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The French Herbal

The French Herbal

Hello friend of the herbs. My name is Christophe. I am a french herbalist. On this podcast, I will take you on a journey to discover French style herbalism based on tradition and practical experience. Welcome!

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  • 22 episodes
  • weekly
  • Avg 18 min
  • English
Counted on this page — what you have heard stays on this device, so it is not something the list can be paged by.
  • Saturday · 14 min

    French Depurative Cure: The Spring Herbal Cleanse Tradition

    Explore the French depurative cure—a traditional spring wellness practice using medicinal herbs like dandelion and rosemary. Discover its history, why it disappeared, and when to practice it todayFree eBook on preparing your herbal teas for the 4 seasons:https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/obtain-your-free-ebook/Link to the article: https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/podcast/french-depurative-cure-the-spring-herbal-cleanse-tradition/(00:00) Introduction(01:46) Complex mixes vs. single herbs(03:06) Puke and purge(04:19) Why the depurative cure?(06:29) Free eBook: Herbal Teas for the 4 Seasons!(06:45) The cure in a few words(09:07) Why did it disappear?(10:56) Applicability to today's world(12:25) ExampleDisclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal remedies, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or take medications.

  • August 22 · 15 min

    Book Review: Making Plant Medicine by Richo Cech

    Free eBook on preparing your herbal teas for the 4 seasons:https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/obtain-your-free-ebook/Link to the article: https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/podcast/book-review-making-plant-medicine-by-richo-cech/(00:00) Introduction(00:29) Background information: how I got to know the b...(03:24) Part 1: The Methods(09:39) Free eBook: Herbal Teas for the 4 Seasons!(09:55) Part 2: The Plants(10:55) What makes this book special(11:16) Example of what you can do with this book(14:56) ConclusionDisclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal remedies, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or take medications.

  • August 15 · 16 min

    Cowslip (Primula veris): Medicinal Uses for Cough, Stress & Sleep

    Free eBook on preparing your herbal teas for the 4 seasons:https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/obtain-your-free-ebook/Link to the article: https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/podcast/cowslip-primula-veris-medicinal-uses-for-cough-stress-sleep/(00:00) Introduction(00:54) Cowslip - The Plant(05:06) Parts used(05:16) Historical uses(07:11) Free eBook: Herbal Teas for the 4 Seasons!(07:28) Cowslip flowers for the nervous system(10:03) Headaches and migraines(10:31) Restless sleep(11:04) Aromatic roots for the lungs(13:37) Topical applications(14:02) Forms and quantities(15:13) PrecautionsDisclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal remedies, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or take medications.

  • August 8 · 19 min

    Motherwort (Leonurus Cardiaca): Benefits for Anxiety, Heart Health & Women's Conditions

    Free eBook on preparing your herbal teas for the 4 seasons:https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/obtain-your-free-ebook/Link to the article: https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/podcast/motherwort-leonurus-cardiaca-benefits-for-anxiety-heart-health-womens-conditions/(00:00) Introduction(01:09) Botanical and gardening information(02:36) Parts used(03:10) Constituents and energetics(04:14) Anxiety with palpitations(05:14) Heart rhythm issues(08:02) Hypertension(09:42) Free eBook: Herbal Teas for the 4 Seasons!(09:58) Hyperthyroidism(10:37) Menstruation issues (delayed menses, painful pe...(14:23) Menopause and Hot Flashes(14:58) Absence of Lochia(15:45) Preparations and dosages(17:27) Precautions(17:56) Conclusion (and Summary)Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal remedies, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or take medications.

  • August 1 · 18 min

    Integrative Oncology: How Lifestyle Changes Improve Cancer Treatment Outcomes

    Dr. Jean-Loup Mouysset on how integrative approaches—stress management, nutrition, physical activity, social support, and complementary therapies—can improve cancer treatment results alongside conventional medicine. Based on 30 years of clinical data.Free eBook on preparing your herbal teas for the 4 seasons:https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/obtain-your-free-ebook/Link to the article: https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/podcast/integrative-oncology-how-lifestyle-changes-improve-cancer-treatment-outcomes/(00:00) Introduction(01:52) The Context and Shocking Numbers(03:40) The Evidence(05:18) The Barriers(07:37) Free eBook: Herbal Teas for the 4 Seasons(07:54) The PACTE Framework(08:17) Stress Management(09:35) Nutrition(11:25) Physical Activity(11:54) Social Connections(13:15) Complementary Therapies(15:44) Deepest Insight from the interview(17:16) The Ressource CenterDisclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal remedies, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or take medications.

