Herb Mentor Radio
Health, Fitness & Longevity
About
Welcome to Herb Mentor Radio, your go-to herbal podcast for exploring the transformative world of herbs and herbal medicine, brought to you by LearningHerbs. Join hosts Kimberly Gallagher and Mimi Prunella Hernandez as they interview herbalists, sharing inspiring stories, practical tips, and time-tested wisdom. Discover how herbs can enhance your health, enrich your meals, and support your everyday life. Whether you’re a beginner to herbal education, curious about natural remedies, or an experienced herbalist seeking fresh insights, each episode is packed with actionable advice to help you unlock the healing power of plants. 599324
Episodes
- Herb Notes: The Benefits of Dill
Herbalist Sorrel Hartford discusses the medicinal benefits and contraindications of dill on Herb Mentor Radio. Listeners can also download free herb notes on common herbs.
- Patricia Kyritsi Howell: Greek Kitchen Herbalism
Patricia Kyritsi Howell discusses Greek kitchen herbalism, exploring the role of herbs like oregano in Mediterranean foodways, the Cretan tradition of horta (wild greens), and shared plant traditions like sumac between Greece and Appalachi…
- Herb Notes: The Benefits of Fennel
This episode of Herb Mentor Radio explores the medicinal benefits of fennel, an ancient herb used for common ailments. Herbalist Sorrel Hartford details three specific benefits of fennel and suggests a free resource for learning about othe…
- Kat Maier: Sensory Herbalism
This episode of Herb Mentor Radio features Kat Maier discussing sensory herbalism, a relational approach to understanding plants through direct experience and the energetic language of plants. Topics include using senses to connect with pl…
- Herb Notes: The Benefits of Sage
Herbalist Tara Ruth discusses three benefits and key contraindications of sage (Salvia officinalis) on Herb Mentor Radio. The episode also mentions a free downloadable deck of Herb Notes covering common herbs.
- Community Herbalism: From Kitchen to Wildlands
Big news at HerbMentor Radio! We open this episode with an exciting announcement that Mimi Prunella Hernandez is joining HerbMentor Radio as a co-host alongside Kimberly Gallagher. From there, we take time to get to know Mimi a bit better,…
- Herb Notes: The Benefits of Cardamom
Cardamom ( Elettaria cardamomum ) is a sweet, warming spice used in Ayurvedic medicine and beloved in kitchens around the world. It’s treasured in herbal medicine for its aromatic, stimulating gifts. Want to learn more about the healing gi…
- Maria Noël Groves: Herbs for Gut Health
Gut health isn’t just about digestion: it’s the foundation of whole-body balance. Clinical herbalist and author Maria Noël Groves brings a practical and deeply empowering perspective to the conversation, helping demystify gut health and sh…
- Herb Notes: The Benefits of Clove
Clove ( Syzygium aromaticum ) is a pungent culinary delight that makes for a wonderful spice and herbal ally. Want to learn more about the healing gifts of clove? Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth to learn about 3 benefits and key cont…
- Herb Notes: The Benefits of Ginger
Ginger ( Zingiber officiniale ) is far more than a spicy addition to your meals. This beloved plant has been used for centuries across the world as a powerful herbal remedy. Want to learn more about the healing gifts of ginger? Follow alon…
- Mimi Prunella Hernandez: Herbs for Post-Menopause
Menopause isn’t an ending: it’s an initiation. Herbalist Mimi Prunella Hernandez offers a refreshing, grounded, and deeply compassionate look at the post-menopausal years, breaking down stigma and opening the door to a new era of vitality,…
- Lauren Morgan: Dreaming with the Plants
Dreams aren’t just random stories from the night: they’re powerful messengers. Herbalist and ceremonialist Lauren Morgan shares how you can begin (or deepen) an intentional dream practice, and how simple herbal allies can support the journ…
- A Memorial for John Gallagher
On October 25th our dear friend Rosalee de la Forêt hosted an online memorial to honor our co-founder John Gallagher's life and legacy. Rosalee brought together people from all different eras of John's life to share their stories about Joh…
- Herb Notes: The Benefits of Oats
Oats ( Avena sativa ) are more than just a tasty breakfast cereal. This nutrient-dense plant is a gentle yet powerful tonic for the nervous system. Want to learn more about the healing gifts of oats? Follow along with herbalist Tara Ruth t…
- Jules Benefico: On Marketing and Astrology for Herbalists
Let’s be honest: when many herbalists hear the word marketing , they cringe. It can feel out of sync with the heart-centered work of healing. But what if marketing could actually be a sacred tool: one that helps your message and your medic…
- Herb Notes: The Benefits of Burdock
Burdock grows abundantly as a “weed” along pathways and roadsides, but don’t let the everyday nature of this plant fool you: burdock, like so many prolific medicinal plants, offers many healing gifts. Want to learn more about the healing g…
