Herbcast
Delving into the plant-powered world of herbalism. A podcast for budding herbalist and botanical beginners alike, subscribe to the Herbcast and explore how herbs can be integrated in our every day lives. Meet some of the world’s most renowned herbalists, here to inspire you to use herbs safely, effectively and sustainably.
Episodes
Herbcast Season 5 - Coming soon!
Introducing Herbcast Series 5!Welcome back to Herbcast from Herbal Reality. We’re delighted to bring you our fifth series, this time with a focus on exploring the intersection of Herbalism and Modern Healthcare.Join Simon Mills & Sebastian Pole as they return to hosting duties to delve into the rich tapestry of herbal medicine and its relationship with contemporary healthcare. This series is a
Revelations on Women's Health - Reflections on Season 4 with Marion Mackonochie and Sebastian Pole
Women's Health Revelations from Season 4 with Sebastian & Marion Welcome back to a brand new series of Herbcast. We’re beginning series 5 with a look back at series 4, as Sebastian welcomes back herbalist and researcher Marion Mackonochie back to discuss the insights gained from her series on women's health. Sebastian and Marion delve into the rich conversations Marion had with various expert
Herbal support during pregnancy: Guidance on safety with herbalists Eve Brazil and Simon Mills
Herbal support during pregnancy: Guidance on safety with herbalists Eve Brazil and Simon Mills.In this episode of Herbcast, editor and first-time host Eve sits down with veteran herbal practitioner, educator, and author Simon Mills to explore one of the most sensitive and deeply important topics in herbal care: using herbs safely during pregnancy.With over four decades of clinical experience and c
A Healthy Power Portal: Taking Control of Your Vaginal Health with herbalist Kathie Bishop
In this episode of Herbcast, Marion Mackonochie talks with medical herbalist Kathie Bishop about vaginal health, why it’s so often overlooked, how the vaginal microbiome really works, and the herbal and holistic strategies that can make a difference. Kathie shares her personal story of recurrent thrush from childhood into her 30s, what finally helped, and why every person’s microbiome and needs ar
Endometriosis Naturally: Herbs, Healing & Hormones with Claire Goulding
In this episode of Herbcast, host Marion Mackonochie sits down with Claire Goulding, a medical herbalist and aromatherapist, to discuss the complexities of endometriosis and the natural ways to support those affected by this challenging condition. Claire shares her personal journey with endometriosis, revealing how her own experiences shaped her passion for women's health and herbal medicine.The c
Caring for Women with Cancer: How Herbs can Help with Herbalist Nadia Brydon
In this episode of Herbcast, Nadia Brydon shares with Marion her extensive experience in holistic cancer care, stemming from her personal journey. She discusses the importance of nutrition, emotional support, and various healing modalities in supporting women with cancer. Nadia emphasises the role of hydration, particularly through smoothies and juices, and provides insights into post-chemotherapy
Navigating Complex Conditions in Practice with Simon Mills and Dr Christopher Etheridge
In this episode, Simon Mills engages in a deep conversation with long-time collaborator Chris Etheridge, about the intricacies of herbal medicine and its application in clinical practice. With over two decades of experience, Chris shares his journey into herbalism, inspired by cherished memories of his grandmother's herb garden and a lifelong passion for chemistry.The discussion navigates the chal
Ancient Wisdom for Modern Fertility: Chinese Herbal Approaches with Naava Carman
Ancient Wisdom for Modern Fertility: Chinese Herbal ApproachesIn this episode of Herbcast, we hear the nuances of Traditional Chinese Medicine and how it intersects with modern biomedical practices and women’s health, particularly in the context of pregnancy and fertility challenges. Today’s guest is Naava Carman, traditional Chinese medicine practitioner, experienced fertility herbalist, and foun
A healthy herbal pregnancy the Ayurvedic way with Kate Siraj
In this episode of Herbcast, host Marion Mackonochie engages in a fascinating discussion with Ayurvedic practitioner Kate Siraj about embracing a healthy herbal pregnancy through the lens of Ayurveda. Ayurvedic Practitioner, Shadow Work Facilitator and co-founder of The Ayurveda Academy, Kate Siraj is a fully qualified Ayurvedic Practitioner (BSc Ayurveda, MAPA-B) and has a Master of Chemistr
To HRT or not-to-HRT? The herbal path through the menopause with Melinda McDougall
In this episode of Herbcast, host Marion Mackonochie talks with herbalist Melinda McDougall, a specialist in natural menopause support.Together, they navigate the complexities of menopause, addressing the pivotal question: to HRT or not to HRT? Melinda shares her extensive knowledge and experience, providing insights into the holistic approaches available for women undergoing this significant life
