Ep. 209: The Apothecary of Belonging with Alexis J. Cunningfolk

Today on the Plant Cunning Podcast, we have Alexis J. Cunningfolk, author, educator, and herbalist, on the show. Alexis shares their journey into herbalism, beginning with a profound connection to a koala at a young age and progressing through various life experiences and influential teachers. We delve into Alexis' new book, 'The Apothecary of Belonging,' which explores seasonal rituals and practical herbalism, and emphasizes the inherent sense of belonging. From the importance of storytelling in herbalism to practical tips and cherished plant allies for the winter season, this episode is packed with wisdom and inspiration. Tune in to learn about the deep relationships between people, plants, and the land they live on.00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast00:31 Meet Alexis J Cunningfolk: Author, Educator, and Herbalist01:07 Alexis' Journey to the Plant Path02:01 The Influence of Family and Early Experiences02:56 Discovering Herbalism and Spiritual Practices05:07 College Years and Further Exploration11:34 The Role of Storytelling in Herbalism15:26 Teachers and Mentors in Herbalism22:39 Writing 'The Apothecary of Belonging'28:45 Commodification of Herbalism vs. Relationship with Nature29:59 The Importance of Belonging and Connection30:25 Personal Experiences and Community Work32:52 Healing and Activism36:00 Winter Herbal Practices and Plant Allies46:19 Exploring Plant Allies and Their Benefits49:59 Creating Oracle Maps of Belonging58:17 Conclusion and Resources

Today we welcome herbalist and founder of Wooden Spoon Herbs, Lauren Haynes. You can find Wooden Spoon Herbs at: https://woodenspoonherbs.com/We delve into Lauren’s journey into herbalism, starting from her early fascination with plants to her formal studies with herbal mentors. Lauren shares insights into her product development, including her acclaimed magnesium blue lemonade and other herbal remedies, as well as her approach to accessibility and education in herbalism. The discussion also covers the history and regulations of herbal medicine, business practicalities for herbal entrepreneurs, and Lauren’s favorite plants and future endeavors.00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast00:31 Meet Lauren Haynes: Herbalist and Educator01:27 Lauren's Journey into Herbalism03:27 Early Influences and Mentors05:15 From Passion Project to Business08:30 Wooden Spoon Herbs: Vision and Products14:00 Magnesium: The Essential Mineral19:44 Teaching and Herbal Business Insights22:04 Historical Context of Herbal Medicine25:30 The Flexner Report and Its Impact on Medical Schools26:40 The Pure Food and Drug Act of 190627:57 The Rise and Regulation of Herbal Medicine28:25 Understanding the DSHEA Act and Its Implications31:54 Starting and Protecting Your Herbal Business37:01 Scaling and Systematizing Your Herbal Business41:21 Pricing Strategies and Market Relationships48:17 Favorite Plants and Final Thoughts

You can find out all about Robin Rose's new course that launches December 1st at https://www.robinrosebennett.com/.Today Isaac and AC welcome back the renowned herbalist, author, and green witch, Robin Rose Bennett for an insightful and heartwarming conversation that delves into the vital role of herbalists during these tumultuous times. Robin shares her wisdom on how herbs help connect us to nature, support our communities, and guide us through personal transformation. Discover Robin's children's book, 'The Young Green Witch's Guide to Plant Magic,' designed to inspire the younger generation to explore the wonders of herbalism. Plus, learn about meaningful rituals with plantain and other plants, and the importance of bridging human connection through nature's gifts. This episode is filled with stories, wisdom, and practical advice for anyone looking to deepen their relationship with plants and strengthen their role in the web of life. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe! Share this episode with friends and leave us a five-star review if you enjoyed it. 🌿 00:00 Introduction and Welcome02:03 Guest Introduction: Robin Rose Bennett02:55 The Role of Herbalists in Today's World05:26 Personal Stories and Plant Connections17:55 Community and Connection Among Herbalists22:02 Urban Foraging and Gardening27:26 Astrology and Personal Insights29:30 The Importance of Wholeness31:19 Embracing All Parts of Ourselves32:11 Involving Younger Generations32:57 Introducing the Children's Book35:10 Highlighting Plant Magic37:04 The Spirit and Physical Connection of Plants41:50 Respecting and Learning from Plants46:40 Upcoming Projects and Courses51:44 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans

Book a Vedic Astrology reading with Isaac by emailing [email protected] Today we host Dr. Christie Smirl (https://www.healthiervibrations.com/) an Ayurvedic practitioner and yogi, to discuss the intricate relationship between Ayurveda, mental health, and spiritual wellness. Dr. Christie shares her journey from Western hospital medicine to embracing Ayurvedic practices, highlighting the profound impact of plant-based remedies on restoring health. She elaborates on the fundamental differences between Western and Ayurvedic medicine, the importance of understanding one's dosha, and the healing properties of specific herbs like Tulsi and Ashwagandha. The conversation sheds light on how diet, lifestyle, and spiritual alignment play critical roles in holistic healing. Join us for an enlightening discussion that explores the deep wisdom of Ayurveda and its relevance in today's fast-paced world.00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast00:31 Meet Dr. Christie: From Western Medicine to Ayurveda01:38 Discovering the Power of Ayurvedic Medicine05:47 Ayurveda vs. Western Medicine: Comparative Insights13:04 Understanding Doshas and Their Impact on Health21:10 The Role of Gunas in Mental and Spiritual Health33:03 Addressing Psychological and Psychosomatic Conditions36:50 Avoiding Certain Foods and Lifestyle Adjustments37:13 Understanding Your Body and Mind as a Car38:30 Mental and Physical Doshas40:15 Implementing Lifestyle Changes41:44 Addressing Modern Lifestyle Diseases44:58 The Impact of Screen Time on Mental Health45:56 Ayurvedic Practices for Mental Balance51:26 Herbs for Mental Health: Tulsi and Bacopa01:00:17 Ashwagandha: A Modern Essential01:06:03 The Importance of Plant Relationships01:08:16 Conclusion and Resources

Welcome to the Plant Cunning Podcast! Today, we are thrilled to chat with Richard Mandelbaum, an herbalist, teacher, writer and one of the founders of ArborVitae School of Traditional Herbalism (https://www.arborvitaeny.com/). You can find him at https://www.richardmandelbaum.com/. In this episode, Richard shares his journey into the world of plants and herbalism, his experiences studying botany, and his insights into clinical herbalism. We delve into the importance of slowing down and truly observing the plants around us, the nuances of plant energetics, and the value of crossing scientific and traditional herbalist knowledge. Richard also talks about the dynamics of teaching field botany, working with clients, and the recent exploration of mosses.00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast00:31 Guest Introduction: Richard Mandelbaum00:53 The Herbal Community and Mutual Aid03:27 Richard's Journey to the Plant Path12:14 Learning and Teaching Field Botany27:21 Challenges in Plant Identification30:03 Working with Hawthorne in Herbal Practice36:22 Understanding Herbal Energetics38:13 Discovering Herbalism and Integrating Science38:43 The Value of Multiple Perspectives in Medicine40:41 Astrology and Energetic Systems41:59 Clinical Practice and Herbal Formulation45:53 Challenges in Mainstream Medicine51:44 The Importance of Clinical Experience01:00:28 Reflections on Field Botany01:09:17 Current Practice and Teaching01:13:04 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Events

