Hey friends—welcome to the Heart of Herbs Herbal School Podcast. I’m Demetria Clark, and today we’re opening one of my favorite doors in herbal study: the Materia Medica.

If you’ve ever wondered, “What exactly belongs in a great plant profile?”—this episode is your roadmap. we’ll talk about what a materia medica is (and isn’t), the clean, repeatable outline i teach our students, and how to write entries you’ll actually use in real life—whether you’re blending a tea tonight or presenting a case next week. We’ll dig into naming and identification (Latin saves lives!), taste and energetics, key actions and indications, preparations and dosing (within an education-only scope), safety and contraindications, plus the big one—citations—because giving credit and showing your sources keeps our work ethical, traceable, and safer.

Quick reminder: everything here is education-based, not medical advice. always consider medications, pregnancy/lactation, and red-flag symptoms, and partner with licensed healthcare providers when needed.

Alright—grab your notebook, pour a cup of something lovely, and let’s build a materia medica you’ll be proud to use and share. 💚

In this conversation, Demetria Clark welcomes Naomi Kilbreth, RH (clinical herbalist) of Laurel Tree Wellness. Naomi traces her path from teenage assistant to home-birth midwife, to homeschooling mom, and full-time clinician. We dive deep into long-COVID—why symptoms vary so widely, the role of prior viral exposures (think EBV/shingles), and why nervous-system signs matter. Naomi shares practical ways to vet an herbalist, the lifestyle foundations she checks first (sleep, stress, and lymph), and introduces The Herbal Collective, an online library and community that organizes her classes, downloads, and weekly live sessions.

Connect with Naomi• Website: LaurelTreeWellnessLLC.com• Instagram: @LaurelTreeWellness

Connect with Demetria / Heart of Herbs• Programs & resources: www.heartofherbs.com

Topics• Herbal origin stories & birthwork roots• Individualized care for long-COVID (no one-size-fits-all)• Dormant virus reactivation, athletes, and “healthy before COVID” cases• Nervous-system clues (tongue/uvula) & why they matter• How to find a qualified herbalist• The Herbal Collective: free “Lite” tier, memberships, weekly gatherings

Disclaimer: Educational content only; not medical advice. Please work with your healthcare providers.

Welcome to the Heart of Herbs Herbal School Podcast! I’m your host, Demetria Clark — herbalist, educator, and founder of Heart of Herbs Herbal School. I'm so excited you're here today because we have an incredible guest joining us — KhadiYah Preciado of Yah’s Apothecary.

KhadiYah is a dynamic herbalist, educator, and entrepreneur whose work weaves together African-centered herbalism, Biblical wisdom, and modern holistic practice. She’s the founder and lead educator at Yah’s Apothecary, a rich and vibrant space offering classes, books, formulas, and guidance for herbalists and healers who want to build sustainable, profitable, and spirit-rooted herbal businesses.

In this episode, we dive into what it means to practice African-centered herbalism in modern times, how our faith and ancestral traditions can guide us, and Kadia’s inspiring journey from health-conscious teen to thriving herbal educator. We also explore the powerful ways she teaches safety, sustainability, and empowerment in herbal practice.

Get ready for an honest, heartfelt, and empowering conversation — one that honors the roots of herbalism while inspiring growth and purpose in your path. Let’s get started!

Becca Daye is an inspiring Clinical Herbalist with a deep love for nature and a vibrant, folky spirit. She is a passionate herb mama, dedicated herb grower, educator, and writer on a mission to reconnect people with the healing powers of plant medicine and spirit—benefiting both individuals and the Earth. With nearly three decades of experience studying herbal medicine since the age of 19, Becca has apprenticed and trained under some of the most renowned herbalists across the US, continuously learning from both the plants and expert mentors.

She offers engaging herbal consultations, dynamic classes, and supports local herbal and herbalist training programs, sharing her knowledge and enthusiasm to empower others on their healing journeys.

Heart of Herbs Alumni, Cindy Collins, never imagined her kitchen experiments would transform into a multi-million dollar herbal business serving over 70,000 customers worldwide. Yet that's exactly what happened with Euphoric Herbals, now operating two beautiful brick-and-mortar apothecaries and shipping to 61 countries.
As a certified herbalist, former lactation counselor, and birth doula, Cindy brought a unique perspective to product development. Her culinary background proved surprisingly valuable, enabling her to approach herbal formulations in a similar manner to recipes. "I thought about herbal formulations as recipes, and I was like, oh, I could totally make that," she explained. This approach demystifies herbalism, showing how transferable skills can lead to success in unexpected ways.
What stands out in Cindy's journey is her thoughtful approach to physical spaces. Rejecting the dark, cluttered "head shop" aesthetic common in many herb stores, she designed bright, accessible apothecaries that customers of all mobility levels could comfortably explore. This deliberate design philosophy has paid off—some customers drive four hours to visit her locations. The stores serve as "beta test labs" where she gathers invaluable feedback directly from customers, constantly refining her offerings.
Beyond selling products, Cindy has expanded into education, offering workshops on starting apothecary businesses and scaling handmade products. Her $97 workshop shares insights from opening two locations, covering everything from location scouting to permits and launch timelines. For those hesitant to begin without perfection, her advice is refreshingly practical: "Put your ugly out there and do it and know it's going to improve." This permission to start imperfectly might be the most valuable lesson for aspiring herbalists and entrepreneurs who feel stuck waiting for ideal conditions.
Ready to explore herbalism as a business or hobby? Visit Euphoric Herbals online or in-person to experience Cindy's thoughtful approach to herbal wellness firsthand.