- Herb Notes: The Benefits of Rosehips
Roses ( Rosa spp.) offer a bounty of healing gifts through their fragrant flowers and nutrient-dense fruits. Rosehips are chockfull of vitamin C: making them an incredibly supportive herbal ally. Want to learn more about the healing gifts…
- Kimberly Gallagher: Big News on Herb Mentor Radio
This week’s Herb Mentor Radio is extra special. Tara sits down with Kimberly Gallagher, co-founder and CEO of LearningHerbs, for a heartfelt conversation that blends personal stories, plant wisdom, and an exciting announcement we can’t wai…
- Herb Notes: The Benefits of Oregano
Oregano ( Origanum vulgare ) is a bold, aromatic herb that’s probably sitting in your kitchen cupboard—but don’t let its everyday status fool you. This Mediterranean plant is a potent medicinal herb with a long history of use as a digestiv…
- Seraphina Capranos: The Science and Magic of Herbalism
This episode has been a long time coming. We've wanted to have Seraphina Capranos on the pod for years, and it was a joy to sit down and chat with her... Seraphina is a homeopath and one of Canada's leading herbalists. She's been in clinic…
- Herb Notes: Comfrey – Healing Bones, Sprains, & Soil
Comfrey ( Symphytum officinale or "common comfrey") is a prolific plant that has an infamously mixed reputation as an incredible healing herb and potentially risky herbal ally. We'll get into all of this in the comfrey Herb Note. Want to l…
- Honoring John & An Interview with Rebecca Fils-Aime
We begin this episode with the heartbreaking news that our beloved HerbMentor Radio co-host, John Gallagher, passed away in June. John was a visionary who dedicated his life to helping people connect with nature. He believed in making herb…
- Rosemary Gladstar: The Generosity of Plants
It's not everyday you get to sit down and chat with an herbal legend—and that's exactly what we did in this episode of HerbMentor Radio! Rosemary Gladstar is a star figure in the field of modern herbalism, internationally renowned for tech…
- Herb Notes: St. John’s Wort – Uplift Your Mood, Ease Your Pain, Heal Your Skin
St. John's wort's Latin name is Hypericum perforatum —named for the hypericin content in the plant's flowers and the tiny perforations in the leaves. These hypericin-rich flowers offer many healing gifts. Want to learn more about the…
- Rosalee de la Forêt: Cooling Inflammation
Inflammation is a big buzz word in the wellness world these days, but what exactly is inflammation? And how can it really be the root cause of a seemingly endless number of chronic conditions? Luckily, we have Rosalee de la Forêt to help u…
- Herb Notes: Roses – How They Soothe the Heart, Skin & Body
Let’s stop and smell the roses, shall we? Known for their luxurious scent and heartwarming blooms, rose petals ( Rosa spp. ) are a balm for the soul. Beyond the beauty of their flowers, roses offer many healing gifts. Want to learn m…
- Tesia Love: Understanding Ayurveda
Tesia Love is a clinical Ayurvedic specialist, herbalist, and licensed massage and bodywork therapist who helps people restore balance through traditional healing. In this episode, Tesia shares her wisdom on Ayurveda—a 3,000-year-old…
- Herb Notes: Violets – Soothing Skin, Easing Coughs, and Lifting Spirits
With their heart-shaped leaves and beautiful flowers, violets ( Viola odorata ) are a delight for the heart and soul. Beyond their charming looks, violets also offer many healing gifts. Want to learn more about the gifts of violet?&n…
- Rita Hogan: Demystifying Canine Herbalism
Rita Hogan is a clinical herbalist with over 20 years of experience specializing in holistic canine care. She blends Western herbalism, food energetics, homeopathy, and natural therapies to support dogs’ health naturally. Growing up on a f…
- Herb Notes: Chickweed – The Mighty Spring Green
Chickweed ( Stellaria media) is often one of the first signs of spring: this springtime green sprouts up as temperatures increase, beckoning us all to celebrate the arrival of the new season. Often dismissed as a "common weed," the c…
- EagleSong Gardener: Hawthorn & The Thorny Path to Herbal Wisdom
EagleSong Gardener is an EarthKeeper, a grandmother, and a lifelong adventurer, with over 50 years of experience homesteading, practicing herbal medicine, and teaching. Her unique approach is grounded in observing the rhythms of nature and…
- Herb Notes: 3 Reasons Not To Run Out Of Thyme
Thyme offers a familiar, pungent taste to every dish it graces. Beyond its culinary gifts, thyme ( Thymus vulgaris ) also has a rich history as a medicinal herb with a wide range of benefits. Want to learn more about the gifts of thyme?&nb…
- Herbal Remedies for Sleep, Pain, and Winter Wellness–with John & Tara
The most wonderful time of the year brings your most pressing herbal questions! In this episode of HerbMentor Radio, we explore: What herbs are best for sleep? Which herbs ease pain naturally? What makes a great herbal coffee substitute? D…