Period Pain: What's 'Normal', What's Not, and What Herbs Can Do About It with Rosemary Umolu
Period Pain: What's 'Normal', What's Not, and What Herbs Can Do About It In this episode of Herbcast, Marion Mackonochie talks with herbalist Rosemary Umolu, who is dedicated to supporting women through the complexities of menstruation, pregnancy, and childbirth. Together, they explore the often-overlooked topic of period pain, distinguishing between what is considered normal and what might i
Do The Herbs Work? Evidence, Tradition and the Science Behind Women's Health with Hananja Brice-Ytsma
In this episode of Herbcast, host Marion Mackonochie welcomes esteemed herbalist Hananja Brice-Ytsma, a fellow of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists with over 35 years of experience. Together, they talk about the intricate relationship between herbal medicine and women's health, exploring the evidence, tradition, and empirical knowledge surrounding this vital field.The conversation highl
How Herbalism Supports Fertility and a Healthy Menstrual Cycle
In this episode of Herbcast, host Marion Mackonochie welcomes esteemed herbalist Marie Reilly, who brings over 20 years of experience in medical herbalism to the table. With a rich background that includes a master's degree focused on female functional infertility, Marie shares her insights on how herbal medicine can effectively support reproductive health.The conversation delves into the myriad o
Herbalism for Birth, Breastfeeding, and Beyond with Carole Guyett
In this episode of Herbcast, host Marion Mackonochie converses with experienced herbalist Carole Guyett, who has been immersed in the field since 1987. Together, they discuss the essential role of herbal medicine in supporting women through the transformative journeys of birth and breastfeeding.Carole imparts her extensive expertise in assisting women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpart
Hormonal Imbalance: Symptoms, Syndromes and Herbal Solutions with Sara Rooney
In this episode of Herbcast, host Marion Mackonochie engages in a compelling discussion with medical herbalist Sara Rooney, who specialises in women's health. Together, they explore the intricate world of hormone balance, shedding light on how understanding our hormonal cycles can empower women to optimise their health.Sara delves into the vital roles hormones play in our daily lives, emphasising
Herbcast Season 4 Trailer: Women's Health with Marion Mackonochie
Herbal Solutions for Women's Health - Series 4 Coming Soon!Get ready for an exciting new series of Herbcast, where we turn our focus to women's health and the vital role herbal medicine plays throughout the stages of a woman's life. Introducing your brand new host for series 4, the brilliant Marion Mackonochie, a clinical herbalist and herbal medicine researcher, who will be guiding us throug
The Future of Herbal Medicine: Why Herbs Deserve a Bigger Role in Mainstream Healthcare with Seb and Simon
**Correction to the discussion on degree courses: there is one still running at Lincoln College**.Join us for an enlightening discussion with seasoned herbalists Simon Mills and Sebastian Pole as they delve into the evolving landscape of herbal medicine and its integration into modern healthcare. This episode tackles the critical question: why isn't herbalism more mainstream, despite its proven be
The Herbalist’s Guide to Adaptogens: Stress, Immunity & Energy Support with David Winston
Adaptogens: The great rejuvenators with David WinstonIn this episode, Sebastian welcomes renowned herbalist and educator David Winston, whose five decades of experience span herbal traditions from North America to Asia. David, a founder of the American Herbalist Guild and author of *Adaptogens: Herbs for Strength, Stamina, and Stress Relief*, offers a deep dive into the fascinating world of adapto
The Mind-Heart Connection: Adaptogens & Nervines for Emotional & Cardiovascular Health with Vilma Matuleviciute
Join us as we cross the Irish Sea to delve into the heart of herbal practice with Vilma Matuleviciute, a seasoned herbalist and naturopath based in Ireland. With over two decades of experience, Vilma shares her insights on the multifaceted approach to heart health, combining the physiological with the emotional.In this enlightening episode, we explore the unique challenges of practising herbalism
Herbs for Cold & Flu Season: The Power of Yarrow, Peppermint & Elderflower with Dr. Amparo Aracil
Herbs for Colds and Fevers: The Diaphoretics with Dr. Amparo AracilIn this episode, we explore how diaphoretic herbs can boost immunity and help manage seasonal infections. Discover how these herbs regulate body temperature, improve circulation, and support the body's immune response.With extensive training and practice, Dr. Aracil blends herbal and medical expertise. Their holistic approach combi
