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The Herbalist's Path

Mel Mutterspaugh

What if the medicine you need is already growing in your backyard? What if you could be the healer your community is waiting for?


The Herbalist’s Path is a podcast for herbalists, students of herbal medicine, and plant-loving practitioners who are ready to deepen their skills and confidence. Herbalism isn’t just about memorizing plants. It’s about understanding how and why they work, learning to think critically, and applying plant medicine thoughtfully with real people.


Hosted by clinical herbalist and educator Mel Mutterspaugh (Mountain Mel), this show blends traditional plant wisdom with modern clinical understanding, grounded in real-world experience and ethical community care.


You’ll hear solo episodes that break down herbal concepts in a clear, practical way, along with conversations with herbalists, educators, farmers, product makers, and healers who are actively shaping the future of herbal medicine. Together, we explore clinical reasoning, safety, formulation, sustainability, and what it really means to grow into the role of a community herbalist.


Because herbalism isn’t about perfection. It’s about practice, connection, and reclaiming healing knowledge that belongs to all of us.


Whether you’re just getting started or ready to serve as a healer in your community, subscribe and walk your herbal path with intention and confidence.


Learn more at theherbalistspath.com

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  • 20 episodes
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  • Avg 49 min
  • English

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  • S5 · E158
    Yesterday · 26 min

    Herbs for Wildfire Smoke: Supporting Your Whole Body, Lungs, Liver, Nerves and Heart

    Seems like wildfires are everywhere these days. And, the most common thing people will ask an herbalist is, “what herbs do I need for the inhalation of wildfire smoke?” And, they’re thinking it’s always something to do with the lungs and respiratory health. Which, yes, that’s a great start. But, these fires, and their smoke affect so much more than that in our bodies. And, that’s what we’re digging into with this episode. We’re talking about things like: Why thinking of the body as a whole, instead of just one system at a time is important. Using herbs for nervous system support Supporting the liver, so it can help detoxify our systems And yes, supporting the lungs too. Herbs you’ll hear about in this episode are: Hawthorn, Mullein, Licorice, Fennel, Anise Seed, Linden, Milk Thistle, and probably a few more, you’ll just have to listen to find out. The thing that a skilled herbalist will do in almost all situations is look beyond the initial issue most folks think you’re facing. Because we are beautiful, intricate, complex, and whole beings. And, what may affect one body system, is surely to be having an impact on other systems as well. And, when you learn to think of using herbs in ways like this, you’re thinking like an herbalist, and you will have much greater success with herbal remedies. Want to start thinking more like an herbalist, instead of a band-aid fixer? Check out the Community Herbalist Mentorship here! https://www.theherbalistspath.com/community-herbalist-certification Like the show? Got a Q? Shoot us a Text! If you've been learning herbs for a while, but still feel like you don't know enough, this free live class was made for you! We're going to cover the 3 essential steps to help you go from "dabbling" to feeling confident as an herbalist. Click here to get signed up for the free herb class! Support the show Ready to deepen your herbal skills and knowledge? Whether you're stocking your family's medicine cabinet, building your formulation skills, or stepping into the role of community herbalist, we have a program for you. Learn more here If you enjoyed this episode, it would mean so much if you left us a review and shared it with a friend. It helps more herbalists find their way here, and helps make herbalism #SpreadLikeWildFlowers 🌸 Join me on: TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest | YouTube Disclaimer: *The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment. Please consult your medical care provider before using herbs.

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  • S6 · E174
    July 16 · 1 hr 4 min

    Yarrow, Burdock, and Building an Herbal Business From Scratch With Monica Pastrana of Bellebrook Botanicals

    What happens when someone who spent years fixing broken healthcare systems realizes plants might be part of the solution? You get Monica Pastrana of Bellebrook Botanicals. Monica is a community herbalist, healthcare professional, and homesteader in rural Wisconsin who built her herbal product line from three simple, food-like remedies and a clear mission: get effective, approachable plant medicine into people's hands. What's in this episode: How a healthcare career led Monica straight to herbalism The morning she cut the tip of her finger off processing yarrow, and how that plant helped Burdock root and the stubborn skin issues it cleared Talking herbs with medical professionals without losing the relationship The bonfire analogy for inflammation every herbalist should be using Monica's seasonal herbal making classes on her Wisconsin property For full show notes, resources, and links visit: theherbalistspath.com/blog/yarrow-burdock-herbal-business-monica-pastrana Learn more about the Community Herbalist Certification and Mentorship Program at theherbalistspath.com/community-herbalist-certification Like the show? Got a Q? Shoot us a Text! If you've been learning herbs for a while, but still feel like you don't know enough, this free live class was made for you! We're going to cover the 3 essential steps to help you go from "dabbling" to feeling confident as an herbalist. Click here to get signed up for the free herb class! Support the show Ready to deepen your herbal skills and knowledge? Whether you're stocking your family's medicine cabinet, building your formulation skills, or stepping into the role of community herbalist, we have a program for you. Learn more here If you enjoyed this episode, it would mean so much if you left us a review and shared it with a friend. It helps more herbalists find their way here, and helps make herbalism #SpreadLikeWildFlowers 🌸 Join me on: TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest | YouTube Disclaimer: *The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment. Please consult your medical care provider before using herbs.

