they're named this The two types of pyrrolizidine alkaloids, distinguishing between toxic and non-toxic ones Notable...2024-05-2245 minThe Plant PathIs All Herbal Research Trustworthy?Is all herbal research trustworthy? If you’ve ever Googled an herb to learn more and saw lots of research papers about it, can you trust them? Herbal research is tricky since there are a lot of things that can go wrong and right with them that make the results tricky to decipher. Even though understanding herbal research isn’t 100% necessary as a clinical herbalist, it can introduce novel uses of plants, and of course, knowing the chemistry of an herbal makes you a much better medicine maker. With a few pointers, you can learn how to...2024-04-2428 minThe Plant PathDo You Need to Know Botany to Be a Great Herbalist?Do you need to know botany to be a great herbalist? Since learning botany is like learning a new language, it’s a fair question. After all, if you won’t use it, is it worth becoming fluent in it? Being an herbalist means a lot of things: Working with people, plants, and being the bridge between the two. Although it might seem like studying botany is an important part of this process, the answer to this question might surprise you. In today’s episode, you’ll discover: The three layer...2024-04-1025 minThe Plant PathBurdock: The All-Purpose AlterativeSweet and grounding, Burdock is an Earthy plant with its wide leaves, deep taproots, and ability to both nourish weakness and cleanse excesses from the body. Just as it loves to grow near waste grounds, Burdock clears metabolic waste products and toxins from the fluids in your body to keep your skin glowing and healthy. Since the health of the skin is merely a reflection of the health of your liver, blood, lymph, and digestion, focusing on topical solutions alone won’t get you very far. By working on each of these organs on a dee...2024-03-2735 minThe Plant PathWhy I Wish What I Did Wasn't Called Medical AstrologyMedical astrology is one of the most misunderstood assessment tools available in herbalism, with many flat out rejecting its usefulness or efficacy because of preconceived notions of astrology in general. Despite its spiritual or “woo-woo” implications, astrology has practical therapeutic applications. By learning how to use this tool correctly, you can pinpoint an imbalanced organ system, tissue state, or constitutional pattern and develop greater accuracy in your herbalism practice. In episode I talk about: Medical astrology’s historical roots in medicine The line between tradition and science that herbalists face What...2024-02-1424 minThe Plant PathMedical Astrology's Insights into Holistic HerbalismThe term "holistic" is a key concept in today's holistic healthcare system. But what does it truly mean? According to the Evolutionary Herbalism model, a holistic practitioner is someone who integrates the physical, energetic, and spiritual properties of a plant with these aspects of a person to facilitate profound and transformative healing. Medical astrology stands out as one of the most powerful tools to craft a refined, precise, and effective system of holistic herbal medicine that addresses the entirety of an individual. In today’s episode, you’ll learn: The i...2024-02-0715 minThe Plant PathRegenerative Wildcrafting: An Interview with Scott KloosScott Kloos is an herbalist, wildcrafter, and medicine maker. He founded and acts as the managing director of the School of Forest Medicine and owns Cascadia Folk Medicine, which supplies high-quality, small-batch herbal extracts from the native plants of the Pacific Northwest region. He also co-founded the Elderberry School of Botanical Medicine in Portland, Oregon, and authored the book Pacific Northwest Medicinal Plants: Identify, Harvest, and Use 120 Wild Herbs for Health and Wellness. I always think of Scott as a fellow plant brother and someone I really see eye-to-eye with. For this episode of the Pl...2024-01-311h 03The Plant PathPathways to Herbal MasteryI know the beginning of the year is when a lot of us take a step back and look at our lives from a greater perspective. Perhaps we're looking back on the past year and thinking about what we'd like to change or do differently... ... Or we're looking forward and planning out how we want our lives to look and resolving to make it that way. Hopefully as an herbalist, you're thinking about your plant path as well, and considering how you plan on taking your understanding of herbalism, people and pla...2024-01-031h 01The Plant PathThe Ultimate Gift Guide for HerbalistsWith the holiday season approaching, many of you are wondering which gifts would be suitable for an herbalist. Whether you’re unfamiliar with the field or have been practicing for years, we’ve compiled a helpful list of items you can use as a guide for finding the perfect gift for the lucky herbalist in your life. In today’s blog episode, we list Medicine making essentials Wildcrafting tools that make harvesting and cultivation work a breeze Processing tools to help you produce potent herbal medicine Some of our favorite resources for ordering quality bulk herbs and se...2023-12-0614 minThe Plant PathYour Plant PathDo you ever feel lost in your herbal studies or not know what to do next to reach the next level of your development as a plant healer? The journey as an herbalist can seem long and daunting. There are so many books out there, courses, traditions, and