Herbcast Season 5 - Coming soon!

More from Herbcast All episodes →

1. 

   S5 · E54 · 11 Sep 2026 · 1 hr

   Foraging for the truth: How is research changing the face of herbal medicine with Dr Merlin Willcox

   Foraging for the truth: How is research changing the face of herbal medicine? Sebastian Pole welcomes Dr. Merlin Wilcox, a primary research fellow at the Primary Care Research Centre at Southampton University, to discuss the intersection of herbal medicine and modern healthcare. With a rich background in medicine and a passion for herbal research, Merlin shares his journey from growing up with herbal remedies in his mother's garden to conducting pivotal research on traditional medicines in various countries. The conversation delves into Merlin's experiences in Uganda and Madagascar, where he…

2. 

   S5 · E53 · 28 Aug 2026 · 52 min

   The cure in your kitchen cupboard: The top 10 healing spices everyone needs to know

   The cure in your kitchen cupboard: The top 10 healing spices everyone needs to know with Dr Rupy Aujla Simon Mills welcomes Dr. Rupy Aujla, founder of The Doctor’s Kitchen to discuss the profound connection between food, herbs, and health. With an extensive background in conventional medicine, Dr. Rupy shares how his own experience with paroxysmal ​atrial ​fibrillation led him to explore the transformative power of nutrition and discover a passion for food as medicine. This conversation explores the importance of a plant-forward diet, with a particular focus on protein, herbs and spices,…

3. 

   S5 · E52 · 14 Aug 2026 · 57 min

   Power to the people with community based health

   Power to the people with community based health In this episode of Herbcast, Simon Mills welcomes herbalist and educator 7Song for a chat about the intricacies of herbal medicine and the personal journey that shaped his path. From his early experiments with plants to his rich experiences in diverse ecosystems across North America, 7Song shares the lessons he has learned throughout his extensive career in herbalism. The conversation delves into 7Song’s initial fascination with nature, the various herbal schools that influenced his practice, and the importance of community engagement in herbal…

4. 

   S5 · E51 · 31 Jul 2026 · 54 min

   From Poison to Panacea: Exploring Herban Myths and Truths

   From Poison to Panacea: Exploring Herban Myths and Truths In this episode of Herbcast, Sebastian Pole is joined by Dr. Dilis Clare, a GP and medical herbalist, who runs an apothecary in Galway and hosts her own podcast, The Herb Doctor Podcast. This conversation takes a look at the myths surrounding herbal medicine, addressing misconceptions about safety, efficacy, placebo, and the role of herbs in modern healthcare. Dr. Clare shares her insights on the disconnect between modern medicine and patient care, exploring how the medical system often prioritises disease over holistic health. She…

5. 

   S5 · E50 · 17 Jul 2026 · 59 min

   The Culture of Plants with Wade Davis

   Sebastian welcomes renowned ethnographer, writer, and filmmaker Wade Davis to discuss the profound relationship between plants and cultures around the globe. With a wealth of experience as an Explorer in Residence at the National Geographic Society and a Professor Emeritus of Anthropology, Wade shares his unique insights into how traditional knowledge and modern herbal science can harmoniously coexist. Wade takes us on a journey through his early experiences in anthropology, revealing how his fascination with plants evolved into a deep appreciation for the wisdom embedded within various…

6. 

   S5 · E48 · 23 Apr 2026 · 49 min

   Revelations on Women's Health - Reflections on Season 4 with Marion Mackonochie and Sebastian Pole

   Women's Health Revelations from Season 4 with Sebastian & Marion Welcome back to a brand new series of Herbcast. We’re beginning series 5 with a look back at series 4, as Sebastian welcomes back herbalist and researcher Marion Mackonochie back to discuss the insights gained from her series on women's health. Sebastian and Marion delve into the rich conversations Marion had with various expert herbalists, reflecting on the challenges and opportunities in treating women's health issues through herbal medicine. With a focus on personal experiences and the importance of holistic care, they…

7. 

   S4 · E47 · 11 Dec 2025 · 53 min

   Herbal support during pregnancy: Guidance on safety with herbalists Eve Brazil and Simon Mills

   Herbal support during pregnancy: Guidance on safety with herbalists Eve Brazil and Simon Mills. In this episode of Herbcast, editor and first-time host Eve sits down with veteran herbal practitioner, educator, and author Simon Mills to explore one of the most sensitive and deeply important topics in herbal care: using herbs safely during pregnancy. With over four decades of clinical experience and co-authorship of The Essential Guide to Herbal Safety , Simon brings clarity to a subject often clouded by caution, conflicting advice, and limited research. Together, Eve and Simon discuss why…

8. 

   S4 · E46 · 27 Nov 2025 · 41 min

   A Healthy Power Portal: Taking Control of Your Vaginal Health with herbalist Kathie Bishop

   In this episode of Herbcast, Marion Mackonochie talks with medical herbalist Kathie Bishop about vaginal health, why it’s so often overlooked, how the vaginal microbiome really works, and the herbal and holistic strategies that can make a difference. Kathie shares her personal story of recurrent thrush from childhood into her 30s, what finally helped, and why every person’s microbiome and needs are unique. In this episode: The vaginal microbiome 101 - lactobacilli, glycogen, and the powerful role of oestrogen across the cycle and life stages. Thrush vs. bacterial vaginitis (and aerobic…

9. 

   S4 · E45 · 6 Nov 2025 · 44 min

   Endometriosis Naturally: Herbs, Healing & Hormones with Claire Goulding

   In this episode of Herbcast, host Marion Mackonochie sits down with Claire Goulding , a medical herbalist and aromatherapist, to discuss the complexities of endometriosis and the natural ways to support those affected by this challenging condition. Claire shares her personal journey with endometriosis, revealing how her own experiences shaped her passion for women's health and herbal medicine. The conversation covers the common symptoms of endometriosis, including debilitating pain, heavy bleeding, and the emotional toll it takes on those who suffer with the condition. Claire emphasises the…

10. 

    S4 · E44 · 16 Oct 2025 · 43 min

    Caring for Women with Cancer: How Herbs can Help with Herbalist Nadia Brydon

    In this episode of Herbcast, Nadia Brydon shares with Marion her extensive experience in holistic cancer care, stemming from her personal journey. She discusses the importance of nutrition, emotional support, and various healing modalities in supporting women with cancer. Nadia emphasises the role of hydration, particularly through smoothies and juices, and provides insights into post-chemotherapy nutrition and the use of herbs. She also addresses the significance of healthy fats and the need for simplicity in dietary choices during treatment. In this episode: Nadia's journey into holistic…