Book a Vedic astrology reading with Isaac by emailing [email protected] this episode we talk with herbalist, teacher and distiller Cathy Skipper, who you can find at https://aromagnosis.com/⁠. Cathy shares her journey into the world of plants and herbalism, influenced by her family's rich history in natural medicine and gardening. She discusses her deep connections to the plant path and how it has become a family tradition. Cathy delves into her work on menopause, influenced by her personal experiences and Carl Jung's depth psychology. She talks about the alchemical journey of menopause and the concept of the 'sovereign woman', emphasizing the importance of embracing the transformation through menopause. Cathy also explores how essential oils and aromatherapy can be powerful tools in this spiritual and emotional journey. In addition to her insights on menopause, Cathy shines light on her distillation practice. She narrates the meticulous process of harvesting and distilling plants, focusing on the significance of using plants from the high desert and maintaining the integrity of essential oils. This episode is packed with wisdom on holistic healing, the power of plant medicine, and the deep connections we share with nature. Whether you're an herbalist, therapist, or simply someone curious about the mysteries of nature and personal transformation, this conversation with Cathy Skipper is sure to inspire and enlighten.00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast00:43 Cathy Skipper's Journey to Herbalism03:09 The Alchemy of Menopause11:11 Aromatherapy and Its Healing Power18:22 The Art and Science of Distillation24:01 Self-Healing and Jungian Concepts30:23 The Integrity of Essential Oil Practitioners31:46 The Importance of Small Distillers32:25 Aromatherapy in Psychedelic Therapy33:53 The Brutality of Industrial Harvesting34:26 The Reality of Monocrops35:52 Personal Experiences with Distillation39:29 Forgotten Plants and Their Significance53:15 The Healing Power of Aromatic Plants57:28 Upcoming Projects and Resources

Today we dive into the world of the cunning folk with the knowledgeable and charismatic Dr. Al Cummins. Dr. Cummins, a historian and practitioner of magic, shares his journey from Birmingham, UK to the United States and his extensive research on service magicians, folk magic, and modern adaptations of these ancient practices. Join us as we explore the use of medicinal herbs like rosemary for spiritual and physical healing, the intricacies of geomancy, the ethics of divination, and Dr. Cummins' hands-on experiences with necromancy. This episode is packed with insights into the modern-day application of traditional magic, methods for diagnosing and protecting against negative influences, and unbewitching herbs. We hope you enjoy the show!Dr Alexander Cummins is a consultant, diviner, writer, contemporary cunning-man, and historian of magic. His magical specialities are the dead (folk necromancy), divination (geomancy) and the grimoires. Dr Cummins’ published works include An Excellent Booke of the Arte of Magicke (Scarlet Imprint, 2020) with Phil Legard, The Starry Rubric: Seventeenth-century English Astrology and Magic (Hadean Press 2012), A Book of the Magi: Lore, Prayers, and Spellcraft of the Three Holy Kings (Revelore Press, 2018), as well as contributions to collections by Three Hands Press, Scarlet Imprint, and Hadean Press. He is a founding editor of Revelore Press’ Folk Necromancy in Transmission series, and co-hosts the podcast Radio Free Golgotha.The Good Doctor is a frequent speaker on the international circuit, consults for clients and organisations, and provides training, workshops, and coaching in many aspects of magical theory, history, and practice. Originally from the Midlands of the UK, Al now makes his home in New Hampshire.00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast00:31 Meet Dr. Al Cummins: Scholar and Practitioner01:28 Al's journey to the US and His Background03:28 Exploring the History and Practice of Cunning Folk07:18 Astrology, Magic, and the Role of Cunning Folk19:05 The Intersection of Learned Magic and Cunning Craft25:56 Astrological Magic and Practical Applications33:30 Geomancy: The Earthy Sister of Astrology41:53 Unbewitching Herbs and Plant Magic45:44 Exploring Humoral Theory and Herbal Combinations46:08 Astrological and Folk Charm Practices46:42 The Power of Rosemary in Magic47:32 Purifying Herbs and Their Significance49:02 Working with Spirits and Rituals49:45 Practical Uses of Rosemary and Other Herbs51:27 Dealing with Curses and Spiritual Protection01:02:01 Divination and Its Importance in Magic01:17:26 The Evolution of Cunning Traditions01:22:26 Working with Spirits and Ancestors01:27:05 Navigating Relationships with Spirits01:28:33 Upcoming Events and Resources

