Herb Mentor Radio

This episode has been a long time coming. We've wanted to have Seraphina Capranos on the pod for years, and it was a joy to sit down and chat with her... Seraphina is a homeopath and one of Canada's leading herbalists. She's been in clinical practice for over twenty years and is an international teacher, speaker, and mentor who has taught thousands of students. Rosemary Gladstar has lauded her as a “young elder,” which is pretty much one of the best titles one can ever receive. In our conversation, Seraphina shares... You can learn more about Seraphina Capranos here. Are you ready to take your herbal learning to the next level? HerbMentor offers a wide variety of rich herbal content that gives you the opportunity to choose your own herbal adventure. Courses, trusted resources and a supportive community. HerbMentor is a trusted herbal learning space that grows with you. You can try HerbMentor for just $1 to see if it’s part of your own herbal path. https://HerbMentorRadio.com Are you just starting to make herbal remedies? https://Herbal.Cards

Comfrey (Symphytum officinale or "common comfrey") is a prolific plant that has an infamously mixed reputation as an incredible healing herb and potentially risky herbal ally. We'll get into all of this in the comfrey Herb Note. Want to learn more about the healing gifts of comfrey? Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to learn about 3 benefits and key contraindications of comfrey. And after learning these 3 benefits of comfrey, 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 Herb Notes. You’ll learn all about popular herbs like catnip, aloe, elderberry, and more. Get your FREE Herb Notes printable flashcards here: https://herbnotes.cards/.

We begin this episode with the heartbreaking news that our beloved HerbMentor Radio co-host, John Gallagher, passed away in June. John was a visionary who dedicated his life to helping people connect with nature. He believed in making herbal learning accessible, creative, and empowering—and he touched countless lives through his work. We will honor John and his life's work by keeping 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 beautiful herbal stories with her background in public health to bring a holistic perspective to studying plants. We know John would have loved this interview, and we are honored to share this episode with you as we continue John's legacy of accessible herbal learning. Rebecca is a community herbalist, socio-behavioral scientist, and a certified health and wellness coach. Her mission is to educate about plants that originate in or are commonly used across the African diaspora. She has a passion for using herbs in food as medicine, seasonal living, and accessible, bioregional herbalism. In our conversation, Rebecca shares... You can learn more about Rebecca Fils-Aime here. Are you ready to take your herbal learning to the next level? HerbMentor offers a wide variety of rich herbal content that gives you the opportunity to choose your own herbal adventure. Courses, trusted resources and a supportive community. HerbMentor is a trusted herbal learning space that grows with you. You can try HerbMentor for just $1 to see if it’s part of your own herbal path. https://HerbMentorRadio.com Are you just starting to make herbal remedies? https://Herbal.Cards

It's not everyday you get to sit down and chat with an herbal legend—and that's exactly what we did in this episode of HerbMentor Radio! Rosemary Gladstar is a star figure in the field of modern herbalism, internationally renowned for technical knowledge and stewardship in the global herbalist community. She has been learning, teaching and writing about herbs for over 40 years and is the author of 12 books. Her latest book, The Generosity of Plants—a heartfelt collection of plant wisdom, quotes, and reflections gathered over many years. In our conversation, Rosemary shares... How to find your herbal communityThe importance of preserving herbal heritageWhy true herbalism is rooted in relationship, not just remedies Learn more about Rosemary Gladstar here. Grab a copy of The Generosity of Plants here. Check out her podcast Voices of Our Herbal Elders here. Are you ready to take your herbal learning to the next level? HerbMentor offers a wide variety of rich herbal content that gives you the opportunity to choose your own herbal adventure. Courses, trusted resources and a supportive community. HerbMentor is a trusted herbal learning space that grows with you. You can try HerbMentor for just $1 to see if it’s part of your own herbal path. https://HerbMentorRadio.com Are you just starting to make herbal remedies? https://Herbal.Cards

St. John's wort's Latin name is Hypericum perforatum—named for the hypericin content in the plant's flowers and the tiny perforations in the leaves. These hypericin-rich flowers offer many healing gifts. Want to learn more about the gifts of St. John's wort? Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to learn about 3 benefits of St. John's wort. And after learning these 3 benefits of St. John's wort, 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 Herb Notes. You’ll learn all about popular herbs like catnip, aloe, elderberry, and more. Get your FREE Herb Notes printable flashcards here: https://herbnotes.cards/.

