Eclectic Herbal Wisdom

Christine Alstat & Mel Mutterspaugh
  • 5.0 (4)
  • EDUCATION

Hosted by two experienced herbal educators and storytellers — Christine Alstat, owner of Eclectic Herb, and Mel Mutterspaugh, founder of The Herbalist’s Path and Lead Herbal Educator at Eclectic Herb, this show explores the herbs we love, how they work, and the deeper connection between people and plants. Each episode features monthly herb spotlights, zodiac-themed herbal insights, seasonal wellness support, wildcrafting stories from the Pacific Northwest, and conversations shaped by decades of experience in the herbal world. Rooted in Eclectic Herb’s 40-year legacy and grounded in the traditions of the Eclectic Physicians, this podcast is perfect for herbalists, plant lovers, and anyone wanting to live closer to nature.

  1. Herbal Wisdom for Women: From Birth to Menopause w/ Dr. Judith Thompson, ND

    APR 24

    Herbal Wisdom for Women: From Birth to Menopause w/ Dr. Judith Thompson, ND

    When it comes to women's health and herbal medicine, there may be no better pairing. In this episode we had the pleasure of chatting with naturopathic doctor and herbalist Dr. Judith Thompson, who shares decades of clinical wisdom from her work with women, from postpartum care to perimenopause, the everyday herbs she trusts most for nourishment and balance, and why the intention behind how we make and use herbal medicine matters more than we might think.    What's in this episode:    * How Judith's Paraguayan roots and her mother's kitchen medicine shaped her path into herbalism  * The near-fatal car accident that opened her eyes to the healing power of plants  * Herbalism and naturopathy: two lenses, one deep relationship with plants  * Clinical stories from birth to menopause: arnica for newborns, sitz baths, mugwort vaginal steams, maca, and evening primrose  * Supporting women through HPV naturally with green tea, vitamin E, and dietary shifts  * Safe everyday herbs for nourishment and balance: nettles, oats, parsley, celery, red raspberry leaf  * Why the intention behind making herbal medicine matters, and what one doctor's observation revealed  * Caring for plants as living beings and the Sustainable Herbs Initiative  For full show notes and transcript: eclecticherb.com/podcast/womens-health-dr.-judith  Get herbs as fresh as nature intended at eclecticherb.com Follow @eclecticherb on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook  Text Us & Let Us Know How You Liked The Show! Thanks so much for tuning into Eclectic Herbal Wisdom!  We'd love to show our gratitude by giving you a 20% discount on your whole order at eclecticherb.com.  Just use the code PODCAST20 at checkout for 20% Off all your herbal goods! 🌿 And, if you have time, be sure to reach out and let us know what you think of the show!  At Eclectic Herb we're passionate about bringing you herbs as fresh as plants in the wild! That's why we take the time to gently freeze dry our herbs, right after they've been harvested at the peak of their medicinal potency.  We know you'll feel the freeze dried difference in every capsule, every powder, and every bit of herbal love you get at Eclectic Herb!  At Eclectic Herb we're proud to stay rooted in tradition, balanced with science, and committed to sustainable herbal products that are better for you and better for the planet since 1982. Over 95% of our freeze dried herbs are grown right here in the US, by small family farmers, and wild crafters that we've cultivated relationships with for over 30 years. They're tending to the plants and the land, ensuring they come back for future generations, and we're getting you the best herbal products out there. You deserve herbs as fresh as nature intended! Get them at eclecticherb.com Follow @eclecticherb on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube

    54 min
  2. Dandelion: Digestive Health, Liver Support, and Eclectic History

    APR 9

    Dandelion: Digestive Health, Liver Support, and Eclectic History

    Dandelion might be the most beneficial plant in your yard, yet so many are trying to kill this abundant, generous plant. Discover why herbalists have turned to dandelion for centuries, from its bitter properties that get digestion moving, to its support for liver function, kidney health, and natural detoxification. You'll hear how the leaf and root each have different beneficial properties, and why fresh dandelion is the best when it comes to getting the most from this "weed”.  Dig into the history through a century-old Eli Lilly dandelion extract, Culpeper's writings, the Eclectic Physicians, and traditional cultures around the world who have relied on this bright spring plant for generations. Plus, how freeze-drying preserves dandelion's full potency year-round.  What's in this episode:  Why dandelion is a spring tonic for digestion, liver, and kidney support The difference between dandelion leaf and root, and when to use each Culpeper, Eli Lilly, and the Eclectic Physicians on dandelion's traditional uses Dandelion as food: salads, pesto, flower fritters, roasted root coffee, and more Why fresh matters and how freeze-drying preserves what air drying destroys The energetics of dandelion: uplifting leaf energy and grounding root energy Full show notes, resources, and transcript: eclecticherb.com/podcast/dandelion-herb-of-the-month  Get Eclectic Herb's freeze-dried dandelion here at eclecticherb.com     Text Us & Let Us Know How You Liked The Show! Thanks so much for tuning into Eclectic Herbal Wisdom!  We'd love to show our gratitude by giving you a 20% discount on your whole order at eclecticherb.com.  Just use the code PODCAST20 at checkout for 20% Off all your herbal goods! 🌿 And, if you have time, be sure to reach out and let us know what you think of the show!  At Eclectic Herb we're passionate about bringing you herbs as fresh as plants in the wild! That's why we take the time to gently freeze dry our herbs, right after they've been harvested at the peak of their medicinal potency.  We know you'll feel the freeze dried difference in every capsule, every powder, and every bit of herbal love you get at Eclectic Herb!  At Eclectic Herb we're proud to stay rooted in tradition, balanced with science, and committed to sustainable herbal products that are better for you and better for the planet since 1982. Over 95% of our freeze dried herbs are grown right here in the US, by small family farmers, and wild crafters that we've cultivated relationships with for over 30 years. They're tending to the plants and the land, ensuring they come back for future generations, and we're getting you the best herbal products out there. You deserve herbs as fresh as nature intended! Get them at eclecticherb.com Follow @eclecticherb on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube

    32 min
  3. Medicinal Lichens, Moss, & Ferns w/ Robert Dale Rogers, RH (AHG)

    MAR 27

    Medicinal Lichens, Moss, & Ferns w/ Robert Dale Rogers, RH (AHG)

    Meet Robert Dale Rogers, one of the most prolific herbalists alive today, with over 65 books and decades of clinical practice rooted in botany, indigenous plant wisdom, and a deep love of the overlooked medicines of the Earth. In this episode, Robert joins Chris and Mel to share the stories, the science, and the magic behind some of herbalism's most under-appreciated medicines: lichens, ferns, mosses, and fungi.  This one is rich with wisdom, wild stories, and a few things that might just change how you look at the forest floor.  What's in this episode:  Robert's path into lichens, ferns, and overlooked plant medicine Usnea as a clinical tool for drug-resistant tuberculosis and antibiotic resistance Lungwort and the Doctrine of Signatures: why this lichen keeps showing up when you need it Learning from Cree healers and documenting a 10th-generation medicine bundle Flower essences in clinical practice, including Gorse for hope 26 years of developing mushroom essences and shadow work You can learn more about Robert and his coming events here, and get his latest books here.  Herbal Terms in This Episode:  Doctrine of Signatures: A traditional concept suggesting a plant's appearance may offer clues about its potential uses Usnic Acid: A compound found in roughly 32 lichen species, studied for its unique ability to affect bacterial cell function We'd love to hear from you!  Have you ever had a plant show up at exactly the right moment? Share your stories with us on Instagram or TikTok @eclecticherb  Full show notes and transcript: eclecticherb.com/ blogs/news/medicinal-lichen-robert-dale-rogers  Explore Ecl Text Us & Let Us Know How You Liked The Show! Thanks so much for tuning into Eclectic Herbal Wisdom!  We'd love to show our gratitude by giving you a 20% discount on your whole order at eclecticherb.com.  Just use the code PODCAST20 at checkout for 20% Off all your herbal goods! 🌿 And, if you have time, be sure to reach out and let us know what you think of the show!  At Eclectic Herb we're passionate about bringing you herbs as fresh as plants in the wild! That's why we take the time to gently freeze dry our herbs, right after they've been harvested at the peak of their medicinal potency.  We know you'll feel the freeze dried difference in every capsule, every powder, and every bit of herbal love you get at Eclectic Herb!  At Eclectic Herb we're proud to stay rooted in tradition, balanced with science, and committed to sustainable herbal products that are better for you and better for the planet since 1982. Over 95% of our freeze dried herbs are grown right here in the US, by small family farmers, and wild crafters that we've cultivated relationships with for over 30 years. They're tending to the plants and the land, ensuring they come back for future generations, and we're getting you the best herbal products out there. You deserve herbs as fresh as nature intended! Get them at eclecticherb.com Follow @eclecticherb on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube

    1h 3m
  4. Stinging Nettles: The Most Nutritious Weed You're Walking Past

    MAR 14

    Stinging Nettles: The Most Nutritious Weed You're Walking Past

    Nettles might be the most nutrient-dense plant growing right outside your door right now, and most people walk past it every day without a second glance. In this episode, we're digging deep into one of herbalism's most beloved plants, sharing everything from its nutritional profile to why Dr. Ed Alstat's discovery of freeze-dried nettles for allergy relief changed the game for Eclectic Herb.  You'll hear readings from a 17th century Nicholas Culpeper text right from Chris' personal herbal library, travel through the global history of nettles from Japan to New Zealand to Russia, and learn why herbalists and the Eclectic Physicians have been turning to this plant for centuries. Whether you're managing seasonal allergies, looking to nourish your body after a long winter, or just curious about the weedy green that keeps popping up around you, this episode will make you want to go find some nettles.  What's in this episode:  Why nettles is one of the most nutrient-dense plants on the planet Nettles for women's health: iron, heavy menses, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and perimenopauseDr. Ed Alstat's discovery of freeze-dried nettles for allergies and what makes Eclectic Herb's nettles different Nicholas Culpeper's 17th century uses, read straight from Chris's library The Eclectic Physicians and how they approached nettles as a pattern-based remedy Ed's origin story: the pharmacist who put on a wig and started asking the wrong questionsNettles World Tour with Chris: New Zealand's Onga Onga, Japan, Russia, and European urticationHow to use nettles: tea, apple cider vinegar infusion, pesto, smoothies, and freshly freeze-dried capsules   Herbal Terms in This Episode:  Hemostatic: An herb that helps slow or stop bleeding, useful for heavy menses or wounds.  Astringent: An action that Text Us & Let Us Know How You Liked The Show! Thanks so much for tuning into Eclectic Herbal Wisdom!  We'd love to show our gratitude by giving you a 20% discount on your whole order at eclecticherb.com.  Just use the code PODCAST20 at checkout for 20% Off all your herbal goods! 🌿 And, if you have time, be sure to reach out and let us know what you think of the show!  At Eclectic Herb we're passionate about bringing you herbs as fresh as plants in the wild! That's why we take the time to gently freeze dry our herbs, right after they've been harvested at the peak of their medicinal potency.  We know you'll feel the freeze dried difference in every capsule, every powder, and every bit of herbal love you get at Eclectic Herb!  At Eclectic Herb we're proud to stay rooted in tradition, balanced with science, and committed to sustainable herbal products that are better for you and better for the planet since 1982. Over 95% of our freeze dried herbs are grown right here in the US, by small family farmers, and wild crafters that we've cultivated relationships with for over 30 years. They're tending to the plants and the land, ensuring they come back for future generations, and we're getting you the best herbal products out there. You deserve herbs as fresh as nature intended! Get them at eclecticherb.com Follow @eclecticherb on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube

    47 min
  5. Herbs, Hospitals, Community Healing and the Essence of Nature Cure with Dr. Les Moore, ND

    MAR 5

    Herbs, Hospitals, Community Healing and the Essence of Nature Cure with Dr. Les Moore, ND

    What does it look like when someone grows up watching their father heal their whole community with plants from the mountains of Virginia? Dr. Les Moore knows firsthand. In this episode, Chris Alstat welcomes her long-time colleague and friend to share a lifetime of wisdom rooted in nature cure, the eclectic physician tradition, and the deep conviction that plants are here to help us become whole again.  From a closet apothecary in the Virginia mountains to a full natural pharmacy inside a New York hospital, Dr. Moore has spent decades weaving naturopathic medicine, traditional Chinese medicine, Ayurveda, and western herbalism together into clinical practice. You will hear stories of 107-year-old patients healed with dandelion, pallets of Eclectic Herb products donated to community distributions during the pandemic, and what it really means to listen deeply enough to hear both the patient and the plant.  What's in this episode:  Dr. Les Moore on growing up with an herbalist father in the mountains of Virginia From forestry school to naturopathic medicine and why herbs were always calling Clifton Springs Hospital: a natural pharmacy inside a conventional hospital  Meeting Finley Ellingwood's great-granddaughter and the eclectic physician lineage  Community charity work and Eclectic Herb donations feeding thousands during the pandemic  His father's closet medicinary vs. a hospital-wide natural pharmacy  Studying TCM, Ayurveda, and why you can never learn everything about plants  Sassafras: a lifelong love and a spring detox tradition  Nature cure explained: what the word physician really means  How Dr. Moore listens deeply to serve his patients and the plants     To connect with Text Us & Let Us Know How You Liked The Show! Thanks so much for tuning into Eclectic Herbal Wisdom!  We'd love to show our gratitude by giving you a 20% discount on your whole order at eclecticherb.com.  Just use the code PODCAST20 at checkout for 20% Off all your herbal goods! 🌿 And, if you have time, be sure to reach out and let us know what you think of the show!  At Eclectic Herb we're passionate about bringing you herbs as fresh as plants in the wild! That's why we take the time to gently freeze dry our herbs, right after they've been harvested at the peak of their medicinal potency.  We know you'll feel the freeze dried difference in every capsule, every powder, and every bit of herbal love you get at Eclectic Herb!  At Eclectic Herb we're proud to stay rooted in tradition, balanced with science, and committed to sustainable herbal products that are better for you and better for the planet since 1982. Over 95% of our freeze dried herbs are grown right here in the US, by small family farmers, and wild crafters that we've cultivated relationships with for over 30 years. They're tending to the plants and the land, ensuring they come back for future generations, and we're getting you the best herbal products out there. You deserve herbs as fresh as nature intended! Get them at eclecticherb.com Follow @eclecticherb on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube

    1h 1m
  6. Digestive Health - Herbs for a Balanced Microbiome and Healthy Gut

    FEB 17

    Digestive Health - Herbs for a Balanced Microbiome and Healthy Gut

    Digestive health is more than just what you eat. In this episode of Eclectic Herbal Wisdom, you’ll explore how herbs support a balanced gut microbiome and overall digestive function.  Chris and Mel break down how the digestive system, microbiome, immune system, and nervous system are deeply interconnected, and why supporting gut health requires more than quick fixes or restrictive diets. Drawing from Eclectic herbal tradition and modern physiology, this conversation highlights how herbal medicine approaches digestive health in a supportive, systems-based way.  You’ll learn why digestive bitters matter before meals, how herbs like Ginger and Calendula are traditionally used to soothe inflammation in the gut, and the role Dandelion plays in both liver and digestive support. Chris also shares insight into Eclectic Herb’s freeze-drying process and why proper processing helps preserve the compounds that make these herbs effective for digestion.  🌿 In This Episode  • Why digestive bitters are foundational for gut health • Ginger’s traditional role in calming digestive inflammation • How Calendula supports the gut lining • Lemon Balm for stress-related digestive issues • Dandelion’s role in liver and digestive support  • Prebiotic herbs that nourish beneficial gut bacteria  🌱 Herbal Terms in This Episode  Bit Text Us & Let Us Know How You Liked The Show! Thanks so much for tuning into Eclectic Herbal Wisdom!  We'd love to show our gratitude by giving you a 20% discount on your whole order at eclecticherb.com.  Just use the code PODCAST20 at checkout for 20% Off all your herbal goods! 🌿 And, if you have time, be sure to reach out and let us know what you think of the show!  At Eclectic Herb we're passionate about bringing you herbs as fresh as plants in the wild! That's why we take the time to gently freeze dry our herbs, right after they've been harvested at the peak of their medicinal potency.  We know you'll feel the freeze dried difference in every capsule, every powder, and every bit of herbal love you get at Eclectic Herb!  At Eclectic Herb we're proud to stay rooted in tradition, balanced with science, and committed to sustainable herbal products that are better for you and better for the planet since 1982. Over 95% of our freeze dried herbs are grown right here in the US, by small family farmers, and wild crafters that we've cultivated relationships with for over 30 years. They're tending to the plants and the land, ensuring they come back for future generations, and we're getting you the best herbal products out there. You deserve herbs as fresh as nature intended! Get them at eclecticherb.com Follow @eclecticherb on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube

    43 min
  7. Aquarius Astro-Herbalism: Nettles Nourish Innovative Minds

    FEB 5

    Aquarius Astro-Herbalism: Nettles Nourish Innovative Minds

    Aquarius season brings innovative, forward-thinking energy that helps us imagine what is possible beyond the present moment. In this episode of the Eclectic Herbal Wisdom podcast, Chris and Mel explore the brilliant, intellectual nature of Aquarius and why this disruptive air sign energy is exactly what many of us need right now.  Discover why Nettles is the perfect herb for Aquarius season. This generous, deeply nourishing plant mirrors Aquarian qualities with its prickly exterior and powerful gifts beneath the surface. Chris shares Ed Alstat’s pioneering discovery of freeze-dried Nettles for allergy support, while Mel talks about the embodied magic of working with fresh Nettles, including safely tasting young leaves straight from the plant.  You’ll also hear about Bilberry as an herb for vision and clarity, along with simple rituals to help ground visionary energy and support the path unfolding ahead.  What’s in this episode:  Aquarius traits including innovation, disruption, and future-oriented thinking Why Nettles perfectly embodies Aquarian energy Ed Alstat’s groundbreaking discovery around freeze-dried Nettles and seasonal allergies How to safely forage and work with fresh Nettles, including when they appear in late Aquarius season Bilberry as an ally for inner sight, clarity, and vision work Grounding rituals using Nettles and Bilberry to anchor big ideas Affirmations to support trust in your inner vision Herbal Terms in This Episode:  Trophorestorative: An herb that nourishes and restores a body system over timeText Us & Let Us Know How You Liked The Show! Thanks so much for tuning into Eclectic Herbal Wisdom!  We'd love to show our gratitude by giving you a 20% discount on your whole order at eclecticherb.com.  Just use the code PODCAST20 at checkout for 20% Off all your herbal goods! 🌿 And, if you have time, be sure to reach out and let us know what you think of the show!  At Eclectic Herb we're passionate about bringing you herbs as fresh as plants in the wild! That's why we take the time to gently freeze dry our herbs, right after they've been harvested at the peak of their medicinal potency.  We know you'll feel the freeze dried difference in every capsule, every powder, and every bit of herbal love you get at Eclectic Herb!  At Eclectic Herb we're proud to stay rooted in tradition, balanced with science, and committed to sustainable herbal products that are better for you and better for the planet since 1982. Over 95% of our freeze dried herbs are grown right here in the US, by small family farmers, and wild crafters that we've cultivated relationships with for over 30 years. They're tending to the plants and the land, ensuring they come back for future generations, and we're getting you the best herbal products out there. You deserve herbs as fresh as nature intended! Get them at eclecticherb.com Follow @eclecticherb on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube

    26 min
  8. Herbs for Insomnia: Mental Health, Joy & Detox with Dr. Orna

    JAN 15

    Herbs for Insomnia: Mental Health, Joy & Detox with Dr. Orna

    Sleep is not optional. It's foundational.   In this episode of Eclectic Herbal Wisdom, we're joined by Dr. Orna Izakson for a grounded conversation about insomnia, mental health, nervous system herbs, and why real healing often looks much simpler than the latest wellness trend.  We talk about Skullcap, Passionflower, and Valerian, including when they shine and when they don't. We also unpack detox myths, why extreme cleanses often backfire, and how gentle daily rhythms support the body's innate pathways far better than aggressive protocols.  What You'll Learn:  Why CBT-I is the gold standard for chronic insomnia How herbs support sleep without overriding the nervous system When Skullcap is appropriate, including its use for seizure support Why Valerian causes paradoxical reactions in some people Detox demystified and why less is often more Milk Thistle: when robust liver support is actually needed Hawthorn as a heart and nervous system ally for challenging times  Connect With Dr. Orna Izakson, ND, RH(AHG) here  Naturopathic physician, registered herbalist, and educator specializing in mental health, sleep, and integrative care Instagram: @dr.orna, or find her stunning plant pics at @gardenmedicine  Herbs Mentioned:  Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) PassionflowerText Us & Let Us Know How You Liked The Show! Thanks so much for tuning into Eclectic Herbal Wisdom!  We'd love to show our gratitude by giving you a 20% discount on your whole order at eclecticherb.com.  Just use the code PODCAST20 at checkout for 20% Off all your herbal goods! 🌿 And, if you have time, be sure to reach out and let us know what you think of the show!  At Eclectic Herb we're passionate about bringing you herbs as fresh as plants in the wild! That's why we take the time to gently freeze dry our herbs, right after they've been harvested at the peak of their medicinal potency.  We know you'll feel the freeze dried difference in every capsule, every powder, and every bit of herbal love you get at Eclectic Herb!  At Eclectic Herb we're proud to stay rooted in tradition, balanced with science, and committed to sustainable herbal products that are better for you and better for the planet since 1982. Over 95% of our freeze dried herbs are grown right here in the US, by small family farmers, and wild crafters that we've cultivated relationships with for over 30 years. They're tending to the plants and the land, ensuring they come back for future generations, and we're getting you the best herbal products out there. You deserve herbs as fresh as nature intended! Get them at eclecticherb.com Follow @eclecticherb on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube

    1h 15m
See All (13)

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Hosted by two experienced herbal educators and storytellers — Christine Alstat, owner of Eclectic Herb, and Mel Mutterspaugh, founder of The Herbalist’s Path and Lead Herbal Educator at Eclectic Herb, this show explores the herbs we love, how they work, and the deeper connection between people and plants. Each episode features monthly herb spotlights, zodiac-themed herbal insights, seasonal wellness support, wildcrafting stories from the Pacific Northwest, and conversations shaped by decades of experience in the herbal world. Rooted in Eclectic Herb’s 40-year legacy and grounded in the traditions of the Eclectic Physicians, this podcast is perfect for herbalists, plant lovers, and anyone wanting to live closer to nature.

Information

  • Creator
    Christine Alstat & Mel Mutterspaugh
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    13
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Eclectic Herbal Wisdom
  • Show Website
    Eclectic Herbal Wisdom

You Might Also Like