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  • S6 · E173
    July 3 · 27 min

    When the FDA Questions Elderberry Safety With Google AI - What Every Herbalist and Herbal Business Owner Needs to Know

    When an FDA inspector showed up to inspect my student's herbal product business, he flagged her elderberry echinacea tincture as dangerous, and cited Google AI as his research source. That's where this episode starts, and it gets crazier from there. This herbalist has done the work, and played by all the rules. She documented everything from seed to final sale. Her SOPs in place, labels compliant. She’s even been working in healthcare for years. She was doing everything right. And still, an FDA inspector who couldn't explain cyanogenic glycosides without consulting an AI chatbot tried to bring her down. What's in this episode: What happened when an FDA inspector flagged elderberry using Google AI as his only source The truth about cyanogenic glycosides in elderberries and why the inspector was wrong What the American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook says about elderberry Why AI-driven research on plant medicine is dangerous and what to do instead The bigger picture: how plant medicine has been systematically erased from mainstream knowledge What you need to have in place if you run an herbal product line How to find support and resources if this happens to you For full show notes, resources, and links visit: theherbalistspath.com/blog/fda-inspects-herbal-business-elderberry-safety Want support and mentorship as you build your herbal business, or gain more skills to become an herbalist? That's what we do inside the Community Herbalist Certification and Mentorship. Learn more at theherbalistspath.com/community-herbalist-certification Like the show? Got a Q? Shoot us a Text! If you've been learning herbs for a while, but still feel like you don't know enough, this free live class was made for you! We're going to cover the 3 essential steps to help you go from "dabbling" to feeling confident as an herbalist. Click here to get signed up for the free herb class! Support the show Ready to deepen your herbal skills and knowledge? Whether you're stocking your family's medicine cabinet, building your formulation skills, or stepping into the role of community herbalist, we have a program for you. Learn more here If you enjoyed this episode, it would mean so much if you left us a review and shared it with a friend. It helps more herbalists find their way here, and helps make herbalism #SpreadLikeWildFlowers 🌸 Join me on: TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest | YouTube Disclaimer: *The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment. Please consult your medical care provider before using herbs.

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  • S6 · E172
    June 19 · 59 min

    Wildcrafting Ethics, Botany, and Trailblazing Herbalism with Howie Brounstein

    Wildcrafting has gotten trendy, and that's not always a good thing. Misidentified plants, sketchy sourcing claims, and a whole lot of misinformation are floating around social media right now, and it's worth slowing down to talk about why that matters. Howie Brounstein, founder of Columbine School of Botanical Studies and an herbalist who has been teaching for over 40 years, talks about why botany matters, what real wildcrafting ethics actually look like, and why he’s scared by a lot of what he sees online. What's in this episode: The real risks of misidentification and why positive plant ID is non-negotiable Why botany matters, and when it doesn't need to be your focus as an herbalist How to evaluate herb books and spot information that isn't coming from real experience Why Howie teaches a long-term apprenticeship instead of one-day wildcrafting classes Why Howie believes you should taste every herb you give to someone else What it was like building an herbal career in the late 1970s when nobody believed it was possible How AI and social media are accelerating herbal misinformation For full show notes, resources, and links visit: theherbalistspath.com/blog/herbal-wildcrafting-ethics-howie-Brounstein Learn more about Howie's apprenticeship and classes at botanicalstudies.net Like the show? Got a Q? Shoot us a Text! If you've been learning herbs for a while, but still feel like you don't know enough, this free live class was made for you! We're going to cover the 3 essential steps to help you go from "dabbling" to feeling confident as an herbalist. Click here to get signed up for the free herb class! Support the show Ready to deepen your herbal skills and knowledge? Whether you're stocking your family's medicine cabinet, building your formulation skills, or stepping into the role of community herbalist, we have a program for you. Learn more here If you enjoyed this episode, it would mean so much if you left us a review and shared it with a friend. It helps more herbalists find their way here, and helps make herbalism #SpreadLikeWildFlowers 🌸 Join me on: TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest | YouTube Disclaimer: *The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment. Please consult your medical care provider before using herbs.

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  • S6 · E171
    June 5 · 19 min

    You'll Be a Better Herbalist Knowing 1 Herb 40 Different Ways Than Knowing 100s of Herbs

