The Family Herbalism Podcast

After sharing last fall about why lab work can be a valuable tool, I wanted to share an example, step by step of how I work through them. What better example than to use myself as a guinea pig! This year I hired a direct primary care doctor and had a bunch of labs drawn as a baseline for my normal. In today's episode, I highlight my functional evaluation process by walking you through certain pieces of my labs, one at a time. The book I mentioned (which I am not being paid to share with you) can be found here: https://a.co/d/064gv7E.Thank you for listening!To meet with Naomi or to sign up for her monthly newsletter, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.comTo learn more about the herbal education programs mentioned, visit www.herbaremedium.comAlso check out Alms of Grace at www.almsofgrace.com

There are many types of arthritis, but they generally boil down to one of two categories - inflammatory based, and non-inflammatory based. In today's episode, I share the most common type of arthritis from each of these categories, what they are, how they happen, and some of the herbal tools I have found most helpful for each, plus, important questions to ask that will help you to see each form of arthritis within the bigger picture of health. Several recipes and combinations are referred to from other well-known herbalists as well.Finally, you'll want to listen all the way to the end, because I share some really big news about a brand new program available by Laurel Tree Wellness! If you are a student of herbalism, whether learning how to work with herbs for your yourself or your family, or have intentions to expand your services to others, you'll want to check this out!To learn more, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com.Thank you for listening!

Lyme Disease Wars is a term used to acknowledge that theapproach to handling this very serious condition is highly disputed. It's afrustrating subject for me, and I want to share with you some of the realfacts. Today, I'm not talking about pathophysiology. I'm focusing on treatmentand therapy options, and I refer to numerous studies, articles, and other research that you can use the following links to discover for yourself.If you have suffered from Lyme Disease and need more options for recovery, please visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com to get started.Listed in this episode are the following references:​Medical Gaslighting and Lyme Disease​International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society​Global Lyme Alliance statement on the CDC update​NC Lyme Disease Foundation statement on the CDC update​CDC's current opinion on Chronic Lyme Disease​Article published by Infectious Disease Clinics of North America June 2015 on Chronic Lyme Disease​Frequency of bull's eye rash, as reported by CDC​Article published by IDCNA June 2008​Article by National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases on Lyme Disease November 2018​Lyme Disease in Psychiatry, an article published in Psychiatric Times, 2022.​IDSA's 2025 analysis of clinics offering treatments for Lyme Disease​Time Magazine article on Chronic Lyme Disease, May 2024​John Hopkins study on the effects of Lyme on the brain, 2022​Article about the effects of Lyme on the brain, published in the American Journal of Psychiatry, 1994​Another article by the same author in the same journal, 2021​An article about the relationship of Lyme Disease and Alzheimer's, published in Nature, 2020​Another article about Lyme Disease and Alzheimer's, published in 2022​A PLOS One Journal article about how Lyme Disease impacts the brain, 2020.​Maine taking part in new studies on Lyme Disease

Hello there! Today, I get to introduce you to a special person. Kelsi Folsom is a poet and classically-trained singer making her home with her physician-husband and four children. She's the author of four poetry collections, including her brand new book, Beauty Still Lives Here  and Breaking the Jar She has work published in numerous journals.Kelsi is currently a graduate student in Theopoetics and Writing at Bethany Theological Seminary and is a passionate advocate for the creative arts shaping culture in the form of hospitality, advocacy, reconciliation, and mental health. Today, we are jumping into a fascinating conversation about the importance of creativity when it comes to healing. We know that health is not stagnant, it is constantly changing, and having a mindset that allows for play, and wonder, and art in its many forms is often a crucial piece of healing – as you'll hear Kelsi talk about, embracing creativity can help us to find meaning and hope, even when facing hardship.I hope today's conversation blesses you and inspires you to get back in touch with your playful self. And when you finish listening, I encourage you to check out her book and find her Instagram for more content.Thank you for listening!Look for Kelsi in these places:Instagram @kelsifolsom https://www.instagram.com/kelsifolsom?igsh=MWVzMjdjdDB0c21p www.kelsifolsom.comPurchase Beauty Still Lives Here: https://a.co/d/7Uyfg2W 

Thank you to listener Tara for today's subject - how to reducing scarring! While scars can be a source of fascination and pride for kids, they can be the opposite for many, and can also be potentially dangerous.In today's episode, I share about what makes a scar, why we should give them more heed, 20 herbs that can be used to restore normal health, a few good combinations and applications, and supplements that may be helpful as well.If you would like to recommend a podcast topic, email me at laureltreewellness@gmail.com or call and leave a message at 802-234-1177.If you would like to learn more about working with me one-on-one, or to sign up for my monthly newsletter, visit www.laureltreewellness@gmail.comThank you for listening!