- Herb Notes: Peppermint– A Digestive Soother, Nervous System Ally, And Natural Pain Reliever
As one of the most popular herbal teas in the world, peppermint's ubiquitous flavor can bring a sense of familiarity and comfort. Peppermint ( Mentha x piperita ) is more than just a tasty beverage though: the peppermint plant has a rich h…
- Gabe Garms: Supercharge Your Herbal Allies with the Power of Miso
Herbalist and artisanal miso maker Gabe Garms joins us to chat about herbal misos, regenerative farming, and fermentation. Before I met Gabe this past summer, I thought that miso could only be made with soybeans. Little did I kn…
- Herb Notes: 3 Modern Benefits for an Ancient Spice
In recent years, turmeric ( Curcuma longa ) has exploded in popularity. Chances are your favorite coffeeshop might now even include a golden milk turmeric latte on the menu. Turmeric, however, is not just a fad: this vibrant herb is a trad…
- Lisa Fazio: Italian-American Folk Herbalism
Lisa Fazio takes us on a journey through Italian-American folk herbalism, the healing power of food as medicine, and the medicinal properties of herbs like garlic, St. John’s wort, and olive. She shares her personal stories and ancest…
- Herb Notes: Cinnamon– An Ally For Digestion, The Immune System, And Oral Health
With its familiar sweet and pungent taste, cinnamon is a common spice that makes an exceptionally tasty addition to every meal it graces. Cinnamon’s gifts go far beyond its flavor, however: in fact, herbalists know that cinnamon offers man…
- Lucretia VanDyke: Listening When the Plants Talk
Chatting with Lucretia VanDyke for the first time ever immediately felt like catching up with a dear friend — we were totally transported and never wanted the conversation to end. Lucretia is a phenomenal storyteller who weaves her tales w…
- Herb Notes: Rosemary's Benefits—Digestive Health, Hair Growth, and Memory Support
Rosemary is most popularly known as a tasty culinary herb. Indeed, rosemary’s aromatic leaves have a special place in many beloved dishes — adding a distinct, pungent taste. Herbalists know, though, that rosemary’s beneficial properties ex…
- Asia Suler: The Power of Plant Communication
Have you ever had one of those moments in life when suddenly everything change? There's a before this moment and an after this moment — and nothing will ever be the same. That's how Tara and I felt after meeting Asia Suler. Asia Suler is a…
- Herb Notes: Mullein’s Miracles - From Dry Coughs to Ear Aches
I saw mullein ( Verbascum spp. ) growing all around me for years before I knew its name, let alone its many healing gifts. Now when I see mullein growing upwards of 7 feet tall by sidewalks and trailsides alike, I smile and say hi to this…
- Jiling Lin: Understanding the Five Elements
I have been waiting for years to get to dive deep into the Five Elements on HerbMentor Radio, so it was a special treat when Jiling Lin stopped by to chat with us about the principles of Five Elements. Jiling Lin is a Licensed Acupuncturis…
- Herb Notes: The Benefits of Linden
With its heart shaped leaves and fragrant flowers, linden (Tilia spp. and aka lime tree ) is a beautiful tree often found on city blocks. While most people value linden trees for their beauty and shade, herbalists know that linden fl…
- Christopher Hobbs: Demystifying Medicinal Mushrooms
Christopher Hobbs is a world-renowned, fourth-generation herbalist, licensed acupuncturist, and mycologist with a passion for medicinal mushrooms. He’s also a prolific author, and his most recent book is Christopher Hobb’s Medicinal…
- Herb Notes: Lemon Balm—Real Aroma-Therapy and Essential Benefits
When life gives you lemon balm, you're in luck! With its uplifting citrusy scent, lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) certainly is a balm for the soul. Beloved by herbalists and pollinators alike, this abundant plants makes a wonderful additi…
- Chamomile, Herbs for Hair Growth, and Garden Companion Planting
John and Tara answer some hairy herbal questions today. Since LearningHerbs' began twenty years ago, we've gotten so many incredible questions about herbal medicine from our community, and we're excited to discuss a few of them t…
- Herb Notes: The Heart of Hawthorn
Let's get to the heart of the matter, shall we? When it comes to hawthorn , the first thing herbalists tend to think about is the organ that pumps blood throughout our bodies: the heart. And while hawthorn can be a wonderful herbal ally fo…
- John & Tara: Herbs for Spring
Spring is (finally) here! With this season of new growth and warmer days, comes the opportunity to connect with all the plants freshly sprouting up around us. In your neighborhood you might notice "weeds" like cleavers, chickweed, plantain…
- Herb Notes: Going Beyond Chamomile Tea with 3 Key Benefits
As one of the most popular herbal teas in the world, this calming herb has managed to find a special place in many of our hearts — and our supermarkets! Chamomile ( Matricaria chamomilla ) is a gentle herb that is most well known for sooth…