  • July 25 · 18 min

    Herbal Remedies for Smoke Inhalation due to Forest Fires

    Free eBook on preparing your herbal teas for the 4 seasons:https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/obtain-your-free-ebook/Link to the article: https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/podcast/herbal-remedies-for-smoke-inhalation-due-to-forest-fires/(01:49) My own experience with fire(03:52) What smoke does to our lungs(07:15) Free eBook: Herbal Teas for the 4 Seasons(07:31) Herbal strategies(10:30) Category 2: Aromatic Expectorants(10:40) Category 1: Mucilaginous Plants(11:03) Category 3: Plants rich in silica(12:10) Composing a tea blend(13:40) Herbal Inhalations(15:05) Eye and Sinus WashDisclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal remedies, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or take medications.

  • July 18 · 17 min

    Pine Buds for Respiratory Health: Harvesting, Preparation & Benefits

    Pine, spruce, and fir buds are powerful respiratory remedies used in French herbalism for centuries. In this episode, learn what conifer buds are good for, how to harvest them, and the best way to prepare them—including a simple alcohol extraction trick that makes all the difference.Free eBook on preparing your herbal teas for the 4 seasons:https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/obtain-your-free-ebook/Link to the article: https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/podcast/pine-buds-for-respiratory-health-harvesting-preparation-benefits/(00:00) Introduction(00:58) Botanical information(03:09) Harvesting(04:19) Constituents and energetics(05:21) Lung mucolytic and expectorant(08:30) Free eBook: Herbal Teas for the 4 Seasons!(08:46) Urinary Tract Infection(10:09) External use for Joint and Skin issues(10:26) Infused Oil and Resins(12:26) Young shoots rich in vitamin C(13:19) Forms and quantities(16:46) PrecautionsDisclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal remedies, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or take medications.

  • July 11 · 15 min

    Ancient Roots of Herbal Medicine episode 2: Gallic Practice in France

    Discover how the ancient Gauls and Celts mastered herbal medicine long before modern science—from druid traditions to sophisticated plant preparations that still influence healing practices today.Free eBook on preparing your herbal teas for the 4 seasons:https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/obtain-your-free-ebook/Link to the article: https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/podcast/ancient-roots-of-herbal-medicine-episode-2-gallic-practice-in-france/(00:00) Introduction(03:13) Role of the Druid(04:12) Preparations Used(05:41) Plants Used(10:40) Free eBook: Herbal Teas for the 4 Seasons!(10:56) The Importance of Eye Care(13:15) ConclusionDisclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal remedies, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or take medications.

  • July 4 · 18 min

    Roman Chamomile: Health Benefits, Preparation & Natural Uses

    Learn about Roman chamomile's digestive, calming, and therapeutic benefits. Expert guide on preparation, dosage, and safe use of this noble herbal remedy.Free eBook on preparing your herbal teas for the 4 seasons:https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/obtain-your-free-ebook/Link to the article: https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/podcast/roman-chamomile-health-benefits-preparation-natural-uses/(00:52) Botanical information(03:34) Parts used(03:46) Constituents and Energetics(05:10) Digestive Tonic(08:08) Calming to the Nervous System(10:01) Free eBook: Herbal Teas for the 4 Seasons!(10:17) For Painful Menses(11:44) Migraines(14:22) Skin Irritation/Inflammation(15:08) Forms and Quantities(17:11) PrecautionsDisclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal remedies, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or take medications.

  • June 27 · 17 min

    Birdsfoot Trefoil: The Wildflower with Powerful Calming & Sleep Benefits

    Discover how birdsfoot trefoil, a common wildflower, can ease anxiety, improve sleep, and support nervous system health—plus key precautions to use it safely. Free eBook on preparing your herbal teas for the 4 seasons: https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/obtain-your-free-ebook/ Link to the article: https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/podcast/birdsfoot-trefoil-the-wildflower-with-powerful-calming-sleep-benefits/ (0:52) Botanical information (3:27) Parts used (4:12) Main constituents (4:55) Medicinal properties: The Story of Henri Leclerc (6:45) Action on the nervous system (8:51) Combinations with other herbs (9:54) Its specialty: nighttime awakening (10:38) Free eBook: Herbal Teas for the 4 Seasons! (10:54) Forms and dosages (12:16) Precautions: cyanogenic glycosides (14:55) My conclusion on risks of toxicity Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal remedies, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or take medications.