    Knowing how to use one herb 40 ways will make you a better herbalist. Have you ever found yourself buying herb after herb, learning a little about each one, and somehow still feeling like you don't really know what you're doing? If so, you're not alone. This episode will encourage you to slow down, go deeper, and build the kind of intimate plant relationship that turns into real herbal wisdom. The kind that grows your intuition and skills, saves you money, and keeps your apothecary from turning into a very overwhelming collection of herbs you barely know. What's in this episode: Why going deep with one herb beats collecting herbs you barely know Echinacea beyond immune support: wound healing, lymphatics, toothaches, and more Chamomile beyond sleepy time: digestion, anxiety, skin inflammation, and antispasmodic action The power of slowing down and actually tasting, smelling, and sitting with a plant Mel's top 5 essential herbs for her apothecary Herbal monographs, the new shop, and the herb of the month deep dive on Substack For full show notes, resources, and links visit: theherbalistspath.com/blog/know-one-herb-40-ways Learn more in our herb workshops, herbal monographs, and deep dive herbalism programs on our new shop page coming soon! Stay tuned for our 30% off grand opening! Like the show? Got a Q? Shoot us a Text! If you've been learning herbs for a while, but still feel like you don't know enough, this free live class was made for you! We're going to cover the 3 essential steps to help you go from "dabbling" to feeling confident as an herbalist. Click here to get signed up for the free herb class! Support the show Ready to deepen your herbal skills and knowledge? Whether you're stocking your family's medicine cabinet, building your formulation skills, or stepping into the role of community herbalist, we have a program for you. Learn more here If you enjoyed this episode, it would mean so much if you left us a review and shared it with a friend. It helps more herbalists find their way here, and helps make herbalism #SpreadLikeWildFlowers 🌸 Join me on: TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest | YouTube Disclaimer: *The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment. Please consult your medical care provider before using herbs.

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  • S6 · E170
    May 14 · 1 hr 8 min

    Herbal Gut Health with Maria Noel Groves: Bitters, Mucilaginous Herbs, and Healing Your Digestion

    Your gut has been trying to tell you something. The question is whether you know how to listen. In this episode I sit down with Maria Noel Groves, clinical herbalist and author of Herbal Gut Health, and we go deep on bitters, mucilaginous herbs, lemon balm, and how to listen to what your digestive system is telling you. What's in this episode: Why lemon balm is one of the most underrated digestive herbs we have How bitter herbs work and why they're not right for everyone The difference between stimulating digestion and healing the gut Marshmallow, linden, meadowsweet, and other soothing allies for gut repair How to read your body's signals and choose the right herbs for your situation When to reach for herbs and when to call the doctor Why tea is often the best delivery method for gut healing herbs For full show notes, resources, and links visit: theherbalistspath.com/blog/herbal-gut-health-maria-noel-groves Ready to go deeper into herbal education? Join us inside the Community Herbalist Certification and Mentorship Program here. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Wintergreen Botanicals : https://wintergreenbotanicals.com/ Maria’s site Herbal Gut Health, her book on our bookshop: https://bookshop.org/a/16080/9781635869101 Like the show? Got a Q? Shoot us a Text! If you've been learning herbs for a while, but still feel like you don't know enough, this free live class was made for you! We're going to cover the 3 essential steps to help you go from "dabbling" to feeling confident as an herbalist. Click here to get signed up for the free herb class! Support the show Ready to deepen your herbal skills and knowledge? Whether you're stocking your family's medicine cabinet, building your formulation skills, or stepping into the role of community herbalist, we have a program for you. Learn more here If you enjoyed this episode, it would mean so much if you left us a review and shared it with a friend. It helps more herbalists find their way here, and helps make herbalism #SpreadLikeWildFlowers 🌸 Join me on: TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest | YouTube Disclaimer: *The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment. Please consult your medical care provider before using herbs.

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  • S6 · E169
    April 30 · 27 min

    Herbal First Aid Kit Essentials: Natural Remedies for Cuts, Stings, Burns & More

    It only takes one accident to regret not being prepared. So let's talk herbal first aid and the essential plants to keep in your kit. From cuts and scrapes to burns, bites, and unexpected whoopsy daisies, these herbs can help you be ready before you need them, using simple, natural remedies that have been doing this work for a long time. These are the plants that can keep you calm, prepared, and out of the ER more often than you might think. What's in this episode: The most important herbs to include in your herbal first aid kit How to use plantain for bites, stings, and drawing out toxins Yarrow for stopping bleeding quickly and effectively Comfrey for sprains, strains, and tissue repair Echinacea for infection support and wound care Chamomile, ginger, and peppermint for digestive upset and stress Why lavender essential oil belongs in every first aid kit Simple ways to stay calm and think clearly when things get a little wild out there For full show notes, resources, and links visit: theherbalistspath.com/blog/herbal-first-aid-kit-essentials Wanna go deeper? Use code FIRST-AID-PODCAST for 50% off the Herbal First Aid Skills workshop, plus loads of recipes I've used for years. Or click here for the discount. Like the show? Got a Q? Shoot us a Text! If you've been learning herbs for a while, but still feel like you don't know enough, this free live class was made for you! We're going to cover the 3 essential steps to help you go from "dabbling" to feeling confident as an herbalist. Click here to get signed up for the free herb class! Support the show Ready to deepen your herbal skills and knowledge? Whether you're stocking your family's medicine cabinet, building your formulation skills, or stepping into the role of community herbalist, we have a program for you. Learn more here If you enjoyed this episode, it would mean so much if you left us a review and shared it with a friend. It helps more herbalists find their way here, and helps make herbalism #SpreadLikeWildFlowers 🌸 Join me on: TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest | YouTube Disclaimer: *The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment. Please consult your medical care provider before using herbs.