of course – herbs to study. When your path ahead is unclear, it helps to pause and make a plan to figure out where you want to go and how to get there. With a clear map, you can handle any rough terrain, forks in the road, or unma...2023-11-2937 minThe Plant PathWorking with the Whole PlantAs you begin your herbal exploration, you’ll notice that there are a lot of books out there that either talk about a plant’s spiritual or medicinal aspects–but rarely both. This separation of science and spirit mirrors the allopathic approach used in conventional medicine. The problem is that this separation doesn’t exist! The more I studied the alchemical perspective, the more I learned that an herb's physical and spiritual properties are connected. When you study herbs this way, you start to see them beyond what they treat, and into their core medicinal qualities...2023-11-1532 minThe Plant PathWorking with the Whole PersonHave you ever noticed how stress can make your body ache, your heart beat increase, or upset your digestion? Or vice versa and you eat a food your intolerant too and you get edgy, irritable or brain foggy? This happens because our mental, emotional, and physical health are all connected. Sadly, people often treat these aspects separately, which lead to treatments that don't address the whole picture. In my journey with herbalism, I discovered something amazing. Plants can heal more than just physical health issues. They can also help with deeper physical, mental, and emotional problems. By...2023-11-0831 minThe Plant PathIntegrative Global HerbalismHealing has always been a collaborative journey. In the past, herbalists united in their pursuit of healing, transcending cultural boundaries and traditions. This exchange of wisdom not only laid the foundation for the thriving global herbal community we have today, but also nurtured the seeds of a promising future for herbalism. In the past, learning about different herbal traditions demanded extensive travel. Now, the digital age bridges the gaps, offering instant access to herbal insights worldwide. The once-separated realms of herbal practices are converging, bringing in a new era of global herbalism. As our world em...2023-11-0129 minThe Plant Path5 Ways Vitalism Transformed My LifeDiving into the world of herbal medicine and the traditions that have carried it for a long time oftentimes introduces us to new concepts, principles, practices, and ways of seeing the world around us that aren’t often taught to us in our modern world. And sometimes there’s something there that changes your life forever. For me, the principles of vitalism were one of the biggest revolutionary moments in my life, not only as an herbalist, but as a human being. While I’ll share a bit more about the five ways vitalism transformed my life, they’re...2023-09-2036 minThe Plant PathVitalism and Learning From NatureHave you come across the idea of allopathic herbalism? This approach often highlights specific symptoms and conditions that certain herbs are “good for.” However, it has a limitation: it doesn't address the root causes of diseases. To achieve profound healing, it's crucial to go beyond simply matching herbs with symptoms. Embracing the traditional vitalist herbalism philosophy lets you explore the underlying energies beneath disease symptoms. This empowers you to choose herbs confidently, ensuring they consistently bring about lasting and effective healing results. In today’s episode, you’ll learn: Wa...2023-09-1328 minThe Plant PathVitalism Is NOT Just About HerbalismThe vitalist approach to healing is like an ecosystem, and herbalism is only one aspect of it. At its heart, vitalism is about living in accordance with nature. This means living harmoniously with it and learning to support your body’s natural intelligence through nutrition, hydration, rest, and other lifestyle habits. By understanding how vitalism extends into every corner of your life, you can make choices that energize and revitalize you. In today’s episode, you’ll learn: What the vitalist perspective is Why herbalism is only part of vitalism ...2023-09-0627 minThe Plant PathScience and Spirituality of HerbalismScience and spirituality are often painted as opposing forces. When this philosophy makes it into herbalism, you get a big divide between herbalists. Depending on their perspective, herbalists will typically choose a scientific or spiritual approach to healing. The problem with picking a side is that you only get one half of the picture. By seeing the unity of science and spirit and the importance of each, you can become a truly holistic healer. In today’s episode, you’ll learn: The key to transformational healing through embraci...2023-08-3027 minThe Plant PathVitalist Self-Care PracticesDo you wish that you felt more vitality? Many people wait until they have time to take a vacation or staycation to recharge, but postponing self-care until you truly need it can leave you feeling burned out. Instead of seeing self-care as an uphill battle, you can take small and achievable steps that enrich your day and make you feel great. In today’s blog post, I share simple yet life-changing self-care practices you can do that are rooted in the vitalist model of healing. In this week's episode, you’ll discover...2023-08-2326 minThe Plant PathAgrimony: The Tense but Relaxed RemedyAgrimony is the herb of paradox. On the one hand, it’s described as a relaxant,and