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 co-authorship of The Essential Guide to Herbal Safety, Simon brings clarity to a subject often clouded by caution, conflicting advice, and limited research. Together, Eve and Simon discuss why safety is such a critical consideration in pregnancy, how herbs are assessed for risk, which plants are truly well-supported, and where professional judgement is essential. The episode also covers supportive herbs for nausea, digestion, nourishment, and late-pregnancy preparation, plus key considerations for herbal use while breastfeeding.

In this episode

• Why the precautionary principle is so important in pregnancy and why most herbs are best avoided in the first trimester.
• How herbs are assessed for safety (including the A–X categories) and why hard data in pregnancy is still very limited.
• Herbs with supportive safety data (e.g. ginger, chamomile, echinacea, raspberry leaf, nettle) and those historically used to bring on a period that are best avoided.
• Practical herbal support for morning sickness, digestion, and nourishment, including ginger, chamomile, dandelion root, nettle and food-based strategies.
• Late-pregnancy and postpartum considerations: raspberry leaf, caution with licorice, and how certain herbs may support breastfeeding or colic through the mother.

About Eve

Eve is the editor of written content at Herbal Reality and the host of this Herbcast episode. With a deep love of language and plants, she helps translate complex herbal knowledge into clear, accessible articles, features, and resources for the Herbal Reality community. This episode marks her Herbcast debut, where she brings her editorial curiosity and grounding in herbal philosophy into conversation with experienced practitioners.

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Mentioned in this episode:

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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 are unique.

In this episode:

• The vaginal microbiome 101 - lactobacilli, glycogen, and the powerful role of oestrogen across the cycle and life stages.
• Thrush vs. bacterial vaginitis (and aerobic vaginitis), why thrush often flares around ovulation/post-ovulation, why BV is more common post-menopause, and practical symptom clues (itch, discharge, odour) to tell them apart.
• Testing without the anxiety - when microbiome tests help (and when they don’t), plus why symptom-led care with a practitioner can be enough.
• Herbal care & applications
• Everyday choices that matter - hygiene (only water internally), breathable underwear (cotton/bamboo), managing heat and moisture, toilet paper swaps (bamboo to avoid dusty pulp irritation), and exploring personal diet triggers (e.g., sugar, alcohol, wheat) and iron status.

About Kathie

Kathie Bishop is a Medical Herbalist specialising in vaginal health and author of It’s Your Power Portal: Take Control of Your Vaginal Health with Herbal and Holistic Care (2022). She received the Innovation in Practice Award from the National Institute of Medical Herbalists (2021) and was a finalist in the Great British Workplace Wellbeing Awards for her contributions to women’s health. Kathie also founded Into the Wild, an award-winning natural, organic, vegan intimate lubricant brand, and continues to support women in clinical practice.

Follow & Connect

• Book: It’s Your Power Portal: Take Control of Your Vaginal Health with Herbal and Holistic Care (2022)

Explore a world of plant-powered knowledge at herbalreality.com or connect with us on Instagram @herbal.reality.

We are fundraising to continue our work!

These funds will allow us to produce our next season of the Herbcast and commission our 2026 publications. We are asking for a contribution of £3 or whatever you feel able to offer, to sustain our website and content creation in the years ahead.

Donate: https://www.herbalreality.com/donate/

Mentioned in this episode:

Support our cause - Donate to Herbal Reality

We are fundraising to continue our work!

These funds will allow us to produce our next season of the Herbcast and commission our 2026 publications. We are asking for a contribution of £3 or whatever you feel able to offer, to sustain our website and content creation in the years ahead.

Donate: https://www.herbalreality.com/donate/

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 conversation covers the common symptoms of endometriosis, including debilitating pain, heavy bleeding, and the emotional toll it takes on those who suffer with the condition. Claire emphasises the importance of menstrual cycle awareness and how understanding one's body can empower women in managing their health. She also highlights the significance of personalised herbal treatments, discussing specific herbs that can alleviate symptoms and support overall wellbeing.

In this episode:

- The role of herbal medicine in pain management and hormonal balance.

- Common misconceptions about endometriosis and the latest theories behind its causes.

