In this episode of Herby at Heart, we step into the fascinating world of mindful experimentation with medicinal plants and fungi. Each month, we commit to working with one herb or fungus at a time—observing its effects before sharing our reflections. This slow, attentive approach mirrors traditional systems where we develop a deep connection with the plant or fungus and carefully monitor dosage, preparation, and how our bodies respond.

Today, we're doing a special episode around microdosing, herbal testing and experimentation. Microdosing has become one of the most talked-about wellness trends in recent years, where conversations about optimization and mental health are part of everyday culture. What was once a fringe practice associated with psychedelics like LSD or psilocybin is now discussed openly as a potential tool for managing anxiety, depression, focus, and creativity.

Together, we explore:

• The advantages and disadvantages of herbal medicine testing and microdosing
• Different approaches to plant and fungi experimentation
• How to navigate this work with respect, discernment, and safety
• Important risks to consider: interactions with medications, improper preparation, allergic reactions
• How traditional wisdom meets modern wellness culture
• The importance of developing deep relationships with the plants and fungi we work with

This conversation isn't a how-to guide—it's an invitation to curiosity, reverence, and responsibility in our encounters with potent plants and fungi.

Olivia Sayward is a Berlin-based quantum healing practitioner, artist, and an eternal student of herbalism and mycology, devoted to helping people reconnect with their intuition, their bodies, and the intelligence of nature.

Through 1:1 journey sessions, she guides clients into altered states of mind, helping them to explore the subconscious and grow deeper self-trust and clarity. Her community work weaves together grounded plant knowledge with intuitive insight, offering a gentle yet deep approach to nature communication with the aim of providing a calm and steady way of coming home to Earth, finding balance and learning how to communicate with the more-than-human.

Olivia shares her work through 1:1 sessions, group meditations and workshops, and her Substack, where she explores themes around altered states, creativity, the imagination, and the medicine of plants and fungi. Otherwise, you can find her on a long walk, climbing walls or going for a boogie with friends, or cooking her way through a cookbook.

Tash
Website: https://www.avantgardenlife.com
Instagram: @avant.garden.life

Phil
Website: https://www.hp-phildius.de
Instagram: @power.plants.berlin

Find our Praxis in person at:
Mommsenstraße 55, 10629 Berlin

Tune in, slow down, and explore the world of mindful plant experimentation with us—one careful step at a time.

Guest – Olivia SaywardYour Hosts