on the other hand, as an astringent. How does it contract and relax a tissue at the same time?! What do you do when you find conflicting information surrounding the herb you’re studying? Although these two aspects of Agrimony may seem contradictory at first, there’s a way that you can study the herb that connects them to form a larger whole. By learning how to study herbs in this way, you gain the skillset to understand complex...2023-08-1631 minThe Plant PathLady's Mantle: The Little AlchemistStep into the enchanting world of Lady's Mantle, fondly known as the little alchemist. This captivating plant enthralls herbal enthusiasts and alchemists alike because of its profound connection with the Water Element. Lady's Mantle's alchemical correspondences are seen through its cup-shaped leaves that collect dew, and its balancing effects on dampness and lax tissues. Lady’s Mantle harmonizes with the water Element, thereby nurturing and revitalizing all systems in the body governed by it. In today’s plant profile, you’ll discover: How Lady’s Mantle’s astringent tas...2023-08-0231 minThe Plant PathCleavers: The Inner Water PurifierSometimes big medicine comes in the form of a small plant. Cleavers is one of those plants; humble and unassuming, yet a potent and highly useful remedy. It’s is like a water purifier for your body. It cleanses the lymphatics, flushes the kidneys, and offers pain relief for urinary tract infections. Cleavers teaches us that it's not always best to use the strongest remedies, but rather sometimes the milder medicines yield the best results. Sometimes, it's the gentle ones that possess a subtle yet profound ability to restore balance and promote true healing from with...2023-07-2631 minThe Plant PathAlchemy and Herbalism Part IV- Illness as InitiationAlchemy provides a unique perspective on health and disease that differs from conventional medicine. According to this philosophy, periods of sickness and health are as natural as the changing of the seasons. Alchemy views illness as an initiation. From this perspective, sickness provides you with the opportunity to heal underlying patterns and undergo transformation. One of the best forms of herbal remedies to help you with this process is spagyrics. Because these medicines work on the chemical, energetic, and spiritual levels, they correct health imbalances at their root and help you emerge more whole than b...2023-05-1029 minThe Plant PathAlchemy and Herbalism Part III- Spiritual Herbal PharmacySpagyrics is the branch of the alchemical tradition that specifically concerns itself with the preparation and processing of medicinal plants. One of the unique attributes of spagyric preparations is that they are specifically designed to concentrate the physical, energetic and spiritual qualities of the plants in a singular extract. This process separates, purifies, and recombines the Three Principles of a plant, known as Sulfur, Mercury, and Salt, resulting in a uniquely powerful herbal medicine. Spagyric medicine is unique to alchemy and offers a holistic approach to healing by addressing an individual's physical, spiritual, and energetic well-being. This...2023-05-0330 minThe Plant PathAlchemy and Herbalism Part II - As Above, So Below: The Macrocosm and Microcosm in People and PlantsAlchemy is a philosophy and practice that can enhance herbalism. By re-integrating spirituality with science, you can unlock the full potential of herbal medicine. This involves understanding the practical alchemical framework, which focuses on preparing and administering herbal medicine with a holistic perspective. By integrating the philosophy into your herbalism practice,you can achieve transformative healing for yourself and your community. In today’s episode, you’ll learn: About alchemy’s core philosophical roots The alchemical framework for understanding the body, spirit, and soul How to...2023-04-2628 minThe Plant PathAlchemy and Herbalism Part I- The Science and Spirituality of HerbalismThe science and spirit of herbalism are often taught separately. The problem with this approach is that they are two sides of the same leaf, and separating them leads to a fractured and incomplete understanding of herbalism. The alchemical philosophy unites them to generate a holistic perspective that can transform your herbalism practice into one that’s truly holistic. In today’s episode, you’ll learn: About alchemy’s roots and how it led to the modern scientific system used today How alchemy bridges science and spirituality Ways alchemy can help you become a holistic practitioner About the be...2023-04-1920 minThe Plant PathPotentizing Your Herbal Medicine Using AstrologyOne of the most powerful ways you can potentiate your herbal remedies is through the integration of astrological techniques. Through combining the energetics and spirit of time into your medicine making, you can create the most potent and concentrated remedies possible. In today’s episode, you’ll learn: The Western model for understanding the energetics and spirit of time Seven patterns for identifying the planetary ruler of an herb How to choose the best time day and time to harvest your herbs Approaches to medicine making in accordance with the Moon ———————————— CONNECT WITH SAJAH AND WHITNEY ————...2023-03-0822 minThe Plant PathFrom Sick Care to Health Care: The Advantages of Preventive Astro-HerbalismThe current healthcare system focuses on managing disease