Mindy Capello is a Clinical Herbalist in Omaha, Nebraska, registered with the American Herbalist Guild and the Christian Herbalist Guild. She is also a Certified Health and Life Coach, and she teaches faith-based herbalism programs for new herbalists. She sees clients and teaches both in person and virtually. She also volunteers at Wild Roots People's Clinic, a donation-based clinic offering herbalism and body work to financially challenged folks in her area, and runs Alms of Grace Clinic – a supervised, Christian student-led program offering herbal care online to folks in need.Mindy offers a wide variety of resources on her website, www.herbaremedium.com, including a blog, several monographs, and free classes. You can also enroll in her Family Herbalist course any time if you want to do it self-paced, or you can register for the Live version which starts again in August. This year she is also accepting registrations for her latest program, for community herbalists, so check that out too!Today, we're digging in to a big conversation around fibromyalgia, a brand new topic for the show, and one which Mindy has both personal and professional experience. You will get to hear her favorite nutritional, supplemental, lifestyle, and herbal tools, both those that are proven through scientific studies, as well as those that worked for her personally. We talk about the energetics and common tissue states, how the diagnostic process and resource options have changed over the past 25 years, and Mindy's favorite herbal combinations! Plus, hang on till the end, because we touch on a much wider topic around faith-based herbal practices and the dilemma that Christians can face when choosing natural options for their health. All this and more in today's conversation.Thank you for listening!Mindy's links ~www.herbaremedium.comwww.almsofgraceclinic.comwww.wildrootspc.orghttps://www.facebook.com/HerbaRemedium/https://www.instagram.com/herbaremedium/Mindy also recommends the following read: https://www.amazon.com/Fibromyalgia-Journey-Healing-Chanchal-Cabrera/dp/0658003054/ If you would like to recommend a podcast topic, email me at laureltreewellness@gmail.com or call and leave a message at 802-234-1177.If you would like to learn more about working with me one-on-one, or to sign up for my monthly newsletter, visit www.laureltreewellness@gmail.comThank you for listening!

Thank you to listener Bodell for requesting an episode about autonomic dysfunction! As a clinical herbalist, I have found that autonomic dysfunction, as often stemming from the vagal nerve, is associated with so many persistent symptom pictures.The vagal nerve has been getting more attention in recent years, but what exactly is it, why is it getting dysregulated, and what do we mean by dysregulation anyway? In today's episode I give the the A&P, share connections I have discovered in practice, and my favorite ways of resetting and reregulating the nervous system.If you would like to recommend a podcast topic, email me at laureltreewellness@gmail.com or call and leave a message at 802-234-1177.If you would like to learn more about working with me one-on-one, or to sign up for my monthly newsletter, visit www.laureltreewellness@gmail.comThank you for listening!

I get to step on my soap box for a minute today! These days, when metabolism goes a bit wonky, the standard response to elevated cholesterol is… “don't eat eggs!” And “take this statin.” But what if there were a better way?Of course, there are situations when statins are appropriate and it's a highly individual decision to be made between you and your doctor, but it should never be the first choice, or the only choice presented to a patient. Not when we have learned so much more about the truth of what cholesterol is and how it works. In today's episode, I share why cholesterol is not the bad guy - it's the messenger! And you know what they say about killing the messenger! I also share about the different kinds of cholesterol, lab markers you should know, how to lower your true risk for cardiovascular diseases, and what herbs will best support you. Plus! How to minimize your risk if you do choose to use statins.To request a topic that is important to you, email me at laureltreewellness@gmail.com, or text or call me at 802-234-1177. To learn more about herbal consultations, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com.

After a recent bout of jaw tension, my sympathy for those with chronic TMJ dysfunctions grew! While mine was a short term symptom related to a virus, I have had clients who have suffered with it for a very long time. This is one of those situations where allopathic medicine generally says - put some ice on it and see if it goes away, and where herbalism shines.In today's episode, I share about the normal function of the jaw, what can go wrong, and what our options are for recovery, including some tools that worked for me, and those that have worked for my clients. Email me your podcast requests at laureltreewellness@gmail.com or call and leave a message for me at 802-234-1177. Check out my clinical herbalism services at www.laureltreewellnessllc.com to learn more about what having a consultation with me would look like.Thank you for listening!

Many people experience a localized fungal infection at some point in their life, but where these rare infections respond to standard treatment, some people don't get better. Why?In today's episode, we take a really deep dive into all things fungal - what is mold toxicity, what does it feel like, and I share an eight step protocol to address it, based on the work of Drs. Ritchie Shoemaker and Joseph Brewer, influenced by personal and professional experience.Bring your notebook and pen and let's jump in!To request a topic that is important to you, email me at laureltreewellness@gmail.com or text me at 802-234-1177. To learn more about herbal consultations, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com.Thanks for listening!

Memory is such a vast and complex subject! There are so many reasons why people experience memory loss besides age and neurological diseases, and research is still developing around some interesting factors. In today's episode, I share with you where memory is stored, what makes things go haywire, how to choose herbs for memory support based on similar actions, and plenty of nutritional and lifestyle options for cognitive function. There is something for everyone in here, and as they say, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure! Even if your memory is in tiptop shape, listen in to see how you can keep it that way.To request a topic that is important to you, email me at laureltreewellness@gmail.com, or text or call me at 802-234-1177. To learn more about herbal consultations, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com.

Why is taking an iron supplement not always the best choice when you are diagnosed with anemia?And if you are iron-deficient, how can you know? Should you supplement and if so how? In today's episode, I share about the most common reason people develop anemia, the labs that can point you in the right direction, the tissue states and organs that need support, and of course, what herbs and can help you out. To request a topic that is important to you, email me at laureltreewellness@gmail.com, or text or call me at 802-234-1177. To learn more about herbal consultations, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com.