  • June 20 · 18 min

    4 Calm & Gentle Herbs for Hyperactive Children

    Is your child struggling to wind down in the evening? In this episode, I share 4 gentle herbs trusted in French herbal tradition to help children relax and sleep better.Free eBook on preparing your herbal teas for the 4 seasons:https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/obtain-your-free-ebook/Link to the article: https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/podcast/4-gentle-plants-to-calm-hyperactive-children-naturally/(00:00) Introduction(00:33) Why help a child calm down?(02:53) The right context(03:29) Herbs at what age?(04:59) Plant quality matters(05:50) The cure and herbal tea ritual(07:32) Free eBook: Herbal Teas for the 4 Seasons!(07:49) The gentle German chamomile(11:02) Lemon Balm(12:47) Orange blossoms(14:31) Linden flowers(15:37) What about lavender?(16:43) Putting a program in placeDisclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal remedies, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or take medications.

  • June 13 · 14 min

    Book Review : Principles and Practice of Phytotherapy, By Kerry Bone and Simon Mills

    Discover why "Principles and Practice of Phytotherapy" is considered the gold standard reference for serious herbalists—a thousand-page masterpiece that combines rigorous science with clinical wisdom from two of the world's leading herbal practitioners. Free eBook on preparing your herbal teas for the 4 seasons: https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/obtain-your-free-ebook/ Link to the article: https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/podcast/book-review-principles-and-practice-of-phytotherapy-by-kerry-bone-and-simon-mills/ (00:00) Introduction (02:08) About the Authors (03:50) Section 1: The Foundations (07:44) Free eBook: Herbal Teas for the 4 Seasons! (08:01) Section 2: Clinical Herbal Strategies (12:13) Section 3: The Plant Monographs (13:17) My conclusion Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal remedies, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or take medications.

  • June 6 · 31 min

    Adaptogenic Plants: Myth or Reality? Part 2 – Personal Insights & Ecological Impact

    Part 2 of my adaptogenic plants series. I delve into personal experiences, separate myth from reality, and uncover the ecological impact of these powerful herbs. Plus, I propose sustainable local alternatives for your herbal wellness journey. Free eBook on preparing your herbal teas for the 4 seasons: https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/obtain-your-free-ebook/ Link to the article: https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/podcast/adaptogenic-plants-myth-or-reality-part-2-personal-insights-ecological-impact/ (0:00) Introduction (3:11) Each Adaptogenic Plant Has Its Own Personality (6:10) Nervous System Balancing Aspect (8:50) The Risk to Run Straight Into a Wall (11:49) Adaptogens: My Overall Positive Assessment (14:17) Risks of Disappointment (15:27) Adaptogens for Everyone? (17:09) Free eBook: Herbal Teas for the 4 Seasons! (17:26) Adaptogens: Ecological Impact (20:37) Growing Adaptogens Locally (25:22) Adaptogens in Our Backyard? Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal remedies, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or take medications.

  • May 30 · 18 min

    Ancient Roots of Herbal Medicine episode 1: From Neanderthals to Galen

    Discover how instinct, observation, and experimentation shaped early plant-based remedies—and how traditions like the Four Humors and Dioscorides’ De Materia Medica laid the foundation for Western herbalism. A deep dive into humanity’s oldest healing practice. Free eBook on preparing your herbal teas for the 4 seasons: https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/obtain-your-free-ebook/ Link to the article: https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/podcast/ancient-roots-of-herbal-medicine-episode-1-from-neanderthals-to-galen/ (1:07) In the Beginning: The Dawn of Herbal Medicine (2:38) Instinct, Observation, and the Animal Connection (4:32) The Rise of the Healer: From Instinct to Tradition (6:37) Free eBook: Herbal Teas for the 4 Seasons! (6:54) The Birth of Materia Medica: From Tribes to Civilizations (8:40) Hippocrates: The Father of Medicine (9:39) Dioscorides (1st Century AD): The Father of Pharmacognosy (11:34) Galen: The Man Who Shaped Medicine for 1,500 Years (16:35) Wrap-up Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal remedies, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or take medications.