after it has occurred instead of preventing its onset. Alternatively, holistic herbalism is a wellness-first approach that emphasizes disease prevention. Through it, you can effectively address disease potentials and correct imbalances to prevent their onset. One of my favorite tools for this is the natal chart, which is a part of Astro-Herbalism. By shifting the focus from disease management to disease prevention, you can create a more proactive and holistic approach to healthcare. In today’s episode, you’ll learn2023-03-0117 minThe Plant PathElecampane: The Deep BreatherElecampane has become one of my personal favorite respiratory remedies over the years, not just for its medicinal benefits for many of the common respiratory woes people face today, but as a choice restorative agent. Whether you make it into a tincture or enjoy the syrup, Elecampane is a remedy every herbalist should know. In today’s episode, you’ll learn: Elecampane’s pungent and aromatic taste and how it corresponds to its core respiratory properties Why this herb is a primo respiratory remedy The connection between Elecampane and homesickness Elecampane’s corresponden...2023-01-1831 minThe Plant PathHyssop: A Biblical RemedyHyssop is an ancient herb with biblical references and spiritual indications. This herb is also an important part of the Western Materia Medica. This combination of information from ancient sources and the modern scientific model lends a unique perspective on this plant and how you can use it in your herbalism practice. In today’s episode, you’ll learn: Hyssop’s ancient and biblical roots The medicinal properties of Hyssop’s aromatic bitter taste Hyssop’s unique application as a cough medicine The psychological and emotional indications for Hyssop Its relationship to Jupiter and M...2023-01-1134 minThe Plant PathMedicine of the EvergreensEvergreen trees are revered around the world for their medicinal properties, rich folklore, and uplifting symbolism. Although you might be familiar with these trees from your walks through the forest or the holiday seasons, this year you can take your knowledge to the next level by learning how to use them medicinally at home and for your loved ones. In today’s episode, you’ll learn: How the aromatic, pungent, and sour tastes correspond to Evergreens’ herbal actions The Evergreens' affinity for the upper respiratory tract and other organ systems What Evergreens symbolize in traditions around the world...2022-12-1423 minThe Plant PathMugwort: The Herb of DreamsMugwort is a plant famed for its effects on dreaming, but its medicinal properties and actions do so much more than that. With a distinct effect on the nervous, digestive, hepatobiliary, and reproductive systems, Mugwort navigates, regulates, and balances the highways that connect them all. In today’s episode, you’ll discover: Mugwort’s unique flavor profile and how this leads to its complex actions How Mugwort impacts the nervous, digestive, and reproductive systems Why this is a perfect remedy for highly sensitive people Its relationship to both the Moon and Venus Different...2022-12-0731 minThe Plant PathFirst Do No Harm: The Herbalist’s EditionAll herbalists have one fear in common, and that’s accidentally causing harm to someone using herbs. However, the likelihood of this occurring is lower than you might think. By understanding the pathways in which herbs affect the body, you can practice with greater safety and confidence. In today’s episode, you’ll learn: How herbs affect the body physiologically and energetically Safety practices for microdosing herbs About the importance of follow-ups and receiving feedback Strategies for preventing herb-drug interactions How to use herbalism as an adjunctive therapy when tapering off medication ———————————— CONNECT WITH SAJAH AND WHITNEY —...2022-10-2617 minThe Plant PathVitalism is NOT just about HerbalismThe vitalist approach to healing is like an ecosystem, and herbalism is only one aspect of it. At its heart, vitalism is about living in accordance with nature. This means living harmoniously with it and learning to support your body’s natural intelligence through nutrition, hydration, rest, and other lifestyle habits. By understanding how vitalism extends into every corner of your life, you can make choices that energize you and fill you with vitality. In today’s blog post, you’ll learn: The history and purpose of the vitalist perspective Why herbalism is only pa...2022-10-0528 minThe Plant PathBlue Vervain: The Burned-Out and Overworked RemedyBlue Vervain is one of the most effective relaxant remedies in the Western Materia Medica. You can use Blue Vervain for a full spectrum approach to alleviating tension, whether that be psychological or a stiff neck. This herb acts as the conduit between your nervous and musculoskeletal systems, so you feel a sense of relief not only in the mind but in the body as well. In today’s episode, you’ll learn: The significance of the bitter and acrid tastes and their effects on the body and nervous system Blue Vervain’s unique...2022-09-2825 minThe Plant PathMarshmallow: The Great MoistenerMarshmallow’s Latin name is Althea, and its family name is Malvaceae. While Althea derives from the Greek altho and means to cure, Malvaceae is from the Greek word malake, which means soft. With these two simple words, you know almost everything about Marshmallow’s key signature and how its softening and moistening effects