The Power of Bitter Herbs: Unlocking Their Role in Digestion, Hormones & Energy with Guido Masé
Enter the world of bitter herbs, and learn about their historical significance and modern-day applications with expert herbalist Guido Masé. As a renowned herbalist, gardener, and educator, Guido shares his extensive knowledge of how bitters can enhance digestion, regulate appetite, and support metabolic health.Guido Masé RH(AHG) is a clinical herbalist, educator, and garden steward speciali
Herbs for Stress, Mood & Memory: Unlocking the Power of Nervines & Nootropics with Julian Barker
Ever wondered how herbs can influence your mood and stress levels? We explore the world of nervines, nootropics, and sedatives with the esteemed Julian Barker. A seasoned herbalist and philosopher, Julian shares his vast knowledge of how these herbs can help manage emotions, memory, and cognitive function.Julian Barker taught in England and France before becoming a theatrical and literary agent in
The Power of Breath: Herbal & Holistic Approaches to Lung Health with Rumana Zahn
Have you ever stopped to appreciate the simple act of breathing? Each inhale brings life-giving oxygen into our bodies, but what happens when this effortless process becomes a struggle? In this episode Ramana Zahn reminds us that healing is a holistic journey that requires us to look at the body as an interconnected system.About Rumana: A Clinic Director and Consultant Naturopath, ND, BSc (Hons),
Gut Health, Hormones & The Urinary System: Herbal Remedies for Women’s Health with Dr. Sally Moorcroft
Revealing the secrets of botanical medicine in treating urinary and kidney health, Dr. Sally Moorcroft discusses the vital link between the gut microbiome and urinary function. Hear real-life success stories of patients finding relief from chronic conditions through herbal interventions.About Sally: Integrative and function doctor. MBChB, BSc(Hons), MCPP, MFHom(Med). Clinical Lead Dr. Moorcroft ha
The Power of Alterative Herbs: Detox, Blood Cleansing & Beyond with Graeme Tobyn
From Burdock to Blood Cleansers: dive into the power of alterative herbs with Sebastian Pole and today’s guest Graeme Tobyn. With over a quarter-century of expertise, Graeme brings his wealth of knowledge from his roles as a herbalist, educator, and author, currently enriching minds at the University of Lancashire.About Graeme: Graeme Tobyn graduated from Leeds University in 1978 with a degree in
Herbs for Women's Health: Balancing Hormones, Fertility & Wellbeing with Ginny Kemp
Join Herbal Reality’s Simon Mills Embark on a journey through the delicate intricacies of women's health with expert herbalist Ginny Kemp. With a medical science background, Ginny discovered her calling in the world of herbs back in 2007. Since then, she has cultivated a thriving practice with a particular emphasis on women's health.Ginny delves deep into a case study that epitomises the power of
Healing the Liver Naturally: How Herbal Medicine Supports Detox & Balance with Marion Mackonochie
Welcome to series 3 of Herbcast!In this episode, Sebastian Pole is joined by Marion Mackonochie, a seasoned herbalist, senior advisor at Pukka, and editor of the Journal of Herbal Medicine. In this liver-focused episode of Herbcast, Marion and Sebastian navigate the complexities of hepatics – the category of herbs that support the liver, our body's metabolic maestro. They discuss signs of liver im
Foraging for Health: How to Reconnect with Nature & Eat Sustainably with Robin Harford
“That coming together, gathering foods and gathering medicines is deeply healing and satisfying and an enjoyable way to experience life. And it’s simple and it’s free.”Robin Harford established his wild food foraging school in 2008, and his foraging courses are listed at the top of BBC Countryfile’s ‘Best foraging courses in the UK’. He is the creator of eatweeds.co.uk. Michelin chef Richard Corri
How to Ensure Your Herbal Supplements Are Safe & Effective with Mark Blumenthal
“If something is irreparably defective, either because it's adulterated intentionally or accidentally contaminated, then it should be removed from the supply chain. ”With 50 years of diverse experience as an herbal advocate, consultant, educator, researcher, writer, and advisor, Mark Blumenthal has an extensive comprehensive background in herbs and medicinal plants. Mark is the Founder and Executi
Men, Mental Health & Herbal Medicine; How Herbalism Can Support Mental Resilience with Phil Deakin
“Suicide is the biggest cause of death in men under 50” Phil’s route to herbal practice has encompassed work as a doctor in hospitals, primary care and unscheduled care settings. Although he now identifies as a herbalist, his experiences in conventional healthcare have equipped him to reference a number of perspectives when supporting people with their health and wellbeing as a herbal practit
