19.Herbals from South of the Border – Real Herbalism Radio
Cinco de Mayo is a Big Deal here in North America. On this day each year, we like to think that Mexico’s win in the face of great odds was one of their greatest contributions to our culture. The truth is, their plant medicine has had a bigger and more lasting impact on our daily lives.
Vegetarian Japchae with Fresh Nettle
At The Practical Herbalist®’s Spring quarterly meeting, we tried our hand at a little Korean cooking. Our version of the classic Japchae dish in this recipe is made with fresh vegetables and herbs, most importantly Nettle. We had a terrific time putting it together. Even though it looks like a long, complex recipe, it’s […]
Gardening Inside: Tips for Low Light Conditions
For many of us, indoor gardening is a fantasy our dark or small homes won’t support, at least not easily. For general health and well-being, though, a few hardy houseplants are essential. Studies show that houseplants can make a huge positive difference in air quality, including cleaning indoor air of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), toxic […]
Minor Blue-Green Dragon Decoction (refined) for Flus and Allergies
Minor Blue Green Dragon Decoction is a well known Kampo medicine blend that treats and prevents influenza, otherwise known as the flu. It’s also effective for treating respiratory allergies like hay fever. This formula is based on the traditional Japanese herbal wisdom we honor deeply. The formula usually has ephedra in it to ease congestion. […]
Dental Care for the Apocalypse, part 3
Episode XX I’ve met a few crazy, militant types in my time. Roy’s cousin, back before virus Z took him out, was part of a citizen militia. That’s what they called themselves. Their camp was a shack in the woods a hour west of our place. Everything was second or third hand, pieced together, and […]
18.Ancient Remedies for Modern Times – Real Herbalism Radio
For thousands of years, Herbalists have been developing recipes using plants, foods, and other ingredients. Today, we’re talking about ancient remedies that have proven effective and often popular in our modern age.
St. John’s Wort: Sunny Weed with a History
Known by many other names before the Christian church dedicated it to Saint John the Baptist, Saint John’s wort has served to drive out illness and evils of many forms worldwide for centuries. In ancient China it was known as Qian Ceng Lou and was used to treat many of the same complaints it still […]
St. John’s Wort: Antidepressant and Anxiety Herb
Hypericum perforatum, Hypericaceae family a.k.a.: Klamath weed, Goat’s weed, Qian Ceng Lou, Fuga Daenomun Most people think of Saint John’s wort as an antidepressant. It is, but this herb offers so much more. This durable plant helps soothe the nervous system, bolster the immune system, and battles bacteria and viruses to boot. Saint John’s Wort […]
Education Programs/Herb Schools
We, at the Practical Herbalist, are frequently asked about herbal education programs and herbal studies schools. An herbal education programs should leave the student with a well rounded knowledge of the field while allowing them a chance to specialize in their program of interest. There are many to choice from, but the list below offers […]
Herbal Lemonade
Lemonade, with or without ginger, has been a favorite remedy for healing sore throats and supporting the throat and vocal cords for centuries. Many of our modern singers, actors, and politicians use it just as their ancestors did before and after each performance. Practical Herbalists, especially those who use their voices regularly like we do, […]
17.Balance Your Nervous System with Herbs with Howie Brounstein
In today’s fast-paced world, many of us rely on herbs to regain balance. Herbal Nervines offer herbalists a natural path to just that. Today we’re talking with Howie Brounstein of Columbines school if Botanical Studies about herbs for the nervous system.
How to Make Red Tiger Balm® at Home a DIY Recipe
This recipe is based on the proportions used in commercial Red Tiger Balm®. We’ve converted some of the ingredients, like menthol crystals, to essential oils for practicality. The essential oils in this formula are all readily available through several online sources and are generally reasonably priced. This makes a strongly scented balm, much like the […]