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  • S6 · E168
    April 16 · 1 hr 25 min

    Herbalism for Resilience: Ethical Wildcrafting and Connection with Elaine Sheff

    What if the way we’re learning herbalism is actually harming the plants we depend on? In this episode, I sit down with herbalist Elaine Shefff from Green Path Herb School to explore ethical wildcrafting, plant stewardship, and what it really means to be in relationship with the land. As herbalism becomes more popular, it is more important than ever to slow down, observe, and rethink how we harvest and work with plants. If you want to harvest herbs in a way that protects ecosystems and supports future generations, this episode is for you. In this episode: Why ethical wildcrafting matters now more than ever How overharvesting is impacting medicinal plants What sustainable foraging really looks like Why starting with weeds can change everything How to build a relationship with plants over time Bioregional herbalism and working with local medicine Herbalism as a path back to connection and belonging Simple ways to support your community with herbal medicine For full show notes, resources, and links visit: theherbalistspath.com/blog/ethical-resilient-herbalism-elaine-sheff Like the show? Got a Q? Shoot us a Text! If you've been learning herbs for a while, but still feel like you don't know enough, this free live class was made for you! We're going to cover the 3 essential steps to help you go from "dabbling" to feeling confident as an herbalist. Click here to get signed up for the free herb class! Support the show Ready to deepen your herbal skills and knowledge? Whether you're stocking your family's medicine cabinet, building your formulation skills, or stepping into the role of community herbalist, we have a program for you. Learn more here If you enjoyed this episode, it would mean so much if you left us a review and shared it with a friend. It helps more herbalists find their way here, and helps make herbalism #SpreadLikeWildFlowers 🌸 Join me on: TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest | YouTube Disclaimer: *The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment. Please consult your medical care provider before using herbs.

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  • S6 · E167
    April 3 · 29 min

    Free Medicine in Your Yard: 4 Medicinal Weeds Popping Up Right Now

    Spring is here, and that means some of the most powerful medicinal plants on the planet are popping up in your yard, your garden edges, and along your favorite walking paths. And most people are either pulling them out or walking right past them. In this episode, you'll meet four spring weeds that can have amazing benefits to your health: dandelion root and leaf, nettles, cleavers, and chickweed. You'll learn what they do, why they matter this time of year, and how to actually prepare them so you get the real medicine out. Free, potent, accessible plant medicine. Growing right outside your door. What's in this episode: Why spring weeds show up exactly when our bodies need them most Dandelion leaf and root: two different medicines from one plant Nettles for depletion, allergies, and deep nourishment Cleavers for lymphatic support and why fresh preparation matters Chickweed as a cooling, anti-inflammatory ally inside and out Ethical harvesting tips and how to prepare each plant effectively For full show notes, resources, and links: theherbalistspath.com/blog/theherbalistspath-com/blog/free-medicinal-weeds-in-your-yard Learn to make potent tasty medicine with us inside Medicine Makin' Mommas here. Come to the Nourishing Nettles Conference with Susun Weed in May. Like the show? Got a Q? Shoot us a Text! If you've been learning herbs for a while, but still feel like you don't know enough, this free live class was made for you! We're going to cover the 3 essential steps to help you go from "dabbling" to feeling confident as an herbalist. Click here to get signed up for the free herb class! Support the show Ready to deepen your herbal skills and knowledge? Whether you're stocking your family's medicine cabinet, building your formulation skills, or stepping into the role of community herbalist, we have a program for you. Learn more here If you enjoyed this episode, it would mean so much if you left us a review and shared it with a friend. It helps more herbalists find their way here, and helps make herbalism #SpreadLikeWildFlowers 🌸 Join me on: TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest | YouTube Disclaimer: *The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment. Please consult your medical care provider before using herbs.

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  • S6 · E166
    March 20 · 1 hr 4 min

    Grassroots Herbalism: Mutual Aid, Community Care, and Plant Medicine with Ashley Elenbaas

    What does herbalism look like when your community actually needs you? In this episode I sit down with clinical herbalist Ashley Elenbaas of Sky House Herbs, who has been doing boots-on-the-ground mutual aid work in Minneapolis. We talk about how she organized local herbalists, partnered with existing mutual aid networks, and got herbal care kits into the hands of homebound immigrant families. And how she did it without burning herself out in the process. This is community herbalism in action. Real, replicable, and deeply needed right now. In this episode: What grassroots herbal mutual aid actually looks like How to find your role without duplicating efforts already being done The power of pausing and orienting before you act Involving your kids in the medicine making Knowing when to slow down so you can keep showing up For full show notes, resources, and transcript visit: theherbalistspath.com/blog/grassroots-herbalism-ashley-elenbaas Ready to go deeper into community herbalism? Ashley will be joining us as a guest teacher inside the Community Herbalist Certification and Mentorship program. Learn more at here. Like the show? Got a Q? Shoot us a Text! If you've been learning herbs for a while, but still feel like you don't know enough, this free live class was made for you! We're going to cover the 3 essential steps to help you go from "dabbling" to feeling confident as an herbalist. Click here to get signed up for the free herb class! Support the show Ready to deepen your herbal skills and knowledge? Whether you're stocking your family's medicine cabinet, building your formulation skills, or stepping into the role of community herbalist, we have a program for you. Learn more here If you enjoyed this episode, it would mean so much if you left us a review and shared it with a friend. It helps more herbalists find their way here, and helps make herbalism #SpreadLikeWildFlowers 🌸 Join me on: TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest | YouTube Disclaimer: *The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment. Please consult your medical care provider before using herbs.

