Ep. 178: Arun on Mahavidyas and Nakshatra Trees

Welcome to another episode of the Plant Cunning Podcast, in this episode, hosts AC and Isaac Hill discuss the astrological forecast for summer 2025 with guest ZamboniFunk. Key highlights include the ingress of Jupiter in Cancer, and the ongoing transits of outer planets including Uranus' dip into Gemini and subsequent retrograde back into Taurus, as well as the almost perfect Saturn and Neptune conjunction in the first degree of Aries. The conversation touches on the potential cultural, geopolitical, and individual impacts of these alignments, offering viewers insights on how to navigate and thrive during this period of upheaval. The episode also delves into the implications of the Mars-Saturn opposition. Listeners are treated to 3 free astrological elections and tips for maximizing the beneficial energies of Jupiter in Cancer through various practices like creating talismans and alchemical tinctures. Whether you're an astrology enthusiast or just curious about what the stars have in store, this episode offers a comprehensive overview of the summer's astrological landscape.00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast00:31 Summer Forecast with Zamboni Funk00:55 Personal Updates and Spring Reflections02:16 Zodiac Garden03:25 Weather and Growing Season Insights04:55 Jupiter in Cancer: Astrological Significance07:47 Jupiter's Journey and Benefic Influence19:23 Electional Astrology and Talisman Creation35:42 Mars-Saturn Opposition and Global Tensions50:11 Jupiter's Influence on Home and Heart51:22 Reframing Challenges with Uranus in Gemini53:31 The Impact of Uranus on Geopolitics and Personal Life55:12 Historical Context and Future Tech Innovations01:03:01 Navigating Decline and Innovation01:04:44 Energy Production and Technological Advancements01:05:46 The Role of Neptune in Aries and Competitive Advantage01:16:10 The Wild West of Future Tech01:25:27 Leadership and Authority in Transition01:35:02 Closing Thoughts and Future Outlook

In this episode, we sit down with herbalist and author Natasha Lloyd (About - Gathering Nature), to talk about her book 'Foraged Condiments'. Natasha shares her journey into the world of wild foraging, beginning with childhood influences and expanding through her formal education in herbal medicine. She discusses the benefits and methodologies of incorporating wild foods into everyday culinary practices, including delicious recipes featuring plants like garlic mustard, dandelion, and yarrow. Natasha emphasizes the importance of sustainable foraging and respecting natural ecosystems. The episode also delves into Natasha's participation in the Wild Biome Project, highlighting the potential health benefits of a diet rich in wild foods. Tune in to discover the fascinating world of foraged condiments and the wisdom of plants.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction01:26 Natasha Lloyd's Foraging Journey02:58 The Importance of Foraging Knowledge12:41 Foraging Safety and Best Practices29:26 Exploring Garlic Mustard and Other Foraged Plants34:50 Long-Term Gardening and Invasive Species35:35 Exploring Uses of Garlic Mustard36:58 Dandelion Root and Its Benefits39:21 The History and Value of Dandelions40:36 Making Dandelion Wine and Other Brews42:21 Hawthorn and Its Medicinal Uses48:56 Wild Food Project and Health Benefits51:38 Challenges and Community in Foraging56:20 Favorite Foraged Condiments58:57 Conclusion and Contact Information01:01:26 Integrative Medicine and Herbalism

This week on the Plant Cunning Podcast we welcome Celtic Hedge Witch Joey Morris (Starry Eyed Supplies | witch shop). In this episode, Joey, author of 'Celtic Hedge Witchery,' delves into the lore of Ogham, the role of a Celtic hedge witch, and the significance of dandelion, gorse, and incenses in her practice. The discussion also touches on the realms of land, sea, and sky, and the three cauldrons in Celtic tradition. Joey shares her personal journey into witchcraft, her work with the goddess The Morrigan, and her process of crafting magical herbal creations. Tune in for an insightful conversation on nature, spirituality, and witchcraft.00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast00:31 Meet Joey Morris: The Celtic Hedge Witch01:00 Supporting the Podcast and Personal Services02:17 Joey Morris on Her Journey with Plants and Witchcraft07:49 Exploring the Three Cauldrons and Celtic Traditions15:44 The Role of the Morrigan in Joey's Path24:29 Working with Plant and Tree Spirits30:18 Introduction to Ogham and Its Historical Significance32:12 Modern Uses and Interpretations of Ogham32:42 Divination Practices with Ogham36:25 Personal Connections and Experiences with Trees41:16 Harvesting and Using Plants with Reverence44:22 Crafting Magical Herbal Creations49:22 The Significance of Dandelions in Witchcraft53:07 Conclusion and Future Endeavors