Inflammation is a big buzz word in the wellness world these days, but what exactly is inflammation? And how can it really be the root cause of a seemingly endless number of chronic conditions? Luckily, we have Rosalee de la Forêt to help us sort through the ins and outs of inflammation. Rosalee is a clinical herbalist, author of Alchemy of Herbs and Wild Remedies, and an expert in herbal energetics who helps people transform their health through the joyful use of herbs. For over 20 years Rosalee has been helping people radically change their health using herbs and natural remedies, and in recent years she's focused on how addressing chronic inflammation can support radiant wellness. In our conversation, Rosalee shares... You can learn more about Rosalee de la Forêt and check out her work here. Are you ready to take your herbal learning to the next level? HerbMentor offers a wide variety of rich herbal content that gives you the opportunity to choose your own herbal adventure. Courses, trusted resources and a supportive community. HerbMentor is a trusted herbal learning space that grows with you. You can try HerbMentor for just $1 to see if it’s part of your own herbal path. https://HerbMentorRadio.com Are you just starting to make herbal remedies? https://Herbal.Cards

Let’s stop and smell the roses, shall we? Known for their luxurious scent and heartwarming blooms, rose petals (Rosa spp.) are a balm for the soul. Beyond the beauty of their flowers, roses offer many healing gifts. Want to learn more about roses? Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to learn about 3 benefits of rose petals. And after learning these 3 benefits of rose, you might be wondering how you can learn more about other common herbs. Get your FREE Herb Notes printable flashcards here: https://herbnotes.cards/.

Tesia Love is a clinical Ayurvedic specialist, board-certified herbalist, and licensed massage and bodywork therapist who helps people restore balance through traditional healing. In this episode, Tesia shares her wisdom on Ayurveda—a 3,000-year-old system of medicine that offers a practical framework for understanding herbs and how they interact with the human body. When learning about herbs, it’s easy to fall into a “take this for that” mindset. While this might work for basic first-aid, a deeper understanding of herbalism requires a more holistic approach—one that Ayurveda provides. Drawing from her clinical experience, Tesia explores… Learn more about Tesia Love on her site: https://www.tesialove.com/ Are you ready to take your herbal learning to the next level? HerbMentor offers a wide variety of rich herbal content that gives you the opportunity to choose your own herbal adventure. Courses, trusted resources and a supportive community. HerbMentor is a trusted herbal learning space that grows with you. You can try HerbMentor for just $1 to see if it’s part of your own herbal path. https://HerbMentorRadio.com Are you just starting to make herbal remedies? https://Herbal.Cards

With their heart-shaped leaves and beautiful flowers, violets (Viola odorata) are a delight for the heart and soul. Beyond their charming looks, violets also offer many healing gifts. Want to learn more about the gifts of violet? Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to learn about 3 benefits of violet. And after learning these 3 benefits of violet, you might be wondering how you can learn more about other common herbs. Get your FREE Herb Notes printable flashcards here: https://herbnotes.cards/.