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  • S6 · E165
    March 7 · 26 min

    Herbs for Cardiovascular Health: Hawthorn, Garlic, Motherwort, and More

    Heart disease is the number one cause of death globally, and nearly 50% of adults in the US have at least one major cardiovascular risk factor. The good news is you likely have herbs in your kitchen and garden that can help. Learn the herbal actions that matter most for cardiovascular health as we share top herbs for heart support, from culinary powerhouses like garlic, ginger, rosemary, and cayenne, to longer-term tonics like hawthorn, motherwort, and ginkgo. These herbs work best alongside good daily habits to truly nourish your heart for the long haul. What's in this episode: Why heart health matters The cardiovascular system's connection to blood sugar, stress, inflammation, and the liver Herbal actions to know: antispasmodics, cardiotonics, circulatory stimulants, hypotensives, nervines, and vasodilators Culinary herbs as cardiovascular medicine: garlic, ginger, rosemary, and cayenne Hawthorn: the heart tonic herbalists reach for again and again Motherwort for stress-induced hypertension and heart palpitations Ginkgo biloba and microcirculation: cold hands, brain fog, and beyond For the Blueberry Cinnamon Heart Healthy Shrub recipe head here: theherbalistspath.com/blog/herbs-for-heart-health-hawthorn-garlic-motherwort Like the show? Got a Q? Shoot us a Text! If you've been learning herbs for a while, but still feel like you don't know enough, this free live class was made for you! We're going to cover the 3 essential steps to help you go from "dabbling" to feeling confident as an herbalist. Click here to get signed up for the free herb class! Support the show Ready to deepen your herbal skills and knowledge? Whether you're stocking your family's medicine cabinet, building your formulation skills, or stepping into the role of community herbalist, we have a program for you. Learn more here If you enjoyed this episode, it would mean so much if you left us a review and shared it with a friend. It helps more herbalists find their way here, and helps make herbalism #SpreadLikeWildFlowers 🌸 Join me on: TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest | YouTube Disclaimer: *The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment. Please consult your medical care provider before using herbs.

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  • S6 · E164
    February 12 · 1 hr 40 min

    Holding Space as a Healer: Nervous System Herbs, Trauma & Psilocybin ER Nurse & Herbalist Heather Shelton

    What does it really look like to hold space for someone in their most vulnerable moments? Heather Shelton, nurse-turned-herbalist and psilocybin facilitator, shares her journey from medical trauma to healing work with nervous system herbs and plant medicine. Learn about lemon balm, motherwort, and chamomile for everyday support, what happens in a psilocybin session, and why plants have been her greatest teachers. Grounded wisdom for anyone called to healing work. What's in this episode: From medical trauma to herbalism and facilitation work Learning directly from plants when teachers weren't available What a psilocybin session is really like Nervous system support: lemon balm, motherwort, and chamomile Creating safety and presence as a healer Teaching kids to trust their intuition For full show notes head HERE Want to learn from Heather and become the kind of herbalist people trust guide them in their healing journey? The Community Herbalist Certification & Mentorship Program teaches you how to think like an herbalist, hold space for real healing, and show up with herbal skills and the confidence to use them for your community. Like the show? Got a Q? Shoot us a Text! If you've been learning herbs for a while, but still feel like you don't know enough, this free live class was made for you! We're going to cover the 3 essential steps to help you go from "dabbling" to feeling confident as an herbalist. Click here to get signed up for the free herb class! Support the show Ready to deepen your herbal skills and knowledge? Whether you're stocking your family's medicine cabinet, building your formulation skills, or stepping into the role of community herbalist, we have a program for you. Learn more here If you enjoyed this episode, it would mean so much if you left us a review and shared it with a friend. It helps more herbalists find their way here, and helps make herbalism #SpreadLikeWildFlowers 🌸 Join me on: TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest | YouTube Disclaimer: *The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment. Please consult your medical care provider before using herbs.

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  • S6 · E163
    February 3 · 1 hr 1 min

    Staying Regulated in a Dysregulated World: Nervous System Herbs for Challenging Times

    The world feels heavy right now. Many of us are moving through stress, grief, anger, and exhaustion while trying to stay grounded in our lives and communities. In this co-hosted episode of The Herbalist’s Path, Mel and Brittany talk honestly about what it looks like to stay regulated during hard times. They explore nervous system support through herbs, foundational practices, and self-awareness — without bypassing what’s happening in the world. In this episode, we cover: • Navigating stress & overwhelm • Why this stress isn’t new for BIPOC communities & why context matters • Nervines for immediate nervous system support • Heart-centered herbs for grief • Milky oats for depleted nervous systems • Adaptogens for long-term resilience & when to use them • Foundational practices no tincture can replace • Herbalist burnout and practicing what you preach • Joy, laughter, and community care — including caring for yourself This grounded conversation between two clinical herbalists focuses on resilience, capacity, and caring for yourself so you can keep showing up with integrity and clarity. For full show notes, click HERE: Ready to deepen your herbal practice? Learn more about the Community Herbalist Certification and Mentorship Program HERE. Like the show? Got a Q? Shoot us a Text! If you've been learning herbs for a while, but still feel like you don't know enough, this free live class was made for you! We're going to cover the 3 essential steps to help you go from "dabbling" to feeling confident as an herbalist. Click here to get signed up for the free herb class! Support the show Ready to deepen your herbal skills and knowledge? Whether you're stocking your family's medicine cabinet, building your formulation skills, or stepping into the role of community herbalist, we have a program for you. Learn more here If you enjoyed this episode, it would mean so much if you left us a review and shared it with a friend. It helps more herbalists find their way here, and helps make herbalism #SpreadLikeWildFlowers 🌸 Join me on: TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest | YouTube Disclaimer: *The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment. Please consult your medical care provider before using herbs.