impact the body and mind. In today’s episode, you’ll learn: What Marshmallow tastes like and how this corresponds to its actions in the body Its unique influences on the mucosal membranes in the respiratory, digestive, genitourinary, and reprod...2022-09-0723 minThe Plant PathHow Many Remedies Should You Give at a Time?Some client cases are straightforward, while others leave you scratching your head and unsure where to begin. If you have ever had a client with a myriad of symptoms, you might worry that you are giving them too many herbs, formulas, or are altogether overwhelming them. Just because your client’s case is complicated does not mean your protocol needs to be. Through learning techniques for working through complex cases, you can make your herbal protocols as simple and effective as possible. In today’s episode, you’ll learn: Different approache...2022-08-3118 minThe Plant PathChamomile: Beyond the TeabagChamomile is a familiar plant with an unmistakable scent and flavor. It is one of the most popularly used and loved herbs, and most folks have a box of it sitting in their cupboard. Although sipping on some Chamomile tea at the end of the day is nice, its medicinal properties are complex, and there are different preparations you can make with it. By taking a deeper look into this plant, you can learn about the specific indications and unique properties that make this herb indispensable to the Western Materia Medica. In t...2022-08-2421 minThe Plant PathHerbs for a Healthy Urinary SystemThe urinary system is one of the main eliminatory pathways of the body. When it becomes blocked, detoxification is inhibited, and infections and kidney stones can occur. The first step you need to take before taking herbal medicine is identifying the underlying tissue state of your unique condition. By doing so, you can select herbs with precision to alleviate painful symptoms while resolving the issue at its core. In today’s episode, you’ll learn: The urinary system’s primary functions How the 6 tissue states express themselves in the urinary system Spe...2022-08-1720 minThe Plant PathThe Herbalist’s Approach to Liver HeatYour liver is responsible for metabolizing every waste product that your body produces, as well as everything you put into your body, good and bad. In this way, the liver is central to the health of the entire body, for it is a nutrient storehouse and makes sure everything stays pure and clean. When its functioning becomes affiliated, it can lead to a number of health concerns, both on the physical level and the psychological emotional levels. One of the most prevalent and disabling ones is headaches. By supporting your liver, you can resolve the very source that causes...2022-07-2712 minThe Plant PathThe Three Pillars of Effective Herbal FormulationsAn effective herbal formula does not happen on its own. While you can combine a bunch of herbs and hope they work together, the results will often lack consistency and precision. By integrating a methodology into your medicine-making practice, you gain the knowledge and skills you need to make dependably effective formulas every time. In this week’s episode, you’ll learn: The main differences between Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine formulating approaches versus the Western method The three essential strategies you need to make an effective herbal formula How to fine-tune your formula and tailor...2022-06-2216 minThe Plant PathIs Cholesterol REALLY the problem?Although the conventional approach to lowering cholesterol often includes medication, adopting a holistic perspective and taking a multifaceted approach can help you absolve the root of the problem and allay symptoms. In today’s episode, you’ll learn: What cholesterol is and the roles it plays in the body How high cholesterol impacts health The conventional versus herbal approach to addressing high cholesterol Critical herbal categories and herbs for lowering cholesterol How to eat for healthy cholesterol levels ———————————— CONNECT WITH SAJAH AND WHITNEY ———————————— To get free in depth mini-courses and videos, visit our blog at: http://www.evol...2022-06-1512 minThe Plant PathYour Herbal First-Aid KitEveryone experiences scrapes, cuts, and bruises at times. Therefore, everyone could benefit from an herbal first-aid kit at home. Simple and straightforward, herbal wound care is the best step to take if you’re new to herbalism, and always nice to refresh on if you’re advanced. In today’s episode you’ll learn: The herbal approach to wound care The main herbal actions used in herbal wound care Specific herbs and their indications When to use moistening or drying herbs Why beeswax based salves are sometimes contraindic...2022-06-0821 minThe Plant PathLearning to Listen: How Much of an Herb Should You Use?Low dosing and high dosing with herbal medicine are two practices as old as herbalism itself. So which one is better, and which should you use in your practice? As you will see, there are unique benefits attributed to both, as well as circumstances where one may be favored over the other. In this week's episode you'll learn: -Low dosing and high dosing are two valid and well practiced methods in herbalism. -Low dosing focuses on subtly shifting the vital body by using 1-3 drops of herbal medicine. -High dosing focuses...2022-06-0109 minThe Plant PathHow to Treat a Condition You’ve Never Heard OfAs an herbalist, facing a condition