**Correction to the discussion on degree courses: there is one still running at Lincoln College**.

Join us for an enlightening discussion with seasoned herbalists Simon Mills and Sebastian Pole as they delve into the evolving landscape of herbal medicine and its integration into modern healthcare. This episode tackles the critical question: why isn't herbalism more mainstream, despite its proven benefits and growing demand?

Simon and Sebastian reflect on their extensive experiences in the field, exploring the historical and cultural barriers that have kept herbal medicine on the fringes of mainstream healthcare. They discuss the rigorous training and deep scientific knowledge required to become a herbalist, and why this expertise is often overlooked by conventional medical systems.

The conversation covers the challenges and opportunities facing herbal practitioners today, from regulatory hurdles to the booming herbal supplement industry. The duo also highlights the unique therapeutic gaps that herbal medicine can fill, particularly in chronic health conditions where modern medicine falls short.

Looking to the future, Simon and Sebastian share their vision for a more integrated healthcare system that embraces the power of plants. They discuss the importance of quality control in herbal products, the potential of herbalism to address the ageing population's needs, and the critical role of community and collaboration in advancing the field.

Discover how herbalism can contribute to a sustainable healthcare model that not only promotes individual well-being but also respects and preserves our natural environment. With a call to action for the next generation of herbalists, this episode is a rallying cry for unity and progress in 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

Adaptogens: The great rejuvenators with David Winston

In this episode, Sebastian welcomes renowned herbalist and educator David Winston, whose five decades of experience span herbal traditions from North America to Asia. David, a founder of the American Herbalist Guild and author of *Adaptogens: Herbs for Strength, Stamina, and Stress Relief*, offers a deep dive into the fascinating world of adaptogens. He traces their origins back to Soviet research in the mid-20th century when scientists were searching for substances to enhance resilience against stress. Unlike many herbal remedies rooted in traditional practices, adaptogens emerged from a modern scientific framework. 

David provides a detailed explanation of what defines an adaptogen, emphasizing their specific effects on the body’s stress response systems, including the HPA axis and SAS. He shares insights into various adaptogens, such as ginseng, ashwagandha, and schisandra, highlighting their unique properties and suitability for different individuals and health conditions. The conversation also touches on the importance of sustainability, with David stressing the need for responsible cultivation and use of adaptogenic herbs like rhodiola and cordyceps, which face ecological pressures.

Drawing from his clinical experience, David offers practical guidance on how to integrate adaptogens into a holistic health regimen. He underscores the importance of rigour and precision in herbal practice, advocating for evidence-based approaches to maximize the benefits of these powerful herbs. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or new to herbal medicine, this episode provides a wealth of knowledge on how adaptogens can support physical and emotional well-being in today’s high-stress world.

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

Join us as we cross the Irish Sea to delve into the heart of herbal practice with Vilma Matuleviciute, a seasoned herbalist and naturopath based in Ireland. With over two decades of experience, Vilma shares her insights on the multifaceted approach to heart health, combining the physiological with the emotional.

In this enlightening episode, we explore the unique challenges of practising herbalism in Ireland, including the impact of Brexit on herb supplies. Vilma discusses the importance of listening deeply to patients, understanding their emotional and mental landscapes, and tailoring herbal treatments to suit individual needs.

Discover how herbs like hawthorn, motherwort, and Angelica sinensis play a role in supporting cardiovascular health, and learn about the significance of dietary changes and emotional well-being in managing heart conditions. Vilma also highlights the use of adaptogens and nervines to address stress and anxiety, particularly in post-menopausal women.

Whether you're a budding herbalist or a seasoned practitioner, this episode offers valuable insights into the holistic approach to heart health, emphasising the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit.

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

Herbs for Colds and Fevers: The Diaphoretics with Dr. Amparo Aracil

In this episode, we explore how diaphoretic herbs can boost immunity and help manage seasonal infections. Discover how these herbs regulate body temperature, improve circulation, and support the body's immune response.

With extensive training and practice, Dr. Aracil blends herbal and medical expertise. Their holistic approach combines traditional herbal wisdom with modern medical insights, making them a respected voice in integrative medicine.

Dr. Aracil explains how the body responds to infections, detailing the role of fever and the immune system's mechanisms. Learn about the benefits of diaphoretic herbs like yarrow, peppermint, ginger, and elderflower, which help manage fever and have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. They also discuss the importance of tailoring herbal treatments to individual needs and balancing acute and chronic conditions.

Discover the use of herbs like echinacea, thyme, and lemon balm in both acute and chronic scenarios, and learn how mushrooms like reishi and cordyceps support respiratory health and overall vitality. Dr. Aracil's insights into the synergistic nature of herbs provide a comprehensive guide for enhancing your health 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

Enter the world of bitter herbs, and learn about their historical significance and modern-day applications with expert herbalist Guido Masé. As a renowned herbalist, gardener, and educator,  Guido shares his extensive knowledge of how bitters can enhance digestion, regulate appetite, and support metabolic health.