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  • S6 · E162
    January 20 · 1 hr 10 min

    Essential Oils for Herbalists with Hana Tisserand: Safety, Quality, and Sustainability

    Essential oils are powerful tools, but they’re also some of the most misunderstood substances in modern herbalism. Safety concerns, quality questions, and sustainability issues are real, and sorting through the marketing noise to find reliable information isn’t easy. This episode cuts through the confusion. Hana Tisserand, internationally respected essential oil educator and author, joins me to talk about how herbalists can use essential oils confidently and responsibly. We cover safety guidelines that actually make sense, how to assess quality when you’re buying oils, what sustainability really means in the essential oil industry, and how to integrate aromatherapy into your herbal practice without overwhelm. If you’ve been curious about essential oils but unsure where to start, this conversation offers a solid, grounded foundation. You’ll learn: What essential oils are, and what they are not Why essential oil safety requires more nuance than most people realize How quality, sourcing, and sustainability impact both people and plants Common misconceptions herbalists should be cautious of When essential oils make sense in herbal practice, and when they don’t If you’ve ever felt unsure about essential oils, overwhelmed by conflicting advice, or curious about how they fit into responsible herbalism, this episode brings clarity without fear or hype. Connect with Hana at the Tisserand Institute: https://tisserandinstitute.org/ For full show notes, resources, links, and to download the transcript: https://www.theherbalistspath.com/blog/essential-oils-for-herbalists-hana-tisserand Want to learn more from Hana as you deepen your herbal skills? She’ll be a guest educator inside the Community Herbalist Certification and Mentorship Program, where you’ll gain solid herbal education and learn how to actually think like an herbalist. Learn more here: https://www.theherbalistspath.com/community-herbalist-certification Like the show? Got a Q? Shoot us a Text! If you've been learning herbs for a while, but still feel like you don't know enough, this free live class was made for you! We're going to cover the 3 essential steps to help you go from "dabbling" to feeling confident as an herbalist. Click here to get signed up for the free herb class! Support the show Ready to deepen your herbal skills and knowledge? Whether you're stocking your family's medicine cabinet, building your formulation skills, or stepping into the role of community herbalist, we have a program for you. Learn more here If you enjoyed this episode, it would mean so much if you left us a review and shared it with a friend. It helps more herbalists find their way here, and helps make herbalism #SpreadLikeWildFlowers 🌸 Join me on: TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest | YouTube Disclaimer: *The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment. Please consult your medical care provider before using herbs.

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  • S6 · E161
    January 16 · 35 min

    Liver Health Herbs - How Herbalists Support Natural Detox Pathways Without “Cleanses”

    Your liver is working every minute to filter toxins, balance hormones, metabolize fats, and support over 500 functions in your body. But here's what most people get wrong: your liver doesn't need a "cleanse" or punishing detox. What it needs is ongoing support through the right herbs at the right time. In this episode, you'll discover how to think like an herbalist when choosing liver-supporting herbs. Learn why bitter herbs stimulate digestion, how cholagogues and choleretics improve bile flow, and which hepatic herbs protect and regenerate liver cells. Whether you're dealing with skin issues, digestive struggles, hormonal imbalances, or simply want to support your hardest-working organ, this episode gives you the practical herbal wisdom to nourish your liver. What you'll learn Why the liver works 24/7 and why "cleansing" language misses the point The liver's role in fat metabolism, hormones, bile, and blood sugar How bitter taste receptors kickstart digestion and bile flow The difference between cholagogues vs choleretics Key herbal actions for liver support: hepatoprotective and trophorestorative herbs Practical ways to use bitters and Milk Thistle seeds daily If this episode helped you think about liver support differently, come say hi. Message me on Instagram or Facebook at The Herbalist's Path and share what your liver needs this season. For full show notes, resources, links and transcript: https://www.theherbalistspath.com/blog/liver-health-herbs-natural-support Ready to go beyond surface level herbalism, and learn to think like an herbalist? Learn more about the Community Herbalist Certification & Mentorship Program here https://www.theherbalistspath.com/community-herbalist-certification If you’re ready to learn more about the taking care of your liver, check out Beyond Detox - Herbs For Liver Support here https://www.theherbalistspath.com/beyond-detox-herbs-for-liver-support Like the show? Got a Q? Shoot us a Text! If you've been learning herbs for a while, but still feel like you don't know enough, this free live class was made for you! We're going to cover the 3 essential steps to help you go from "dabbling" to feeling confident as an herbalist. Click here to get signed up for the free herb class! Support the show Ready to deepen your herbal skills and knowledge? Whether you're stocking your family's medicine cabinet, building your formulation skills, or stepping into the role of community herbalist, we have a program for you. Learn more here If you enjoyed this episode, it would mean so much if you left us a review and shared it with a friend. It helps more herbalists find their way here, and helps make herbalism #SpreadLikeWildFlowers 🌸 Join me on: TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest | YouTube Disclaimer: *The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment. Please consult your medical care provider before using herbs.