Heart of Herbs Herbal School 
The Heart of Herbs Podcast with Demetria Clark! 🌿 Tune in for herbal wisdom & wellness tips!

Welcome to the Heart of Herbs Herbal School Podcast, www.heartofherbs.com where we explore the world of herbal remedies and natural health solutions. Before we dive into today's episode, If you want to enroll, use code PODCAST to save 20%.

The content provided in this podcast is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. It is always recommended to consult with a qualified healthcare professional

In this enriching episode, we dive deep into the captivating world of herbalism with the esteemed Lisa Ganora. Known for her vibrant approach to medicinal plants, Lisa shares her personal journey that began with a transformative dream and led her down the path of herbal education. The episode explores the significance of herbal constituents and how they interact with the body, emphasizing an essential blend of scientific understanding and holistic practices. 
As we navigate through fascinating stories of her experiences with plants, listeners will come to appreciate the rich tapestry that is herbal medicine. From battling food cravings using herbal remedies to the importance of connecting with the spirit of each plant, Lisa offers a wealth of knowledge that empowers individuals to take charge of their health. She reminds us that herbalism is not merely about remedies; it's a profound relationship with the earth and an intricate dance of biochemistry. 
Join us as we unravel these complexities, taking with us key insights into the art and science of herbal healing. Don't forget to tune in, share, and explore how you can incorporate the wisdom of plants into your life!

Heart of Herbs Herbal School 
The Heart of Herbs Podcast with Demetria Clark! 🌿 Tune in for herbal wisdom & wellness tips!

Welcome to the Heart of Herbs Herbal School Podcast, www.heartofherbs.com where we explore the world of herbal remedies and natural health solutions. Before we dive into today's episode, If you want to enroll, use code PODCAST to save 20%.

The content provided in this podcast is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. It is always recommended to consult with a qualified healthcare professional

Learn more at www.heartofherbs.com
Let us help you find your herbal direction!

Send us a text

Uncover the untapped potential of offline marketing strategies for your herbal business in this enlightening episode. We delve into how driving local connections can create a lasting impact on your sales and customer loyalty. From setting up at farmer’s markets and craft fairs to crafting the perfect booth layout, every detail counts when it comes to making a memorable impression on potential customers.

Listeners will learn actionable strategies for enhancing their product's packaging, ensuring it aligns with their brand identity while also drawing in customers. By integrating effective event presentation techniques and creating engaging customer experiences, you enhance the likelihood of generating repeat business and referrals. We explore the value of cultivating a solid referral network within the wellness community, which can substantially elevate your business's visibility and credibility.

We also touch on fostering long-term client relationships through education and service excellence. The dynamic exchange of recommendations among practitioners and clients not only cultivates trust but also emphasizes the synergies found within the herbal community. By implementing these insights, you can master your offline marketing presence while maintaining a balance with your online strategies. 

Subscribe now, and let’s transform how you connect with clients, drive your herbal business ahead, and elevate the way you share your passion for natural healing.

Heart of Herbs Herbal School 
The Heart of Herbs Podcast with Demetria Clark! 🌿 Tune in for herbal wisdom & wellness tips!

Welcome to the Heart of Herbs Herbal School Podcast, www.heartofherbs.com where we explore the world of herbal remedies and natural health solutions. Before we dive into today's episode, If you want to enroll, use code PODCAST to save 20%.

The content provided in this podcast is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. It is always recommended to consult with a qualified healthcare professional

Support the show

Learn more at www.heartofherbs.com
Let us help you find your herbal direction!

Send us a text

Discover how to take your herbal business to the next level by harnessing the power of online marketing strategies! In this episode, we delve deep into actionable tips that herbalists can implement to reach their ideal customers, grow their brand visibility, and cultivate lasting customer loyalty.

Join us as we explore the essential components of creating a robust online presence—from designing an engaging website to leveraging social media and email marketing effectively. We highlight the importance of storytelling and authenticity in connecting with your audience while sharing practical examples that resonate with your listeners.