Rita Hogan is a clinical herbalist with over 20 years of experience specializing in holistic canine care. She blends Western herbalism, food energetics, homeopathy, and natural therapies to support dogs’ health naturally. Growing up on a farm, she learned the power of plants from her father, which sparked a lifelong passion for herbal medicine and led to her work as a consultant, educator, and author. Her new book, The Herbal Dog: Holistic Canine Herbalism Applications and Practice, provides practical guidance on natural canine care. In this episode, Rita shares: Learn more about Rita Hogan at canineherbalist.com. Are you ready to take your herbal learning to the next level? HerbMentor offers a wide variety of rich herbal content — including an in-depth course on food as medicine — that gives you the opportunity to choose your own herbal adventure, take your time, and connect with other herbal learners and experts whenever you login. You can join HerbMentor for just $1 to see if it’s part of your own herbal path. https://HerbMentorRadio.com Are you just starting to make herbal remedies? https://Herbal.Cards

Chickweed (Stellaria media) is often one of the first signs of spring: this springtime green sprouts up as temperatures increase, beckoning us all to celebrate the arrival of the new season. Often dismissed as a "common weed," the chickweed plant's growth comes at just the right time—it offers many healing gifts that can support our bodies during the transition from winter to spring. 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 chickweed, you might be wondering how you can learn more about other common herbs. Get your FREE Herb Notes printable flashcards here: https://herbnotes.cards/.

EagleSong Gardener is an EarthKeeper, a grandmother, and a lifelong adventurer, with over 50 years of experience homesteading, practicing herbal medicine, and teaching. Her unique approach is grounded in observing the rhythms of nature and understanding how life weaves its patterns through the seasons. She inspires others to connect with the earth in practical and meaningful ways. 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 episode. Today, we’re exploring hawthorn, a remarkable plant known for its profound support of the heart—physically, emotionally, and energetically. Here’s what we explore: You can learn more about EagleSong Gardener and check out her incredible offerings right here: https://www.eaglesong-gardener.com Are you ready to take your herbal learning to the next level? HerbMentor offers a wide variety of rich herbal content — including an in-depth course on food as medicine — that gives you the opportunity to choose your own herbal adventure, take your time, and connect with other herbal learners and experts whenever you login. You can join HerbMentor for just $1 to see if it’s part of your own herbal path. https://HerbMentorRadio.com Are you just starting to make herbal remedies? https://Herbal.Cards

Thyme offers a familiar, pungent taste to every dish it graces. Beyond its culinary gifts, thyme (Thymus vulgaris) also has a rich history as a medicinal herb with a wide range of benefits. Want to learn more about the gifts of thyme? Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to learn about 3 benefits of thyme in this edition of Herb Notes. And after learning these 3 benefits of thyme, 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 learn all about popular herbs like peppermint, catnip, aloe, elderberry, and more. Get your FREE Herb Notes printable flashcards here: https://herbnotes.cards/.

The most wonderful time of the year brings your most pressing herbal questions! In this episode of HerbMentor Radio, we explore: 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 seasoned pro, there’s something here for everyone. Tune in to deepen your connection with the plants that support your well-being. Are you ready to take your herbal learning to the next level? HerbMentor offers a wide variety of rich herbal content — including an in-depth course on food as medicine — that gives you the opportunity to choose your own herbal adventure, take your time, and connect with other herbal learners and experts whenever you login. You can join HerbMentor for just $1 to see if it’s part of your own herbal path. https://HerbMentorRadio.com Are you just starting to make herbal remedies? https://Herbal.Cards

As one of the most popular herbal teas in the world, peppermint's ubiquitous flavor can bring a sense of familiarity and comfort. Peppermint (Mentha x piperita) is more than just a tasty beverage though: the peppermint plant has a rich history of medicinal usage. Want to learn more about the gifts of peppermint? Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to learn about 3 benefits of peppermint. 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 Notes. You’ll learn all about popular herbs like peppermint, catnip, aloe, elderberry, and more. Get your FREE Herb Notes printable flashcards here: https://herbnotes.cards/.