The Power of Food & Herbs in Healing Chronic Skin Conditions with Herbalist Alex Laird
“Keeping our blood sugar within limits and eating slow-releasing food is absolutely fundamental to inflammatory disease”Alex is a practising medical herbalist and phytotherapist with more than 20 years of experience. She runs the UK's first herbal clinic in hospital dermatology at Whipps Cross University Hospital, where she is tutor-practitioner to BSc herbal students. She also practises at Breast
Herbal Medicine & Cancer: A Holistic Approach to Healing & Prevention with Chanchal Cabrera
Chanchal is a medical herbalist and has been in clinical practice for 35 years with a specialty in holistic oncology. She is the author of Fibromyalgia: A Journey towards Healing and her latest book Holistic Cancer Care: An Herbal Approach to Preventing Cancer, Helping Patients Thrive during Treatment, and Minimizing the Risk of Recurrence, which launches in April 2023. She held the fac
How Food Affects Your Mood: The Ayurvedic Approach to Anxiety & Depression with Todd Caldecott
Todd Caldecott is a Medical Herbalist and practitioner of Ayurvedic Medicine, who has been in private practice since 1995. He is the Executive Director of the Dogwood School of Botanical Medicine and author/editor of three books including Ayurveda: The Divine Science of Life, Food As Medicine: The Theory and Practice of Food, and Ayurveda In Nepal.Todd is a creator and/or contributor to Traditiona
The Hidden Impact of Climate Change on Herbal Medicine & Farming with Medicinal Plant Expert Josef Brinkmann
Since 1979, Josef has worked at all levels within the medicinal plant sector; organic farming and wild collection, production of extracts, manufacturing of finished herbal medicinal products, TCM clinic, standards-setting (quality and sustainability), and consulting governmental- and intergovernmental organizations in sustainable development and biodiversity conservation projects in Africa, Asia,
The Hidden Link Between Diet, Inflammation & Chronic Disease: Christine Herbert on Herbal Medicine for Long-Term Wellness
Christine Herbert FAMH, DipAET, BA(Hons) qualified as a herbalist in 1997 and has been practising and learning herbal medicine ever since. During the years of her practice, she added many skills, including nutrition, aromatic medicine and flower essence therapy, in order to be best able to help the many people who came to see her. She retired from practice in 2019 so that she could teach and write
Rewilding Our Consciousness: Somatic Healing & Reassociating with the Body Through Herbalism with Nathaniel Hughes
Since his initial training in chemistry and medical pharmacology, Nathaniel Hughes has pursued the question; how much can we learn from plants directly? He has spent over 20 years exploring the spiritual, somatic, relational, trauma-informed and process-oriented aspects of healing. His robust way of working with herbs now has its foundations in the spiritual, where he strives to create bridges bet
Herbs for Sleep, Inflammation & Anxiety: A Sneak Peek into Season 2 with Sebastian & Simon
Sebastian and Simon reflect on Season 1 of Herbcast and discuss their enjoyment of speaking to thought leaders across the herbal medicine community. They introduce the solutions-focused Series 2 which aims to focus on some of the most important conditions affecting the modern world today that herbalists are treating in clinic. From digestion and inflammation to sleep, anxiety and trauma the series
How Chinese Medicine Works: Diagnosis, Treatment & Healing Strategies with Charles Buck
An internationally respected practitioner, author, and educator in the field of Chinese medicine, Charles Buck was amongst the first to practice and teach CHM in Europe. Having been awarded a BSc in medical Physiology from Bristol University Medical School, Charles then took a 3-year degree in acupuncture and began practising CHM in 1984, He was invited to be course leader for the UK's 1st College
American Herbal Medicine: Sourcing, Affordability & the Dosage Debate with Bevin Clare
Bevin Clare is a herbalist, nutritionist, mother and Professor and Program Director of the Master’s of Science in Clinical Herbal Medicine at the Maryland University of Integrative Health. She holds a MSc in Infectious Disease from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and has studied herbal medicine around the world to blend her knowledge of traditional uses of plants with modern sci
Herbal Medicine in the NHS: Patient Choice & The Case for Integrative Herbal Medicine with Euan MacLennan
Euan MacLennan is a Medical Herbalist who practices in an NHS General Practice in Central London.He teaches pathology, clinical medicine, and differential diagnosis to undergraduates in various medical disciplines and is conducting a clinical doctorate in gastrointestinal medicine at the University of Bath. Euan is also an editor for an Elsevier medical journal, the Journal of Herbal Medicine.&nbs