Furthermore, we stress the significance of nudging your herbal business community offline, revealing the strategies that can lead to organic growth and connection. Perfect for both seasoned herbal entrepreneurs and those just starting, this informative episode is packed with the tools you need for sustainable success in the herbal market.

Tune in for a blend of insights, inspiration, and a touch of humor to help you thrive in your business journey. Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review to help others find this episode too!

Heart of Herbs Herbal School 
The Heart of Herbs Podcast with Demetria Clark! 🌿 Tune in for herbal wisdom & wellness tips!

Welcome to the Heart of Herbs Herbal School Podcast, www.heartofherbs.com where we explore the world of herbal remedies and natural health solutions. Before we dive into today's episode, If you want to enroll, use code PODCAST to save 20%.

The content provided in this podcast is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. It is always recommended to consult with a qualified healthcare professional

Support the show

Learn more at www.heartofherbs.com
Let us help you find your herbal direction!

Send us a text

Join us as seasoned herbal educator jim mcdonald shares his incredible journey from budding herbal enthusiast to international teacher. His passion for herbalism began in 1994, leading him to teach across various settings, including creating his course, Lindera. You'll gain insight into the evolving landscape of herbal education, from its early days online to today's video-centric approach.jim and I reflect on personal growth through knowledge sharing and discuss how creativity, storytelling, and relatable analogies are crucial in making herbalism education both engaging and effective.

In our conversation, we tackle the challenges of online teaching, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, and explore strategies for maintaining meaningful connections in virtual classrooms. We discuss fostering interaction with students through open-ended conversations and "connection calls," which help build relationships beyond the structured curriculum. Learn how to adapt teaching methods to accommodate different learning styles and grasp the essence of concepts, moving beyond rote memorization. By using vivid analogies, we emphasize the importance of a solid foundation in herbal knowledge, which leads to a comprehensive understanding of herbal medicine.

As we wrap up, we celebrate the diverse world of herbalism, emphasizing simplicity and practicality in teaching and healing. jim shares personal stories of resilience and gratitude for the support from students and the small business community. Together, we highlight the value of unschooling, slowing down the learning process, and mastering foundational knowledge to address complex health issues confidently. Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or new to herbalism, this episode offers a rich tapestry of insights into the art and craft of herbal education, inspiring collaboration and appreciation for the small steps that lead to profound healing.

Heart of Herbs Herbal School 
The Heart of Herbs Podcast with Demetria Clark! 🌿 Tune in for herbal wisdom & wellness tips!

Welcome to the Heart of Herbs Herbal School Podcast, www.heartofherbs.com where we explore the world of herbal remedies and natural health solutions. Before we dive into today's episode, If you want to enroll, use code PODCAST to save 20%.

The content provided in this podcast is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. It is always recommended to consult with a qualified healthcare professional

Support the show

Learn more at www.heartofherbs.com
Let us help you find your herbal direction!

Send us a text

Discover the transformative world of healing as we sit down with the extraordinary Heathir Brown, a master of blending craniosacral therapy, Reiki, and sound healing. Heather shares fascinating insights into connecting with what she calls the "soul spark," and how she tailors her sessions to each client's unique needs. From soothing a frazzled nervous system to reclaiming depleted energy, Heathir’s compassionate methods create a safe haven for holistic healing. Her unique approach even extends to ancestral healing, where she senses the supportive presence of ancestors, lifting burdens and fostering deep emotional relief.

Uncover how the integration of craniosacral therapy and Reiki forms a powerful duo, bringing balance to the energy body—especially vital for those in caregiving roles. Listen as Heathir, and I share personal stories of how these practices have reshaped our understanding of energy work, making it accessible and relatable. We unravel societal misconceptions about energy healing, illustrating its transformative potential through real client experiences and everyday applications that might just spark your interest in exploring these modalities.

In moments of crisis, the strength of a community shines brightly. Heathir's dedication to providing free healing sessions for disaster victims highlights the incredible power of collective support and kindness. From sound baths to simple acts of everyday generosity, we explore how communities come together, offering solace and healing. As the episode winds down, we reflect on the simple joys of relaxation and companionship, leaving listeners with a warm reminder of the small moments that weave joy and healing into our lives.

Heart of Herbs Herbal School 
The Heart of Herbs Podcast with Demetria Clark! 🌿 Tune in for herbal wisdom & wellness tips!

Welcome to the Heart of Herbs Herbal School Podcast, www.heartofherbs.com where we explore the world of herbal remedies and natural health solutions. Before we dive into today's episode, If you want to enroll, use code PODCAST to save 20%.

The content provided in this podcast is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. It is always recommended to consult with a qualified healthcare professional

Support the show

Learn more at www.heartofherbs.com
Let us help you find your herbal direction!