  • May 23 · 13 min

    Tannin-Alkaloid Interactions in Herbal Preparations

    Learn how tannins and alkaloids can interact in herbal tinctures, leading to reduced potency or potentially higher toxicity. Simple solutions to avoid common mistakes in herbal preparations.Free eBook on preparing your herbal teas for the 4 seasons:https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/obtain-your-free-ebook/Link to the article: https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/podcast/tannin-alkaloid-interactions-in-herbal-preparations/(0:00) Intro(1:39) Tannin-alkaloid binding explained(4:48) Why does this matter for herbalists?(6:04) Free eBook: Herbal Teas for the 4 Seasons!(6:21) Fixing the problem(8:05) Also depends on the acidity of your liquid(9:33) Geek warning: even more technical stuff... how b...(11:08) Summary and simplificationDisclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal remedies, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or take medications.#herbalism #herbalmedicine #herbal #herbs #herbaltea #herbalremedies #herbalcare #homeremedies #homeremedy #medicinalplants #plantmedicine

  • May 16 · 10 min

    Cornflower (Centaurea cyanus): Benefits, Uses, and Herbal Eye Care Guide

    From wheat fields to your tea blend, explore the medicinal benefits of Cornflower. Learn how to make a traditional eyewash for inflammation, allergies, and conjunctivitis. Free eBook on preparing your herbal teas for the 4 seasons: https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/obtain-your-free-ebook/ Link to the article: https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/podcast/cornflower-centaurea-cyanus-benefits-uses-and-herbal-eye-care-guide/ (0:00) Intro (1:54) Botanical information (3:23) Parts used (4:35) Constituents (5:30) For tired, inflamed eyes (6:59) Free eBook: Herbal Teas for the 4 Seasons! (7:16) Preparation for tired eyes (8:00) Allergic eye inflammations (9:40) For conjunctivitis (10:02) Use of the hydrosol Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal remedies, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or take medications.

  • May 2 · 22 min

    Herbs for Diverticulosis: Prevention and Ongoing Support

    Free eBook on preparing your herbal teas for the 4 seasons: https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/obtain-your-free-ebook/ Link to the article: https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/podcast/herbs-for-diverticulosis-prevention-and-ongoing-support/ (01:28) – Definitions: diverticulosis, diverticulitis (04:50) – Causes of diverticulosis (06:06) – The case for lack of fibers (11:09) – Free eBook: Herbal Teas for the 4 (Seasons! (11:25) – Herbal strategy case 1: asymptomatic diverticulosis (17:16) – Herbal strategy case 2: after a case of diverticulitis (19:55) – Wrap-up Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal remedies, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or take medications.

  • April 25 · 16 min

    Basil Benefits: More Than Just a Kitchen Herb

    Discover basil’s hidden health benefits! From digestion to blood sugar, learn how this kitchen herb doubles as a powerful natural remedy. Free eBook on preparing your herbal teas for the 4 seasons: https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/obtain-your-free-ebook/ Link to the article: https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/podcast/basil-benefits-more-than-just-a-kitchen-herb/ (0:00) Intro (1:13) Basil's basics (3:34) Picking, parts used (4:01) Constituents and energetics (5:22) Basil as an antispasmodic (6:33) Menstrual cramps (7:12) Basil is carminative (reduces gas and bloating) (7:36) As a liver decongestant (8:08) Basil for nausea (8:35) Intriguing action on the nervous system (9:38) Basil as a sleep aid (10:28) Basil for anxiety (11:29) Basil for metabolic syndrome (12:35) Free eBook: Herbal Teas for the 4 Seasons! (12:52) Basil for menopausal symptoms (14:01) Preparations and quantities (15:05) Precautions Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal remedies, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or take medications.

  • April 18 · 21 min

    Adaptogenic Herbs: Myth or Reality? The Full Story (Part 1)

    Adaptogenic herbs: miracle plants or marketing hype? A 20-year herbalist breaks down the science, history, and real benefits in this deep dive. This is part 1 of a two-part series. Free eBook on preparing your herbal teas for the 4 seasons: https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/obtain-your-free-ebook/ Link to the article: https://www.thefrenchherbal.com/podcast/adaptogenic-herbs-myth-or-reality-the-full-story-part-1/ (00:00) Introduction (02:22) Historical perspective (03:38) Russia after World War II (07:42) 1980s and 1990s (08:18) The case of Eleuthero (10:34) The form used: a 1:1 fluid extract (12:26) The 2000s (14:09) Free eBook: Herbal Teas for the 4 Seasons! (14:25) Definition of an adaptogen (17:13) Properties of adaptogens (20:50) Wrap for part 1 Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal remedies, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or take medications.

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