you’ve never heard of is a rite of passage. However, how you respond is up to you. There’s a universal method you can employ when treating all conditions- familiar or ones you’ve never heard of. By using postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) to illustrate this method, you’ll learn: How to approach a condition you've never heard of What the six tissue states are and how they express themselves in disease Which herbs alleviate the various tissue state imbalances How I approached figuring out how to treat POTS ...2022-05-2532 minThe Plant PathNot Just Candy: How to Use Licorice Root SafelyLicorice is likely one of the most commonly used herbs across the world because it has such a wide range of effects and ways it can be used. Despite its popularity, there are contraindications that are often overlooked. This herb can increase blood pressure in both healthy and vulnerable populations. However, by understanding its effects on the cardiovascular system and how to use it safely, you can use this herb confidently in your herbal practice. In today’s episode, you’ll learn about: The medicinal benefits of Licorice in a formula or by itself The side effects and contr...2022-05-2414 minThe Plant PathLogistics of Seeing ClientsRunning a private practice can be difficult, especially when you’ve never learned the logistics of how to do so in school. Although you can learn through trial and error, there are some tried and true practices you can implement to increase your professionalism and proficiency as a practicing herbalist. In today’s episode you’ll learn: The different ways you can meet with clients How long your consultations should be How to determine the correct remedy Different ways to ensure your client receives their formula How to lead a successful follow-up and how often to...2022-05-1122 minThe Plant PathBirth Chart Conjunct Human: What to Look For in a Natal ChartThe natal chart, also known as the birth chart, can be a powerful assessment tool in your astro-herbalism practice. Although analyzing a natal chart may seem daunting at first, there are specific planetary placements you can study that reveal information about your physical characteristics, health patterns, and overall constitution. This information can help you understand underlying imbalances that fuel disease and how to absolve it at its root using natural health protocols. In today’s episode, you’ll learn about: Which planetary placements in the natal chart are most significant to study concer...2022-03-2311 minThe Plant PathThe Celestial Language of PlantsMedical astrology can transform the way you see and work with people. However, did you know you can also use it to better understand the plants? By learning about the planetary forces and the ways they express themselves through medicinal herbs, you can gain a deeper understanding of how and why the plants work the way they do, as well as how they interact with the body. In this week’s episode, you’ll learn: About the intersection of medical astrology and herbalism The problem with compartmentalized learning The Western vs. alchemical perspective of plants How planet...2022-03-1625 minThe Plant PathSix Steps to Herbal Competence and ConfidenceThe two most common roadblocks an herbalist will face in their path is the fear that they lack the competence and confidence necessary to be a good practitioner. While it might feel more comfortable to read herbal books than to speak with people, the role of the herbalist isn’t to simply amass knowledge, but to use what they’ve learned to help people! By resolving these two fears, you can unlock your potential as an herbal healer and help people experience vibrant health. In this week’s episode, you’ll learn: About the importance of breaking...2022-02-0223 minThe Plant PathThe Missing Piece of Your Herbal EquationThere are two parts to studying herbalism: Understanding the body and understanding the herbs used to treat it. Unfortunately, one of these often gets forgotten, leading to a practice that is deficient in essential information. To become a proficient herbalist, you must become fluent in the language of the two worlds of plants and people, which so vividly mirror each other. In this week’s episode, you’ll learn: The importance of understanding the body How your knowledge of the body intersects with herbalism Areas of study to focus on regarding the body How to co...2022-01-2610 minThe Plant PathYour Body: More Than a MachineThe body can be viewed as an ecosystem or machine, and these varying paradigms significantly impact how you view and treat disease, and certainly how you use herbal medicines. With each offering a unique perspective to healing, it’s the combination of both that is stronger than its parts. In this week’s blog post, you’ll learn: What vitalism is and why it matters The biomedical versus vitalist approach to healing The language of the six tissue states How to combine these two perspectives in your practice ———————————— CONNECT WITH SAJAH AND WHITNEY ———————————— To get...2022-01-1915 minThe Plant PathYour Body is NatureAs a microcosm of nature, the human body contains the cosmos within it. By developing a deep understanding of the ways in which the patterns, rhythms, and cycles of nature intimately affect the human body and its internal processes, you can pinpoint what needs to be balanced and which herbs will do the best job doing so. In this week’s episode, you’ll