Like the show? Got a Q? Shoot us a Text! So many common weeds are actually incredible food and medicine. It's time for a shift in how we view and treat these plants! It's time we stop the use of harmful herbicides and for the embrace these abundant weeds like dandelion, plantain, and burdock for their medicinal and nutritional benefits.  I highly encourage you to get out there, learn how to identify, harvest, and use these abundance plants, and help make herbalism to spread 'like...

Like the show? Got a Q? Shoot us a Text! In this episode we get to explore the world of Korean American clinical herbalist, and Qi Alchemy founder Grace Yoon. Grace shares her personal journey into the world of herbal medicine, tracing back to her roots and upbringing with her grandmothers her exposure to farming, Eastern medicine practices like acupuncture, cupping, along with herbal stews.  I loved chatting with Grace as she not only educates on the specifics of Korean herbal practices but...

If seasonal allergies get you down, you know, the itchy watery eyes, the sneezing, the wheezing, and all the yuck that  comes with it, then tune into this episode. We’re talking about how you can stop having seasonal allergies every single year, but addressing the root cause of these inflammatory symptoms. And you’ll learn about the categories of herbs to choose during allergy season, plus a few herbs you may want to put in your seasonal allergy arsenal. I even shared some of my favorite...

Tune into this transformative chat with Robin Rose Bennett, a brilliant herbalist and storyteller, steeped in Wise Woman wisdom. We celebrated the spring equinox, a time for renewal, and dove straight into how we connect with plants for deep healing.   Robin's journey into herbalism, guided by nature's wisdom and spiritual mentors, really hit home for me. She stressed the importance of nourishing connections with nature, especially asking plants for permission before harvesting.  Her...

It’s spring and I’m beyond thrilled to dive into my medicinal herb garden. In this episode I’m sharing the must have herbs to  grow for my family. You’ll learn about chamomile, elecampane, and Tulsi and  their numerous health benefits, including supporting respiratory health, aiding digestion, and combating stress. I shared some tips for growing these herbs and suggest ways to source quality seeds and starts.  If you want to dive deeper, join us for an upcoming Medicinal Herb Garden Planning...

Jacqueline Clemmons graces us with her wisdom on postpartum healing, doula work, and nurturing maternal health have profoundly moved many. Jacqueline shares her journey from supporting births organically at a young age to becoming a professional doula and founding the Okionu Birth Foundation. She discusses the significance of holistic support for both families and birth workers, emphasizing the importance of addressing mental health, community support, and physical needs post-birth....

Meet  Dr. Katie Wood, a holistic pharmacist, who shares her personal journey from traditional pharmacy to holistic health and her dedication to helping women on their fertility journey. She discusses the profound effects of lifestyle habits and diet, including a reduction of sugar and endocrine disruptors, on overall health and fertility. Dr. Wood emphasizes the crucial role of self-education in maintaining family health and avoiding reliance on potentially harmful pharmaceuticals. She also...

Ready to dive into a holistic approach to health and wellness? Well, you're in the right place! Join me as we explore the incredible world of herbs and natural strategies for feeling your best. Here’s the shocking truth for some – herbs aren't magic pills. But boy, can they be powerful allies on our wellness journey! I'm all about breaking down the misconception of quick fixes and instead, embracing a holistic view of health. That means we're digging into everything – from what we eat and how...

In this episode you’ll learn about the important role of herbal medicine in the home and gain tips for getting started with using herbs in family healthcare. I shared some of my favorite herbs and how to use them for numerous ailments, specifically focusing on plantain, chamomile, and yarrow. Herbalism requires a respect for nature and sustainability when sourcing herbs. This is also a gentle reminder about the need for safety and professional medical advice when using herbs, particularly in...

In this episode I did a little pod-swap with my good buddy Mason of the Herb Rally Podcast, and he had me on an episode of the Herbalist Hour.  We talked about my time running of Mountain Mel's, my herbal products company & how Mason & I met over 10 years ago through that.  l shared stories of my journey into herbalism and my experiences owning an apothecary tea & smoothie shop, and my herbal product line. I even talked about the triumphs and struggles along the way. We chatted...

Dive into this episode with Scott Kloos, a seasoned herbalist, as we uncover the secrets of sustainable wildcrafting and regenerative practices in herbalism. Learn how to ethically gather plants with a deep understanding of ecosystems, ensuring we nurture nature rather than harm it.  Scott brings to light the often-overlooked traditional ecological knowledge, showing how it's essential in facing today's ecological challenges and adapting to climate changes affecting plant life. This...

Have you ever wondered if your natural remedies actually work, or not?  Oftentimes, the importance of quality ingredients can make a world of difference in your herbal medicines. Also, recognizing that herbs aren't instant fix pills and often require lifestyle changes to see their effects maximized. The effectiveness of your DIY remedies is also dependent on the accuracy of choice and dosage according to whoever you’re treating, and their symptoms. Really, it’s all about holistic healthy...