Guido Masé RH(AHG) is a clinical herbalist, educator, and garden steward specialising in holistic Western herbalism with an eclectic approach. Born in Italy, he has lived in Vermont since 1996. He is a founder and faculty member at the Vermont Center for Integrative Herbalism and serves as the herbalist, principal scientist, and chief formulator at Traditional Medicinals. He is also a founding member of the Burlington Herb Clinic and participates in herbal education at the University of Vermont. Author of The Wild Medicine Solution and DIY Bitters, Guido's teaching integrates clinical experience, storytelling, and scientific research, emphasising the connection between humans and nature for sustainable living.

In this episode, discover the fascinating mechanisms behind how bitters work in the body, from stimulating digestive secretions to modulating hormonal responses. Learn about the evolutionary role of bitter taste receptors and their presence not just in the mouth, but throughout the gastrointestinal tract and even within the heart and lungs. Guido explains how bitters can help with common digestive issues like gas, bloating, and heartburn, as well as more serious conditions such as type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome.

Guido and Sebastian also delve into the importance of dosing and the energetic qualities of bitters and explore the concept of hormesis, the paradoxical effect where small doses of potentially harmful substances can strengthen the body. 

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

Ever wondered how herbs can influence your mood and stress levels? We explore the world of nervines, nootropics, and sedatives with the esteemed Julian Barker. A seasoned herbalist and philosopher, Julian shares his vast knowledge of how these herbs can help manage emotions, memory, and cognitive function.

Julian Barker taught in England and France before becoming a theatrical and literary agent in the 1960s. He botanised and studied herbal medicine in the USA and Central America for four years. Returning to England, he apprenticed at Suffolk Herbs, managed Hulbrook House Herbs, and studied with NIMH. A graduate of the Full-Time School of Herbal Medicine, he wrote The Medicinal Flora of Britain & NW Europe and founded a Student Training Clinic in Brighton. Since 1998, he has collaborated with Dr. Jean-Claude Lapraz and translated La Médicine Personalisée. He taught herbal medicine at the University of East London, contributing to a textbook. Barker continues to work full-time in Sussex, with recent books on his herbal medicine approach. Blending his clinical expertise with a philosophical approach to herbal medicine and numerous books to his name, Julian has become a respected figure in the herbal community, known for his deep understanding of the interconnectedness of plants and human health.

In this episode, Julian challenges the conventional categories of nervines and nootropics, offering a nuanced view of how herbs can support emotional and cognitive health. He explores the concept of somatopsychic effects, where treating physical symptoms can alleviate emotional distress, and vice versa. Julian also discusses the importance of understanding an individual's terrain—the unique neuroendocrine and emotional landscape shaped from prenatal stages through to adulthood.

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

Have you ever stopped to appreciate the simple act of breathing? Each inhale brings life-giving oxygen into our bodies, but what happens when this effortless process becomes a struggle? In this episode Ramana Zahn reminds us that healing is a holistic journey that requires us to look at the body as an interconnected system.

About Rumana: A Clinic Director and Consultant Naturopath, ND, BSc (Hons), DipCK, DipA, DipM, CEd, FAMH, MGNC. Rumana began her career as a microbiologist specialising in food and water analysis before transitioning to the chemical and pharmaceutical industries. She eventually redirected her focus towards holistic health, blending scientific principles with traditional medicines. Trained in naturopathy, herbal medicine, homoeopathy, acupuncture, kinesiology, iridology, and yoga, she offers comprehensive health programs that incorporate these disciplines alongside body assessments. Passionate about helping others, Rumana teaches at universities, runs clinics, and conducts research, including collaborations with the University of Newcastle. She also engages in Argentine tango, philosophy, yoga, and meditation. As a respected member of various professional associations and a prolific writer and lecturer, she actively contributes to advancing holistic healthcare practices.

Ramana takes us through the intricacies of respiratory health, a topic that has gained immense importance in the wake of global health challenges. She shares her insights on how the lungs are not just organs of breath but are deeply connected to our joy and life force. When they function well, we feel alive and vibrant; when they don't, our entire being suffers. 

Rumana emphasises the importance of an integrated approach to health, combining herbal remedies with breathwork and lifestyle changes. She discusses how the health of your gut can have a profound impact on your respiratory system and delves into the herbal toolbox, sharing specific formulas that have worked wonders for her patients. From the anti-inflammatory properties of sweet wormwood to the soothing effects of liquorice root.

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

Revealing the secrets of botanical medicine in treating urinary and kidney health, Dr. Sally Moorcroft discusses the vital link between the gut microbiome and urinary function. Hear real-life success stories of patients finding relief from chronic conditions through herbal interventions.

About Sally:

Integrative and function doctor. MBChB, BSc(Hons), MCPP, MFHom(Med). Clinical Lead Dr. Moorcroft has 20 years of clinical experience and is one of the most highly trained Integrative and Functional Medicine doctors in the UK. She is also a Core Tutor at the National Centre of Integrated Medicine in Bristol (NCIM).