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  • S6 · E160
    January 8 · 1 hr 18 min

    Slow Herbalism, Mental Health & Ancestral Healing with Herbalist Jo Sesay

    What if healing isn't something you rush toward, but something you remember? In this episode, herbalist Jo Sesay shares how her grandmother, mother, and Aunt Jo created their own healing network long before the internet existed. You'll discover why cultural connection matters deeply in both food and plant medicine, how ancestral wisdom shapes modern herbal practice, and why slowing down is the most radical thing you can do as a budding herbalist. Jo brings together psychology, addiction counseling, perinatal mental health expertise, and a PhD candidacy in integrative health. She shares honest truths about the pressure to perform on social media, why herbalism thrives on collaboration not competition, and how to build a genuine relationship with plants one cup of tea at a time. Here's what you'll learn: Jo's family healing network across generations Why cultural foods matter in healing Mental health, trauma, and cultural processing Reconnecting to land Black Americans returning to herbalism Creating herbal rituals with children Oat straw as ally Creating your own blueprint Reclaiming the sacred in practice Connect with Jo here as RealRootedJo on Threads and Substack for science-informed reflections on herbalism, mental health, and ancestral healing. Ready to deepen your practice? This is the kind of thinking we cultivate inside the Community Herbalist Certification & Mentorship. Learn more at https://www.theherbalistspath.com/community-herbalist-certification Get full show notes here. Like the show? Got a Q? Shoot us a Text! If you've been learning herbs for a while, but still feel like you don't know enough, this free live class was made for you! We're going to cover the 3 essential steps to help you go from "dabbling" to feeling confident as an herbalist. Click here to get signed up for the free herb class! Support the show Ready to deepen your herbal skills and knowledge? Whether you're stocking your family's medicine cabinet, building your formulation skills, or stepping into the role of community herbalist, we have a program for you. Learn more here If you enjoyed this episode, it would mean so much if you left us a review and shared it with a friend. It helps more herbalists find their way here, and helps make herbalism #SpreadLikeWildFlowers 🌸 Join me on: TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest | YouTube Disclaimer: *The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment. Please consult your medical care provider before using herbs.

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  • S6 · E159
    January 1 · 21 min

    Learn to Think Like an Herbalist, Not Just Memorize Herbs

    There’s a moment in most herbalist’s journey when working with plants stops feeling like a fun curiosity and starts feeling more like responsibility. Your remedies work. People notice. And suddenly, friends, family, and community members are asking you for deeper help. Not just a salve or a tea, but real support for chronic issues, complex patterns, and long-standing health concerns. In this episode of The Herbalist’s Path, Mel talks about that pivotal shift. The moment when integrity matters more than confidence, and when memorizing more herbs no longer feels like enough. You’ll hear why true herbal confidence doesn’t come from stacking more books or collecting more plant facts, but from learning how the body actually works, how to assess what’s really going on beneath the surface, and how to think critically about which herbs, preparations, and lifestyle shifts are truly supportive for the person in front of you. This episode is for herbalists who care deeply about doing this work well. For those who feel the weight of responsibility when people trust them with their health, and who want to meet that responsibility with skill, compassion, and integrity. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by internet herbalism, conflicting advice, or the pressure to sound confident before you feel ready, this show will feel grounding and reassuring for you. What you'll hear in this episode: The emotional shift from hobbyist to responsible herbalist Why memorizing herbs doesn’t build real confidence How understanding the body changes everything about herbal recommendations What it actually means to think like an herbalist Why mentorship and guidance matter when the stakes are real If this resonates, you’re feeling the call to go deeper, you can learn more about the Community Herbalist Certification & Mentorship here. And if not, trust that your path will unfold in the right timing. The plants will always be here for you. Like the show? Got a Q? Shoot us a Text! If you've been learning herbs for a while, but still feel like you don't know enough, this free live class was made for you! We're going to cover the 3 essential steps to help you go from "dabbling" to feeling confident as an herbalist. Click here to get signed up for the free herb class! Support the show Ready to deepen your herbal skills and knowledge? Whether you're stocking your family's medicine cabinet, building your formulation skills, or stepping into the role of community herbalist, we have a program for you. Learn more here If you enjoyed this episode, it would mean so much if you left us a review and shared it with a friend. It helps more herbalists find their way here, and helps make herbalism #SpreadLikeWildFlowers 🌸 Join me on: TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest | YouTube Disclaimer: *The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment. Please consult your medical care provider before using herbs.