- Practical lifestyle and dietary recommendations to support reproductive health.

- Real-life case studies showcasing successful herbal interventions.

About Claire:

Claire is a Medical Herbalist and Aromatherapist with over 15 years of clinical experience. She works 1:1 with clients both in her private clinic in Bristol and internationally via Napiers Online Clinic.

With a strong background in facilitation, education, and environmental conservation, Claire brings a unique and grounded approach to her work. She specialises in hormonal health and is a passionate advocate for menstrual cycle awareness—an essential thread that runs through both her clinical practice and teaching.

Claire runs Learn Botanics Herbal Medicine Clinic & Workshops, offering empowering courses and events in Bristol, the South West, and across Europe. She holds a First-Class Honours BSc in Clinical Herbalism.

Outside of her practice, you’ll likely find Claire singing in her choir, dancing, or getting out in as much wildness as possible.

Follow & Connect:

Website: https://www.learnbotanics.co.uk/

Instagram: @learn.botanics

We are fundraising to continue our work!

These funds will allow us to produce our next season of the Herbcast and commission our 2026 publications. We are asking for a contribution of £3 or whatever you feel able to offer, to sustain our website and content creation in the years ahead.

Donate: https://www.herbalreality.com/donate/

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 nutrition and the use of herbs. She also addresses the significance of healthy fats and the need for simplicity in dietary choices during treatment.

In this episode:

• Nadia's journey into holistic cancer care began with her own cancer diagnosis.
• Support for cancer patients should include emotional and family involvement.
• The crucial role of hydration and nutrition in the healing process for cancer patients.
• Green smoothies and juices for cancer care.
• Post-chemotherapy nutrition should focus on rebuilding health with whole foods.
• Fresh oils should be stored and used properly to maintain their health benefits.

About Nadia Brydon:

MSc. MNIMH. RCHM. Dip Ac. MAR. ANP. BRCP

Nadia has been a full time multi disciplined Complementary medicine health practitioner for over 35 years following her own diagnosis of cervical cancer.   Although having worked mainly in women’s health and with those affected by breast cancer, she is dedicated to helping make a difference in the lives of anyone wanting healing, optimal health, increased energy, longevity and happiness.  She is passionate about supporting and guiding plant based therapeutic nutritional changes and teaching how to live closer to the laws of nature believing that nature is our greatest healer and teacher.  Nadia has been a lecturer  for over 20 years at the College of Naturopathic Medicine (CNM). Previously teaching the CNM Herbal Medicine pathway and now  the Natural Chef courses.  She currently runs a 3-acre retreat and practice in a 200 year old stone farmhouse in the mountains of the Brecon Beacons National Park welcoming clients to share in the healing beauty, space and peace of living closer to nature away from the noise and stresses of modern living.  

Connect with Nadia:

Website: www.cwmdu-retreat.com  

Email address: [email protected]  

Explore a world of plant-powered knowledge at herbalreality.com or connect with us on Instagram @herbal.reality.

Herbcast is proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

We are fundraising to continue our work!

These funds will allow us to produce our next season of the Herbcast and commission our 2026 publications. We are asking for a contribution of £3 or whatever you feel able to offer, to sustain our website and content creation in the years ahead.

Donate: https://www.herbalreality.com/donate/

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 challenges and successes of addressing complex health conditions, particularly in oncology and autoimmune diseases. Chris recounts compelling case studies, emphasising the importance of a multi-faceted approach to treatment that combines dietary adjustments, herbal remedies, and patient-centred care. Their insights reveal how herbal medicine can complement conventional treatments, particularly in managing pain and enhancing quality of life.

Listen for a deeper understanding of the therapeutic potential of herbs such as wild yam, ginger, and milk thistle, as well as the significance of listening to patients' stories. The conversation also tackles the evolving relationship between herbalists and conventional medical practitioners.

More about today’s guest:

Chris is a leading advocate for the professional practice of herbal medicine in the UK. He holds a first-class honours BSc and a PhD in Medicinal Chemistry from Imperial College, London. He completed his professional training at the College of Phytotherapy: his dissertation on quality control in herbal medicine was later published. 