After sharing my heart about the value of mothers as healers a year ago (season 4 episode 5), I knew I needed to follow it up with a conversation about fathers. Children NEED their fathers, there is no going around that fact. Fathers are essential to growing up healthy, as I share about in today's episode. If you are a father, please listen in, and if not, share it with fathers you know… and also listen! To request a topic that is important to you, email me at laureltreewellness@gmail.com, or text or call me at 802-234-1177. To learn more about herbal consultations, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com.

Sprains, strains, and breaks, oh my! If you or a loved one breaks a bone you'll need to take a trip to urgent care, but how can you ensure that your bones heal properly and quickly, with minimal pain and inflammation? In this episode I share herbs that work well for the first stage of healing that begins with the break and the two stages following. Learn what proven nutrients and herbs promote bone regrowth, and how sleep, stress, and movement impact healing as well.To request a topic that is important to you, email me at laureltreewellness@gmail.com, or text or call me at 802-234–1177. To learn more about what working with me would look like, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com.

This requested episode is long overdue! With 1 in 3 women and 1 in 6 men experiencing pelvic floor weakness at some point in their lives, it is a subject that we need to talk about! One myth I have heard repeated is that childbirth is the leading cause of pelvic floor problems. This has been proven to be a negligible factor unless the birth was traumatic. It also doesn't explain why so many men struggle with it, either! In today's episode, I explain what the common risk factors for developing it are, how diet makes a difference, what exercises can help (it's not all about kegels!) and the herbs my clients have found most helpful. To request a topic that is important to you, email me at laureltreewellness@gmail.com, or text or call me at 802-234–1177. To learn more about what working with me would look like, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com.

What is happening when someone's fingers turn blue and ice cold with minimal exposure to cold air? In today's episode, I explore the nervous and cardiovascular systems' impact on blood flow to extremities, and what happens when normal flow seems to be impaired. Plus, my favorite herbs, a proven topical remedy I designed, and food and lifestyle tips for relieving this, sometimes painful condition.If you know someone affected by Raynaud's, feel free to pass this episode on! Thank you for all the shares, feedback, and emails!To request a topic that is important to you, email me at laureltreewellness@gmail.com, or text or call me at 802-234–1177. To learn more about what working with me would look like, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com.

This episode was destined to be released now! In the last week, one listener reached out asking for support with metal detox, and another requested that I bring it up on the show. Thank you Ray and Sheldon for listening and for the request! The idea of metal toxicity and metal detoxes have garnered a fair bit of attention in the past few years, maybe longer. And it's not just concern about vaccines that have drawn interest to the subject. Metal fillings, cookware, water pipes, ground contamination, and other sources of heavy metals have been targeted as a cause of many conditions and symptoms that have increased in occurrence. In today's episode, I share about how metals impact the body, what kind of testing is available in addition to environmental testing, how to avoid or limit exposure, and the steps involved in a holistic detox and recover protocol.Please leave a review and share this episode with someone you think it would bless! Email me your podcast topic requests at laureltreewellness@gmail.com or call and leave a message for me at 802-234-1177.Thanks so much for listening and have a great week!

LS is one of those secret conditions that doesn't get talked about because it affects a part of the body we try to keep especially private. And so people can suffer in secret as well. The steroids that are often prescribed are a short term relief at best, or completely ineffective at worst. Thankfully, we can work with herbs both internally and externally, to address symptoms as well as the root issue. And what is the root issue? Listen in to find out! If you would like support making custom herbal remedies to reduce your symptoms and guidance on how to correct your tissue state and foundational health, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com to learn more.Thank you so much for listening! And thank you to the listener who requested this episode!You can request a topic for the show by emailing laureltreewellness@gmail.com or calling 802-234-1177.If this episode blessed you, please share with others, and leave feedback on the app! I appreciate it. Have a great week!

We know we're supposed to eat our fruits and vegetables to get them, but why? In today's listener inspired episode, I bring attention to some of the reasons why these micronutrients are so awesome! My hope is that after you listen to the super powers of these tiny chemicals, you'll be inspired to eat up!If you would like to hear me discuss a topic that is important to you, please email me at laureltreewellness@gmail.com or call and leave me a message at 802-234-1177. I would love to hear from you!

This episode was requested by a listener, and it's about time I brought up this topic on the show! In fact, I was so convinced this listener was on the right track, I thought I already HAD made it an episode! Oops! Thank you for suggesting it!PCOS is one of those hidden conditions that we have information available on, but which isn't made easily available. In fact, there is some confusion about what PCOS even is. In today's conversation I share what this condition is, what causes it, and how it can be addressed from a root cause approach.If you would like support with this or another chronic condition from a holistic, natural perspective, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com to learn more about how I can help you.If you would like to hear me discuss a topic that is important to you, please email me at laureltreewellness@gmail.com or call and leave me a message at 802-234-1177. I would love to hear from you!