Join hosts AC and Isaac Hill on the Plant Cunning Podcast as they dive deep into the world of Ayurveda with Gananathamritananda Swamiji, an Ayurvedic practitioner, astrologer, and pujari based in Virginia who you can find at SOMA MATHA SPIRITUAL CENTER - Home. Discover the complexities of sourcing Ayurvedic herbs, building a Hindu temple in rural Virginia, and the impact of the Flexner Report on modern medicine. Swamiji shares his personal journey to becoming a Swami, the daily life of an Ayurvedic healer, and practical insights into using local herbs sustainably. This episode also features an enlightening discussion on the spiritual path and a beautiful prayer from the Vedas. Don't miss this fascinating conversation that bridges ancient wisdom and modern challenges.00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast00:35 Meet Swamiji: Ayurvedic Practitioner and Astrologer04:47 Challenges in Herbalism and Ayurveda08:49 Swamiji's Journey into Ayurveda11:31 Ayurvedic Practices and Spiritual Healing19:56 The Importance of Traditional Knowledge in Herbalism27:37 Western vs. Ayurvedic Herbalism32:51 The Ego's Role in Illness34:47 Ayurvedic Herbs and Sustainability42:07 Challenges in Building a Temple47:57 The Spiritual Path and Self-Realization52:19 The Shift from Herbal to Pharmaceutical Medicine01:00:11 Concluding Thoughts and Prayer

In this enlightening episode of the Plant Cunning Podcast, hosts AC Stauble and Isaac Hill sit down with herbalist, author, and educator Josh Williams, who you can find at The Plant Spirit Path | Courses in Spiritual Herbalism - Wortcunning - Herb Magic. Josh shares insights into his unique approach of combining medicinal and magical herbalism, emphasizing the interconnectedness of plants and humans. Through engaging dialogue, they discuss the significance of traditional plant knowledge, ritualistic practices, and the deep spiritual connection with nature. Josh also offers practical advice for connecting with plant spirits, the importance of breath in rituals, and the transformative potential of familiar herbs like Linden and Juniper. Tune in to explore the magical and medicinal realms of plant work, and discover how these age-old practices can bring harmony and healing into our lives.00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast00:34 Meet Josh Williams: Herbalist, Author, Educator00:55 Springtime in the High Desert01:24 Garden Updates and Plant Growth02:08 The Magic of Valerian and Goji02:51 Hawthornes and Urban Forestry05:00 The Traditional First Question: Josh's Plant Path10:06 Animism and Plant Spirits15:54 Magic and Medicine: A Unified Approach26:42 Breathing with Plants: A Ritual of Reciprocity35:52 The Protective and Healing Power of Linden44:56 The Power of Thorns45:15 The Deeper Meaning of Roses45:58 Lessons from Berries and Canes47:14 The Ubiquity and Importance of Common Herbs49:09 The Mint Family's Role in Herbalism53:58 Personal Stories and Plant Connections59:47 Online Programs and Classes01:09:43 Elemental Herbalism Explained01:15:54 Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts

In episode 183 of the Plant Cunning Podcast, hosts AC Stauble and Isaac Hill chat with renowned herbalist Robert Dale Rogers ( who you can find at Self Heal Distributing - Essential Oils ) about his latest book, 'Medicinal Lichens: Indigenous Wisdom and Modern Pharmacology'. Robert shares his wealth of knowledge on lichens' antibiotic properties, their synergy with chemotherapy, and their vital role in combating antibiotic-resistant diseases. He delves into his personal journey and experiences that led him to this field, highlighting the importance of indigenous wisdom in herbal medicine. In addition to medicinal lichens, the discussion also touches on ferns, their medicinal uses, and the evolving interest in herbalism. Perfect for herbal enthusiasts, this episode offers invaluable insights and wisdom from a leading expert. 00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast00:34 Meet Robert Dale Rogers: Herbalist and Author03:14 Robert's Journey into Herbal Medicine09:45 The Evolution of Herbalism15:14 Diving into Medicinal Lichens29:34 The Impact of Antibiotics on Microbiome30:32 Efficacy of Lichens Against Antibiotic-Resistant Infections33:15 Exploring Medicinal Ferns36:06 Research Process and Indigenous Wisdom39:36 Preparation and Uses of Lichens44:27 Lichens in Traditional and Modern Medicine50:01 Upcoming Books and Projects51:46 Where to Learn More