learn: How the patterns of nature reflect that of the body The two main approaches to healing: Ecosystem vs. machine The definition and role of Energetics in herbalism How to connect with natur...2022-01-1217 minThe Plant PathParty of One? Herbs for Social AnxietyAlthough everyone experiences social anxiety differently, the symptoms of discomfort are often the same; an increased sense of tension, nervousness, and distress when in social atmospheres. Herbalism can be used before, during, and after occasions to ameliorate the uncomfortable emotional and physical symptoms that result from social anxiety. By learning about the herbs that assist with social anxiety along with their specific indications, you can identify the remedy that will be most beneficial to you. In today’s episode, you’ll learn about: The different sources that fuel social anxiety Herbal remedies and the...2021-12-0816 minThe Plant PathHerbal Remedies for the Irritable MindIn herbalism, frequent irritability is an emotional state associated with the liver and an imbalance of excess heat. By practicing inquiry, exercising healthy lifestyle habits, and taking herbs that cool, restore, and nourish the nervous system, you can diffuse the pattern of irritability and develop a newfound sense of calm and relaxation in your life. In today’s blog episode, you’ll learn: About how the stress response works and its relation to the HPA-axis How to use herbs to regulate the HPA-axis Specific herbs that assist in lowering irritability and their unique indications Whether...2021-11-1817 min
Feed Your Wild with Venessa RodriguezThe Magic of Herbal Alchemy & Art of Spagyrics with Sajah PophamWe have Sajah Popham back on the podcast to talk to us about herbal alchemy & spagyrics! Sajah is author of Evolutionary Herbalism and the founder of the School of Evolutionary Herbalism, where he trains herbalists in a holistic system of plant medicine that encompasses clinical western herbalism, medical astrology, Ayurveda, and spagyric alchemy. In this episode, we go into what Alchemy is... Sajah breaks down the word, the historical lineage and how it's rooted in the transformational process of nature. He tells us how the alchemical tradition really looks at the wholeness of plants, people an...2021-10-251h 17The Plant PathWhere to Begin with Making SpagyricsWhen you’re studying alchemical herbalism, the first step towards making spagyric medicine is with making the seven basics. You can complete this process in two ways; by looking outside yourself for quick answers or by developing a relationship that requires time and patience. Although the first may be tempting, taking your time yields an unparalleled potency. In today’s blog post, you’ll learn: How to integrate your intellectual knowledge into actionable steps What the “seven basics” are in the alchemical tradition Why it’s worthwhile to skip shortcuts and take the long route when making spagyri...2021-10-1425 minThe Plant PathCultural Differences in Medicine MakingHerbal medicine is and has always been, the peoples’ medicine. Just as there’s significant variation in the people and cultures that fill our world, there’s a myriad of medicine-making techniques that reflect these differences. What are some traditional forms of medicine making and how do they compare to today’s more "scientific" approaches to herbal pharmacy? Furthermore, is there one that’s better than the rest? In today’s topic, we’ll be discussing: How formulating herbal medicine is a practice as nuanced as the development of herbalism itself The ancient, modern...2021-09-1017 minThe Plant PathThe Herbal Detox MythDetoxification felt like a big fad for a while, where like everyone was cleansing and detoxing and trying to purge a lot of things that shouldn't be in the body out of the body. And they turn to herbal medicines in order to assist in that process. While it’s great that folks are considering their health and wanting to make sure that their bodies are pure and clean and functioning properly, we do run into some issues with detoxification. So this is an important topic to discuss. ———————————— CONNECT WITH SAJAH AND WHITNEY ———————————— T...2021-08-2618 minThe Plant PathThe Importance of Moistening PlantsMost herbs tend to be drying in nature. They're bitter or they're warming or they're astringent. The dynamic of dryness in terms of the state of our tissues or the state of someone's constitution is common. We live in a culture that is common for people to have an underlying state of dryness. So I tell my students that it's best to learn and know and memorize and integrate all the herbs that are typically moistening, and especially what organ systems they are moistening for. After that, you can assume that most other herbs are drying. 2021-08-1836 min
Boundless LifeEvolutionary Herbalism: Part 2 - The Fascinating Science, Spirituality & Medicines Of The Plant Kingdom With Sajah Popham. bengreenfieldfitness.com/evolutionaryherbalism2 When I interviewed Gordon Wilson in the show "Are Christians Destroying The Environment? A Biblical Approach to Environmentalism and the “Dominion Mandate.”, I mentioned a book called The Lost Language of Plants by Stephen Buhner, which describes the innate intelligence built into the plant kingdom, and the loss of natural connectivity we rational, scientific humans have developed when it comes to the plant kingdom. Since then, I've continued my interest in the, shall we say, more spiritual, medicinal, and little-known aspects of the plant kingdom, including trees, leaves, roots, herbs, flowers, flower esse...2021-08-1251 min