Combining functional and nutritional medicine, herbal medicine, homeopathy, bio-identical hormone and natural desiccated thyroid therapy in her clinic. She has a special interest in women's health, menopause, gut health and psychology.

Her qualifications include a BSc (Hons) in Herbal Medicine, Medical Homeopathy (MFHom) through the National Centre for Integrative Medicine, Bristol. She is also trained in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Medical Acupuncture and Bio-Identical Hormone Therapy and Natural Desiccated Thyroid therapy.

This episode delves into the often overlooked area of urinary and kidney health which affects a significant portion of the population. Dr. Moorcroft sheds light on the intricate ways in which our gut microbiome, hormonal balance, and even our stress levels can impact these vital organs.

Also, Sally explores estrogen dominance and its ramifications on women's well-being, especially throughout the menopausal phase. Dr. Moorcroft elucidates her method of addressing these hormonal fluctuations through a blend of herbal remedies and dietary adjustments.

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

From Burdock to Blood Cleansers: dive into the power of alterative herbs with Sebastian Pole and today’s guest Graeme Tobyn. With over a quarter-century of expertise, Graeme brings his wealth of knowledge from his roles as a herbalist, educator, and author, currently enriching minds at the University of Lancashire.

About Graeme: Graeme Tobyn graduated from Leeds University in 1978 with a degree in Russian with Italian. He developed the Latin and French he learned at school for use in his later studies of the histories of Renaissance and early modern medicine. He trained in herbal medicine in the 1980s, graduating with the top award and, after a six-month engagement as a phlebotomist at University College Hospital, London, entered practice in 1990 as a herbalist and member (later fellow) of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists. He became a herbal trainer in 1993, working at several NIMH training clinics, and switched to external clinical examiner for two BSc Herbal Medicine programmes from 2007. In 2000 he joined UCLan as a senior lecturer and took over the leadership of the BSc Herbal Medicine there the following year. His teaching focus on the programme (2001-2012) was in clinical examination skills and therapeutics. He completed his PGDipHE in 2005. Since 2011 he has been leader of the MSc Herbal Medicine, and in 2016 took over the running of the MSc Integrated Healthcare. In 2015 he was visiting botanical medicine scholar at Bastyr university, Seattle, USA. In 2017 he was awarded a PhD in the history of medicine from Lancaster University.

In this lively discussion, Sebastian and Graeme dissect the controversial and often misunderstood category of alteratives. They explore the historical context and evolution of this herbal action, questioning its relevance and application in modern herbal practice. Graeme challenges the retreat from robust treatments like stimulant laxatives and advocates for a reinvigoration of traditional, potent herbal therapies.

The episode delves into the semantics of herbal medicine, questioning the adoption of terms like 'anti-inflammatory' and 'immunomodulator' and calling for a return to a language that truly reflects the dynamic nature of herbs. 

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

Join Herbal Reality’s Simon Mills Embark on a journey through the delicate intricacies of women's health with expert herbalist Ginny Kemp. With a medical science background, Ginny discovered her calling in the world of herbs back in 2007. Since then, she has cultivated a thriving practice with a particular emphasis on women's health.

Ginny delves deep into a case study that epitomises the power of herbal treatments in addressing fertility issues. She shares the tale of ‘Alice’, a 36-year-old woman trying to conceive, battling with fatigue, anxiety, and a host of other interconnected health concerns. Ginny's approach is a testament to the holistic nature of herbalism, where a bespoke treatment plan not only paved the way to a successful pregnancy but also improved Alice's overall well-being.

Ginny and Simon discuss the nuances of supporting women through the different phases of their lives, from the onset of menstruation, through the challenges of perimenopause, to the empowerment of post-menopausal vitality. This episode is a treasure trove of herbal knowledge, spotlighting adaptogens, hormone modulators, and the importance of sleep and stress management in women's health.

About Ginny Kemp MCPP, MNIMH 

Ginny has a Bachelor of Medical Science from The University of Birmingham (2003) and qualified as a Medical Herbalist through the College of Phytotherapy/UEL degree course in 2007. She has been in practise ever since.

Initially she consulted full time at Hydes Herbal Clinic in Leicester for 7 years before setting up her own busy practices in Stamford (Lincs) and Leicestershire.

Whilst studying Herbal Medicine Ginny worked in the areas of sales and production at Rutland Biodynamics and experienced the processes required for Herbal Medicine manufacturers to meet Good Manufacturing Practice. Ginny’s phytochemistry research dissertation looked at the Stability Of The Flavonilignan Complex Silymarin In Commercial Tinctures Of Silybum marianum, the results of which went on to be published.

Ginny is currently Co-Vice President of the CPP and  also a member of the EHTPA council 

Ginny regularly gives talks on herbal medicine, works with a corporate health and well-being company to bring well-being into the work place and has run various workshops on making herbal medicines.

Connect with Ginny:

[email protected]

www.theherbclinic.co.uk

https://www.facebook.com/theherbclinic