Welcome to the Plant Cunning Podcast with hosts AC Stauble and Isaac Hill. In this episode, they engage in a fascinating conversation with Lian Bruno, founder of Puff Herbals, (Herbal Cigarettes & Herbal Smoking Blends | Puff Herbals) a company specializing in herbal smoking blends. Lian shares her journey into herbalism, the inspiration behind Puff Herbals, and the benefits of using various herbs in smoking blends. They discuss the intricacies of different herbs, including skullcap, lavender, catnip, and mugwort, and how they can be used to enhance smoking experiences without relying on nicotine or cannabis. The episode also touches on the cultural aspects of smoking rituals and the potential of herbal blends in helping people quit tobacco. Tune in for an informative and inspiring discussion on the world of herbal smoking.00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast01:04 Supporting the Podcast and Personal Services02:06 Leon Bruno's Journey into Herbalism03:19 The Birth of Puff Herbals09:06 Exploring Herbal Smoking Blends13:22 The Ritual and Social Aspects of Smoking23:47 Herbs for Focus and Clarity30:29 The Significance of Skullcap in Blends35:08 Creating Your Own Smoking Blend36:46 The Benefits of Lavender37:44 Exploring Catnip and Chamomile40:28 The Smoothness of Mugwort41:32 Understanding Astringent Herbs43:24 The Euphoria of Damiana44:43 The Instant Effects of Smoking Herbs51:08 The Ritual of Smoking Herbs56:30 Herbs to Avoid in Smoking Blends01:04:59 Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts

We've got a lot going on this spring! And we're excited to announce Isaac's new website where he offers astrology readings (https://www.askisaac.me/), and AC's new school with Gabriel Mojay - The Actaea Institute of Herbal Medicine and Aromatherapy (https://www.actaea.org/). Our patreon can be found here: https://www.patreon.com/plantcunning Thank you for your support!!

Join hosts AC Stauble and Isaac Hill as they welcome back special guest Pam Montgomery, a renowned herbalist, teacher, and author. Broadcasting from Belize, Pam shares her journey of connecting with new plants, especially coconut palms. The episode dives deep into the importance of co-creative partnerships with nature, the concept of plant initiations, and how we can heal our separation from nature. Pam also discusses her new book, 'Co-Creating with Nature: Healing the Wound of Separation' and the profound transformations she's witnessed in her students through plant initiations. Don't miss inspiring stories that challenge the colonial mindset and pave the way for a harmonious relationship with the natural world.Find Pam at Home - Wake up to NatureAlso, if you'd like to book a Vedic astrology reading with Isaac, email him at info at plantcunning dot com00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast00:31 Welcoming Pam Montgomery01:16 Pam's Experience in Belize02:24 Discovering the Wonders of Palm Trees05:11 The Generosity of Coconut Palms09:55 Pam's New Book: Co-Creating with Nature10:44 The Separation from Nature25:37 Decolonizing the Mind and Heart32:58 Taking Action: Co-Creative Partnership with Nature36:22 Beach Cleanup and Seaweed Uses37:57 Introduction to Plant Initiations38:19 The Process of Plant Initiations39:53 The Role of Elders and Modern Challenges41:24 Plants as Modern Elders42:06 Personal and Collective Healing43:14 Choosing the Right Plant for Initiation48:57 Stories of Transformation01:00:36 Course Offerings and Final Thoughts

In this episode, ZamboniFunk is back to do the spring quarter/Aries Ingress with us. We look at the surprising implications of the Aries Ingress chart, the eclipses happening this quarter, Mercury and Venus's retrogrades, Neptune and Saturn entering Aries, and much more.00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast00:31 Welcoming Zamboni Funk and Discussing the Aries Ingress01:22 Reflections on Winter and Signs of Spring05:02 Astrological Insights: Aries Ingress and Eclipse Season08:16 Analyzing the Aries Ingress Chart16:48 Mars in the Sixth House and Its Implications30:14 Lunar Eclipse and Its Impact on Religion and Trade39:32 Eclipse Impact on Washington D.C.41:31 Debating the Eclipse's Significance42:36 Astrological Predictions for Trump49:33 Saturn and Neptune in Aries01:01:53 Navigating Retrogrades: Venus and Mercury01:08:36 Looking Ahead: Jupiter in Cancer01:19:18 Final Thoughts and Predictions