Welcome back to The Family Herbalism Podcast! In this sixth season, we drilling down on the topics you want to hear about! Today's episode was requested by a listener and client, in which I break down a condition that affects up to 1 in 200 kids. In this conversation I share who is affected, what the standard treatment is, and what you as a parent of an affected child can do to help your child heal faster.If you would like to hear me discuss a topic that is important to you, please email me at laureltreewellness@gmail.com or call and leave me a message at 802-234-1177. I would love to hear from you!

Let's make the last episode of 2024 an exciting one, shall we?!

Today's topic request comes from student herbalist Natashia, who wanted to know how I store information as I learn. Organization is one of my favorite things, so it is with pleasure that I share my tips and tricks with you today. I share my system, as well as others I have picked up from fellow herbalists. Enjoy!This episode is included in either the Community Herbalism or Clinical Herbalism program, offered by Herba Remedium. Herba Remedium is an online, Christian herbalist school. These programs are currently in development, but you can currently enroll in The Family Herbalism Course, or get on the waitlist for one of these new offerings. For more information visit www.herbaremedium.com or email laureltreewellness@gmail.com.For more information on Alms of Grace Clinic for donation-based consultations, email almsofgraceclinic@gmail.com.For more information about Laurel Tree Wellness, your host Naomi Kilbreth, or herbal consultations to help you create a wellness plan, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com. Send me your topic requests by emailing me at laureltreewellness@gmail.com, or call me at 802-234-1177!Thanks for listening!

As we approach winter and those with preexisting respiratory conditions are thinking about illness prevention and what to do if they get sick, it's time to talk about the underlying condition of asthma - what are the different types, what are the original causes, what are the tissue states behind it, and of course - what can we do about it! Don't forget to leave a review! Call 802-234-1177 to leave a top request and share feedback! We'd love to hear from you!This episode is included in either the Community Herbalism or Clinical Herbalism program, offered by Herba Remedium. Herba Remedium is an online, Christian herbalist school. These programs are currently in development, but you can currently enroll in The Family Herbalism Course, or get on the waitlist for one of these new offerings. For more information visit www.herbaremedium.com or email laureltreewellness@gmail.com.For more information on Alms of Grace Clinic for donation-based consultations, email almsofgraceclinic@gmail.com.For more information about Laurel Tree Wellness, your host Naomi Kilbreth, or herbal consultations to help you create a wellness plan, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com.

Thank you, Tera for leaving our very first topic request through our new call-in line!

Fire Cider has become a classic winter remedy, but where did it come from? And what's the magic behind the ingredients? In today's episode I share about fire cider, shrubs, the energetics of the ingredients, and all the wonderful ways they support our immune systems, plus how to enjoy it! Featuring a recipe from Mountain Rose Herbs, which you can find here: https://blog.mountainroseherbs.com/fire-ciderThis episode is included in either the Community Herbalism or Clinical Herbalism program, offered by Herba Remedium. Herba Remedium is an online, Christian herbalist school. These programs are currently in development, but you can currently enroll in The Family Herbalism Course, or get on the waitlist for one of these new offerings. For more information visit www.herbaremedium.com or email laureltreewellness@gmail.com.For more information on Alms of Grace Clinic for donation-based consultations, email almsofgraceclinic@gmail.com.For more information about Laurel Tree Wellness, your host Naomi Kilbreth, or herbal consultations to help you create a wellness plan, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com.

Why should you read your own lab results? Why can lab reading be helpful for herbalists? What's the difference between standard and functional labs? Why don't normal ranges don't tell the whole picture? How can I learn what these strange acronyms mean? All this and more is covered in today's episode. Don't forget to leave a review! Call 802-234-1177 to leave a top request and share feedback! We'd love to hear from you!​This episode is included in either the Community Herbalism or Clinical Herbalism program, offered by Herba Remedium. Herba Remedium is an online, Christian herbalist school. These programs are currently in development, but you can currently enroll in The Family Herbalism Course, or get on the waitlist for one of these new offerings. For more information visit www.herbaremedium.com or email laureltreewellness@gmail.com.For more information on Alms of Grace Clinic for donation-based consultations, email almsofgraceclinic@gmail.com.For more information about Laurel Tree Wellness, your host Naomi Kilbreth, or herbal consultations to help you create a wellness plan, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com.

What keeps chronic infections hanging on forever, and makes them resistant to treatment? Meet the slimy colonies known as biofilm. Once you learn about the intricacies of pathogen mechanisms for survival, you'll understand why making your plan of attack may need some extra strategy, and in today's episode I share some tools that may help you in your recovery process.This episode is included in either the Community Herbalism or Clinical Herbalism program, offered by Herba Remedium. Herba Remedium is an online, Christian herbalist school. These programs are currently in development, but you can currently enroll in The Family Herbalism Course, or get on the waitlist for one of these new offerings. For more information visit www.herbaremedium.com or email laureltreewellness@gmail.com.For more information on Alms of Grace Clinic for donation-based consultations, email almsofgraceclinic@gmail.com.For more information about Laurel Tree Wellness, your host Naomi Kilbreth, or herbal consultations to help you create a wellness plan, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com.