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  • S5 · E158
    Dec 12, 2025 · 1 hr 9 min

    Do Herbs Really Work? Clinical Herbalist Brittany Williams' Honest Answer After 25+ Years

    You can study herbs for years, read all the books, memorize the properties… but none of it replaces working with real people. None of it builds your intuition the way practice does, and it definitely doesn't come from AI. If you've ever wondered whether herbs really work or doubted your abilities as an herbalist, this conversation with clinical herbalist Brittany Williams of Eudemonia Herbs is going to feel like a deep exhale. Brittany shares her 25-plus year journey and gets real about what it takes to grow as an herbalist, why nuance matters, and how experience shapes confidence in ways no algorithm ever could. What's in this episode: Brittany's magical apothecary discovery at Smile Herb Shop The "friends, family, and fools" phase of building confidence Why herbs work (and when they don't): quality, dosage, and matching Meeting people where they are vs. gatekeeping herbalism How herbal education creates a ripple effect in communities Starting somewhere is better than starting nowhere For full show notes and transcript: https://www.theherbalistspath.com/blog/brittany-williams-eudemonia-herbs-work Ready to deepen your herbal skills with mentorship from Brittany & Mel? Learn more about the Community Herbalist Certification & Mentorship Program at https://www.theherbalistspath.com/community-herbalist-certification Like the show? Got a Q? Shoot us a Text! If you've been learning herbs for a while, but still feel like you don't know enough, this free live class was made for you! We're going to cover the 3 essential steps to help you go from "dabbling" to feeling confident as an herbalist. Click here to get signed up for the free herb class! Support the show Ready to deepen your herbal skills and knowledge? Whether you're stocking your family's medicine cabinet, building your formulation skills, or stepping into the role of community herbalist, we have a program for you. Learn more here If you enjoyed this episode, it would mean so much if you left us a review and shared it with a friend. It helps more herbalists find their way here, and helps make herbalism #SpreadLikeWildFlowers 🌸 Join me on: TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest | YouTube Disclaimer: *The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment. Please consult your medical care provider before using herbs.

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  • S5 · E157
    Nov 25, 2025 · 32 min

    Am I Herbalist Enough? Real Talk For Herbalists Experiencing Imposter Syndrome

    Have you ever felt like you're not quite herbalist enough? If so, you're not alone, and neither am I. In this episode, we're talking about imposter syndrome in the herbal world and sharing the very human side of growing as an herbalist. And yes, even after 25 years of studying, teaching, formulating, running a product line, and guiding thousands of people with plant medicine, that nasty imposter syndrome still gets me. You'll hear some beautiful moments from my students, the lessons my teachers passed down to me, and what it truly looks like to own your role as a healer in your community. If you've ever wondered whether you "know enough" to call yourself an herbalist… this episode is for you. For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript: https://theherbalistspath.com/am-i-herbalist-enough-imposter-syndrome If you're feeling the nudge to step more fully into your role as an herbalist and community healer, I'd love to welcome you into the Community Herbalist Certification & Mentorship program. You can start your studies now and join our next live cohort when it begins. Learn more: https://www.theherbalistspath.com/community-herbalist-certification Like the show? Got a Q? Shoot us a Text! Support the show Ready to deepen your herbal skills and knowledge? Whether you're stocking your family's medicine cabinet, building your formulation skills, or stepping into the role of community herbalist, we have a program for you. Learn more here If you enjoyed this episode, it would mean so much if you left us a review and shared it with a friend. It helps more herbalists find their way here, and helps make herbalism #SpreadLikeWildFlowers 🌸 Join me on: TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest | YouTube Disclaimer: *The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment. Please consult your medical care provider before using herbs.

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  • S5 · E156
    Nov 1, 2025 · 26 min

    Community Herbalism in Action: Accessible Ways to Share Plant Medicine & Support Your Neighbors

    When healthcare becomes unaffordable, food insecurity rises, and communities are struggling, herbalists have a unique power to help. But how do you actually show up without burning out or giving everything away? In this episode, you'll discover simple, accessible ways to share plant medicine in your community—from free herb walks and sliding-scale care to medicine gardens and mutual aid kits. Whether you're a clinical herbalist or just getting started, you'll find practical ideas to make herbalism spread like wildflowers right where you live. What's in this episode: 01:00 — Why community care matters now more than ever 03:00 — The lineage of healers we're part of today 05:00 — Teaching herbalism through workshops and herb walks 10:00 — Offering sliding-scale community care days 11:00 — Herbal first aid at protests and community events 12:00 — Tea tables, care kits, and mutual aid ideas 14:00 — Building community medicine gardens 16:00 — Sustainable harvesting and foraging ethics 18:00 — Seed libraries and medicine swaps 19:00 — Setting boundaries while staying generous For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript: https://www.theherbalistspath.com/blog/community-herbalism-in-action Ready to deepen your skills and serve with confidence? Explore the Community Herbalist Certification Program at https://www.theherbalistspath.com/community-herbalist-certification Like the show? Got a Q? Shoot us a Text! Support the show Ready to deepen your herbal skills and knowledge? Whether you're stocking your family's medicine cabinet, building your formulation skills, or stepping into the role of community herbalist, we have a program for you. Learn more here If you enjoyed this episode, it would mean so much if you left us a review and shared it with a friend. It helps more herbalists find their way here, and helps make herbalism #SpreadLikeWildFlowers 🌸 Join me on: TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest | YouTube Disclaimer: *The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment. Please consult your medical care provider before using herbs.

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