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