Why do your fungal infections keep coming back? Why aren't they staying away with antifungals? Maybe it's time to take a look at what's hiding underneath. In today's episode we talk about primary infections like bacterial, viral, protozoan, and systemic fungal infections, and why they can make seemingly minor fungal infections so difficult to clear. Plus, of course! Many tools you can use to deal with it naturally.This episode is included in either the Community Herbalism or Clinical Herbalism program, offered by Herba Remedium. Herba Remedium is an online, Christian herbalist school. These programs are currently in development, but you can currently enroll in The Family Herbalism Course, or get on the waitlist for one of these new offerings. For more information visit www.herbaremedium.com or email laureltreewellness@gmail.com.For more information on Alms of Grace Clinic for donation-based consultations, email almsofgraceclinic@gmail.com.For more information about Laurel Tree Wellness, your host Naomi Kilbreth, or herbal consultations to help you create a wellness plan, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com.

Is PMS normal? Do women with heavy periods, or missing periods, or painful periods just have to deal with it? In today's episode, I cover what a normal menstrual cycle looks like, explain the function of female sex hormones, and cover lots of tools that improve our overall experience of menstrual cycles.This episode is included in either the Community Herbalism or Clinical Herbalism program, offered by Herba Remedium. Herba Remedium is an online, Christian herbalist school. These programs are currently in development, but you can currently enroll in The Family Herbalism Course, or get on the waitlist for one of these new offerings. For more information visit www.herbaremedium.com or email laureltreewellness@gmail.com.For more information on Alms of Grace Clinic for donation-based consultations, email almsofgraceclinic@gmail.com.For more information about Laurel Tree Wellness, your host Naomi Kilbreth, or herbal consultations to help you create a wellness plan, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com.

Now that we know what a spleen is, let's talk a step back and examine a broader view. The lymphatic system unites the body into a cohesive whole, and without recognizing its part in health, other steps we take to support our bodies will be less effective.In today's episode, I share about the basics of what the system is, how it impacts other areas of the body, the common expressions of imbalance, and ways we can support its function.This episode is included in either the Community Herbalism or Clinical Herbalism program, offered by Herba Remedium. Herba Remedium is an online, Christian herbalist school. These programs are currently in development, but you can currently enroll in The Family Herbalism Course, or get on the waitlist for one of these new offerings. For more information visit www.herbaremedium.com or email laureltreewellness@gmail.com.For more information on Alms of Grace Clinic for donation-based consultations, email almsofgraceclinic@gmail.com.For more information about Laurel Tree Wellness, your host Naomi Kilbreth, or herbal consultations to help you create a wellness plan, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com.

What is a spleen? What does it do? How can we help it? The spleen is one of those under-respected organs that we really shouldn't live without. We may be able to live without one, but it makes life a lot easier! In this episode I share all about the spleen, and we'll pick up where we leave off today in next week's episode about the system this organ belongs to.This episode is included in either the Community Herbalism or Clinical Herbalism program, offered by Herba Remedium. Herba Remedium is an online, Christian herbalist school. These programs are currently in development, but you can currently enroll in The Family Herbalism Course, or get on the waitlist for one of these new offerings. For more information visit www.herbaremedium.com.For more information on Alms of Grace Clinic for donation-based consultations, email almsofgraceclinic@gmail.com.For more information about Laurel Tree Wellness, your host Naomi Kilbreth, or herbal consultations to help you create a wellness plan, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com.

Hypothyroidism is more common, which means the resources available for hypERthyroidism are more difficult to come by. Today, I offer information on what hyperthyroidism looks like, touch on autoimmunity, and share tools that have worked for my clients.This episode is included in either the Community Herbalism or Clinical Herbalism program, offered by Herba Remedium. Herba Remedium is an online, Christian herbalist school. These programs are currently in development, but you can currently enroll in The Family Herbalism Course, or get on the waitlist for one of these new offerings. For more information visit www.herbaremedium.com or email laureltreewellness@gmail.com.For more information about Laurel Tree Wellness, your host Naomi Kilbreth, or herbal consultations to help you create a wellness plan, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com.

I asked and you answered! Today we are chatting about some of the questions our student herbalist listeners have asked about some of the business aspects of being a community or clinical herbalist. Let's talk about marketing, record keeping, apothecary stocking, charging money, and choosing topics to teach on! This episode is included in either the Community Herbalism or Clinical Herbalism program, offered by Herba Remedium. Herba Remedium is an online, Christian herbalist school. These programs are currently in development, but you can currently enroll in The Family Herbalism Course, or get on the waitlist for one of these new offerings. For more information visit www.herbaremedium.com or email laureltreewellness@gmail.com.For more information about Laurel Tree Wellness, your host Naomi Kilbreth, or herbal consultations to help you create a wellness plan, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com.

No, it's not an expletive! MTHFR is an acronym for a gene that codes for a protein responsible for many important actions in the body. And yet, for some people, a seemingly harmless variation in the coding can result in serious consequences. Understanding whether or not you have such a variant can help you to make decisions that will accommodate and support overall health.What exactly is the MTHFR gene? How do you know if you have a variation on this gene? And if there is, what can you do about it? In this episode I cover all the basics, with actionable steps and of course herbs to consider!This episode is included in either the Community Herbalism or Clinical Herbalism program, offered by Herba Remedium. Herba Remedium is an online, Christian herbalist school. These programs are currently in development, but you can currently enroll in The Family Herbalism Course, or get on the waitlist for one of these new offerings. For more information visit www.herbaremedium.com or email laureltreewellness@gmail.com.For more information about Laurel Tree Wellness, your host Naomi Kilbreth, or herbal consultations to help you create a wellness plan, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com.