How to Know if Your Herbal Medicine is High-Quality & Authentic with Roy Upton
Roy Upton is the founder, president, and editor of the American Herbal Pharmacopoeia (AHP). He has been working and practising professionally as a herbalist since 1981, and he trained in Ayurvedic, Traditional Chinese, and Western herbal medicine and has also studied and worked extensively with Native American and Caribbean ethnobotanical traditions. As an integral part of his work as a herbalist,
The Truth About Herbal Extracts: Quality, Dosage & Efficacy Explained with Professor Kerry Bone
Professor Kerry Bone is the co-founder and innovation driver at MediHerb, a herbal supply company, where he serves as Director of Research and Development. In 2016 MediHerb was awarded the American Botanical Council’s (ABC’s) Varro E. Tyler Award for excellence in Phytomedicinal Research. Kerry is Principal of the Australian College of Phytotherapy and also Adjunct Professor at New York Chiropract
The Power of Ayurveda: Healing Through Food, Herbs & Lifestyle with Jo Webber
"I see herbs as the bridge between foods and medicine."Joanna Webber is a fully qualified Ayurvedic Practitioner with a BSc in Ayurveda as well as a Hatha Yoga teacher. She loves to weave the two sister sciences together to support a more integrated approach to health. She lives in Somerset and spends all her spare time growing, foraging, and cooking local, sustainable food and herbs. She is the f
How to Train as a Herbalist: The Path to Natural Healing with Helen Kearney
Having completed a Permaculture Design course in 1997 and her diploma in 2000, Helen Kearney went on to teach Permaculture courses and helped establish LEEP (Langford Environmental Education Project). She completed her herbal medicine training in 2012 whilst working as a Forest School Practitioner. She lives at Elder Farm, a 5-acre organic off-grid herb farm, and currently helps to run The Betonic
Can Chinese Herbal Medicine Transform Healthcare? A Deep Dive with Andrew Flower
Andrew Flower has been practicing acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) since 1992. In 2009 Andrew completed his Ph.D. at The University of Southampton exploring the role of CHM in the treatment of endometriosis. He has published a number of peer-reviewed papers relating to Chinese medicine research, including two Cochrane systematic reviews. In 2011 he was awarded a 5-year NIHR post-docto
How to Choose Ethical Herbal Brands & Support Sustainable Sourcing with Ann Armbrecht
"There is this incredible philosophy around healing and wholeness and working with plants yet most people only experience it through products on a shelf."Ann Ambrecht is a writer and anthropologist (PhD, Harvard 1995) whose work explores the relationships between humans and the earth, most recently through her work with plants, herbal medicine, and the botanical industry. She is the director of th
Holistic Healing: How an Integrated Approach Can Transform Healthcare with Dr. Edward Thomson
"Integrated medicine encourages patient empowerment and responsibility, engendering the motivation and will within patients and the knowledge to help them get better themselves."Dr. Edward Thomson is a General Practitioner with expertise in Integrated Medicine. He believes in approaching all types of medicine, healing, and treatment with compassion and an open mindset, placing the patient and thei
Sebastian Pole on Ayurveda, Herbalism & The Power of Plants
"I discovered there was another language for describing our health and another way to feel empowered to look after it."Simon Mills (our Herbcast host) interviews Sebastian Pole (our other Herbcast host!) as a welcome and introduction to the inspiration behind Herbal Reality.Sebastian is a registered member of the Ayurvedic Professionals Association, Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine, and a Fello
How Herbalism Can Reclaim Your Health with Simon Mills
"Herbs nudge the body to better physiological activity"Simon is the Self Care Lead at the College of Medicine and Herbal Strategist at Pukka Herbs. He has been a herbal practitioner in Exeter for 45 years. He has led the leading professional and trade organisations for herbal medicine in the UK and served on Government and House of Lords Committees. He has authored standard textbooks used by herba
Herbcast - The Trailer
Welcome along to Herbcast!Do you know your Echinacea from your Eleutherococcus? Or your lavender from your lemonbalm? Whether you’re a budding herbalist or a botanical beginner, Herbcast is here to inform and inspire you to explore the integration of herbs in our every day lives.Meet Sebastian, your host and founder of Herbal Reality, for a taste of what to expect from Herbcast; the podcast from H
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