Chris is a practising herbalist in London and Epping, is Chair of the British Herbal Medicine Association and President of both the College of Practitioners of Phytotherapy and the European Herbal Traditional Medicines Practitioners Association. With a background in gene therapy and years of teaching, research, and clinical practice, Chris blends scientific knowledge and practical experience to the benefit of the herbal community.

Explore a world of plant-powered knowledge at herbalreality.com or connect with us on Instagram @herbal.reality

Herbcast is proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

We are fundraising to continue our work!

These funds will allow us to produce our next season of the Herbcast and commission our 2026 publications. We are asking for a contribution of £3 or whatever you feel able to offer, to sustain our website and content creation in the years ahead.

Donate: https://www.herbalreality.com/donate/

Ancient Wisdom for Modern Fertility: Chinese Herbal Approaches

In 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 founder of The Fertility Support Company.

Naava recounts her personal journey into TCM, sparked by her own health struggles as a teenager, which ultimately led her to discover the transformative power of acupuncture and herbal medicine.

In this episode:

• The significance of a personalised approach to fertility treatment, emphasising the need for thorough diagnostics and individualised herbal formulas.
• How TCM can address common women's health issues, including endometriosis and hormonal imbalances, through targeted herbal interventions.
• The vital role of male fertility in the conception process and the importance of including male partners in the treatment journey.
• Nava's insights on the evolving landscape of TCM research and its implications for modern practice.

About Naava:

Naava Carman has been in practice since 1999 and is an experienced fertility, gynaecological and obstetric acupuncturist and Herbalist specialising in complex autoimmune disorders such as unexplained infertility, recurrent miscarriage, complex issues in pregnancy, PCOS, endometriosis and other inflammatory conditions. She particularly likes to work with people over 40 who have been told there’s no real explanation for their fertility problems other than their age, who have had multiple IVF failures, who are sick of being in charge of all aspects of their journey without a safe person to hold them through it. She has undertaken further specialist training in the area of female pelvic and sexual pain including vulvodynia, dyspareunia and Lichen Planus/Sclerosus. All too frequently, she also works with complex underlying health issues including EBV, Lyme disease, mould toxicity and heavy metal poisoning. Naava loves to work with complex male fertility issues such as day 3 embryo arrest, male hormonal imbalance, varicocele, silent infection, the effects on sperm of altered gut microbiome, normal morphology less than 4%, and poor sperm count and motility.

Explore a world of plant-powered knowledge at herbalreality.com or connect with us on Instagram @herbal.reality.

Herbcast is proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

We are fundraising to continue our work!

These funds will allow us to produce our next season of the Herbcast and commission our 2026 publications. We are asking for a contribution of £3 or whatever you feel able to offer, to sustain our website and content creation in the years ahead.

Donate: https://www.herbalreality.com/donate/

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 Chemistry degree from Oxford University, she is the founder of The Ayurveda Practice in Southwest London and co-founder of The Ayurveda Academy. 

She is a Shadow Work Group Facilitator and Coach and a mother of 3 children. She is passionate about learning and passing on knowledge of Ayurveda and delving into the relationship between emotional and physical health.

This episode covers the intricacies of applying Ayurvedic principles to women's health, particularly during fertility and pregnancy. Kate explains how understanding the doshas can empower women to navigate their menstrual cycles, recognising the importance of balance and self-care at each stage. Listeners will learn about the predominant doshas throughout the cycle and how they influence emotional and physical well-being.

Kate recounts her experiences with clients, including a remarkable case of a woman with severe endometriosis who successfully conceived after embracing Ayurvedic practices. The discussion highlights the significance of a holistic approach, incorporating diet, herbs, and emotional support, to foster reproductive health.

You can expect to discover practical Ayurvedic techniques for enhancing overall well-being, including the benefits of warm water, oil massages, and mindful eating. Kate emphasises the importance of rest, particularly for women, and encourages listeners to reclaim their need for downtime.

Explore a world of plant-powered knowledge at herbalreality.com or connect with us on Instagram @herbal.reality.

Herbcast is proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

We are fundraising to continue our work!

These funds will allow us to produce our next season of the Herbcast and commission our 2026 publications. We are asking for a contribution of £3 or whatever you feel able to offer, to sustain our website and content creation in the years ahead.