Leaky gut is a common phrase associated with nutrient depletion and chronic illness. But what is it? And what do we do about it? In today's episode I share about the parts of the lower digestive tract that keep the body safe, and what happens when its integrity is compromised. How does this happen? And is it correctable? I bet you can guess the answer!This episode is included in either the Community Herbalism or Clinical Herbalism program, offered by Herba Remedium. Herba Remedium is an online, Christian herbal school. These programs are currently in development, but you can enroll in The Family Herbalism Course, or get on the waitlist for one of these new offerings. For more information visit www.herbaremedium.com or email herbaremedium@yahoo.com.For more information about Laurel Tree Wellness, your host Naomi Kilbreth, or herbal consultations to help you create a wellness plan, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com or email laureltreewellness@gmail.com.Thank you for listening! Please consider leaving a review or sharing this episode with a loved one! We appreciate it!

Last week we talked about the nutrients many people are deficient in. Today, we talk about WHY. This is where we dig into the processes in the body that lead to proper nourishment, and those that can hamper them. When we understand why, we can then make a plan for better nutrition and reduce the need for supplementation. Of this list, there are three I want to dig into in more detail, and one of them I cover today - proper production and release of gastric juices. What are they? Where do they come from? What do they contain? What happens when they are not functioning correctly, and how can we balance them? All of this answered in today's podcast! This episode is included in either the Community Herbalism or Clinical Herbalism program, offered by Herba Remedium. Herba Remedium is an online, Christian herbalist school. These programs are currently in development, but you can currently enroll in The Family Herbalism Course, or get on the waitlist for one of these new offerings. For more information visit www.herbaremedium.com or email laureltreewellness@gmail.com.For more information about Laurel Tree Wellness, your host Naomi Kilbreth, or herbal consultations to help you create a wellness plan, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com.

Numerous studies and surveys have demonstrated that even in a country with abundant food, most Americans, even those well-fed, are largely undernourished. We have found that most people do not take in enough of the needed nutrients to maintain health.
Sometimes, while getting to the root cause is an important step of the process, getting support to offset the problem right away is important for healing. That's why I often recommend specific nutrients for specific people in very certain cases, and usually for only a set duration of time. It's strategic, and the goal is to home in on the need of each individual.
In today's episode, I share what the most common supplements are that I recommend. I also jump into how to increase the absorption and efficacy of those supplements, and touch on how to find the right brand for you.
If you're not sure if taking a supplement is right for you, be sure to listen in and perhaps you'll find information that will help to answer your question.
This episode is included in either the Community Herbalism or Clinical Herbalism program, offered by Herba Remedium. Herba Remedium is an online, Christian herbalist school. These programs are currently in development, but you can currently enroll in The Family Herbalism Course, or get on the waitlist for one of these new offerings. For more information visit www.herbaremedium.com or email laureltreewellness@gmail.com.
For more information about Laurel Tree Wellness, your host Naomi Kilbreth, or herbal consultations to help you create a wellness plan, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com.

Podcasting is one of the major ways I interact with people as an herbalist. I work with clients one-on-one, I mentor students, I teach classes and lead herb walks… and I podcast!
Clinical herbalist student, Kelly Araneda, who happens to be one of my mentees, asked me some great questions about podcasting, and in today's episode I share my answers to these questions. 
If you are curious about what it looks like to create, publish, and advertise podcasts, or how it might help an herbalist, listen in as I chat about this topic today!
If you are a student and would like to request a podcast topic related to clinical work, feel free to send me an email at laureltreewellness@gmail.com.
This episode is included in either the Community Herbalism or Clinical Herbalism program, offered by Herba Remedium. Herba Remedium is an online, Christian herbalist school. These programs are currently in development, but you can currently enroll in The Family Herbalism Course, or get on the waitlist for one of these new offerings. 
For more information visit www.herbaremedium.com or email laureltreewellness@gmail.com.For more information about Laurel Tree Wellness, your host Naomi Kilbreth, or herbal consultations to help you create a wellness plan, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com.

Herbalist students have unique challenges to face as they grow their knowledge and skills and learn to apply them in their practices. In today's episode, I answer questions from real herbalist students to help you expand your learning and experience in alignment with your learning style, your family priorities, and your big picture values. Questions like - how do I choose a school? How do I homeschool my kids and study at the same time? How do I prioritize my finances? And what if my family doesn't understand herbalism? Get out your notepad because this episode is full of practical ideas!If you are an herbal student and you have a topic in mind that you would like to see made available in this season, please email me at laureltreewellness@gmail.com.Guess what!! There is a FREE PDF download available to help you choose the right herbal school for you. It will soon be on the front page of the website, but until then you can email us for your free download.This episode is included in either the Community Herbalism or Clinical Herbalism program, offered by Herba Remedium. Herba Remedium is an online, Christian herbalist school. These programs are currently in development, but you can currently enroll in The Family Herbalism Course, or get on the waitlist for one of these new offerings. For more information visit www.herbaremedium.com or email laureltreewellness@gmail.com.For more information about Laurel Tree Wellness, your host Naomi Kilbreth, or herbal consultations to help you create a wellness plan, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com.