Finding Hope: A Discussion on Infertility, Loss, and Healing In this conversation Sarah Cox shares her personal journey with infertility, pregnancy loss, and her subsequent healing process. Sarah's inspiring story takes us through her struggles with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), successful pregnancy via fertility treatment, coping with the loss of her daughter Jasmine, and eventual birth of her 'rainbow' and 'pot of gold' children. She emphasizes the importance of seeking support and...

Stress, depression, and anxiety are major problems for our kids today. From school, and peer pressure, to social media, screen times, crappy foods messing up the gut microbiome, and just living in our wild and crazy society today, it’s no wonder why depression, and other behavioral disorders are on the rise for our children and teens today.  Thankfully there are herbs that can help, along with dietary and lifestyle considerations. In this episode we’ll cover some of my favorite herbs in 3...

Meet the brilliant woman Chris Alstat, the powerhouse behind Eclectic Herbs in Sandy, Oregon! As a naturopathic physician, mom, teacher, and all-around compassionate business guru, Chris spills the herbal tea on her adventure from '90s New Zealand to the herbal haven she's cultivated today. Eclectic Herb, founded by the visionary Dr. Ed Alstat, flips the script on herb preservation—cue the freeze-drying magic to lock in all that nutritional goodness. We got to dive into Chris's 16-year love...

It's time we shift our perspective and see our kitchens in a new light. 🍂 In today's episode, we're exploring how the herbs and spices in our holiday dishes are not just for flavor, but are powerful medicines hiding in plain sight. 🥧 Rosemary, sage, thyme, and more - these aren't just ingredients, they're potent medicine, right inside your kitchen, right now. Discover their medicinal secrets and how they can transform your well-being.  Join me as we learn to look at our food as medicine,...

Can you imagine working in the ICU for 20 years, and then discovering the world of plant medicine, spending your days digging in the dirt, and connecting with mother nature? That's exactly what happened to Cherylin! In this episode she shares stories of her journey as a nurse, turned herbal enthusiast, and patient healthcare advocate. We chat about the broken western medical system, and seeing that there's got to be a better way.   🌼She talks about dandelion, and how it called to her as a...

Let's talk about immune health and the sneaky way sugar can mess with it—especially after that Halloween candy binge! In this episode we explore the science behind lifestyle choices that can truly fortify your immune system and keep those winter sniffles at bay. We also dive into the difference of our immunomodulating herbs, and our immune stimulants. When you might want to take one over the other, and explore some of the best to use for your kiddos and the whole family.  Plus, we'll cover...

It's time to get real about the Western medicine vs herbal medicine debate. Why is there a divide, and can these two coexist? Spoiler: They absolutely can. We also explore immune health—how to give it a natural boost and why herbs like elderberries are the real deal when it comes to fighting off those nasty flu viruses.  And since cold and flu season is upon us, I chatted a bit  about fevers and the best herbs to soothe those high temps. Reality is, our kitchen might just be your new...

Imagine if in this world, we had an herbalist in every home...  You know, your ancestors were herbalist's right? And since I've created this podcast, my whole mission has been to help inspire a movement where there's an herbalist in every home...AGAIN! In this episode I talked about some of the biggest benefits to being the herbalist in your home. Such as the cost savings you'll see, greater health, connection to nature, more empowerment, and the list goes on and on and on. If you're all...

If you're tired of hit-or-miss herbal remedies and want to get serious about making effective, safe medicine for you and your family.  We're diving into sourcing quality ingredients, the importance of precise measurements.  Mel tackles the often-overlooked topic of contraindications. Herbs may be natural, but that doesn't mean they're always safe. From potential interactions with medications to other health scenarios, she's diving into what you need to be cautious of.  Tune in to learn not...

In this episode, I had the honor of chatting with a brilliant teacher of mine, Medical  Herbalist & Horticulture Therapist, Chanchal Cabrera MSc, FNIMH, RH(AHG) , who’s spent years exploring how herbalism can coexist with modern cancer care.  Chanchal began her journey in herbalism and took that deep plant wisdom right into cancer research and care. We talking about how herbs can play a crucial role in supporting patients through their cancer journeys, from reducing treatment side effects...

As the leaves change and we brace for cold and flu season, let's make sure your natural medicine kits are ready to roll. In this episode, we dive into the must-haves: elderberries, echinacea, and the ever-spicy fire cider. 🌿💪 Get the scoop on how these natural remedies can not only keep your family healthy but also shorten illness durations. Don't be the mom caught unprepared—listen in and arm your natural medicine arsenal. Plus, a special invite to my live Fire Cider class is right here!...

Diving into the world of herbalism and alternative healing, this episode with Dr. Maya Shetreat proved to be a game-changer. A pediatric neurologist, author, and holistic wellness advocate, her insights about plant medicines, neuroplasticity, and the profound connection between mind, body, and nature left me awe-inspired. Exploring ancient wisdom, Dr. Maya highlighted the potential of plant medicines in our modern world. Notably, she emphasized that connecting with plants can be as...