Ben Greenfield Fitness: Diet, Fat Loss and PerformanceEvolutionary Herbalism: Part 2 - The Fascinating Science, Spirituality & Medicines Of The Plant Kingdom With Sajah Popham. bengreenfieldfitness.com/evolutionaryherbalism2 When I interviewed Gordon Wilson in the show "Are Christians Destroying The Environment? A Biblical Approach to Environmentalism and the "Dominion Mandate.", I mentioned a book called The Lost Language of Plants by Stephen Buhner, which describes the innate intelligence built into the plant kingdom, and the loss of natural connectivity we rational, scientific humans have developed when it comes to the plant kingdom. Since then, I've continued my interest in the, shall we say, more spiritual, medicinal, and little-known aspects of the plant kingdom, including trees, leaves, roots, herbs, flowers, flower essences, essential oils, plant medicines...2021-08-1256 minThe Plant PathTerrain vs. Germ TheoryWhy do we get sick? When we're speaking about getting sick from some sort of pathogen, do we get sick because there are pathogenic germs that get into our body and make us sick, or do we get sick because of the terrain of the body, the ecosystem of the body, that is creating an environment that is then hospitable to those germs? It's almost a “Which came first, the chicken or the egg?” kind of question. ———————————— CONNECT WITH SAJAH AND WHITNEY ———————————— To get free in depth mini-courses and videos, visit our blog at: http://www.evolutionaryherbalis...2021-08-1011 minThe Plant PathAddicted to BittersBitters are a common category of herbal medicine that are universally used to support digestion. While bitters are amazing and incredible in all the many ways in which they support the digestive system, they're not always the most appropriate type of remedy for people to use. In our modern world where it seems like almost everyone has a digestive symptom of some sort, bitters are becoming significantly more and more popular and are commonly used by lay folk who aren't herbalists. There is some danger there in terms of whether bitters are appropriate for certain people with...2021-08-0411 minThe Plant PathWillow Bark vs. AspirinIt's common for folks to think about willow as an alternative to aspirin. Most people know that willow bark also contains salicylic acid, which is the main compound in aspirin. But if we think of willow just as an herbal form of aspirin, it can oftentimes lead to misuse of this plant, which can lead to possible adverse side effects if you give it to the wrong person. But I also think that, contrary to popular belief, there are times where aspirin has its place. I have been adopting a little bit more of an open mind...2021-07-2220 minThe Plant PathInterview with Kami McBrideHerbal oil applied to the skin is an excellent form of self-care. Oils provide several benefits: there’s the healing from the medicinal constituents of the herb, the affirmation that we’re taking care of ourselves, and the self-healing power of physical touch. We need to overcome the incorrect notion that infused oils are for skincare or to look pretty or to take away wrinkles. We do need to keep in mind that when we use oils, we’re absorbing things into our skin. That’s why herb-based oils are better than petroleum-based oils. This week’s podcast gu...2021-07-1355 minThe Plant PathHerbal Support for ADD and ADHDUsing plants to address ADD and ADHD can be beneficial for children on so many different levels, not just helping them navigate our standard educational model, which isn't always suitable to all learning types, but also helping to keep these kids off of some of these stronger medications that they're put on and some of the detrimental side effects that they can have, not to mention helping parents navigate some of this territory. ———————————— CONNECT WITH SAJAH AND WHITNEY ———————————— To get free in depth mini-courses and videos, visit our blog at: http://www.evolutionaryherbalism.com 2021-07-0612 minThe Plant PathEating for Your ConstitutionAs Ayurveda has become popular, interest in eating according to your constitutional type has grown. Over the last few years we've seen this dynamic of eating and tailoring your diet to specifically suit your unique dosha. And while I think there are some great aspects to that, I also think there are a few risks in terms of how we approach food, how we approach eating, the state of our mind, how we think about our food, and how sometimes we can turn food into a stressor. A few topics discussed in this epi...2021-07-0119 min
SuperFeast PodcastThe Science & Spirit Of Herbal Medicine with Sajah PophamIn this rich conversation, Mason sits down with the brilliant herbalist Sajah Popham; Founder of School Of Evolutionary Herbalism and Organic Unity in southern Oregon, for a journey into the otherworldly space of plant alchemy, herbal remedies, spagyric medicine, and the inextricable relationship between man and our magically healing plant friends. Geared with both the Science and esoteric understanding of herbal medicine and trained in real alchemy by the great Robert Bartlett, Sajah brings a holistic understanding of the universal truths and principles that govern plants and healing. Sajah's depth of knowledge and reverence for plants as...2021-03-1652 min