If you struggle with high stress, or are in the midst of burnout, this conversation will offer you lots of practice tools to jump in and apply to your life! Angelica Benoit is back! And today she shares her experience with adrenal fatigue, in which she was dependent on 10-12 hours of sleep at night plus naps, tons of coffee, and was still feeling overwhelmed. After receiving a reminder about where true healing comes from, she did a deep dive into all things adrenal health and turned her life around. Today she shares what she learned - the food, herbs, and most importantly the lifestyle choices that can take you from burnout out to your best self. This episode is included in either the Community Herbalism or Clinical Herbalism program, offered by Herba Remedium. Herba Remedium is an online, Christian herbalist school. These programs are currently in development, but you can currently enroll in The Family Herbalism Course, or get on the waitlist for one of these new offerings. For more information visit www.herbaremedium.com or email laureltreewellness@gmail.com. For more information about Laurel Tree Wellness, your host Naomi Kilbreth, or herbal consultations to help you create a wellness plan, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com.

With every 1 out of 5 people having at least one food they can't eat without problems, being able to determine food sensitivity or allergies is SO important! Healing the gut is a super important step, but before this can occur, you need a way to uncover the triggers. In today's episode I share four ways you can suss out the culprits. This episode is included in either the Community Herbalism or Clinical Herbalism program, offered by Herba Remedium. Herba Remedium is an online, Christian herbalist school. These programs are currently in development, but you can currently enroll in The Family Herbalism Course, or get on the waitlist for one of these new offerings. For more information visit www.herbaremedium.com or email laureltreewellness@gmail.com. For more information about Laurel Tree Wellness, your host Naomi Kilbreth, or herbal consultations to help you create a wellness plan, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com.

Studying an herb a month is a practice recommended by numerous herbalists and herbal schools, but it's so hard to restrict our learning to just one plant! That's why the Herb of the Month project in Town Square Herbalism is so helpful. In today's episode I share about who Town Square Herbalism is, and read my monograph of Burdock, which you can access the printable of when you join TSH. This episode is included in either the Community Herbalism or Clinical Herbalism program, offered by Herba Remedium. Herba Remedium is an online, Christian herbalist school. These programs are currently in development, but you can currently enroll in The Family Herbalism Course, or get on the waitlist for one of these new offerings. For more information visit www.herbaremedium.com or email laureltreewellness@gmail.com. For more information about Laurel Tree Wellness, your host Naomi Kilbreth, or herbal consultations to help you create a wellness plan, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com.

You have questions about health or herbalism, but you don't trust Google and you don't have a care provider who can answer them. Or, you have numerous people texting you, who are in this boat. These are people who want to know about herbal contraindications, dosages for kids, how to find a trustworthy supplement, how long to make a decoction for, or any number of urgent or non-urgent health needs that don't require an emergency room visit but for which they would play phone tag with a nurse or doctor who is not excited to speak with them. Where do these people stuck in the middle turn? Yes, they could take herbal courses, they could read books on their topic of interest, they could even watch YouTube videos and sort through all the information they find to make a careful decision. Or, they could reach out to an herbalist who has already done that and who can give them their options straight up. Herbalist Care Chat does just this. It is a service I created to meet the needs of this group of people. And in today's episode, I offer advice on what to consider if you want to create a similar service for yourself. This episode is included in either the Community Herbalism or Clinical Herbalism program, offered by Herba Remedium. Herba Remedium is an online, Christian herbalist school. These programs are currently in development, but you can currently enroll in The Family Herbalism Course, or get on the waitlist for one of these new offerings. For more information visit www.herbaremedium.com or email laureltreewellness@gmail.com. For more information about Laurel Tree Wellness, your host Naomi Kilbreth, or herbal consultations to help you create a wellness plan, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com.

The world of medicinal plants is so vast, and the knowledge required to serve others from within the healthcare field so extensive, that it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the expectation that we memorize huge amounts of information to work as a Community or Clinical Herbalist! Today, I break down the functions of people and plants using an age-old system that has been adapted over the years to suit our language, and which simplifies our work in a meaningful way. It also counters the excessive “specialization” that has happened in modern healthcare, with a view of patterns that explains how numerous symptoms can reflect a single person's experience. We are diving deep in this episode, so bring your notebook and pen! This episode is included in either the Community Herbalism or Clinical Herbalism program, offered by Herba Remedium. Herba Remedium is an online, Christian herbalist school. These programs are currently in development, but you can currently enroll in The Family Herbalism Course, or get on the waitlist for one of these new offerings. For more information visit www.herbaremedium.com or email laureltreewellness@gmail.com. For more information about Laurel Tree Wellness, your host Naomi Kilbreth, or herbal consultations to help you create a wellness plan, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com.