Herbalist and artisanal miso maker Gabe Garms joins us to chat about herbal misos, regenerative farming, and fermentation. Before I met Gabe this past summer, I thought that miso could only be made with soybeans. Little did I know that miso can be made with ingredients like dandelion root, mushrooms, and even bacon. Gabe opened my eyes to the exciting world of herbal misos — 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 crafting artisanal miso products using locally grown and sourced ingredients. Gabe draws on his background in permaculture and medicinal herbs to grow many of the ingredients for Creative Koji. He is passionate about fermented foods, natural medicine and teaching people how to grow their own medicinals/food within a permaculture system. Our conversation with Gabe will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen and embrace the many gifts of fermentation. In this episode, Gabe shares... Learn more about Gabe Garms and Creative Koji. Are you ready to take your herbal learning to the next level? HerbMentor offers a wide variety of rich herbal content — including an in-depth course on food as medicine — that gives you the opportunity to choose your own herbal adventure, take your time, and connect with other herbal learners and experts whenever you login. You can join HerbMentor for just $1 to see if it’s part of your own herbal path. https://HerbMentorRadio.com Are you just starting to make herbal remedies? https://Herbal.Cards

In recent years, turmeric (Curcuma longa) has exploded in popularity. Chances are your favorite coffeeshop might now even include a golden milk turmeric latte on the menu. Turmeric, however, is not just a fad: this vibrant herb is a traditional Ayurvedic remedy with centuries’ of use as a traditional remedy. Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to learn about 3 benefits of turmeric. And 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 learn all about popular herbs like rosemary, catnip, aloe, elderberry, and more. Get your FREE Herb Notes printable flashcards here: https://herbnotes.cards/.

Lisa Fazio takes us on a journey through Italian-American folk herbalism, the healing power of food as medicine, and the medicinal properties of herbs like garlic, St. John’s wort, and olive. She shares her personal stories and ancestral wisdom, making this conversation a true gift for anyone passionate about herbal traditions. When we first came across Lisa’s new book, Della 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’s wort, olive, and more. We were especially excited to speak with Lisa because of our own Italian heritage and curiosity about ancestral traditions. However, the wisdom Lisa offers is relevant and deeply supportive, no matter where your roots lie. Her approach invites us all to reconnect with our ancestral medicines and understand how herbal practices have been passed down through generations. In this episode, Lisa Fazio talks about: To learn more about Lisa Fazio and her work, visit The Root Circle. Are you ready to take your herbal learning to the next level? HerbMentor offers a wide variety of rich herbal content — including an in-depth course on food as medicine — that gives you the opportunity to choose your own herbal adventure, take your time, and connect with other herbal learners and experts whenever you login. You can join HerbMentor for just $1 to see if it’s part of your own herbal path. https://HerbMentorRadio.com Are you just starting to make herbal remedies? https://Herbal.Cards

With its familiar sweet and pungent taste, cinnamon is a common spice that makes an exceptionally tasty addition to every meal it graces. Cinnamon’s gifts go far beyond its flavor, however: in fact, herbalists know that cinnamon offers many healing gifts. Want to learn more about the gifts of cinnamon? Let’s dive into three key health benefits of cinnamon… Follow along with herbalist Tara 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. Here’s the easy way to learn more about our favorite common herbs: download a FREE deck of our top 12 Herb Notes. You’ll learn all about popular herbs like rosemary, catnip, aloe, elderberry, and more. Get your FREE Herb Notes printable flashcards here: https://herbnotes.cards/.

Chatting with Lucretia VanDyke for the first time ever immediately felt like catching up with a dear friend — we were totally transported and never wanted the conversation to end. Lucretia is a phenomenal storyteller who weaves her tales with reverence, humor, and thorough research. As one of the foremost experts on Southern folk healing arts, she integrate rituals, plant spirit 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... You can learn more about Lucretia VanDyke on her site. Are you ready to take your herbal learning to the next level? HerbMentor offers a wide variety of rich herbal content — including an in-depth course on food as medicine — that gives you the opportunity to choose your own herbal adventure, take your time, and connect with other herbal learners and experts whenever you login. You can join HerbMentor for just $1 to see if it’s part of your own herbal path. :) https://HerbMentorRadio.com Are you just starting to make herbal remedies? https://Herbal.Cards