Join us on this spooky edition of the Plant Cunning Podcast as we welcome Coby Michael, author of 'The Poison Path Herbal: Baneful Herbs, Medicinal Nightshades, and Ritual Entheogens', 'The Poison Path Grimoire: Dark Herbalism, Poison Magic, and Baneful Allies' and proprietor of The Poisoner's Apothecary. Coby delves into the mystical world of poisonous plants and their role in herbalism and magic. Discover the fascinating uses of plants like Belladonna, Henbane, and Aconite, and learn how Coby's journey intertwined with these potent allies. Coby also talks about the upcoming Botanica Obscura Conference and offers insightful advice for those curious about the Poison Path. 00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast01:23 Meet Coby Michael: Author and Herbalist02:04 Coby's Journey into the Poison Path05:27 Influences and Mentors in the Poison Path07:12 The Allure and Caution of Poisonous Plants09:25 Working with Poisonous Plants Spiritually and Practically12:34 Historical and Cultural Perspectives on Poisonous Plants19:27 Belladonna: The Witch's Swiss Army Knife31:48 Exploring Protection Magic32:32 The Mystique of Belladonna35:30 Henbane: A Poisonous Favorite46:35 The Intriguing World of Aconite48:51 Botanica Obscura Conference51:29 Final Thoughts and Advice

In this episode, we welcome back herbalist and teacher Meghan Rhodes and chat about the relationship between Ayurveda, the changing seasons, and how our constitutions are affected. We dive deep into the three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—linked to the five elements: Ether, Air, Fire, Water, and Earth. Meghan shares her journey into Ayurveda and offers practical advice for balancing our systems as we transition through the seasons.Learn more about Meghan's intensive herbalism course - Awaken Herbal Wisdom - applications open each spring - https://bit.ly/43qbNxgJoin her mailing list for updates on current cohorts and when applications open - https://bit.ly/4kqdWQiInstagram - @heritageschoolofherbalmedicine (https://www.instagram.com/heritageschoolofherbalmedicine/)Meghan Rhodes is a qualified herbalist and the founder and director of Heritage School of Herbal Medicine, where she guides students on a unique sense-based herbalism course and journey, Awaken Herbal Wisdom, for up to three turnings of the wheel.Meghan’s practice of herbalism is rooted in the belief that we must remember, reclaim and relearn our knowledge of our bodies, our autonomy and how to work with plant medicine in order to bring control of our own health back into our families and homes for a sustainable future for ourselves and the planet. Through her herbalism school, Meghan facilitates the development of confident, empowered herbalists, attuned to the messages of their bodies and the natural world. Living the deep wisdom of herbal medicine within themselves, their homes and their communities, they uplift themselves and others, creating a stronger society organically.Meghan is a member of both the College of Practitioners of Phytotherapy and the Ayurvedic Professionals Association.00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast00:31 Meet Meghan Rhodes: Herbalist and Teacher02:18 Seasonal Changes and Ayurvedic Doshas07:19 Understanding Ayurveda: From Elements to Doshas15:29 Identifying Doshas in People and Seasons21:33 Balancing Doshas and Health Implications28:02 Seasonal Cycles and Ayurvedic Practices30:13 Adapting Ayurveda to Local Climates34:02 Crafting with Paper Plates34:27 Flexibility in Seasonal Patterns34:36 Craft Time and Homework Ideas35:09 Balancing Doshas with Local Environment37:15 Seasonal Changes and Dosha Effects38:04 Preparing for Fall: Tips for Kapha Types40:19 Warming Foods and Drinks for Cold Seasons43:26 Herbal Remedies for Different Doshas46:20 The Importance of Seasonal Eating57:53 Fasting and Seasonal Resets01:03:10 Herbal Wisdom Course Overview

For our 5 year anniversary and 200th episode, we asked co-director of the Actaea Institute for Herbal Medicine and Aromatherapy, and well known author, herbalist and educator Gabriel Mojay to ask us some questions! 00:00 Introduction and Milestones00:57 Special Guest: Gabriel Mojay02:08 Reflecting on the Podcast Journey04:04 The Origin Story13:27 Transition to Video and Social Media20:57 Guest Selection and Production Insights24:53 Exploring the Living Cosmos27:31 Trust in Plant Healing Modalities29:34 Holistic Healing and Spirituality35:29 Favorite Podcast Episodes40:29 Personal Transformations and Learning45:21 Future Plans and Aspirations52:33 Celebrating Milestones and Gratitude