Welcome to the first episode of season 5! In this season, I will be sharing lessons that will be included in either the Community Herbalism or Clinical Herbalism program, offered by Herba Remedium. Herba Remedium is an online, Christian herbalist school. These programs are currently in development, but you can currently enroll in The Family Herbalism Course, or get on the waitlist for one of these new offerings. For more information visit www.herbaremedium.com or email laureltreewellness@gmail.com. Today, I dive into the definitions, legality, paths and training opportunities, and my personal story surrounding my path to clinical work. This is a topic I get a lot of questions about, so I did my best to answer them! For more information about Laurel Tree Wellness, your host Naomi Kilbreth, or herbal consultations to help you create a wellness plan, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com.

Today, Angelica and I pick up where we left off, and break down the remaining seven key areas we consider a part of cleansing the home - EMF, plastic, metals, water leaks, pesticides, body care products, and food. Our hope is that, having listened to our conversation, you will feel encouraged to take baby steps toward detoxing your home so you can begin seeing the difference in your family's health. This is the very last episode included in the Family Herbalist Program offered by Herba Remedium. After this, we will begin season five, which will carry us the remainder of the way through 2024 and will introduce community and clinical herbalist concepts! Herba Remedium is an online, Christian herbalist school. Enrollment for the next FHP year is now open! For more information visit www.herbaremedium.com or email laureltreewellness@gmail.com. The Family Herbalism Podcast was voted as one of the Top 100 Maine Podcasts for 2024. You can see the list by Feedspot by clicking this link: https://blog.feedspot.com/maine_podcasts/ For more information about Laurel Tree Wellness, your host Naomi Kilbreth, or herbal consultations to help you create a wellness plan, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com.

Removing potentially harmful substances from your home can feel like an overwhelming subject, but one we know is important! In today's conversation with student herbalist Angelica Benoit, we break down four of the key areas we consider a part of cleansing the home - shoes in the house, cleaning products, and water and air filtration. We also share our personal experiences and tips for getting started. Our hope is that, having listened to our conversation, you will feel encouraged to take baby steps toward detoxing your home so you can begin seeing the difference in your family's health. This episode is included in the Family Herbalist Program offered by Herba Remedium. Herba Remedium is an online, Christian herbalist school. Enrollment for the next FHP year is now open! For more information visit www.herbaremedium.com or email laureltreewellness@gmail.com. The Family Herbalism Podcast was voted as one of the Top 100 Maine Podcasts for 2024. You can see the list by Feedspot by clicking this link: https://blog.feedspot.com/maine_podcasts/ For more information about Laurel Tree Wellness, your host Naomi Kilbreth, or herbal consultations to help you create a wellness plan, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com.

Many of my episodes are geared toward my female listeners, but over the past two weeks I have been talking to the men in the audience! Over the course of these two episodes I'm sharing seven habits that can create massive impact on long term health and quality of life. And guess what?! None of them involve herbs! Based on my husband's firsthand experience and mine working with male clients, these habits are simple, straightforward, evidence-based, and designed for men. This episode is included in the Family Herbalist Program offered by Herba Remedium. Herba Remedium is an online, Christian herbalist school. Enrollment for the next FHP year will begin in June 2024. For more information visit www.herbaremedium.com or email laureltreewellness@gmail.com. The Family Herbalism Podcast was voted as one of the Top 100 Maine Podcasts for 2024. You can see the list by Feedspot by clicking this link: https://blog.feedspot.com/maine_podcasts/ For more information about Laurel Tree Wellness, your host Naomi Kilbreth, or herbal consultations to help you create a wellness plan, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com.

Many of my episodes are geared toward my female listeners, but for the next two weeks I am talking to the men in the audience! Over the course of these two episodes I'll be sharing seven habits that can create massive impact on long term health and quality of life. And guess what?! None of them involve herbs! Based on my husband's firsthand experience and mine working with male clients, these habits are simple, straightforward, evidence-based, and designed for men. This episode is included in the Family Herbalist Program offered by Herba Remedium. Herba Remedium is an online, Christian herbalist school. Enrollment for the next FHP year will begin in June 2024. For more information visit www.herbaremedium.com or email laureltreewellness@gmail.com. The Family Herbalism Podcast was voted as one of the Top 100 Maine Podcasts for 2024. You can see the list by Feedspot by clicking this link: https://blog.feedspot.com/maine_podcasts/ For more information about Laurel Tree Wellness, your host Naomi Kilbreth, or herbal consultations to help you create a wellness plan, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com.

At one time, tonsillectomies were the most common surgical procedure performed in the USA. Even though the rate has dropped significantly, half a million kids still have it done every year. Why? In today's episode I share some of the history surrounding this procedure, and then move into an anatomy lesson - what do the tonsils have to do with the rest of the body? Seven lifestyle tips for supporting your lymphatic system, and my favorite herbs for different lymphatic needs, along with their best preparation methods round out the show. This episode is included in the Family Herbalist Program offered by Herba Remedium. Herba Remedium is an online, Christian herbalist school. Enrollment for the next FHP year will begin in June 2024. For more information visit www.herbaremedium.com or email laureltreewellness@gmail.com. The Family Herbalism Podcast was voted as one of the Top 100 Maine Podcasts for 2024. You can see the list by Feedspot by clicking this link: https://blog.feedspot.com/maine_podcasts/ For more information about Laurel Tree Wellness, your host Naomi Kilbreth, or herbal consultations to help you create a wellness plan, visit www.laureltreewellnessllc.com.