Donate: https://www.herbalreality.com/donate/

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 transition.

The conversation explores the current landscape of menopause, highlighting the overwhelming amount of information available and the importance of personalised care. Melinda discusses the diverse experiences women face during menopause and the various herbal remedies that can support them, including the well-researched black cohosh, adaptogens like ashwagandha, and the nourishing properties of Shatavari and maca root.

This episode aims to empower women with knowledge and options, encouraging them to embrace this transition with confidence and support.

Join us for this enlightening conversation that bridges traditional herbal wisdom with modern understanding, offering a roadmap for navigating menopause naturally.

Explore a world of plant-powered knowledge at herbalreality.com or connect with us on Instagram @herbal.reality.

Herbcast is proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

We are fundraising to continue our work!

These funds will allow us to produce our next season of the Herbcast and commission our 2026 publications. We are asking for a contribution of £3 or whatever you feel able to offer, to sustain our website and content creation in the years ahead.

Donate: https://www.herbalreality.com/donate/

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 indicate a deeper issue, such as endometriosis or fibroids.

Rosemary shares her unique journey into herbalism, highlighting her passion for using nature's remedies to alleviate period pain and other reproductive health challenges. She discusses the importance of educating young women about their menstrual health, including her impactful Periods Not Pills campaign aimed at providing alternatives to hormonal treatments.

Listeners will discover:

- The dietary changes that can significantly alleviate period pain, including the role of magnesium and the importance of reducing sugar intake.

- How specific herbs, like cinnamon and chamomile, can provide relief during menstruation and support overall reproductive health.

- Practical insights on recognising when period pain may be symptomatic of more serious conditions, and the importance of seeking help.

- Rosemary's holistic approach to women’s health, emphasising the need for self-awareness and empowerment in managing menstrual health.

About Rosemary

Rosemary Umolu is a Midwife, Herbalist and speaker passionate about supporting women through periods, pregnancy and birth. After becoming a medical herbalist, she set up House of Rosemary, helping women get rid of periods pains and common conditions such as endometriosis, PCOS and fibroids. After overcoming issues with her own periods during her twenties, she became fascinated and passionate about educating teens and women about how to have a healthy menstrual cycle. As part of her journey in women's health, she went on to become a midwife, supporting women to have a holistic pregnancy and give birth feeling confident. She offers different services helping women to take charge of their health and have a positive understanding of their body.

House of Rosemary website: https://houseofrosemary.com/

Social media: https://www.instagram.com/houseofrosemary/

Explore a world of plant-powered knowledge at herbalreality.com or connect with us on Instagram @herbal.reality.

For articles relating to women's health visit: https://www.herbalreality.com/insights/health-lifestyle/women-health/

Herbcast is proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

We are fundraising to continue our work!

These funds will allow us to produce our next season of the Herbcast and commission our 2026 publications. We are asking for a contribution of £3 or whatever you feel able to offer, to sustain our website and content creation in the years ahead.

Donate: https://www.herbalreality.com/donate/

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 highlights the current state of research on women's health, with a particular focus on menopause, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and fibroids. Hananja shares her insights on the evolution of understanding these conditions, revealing the gaps in knowledge that still exist despite advancements in research. They discuss the significant role of herbs like black cohosh and Vitex Agnus castus, examining their mechanisms of action and the complexities of herbal efficacy.

This episode offers insights into how traditional herbal practices intersect with modern scientific research, as well as the importance of a holistic approach to women's health. The episode also touches on the challenges of researching herbal medicine, the impact of diet and lifestyle, and the empowering role of herbalists in guiding women through their health journeys.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the evolving landscape of women's health and the potential of herbal medicine to provide support and healing.

Explore a world of plant-powered knowledge at herbalreality.com or connect with us on Instagram @herbal.reality.

Herbcast is proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

We are fundraising to continue our work!

These funds will allow us to produce our next season of the Herbcast and commission our 2026 publications. We are asking for a contribution of £3 or whatever you feel able to offer, to sustain our website and content creation in the years ahead.

Donate: https://www.herbalreality.com/donate/