Eclectic Herbal Wisdom

Christine Alstat & Mel Mutterspaugh

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.

Episodes

  1. Dandelion: Digestive Health, Liver Support, and Eclectic History

    1D AGO

    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!  Follow @eclecticherb on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook

    32 min
  2. 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 Eclectic Herb's freeze-dried supplements 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!  Follow @eclecticherb on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook

    1h 3m
  3. 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 tones and tightens tissues and reduces excessive secretions, like a runny nose or weeping wounds.  Diuretic: Supports the kidneys in flushing excess fluid and waste from the body.  Galactagogue: An herb traditionally used to support and promote breast milk production.  Urtication: The practice of deliberately stinging the skin with fresh nettles, historically used in Europe for pain relief and circulation.    We'd love to hear from you!  Have you ever used nettles for allergies, as a food, or in some creative way we didn't mention?  Share your nettles stories with us on Instagram or TikTok @eclecticherb  Full show notes and transcript: eclecticherb.com/blogs/news/stinging-nettles  Shop freeze-dried Nettles and Nettles with Quercetin at eclecticherb.com  Follow @eclecticherb on Instagram, TikTok, and Faceboo 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!  Follow @eclecticherb on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook

    47 min
  4. 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 Dr. Moore, visit his site here.  For full show notes, resources, links and transcript:   eclecticherb.com/podcast/dr-les-moore-nature-cure     Explore Eclectic Herb's freeze-dried supplements 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!  Follow @eclecticherb on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook

    1h 1m
  5. 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  Bitters: Herbs that stimulate digestive secretions and enzyme production Microbiome: The community of beneficial bacteria that supports digestion, immunity, and resilience Prebiotics: Plant fibers that feed beneficial gut bacteria  🌿 Connect With Us  What herbs have supported your digestion the most? Join the conversation on Instagram or TikTok @eclecticherb  Full show notes available at: eclecticherb.com/blogs/news/digestive-health-herbs-gut-microbiome Explore Eclectic Herb’s freeze-dried herbal formulas 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!  Follow @eclecticherb on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook

    43 min
  6. 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 time Freeze-dried: A preservation method that helps maintain volatile compounds and nutrients often lost in traditional drying 🌿 Connect With Us    What rituals help you ground your visionary energy?  Join the conversation on Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok @eclecticherb  Get Eclectic Herb’s freeze-dried Nettles here:  and Bilberry here  Full show notes available at:  eclecticherb.com/podcast/aquarius-astro-herbalism-nettles    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!  Follow @eclecticherb on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook

    26 min
  7. 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) Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.) Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum) We'd love to hear from you!  What herbs have supported your sleep or mental health?  Have you experienced a paradoxical reaction to valerian or another herb?  Share your stories with us on Instagram or TikTok @eclecticherb  Full show notes: 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!  Follow @eclecticherb on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook

    1h 15m

  8. JAN 8

    Milk Thistle: Liver Support, Regeneration & Silymarin Science

    Your liver works overtime. Processing everything from last night's dinner to environmental toxins, your liver needs consistent support to stay healthy and resilient. In this episode, Chris and Mel dive deep into milk thistle, the gold standard herb for liver protection and regeneration.  You'll learn why milk thistle has been trusted for over 2,000 years, how silymarin (the compound complex in milk thistle seeds) protects and regenerates liver cells, and why freeze-dried milk thistle preserves the beneficial compounds that get lost in standard processing.     Chris shares her experience growing milk thistle and why it's one of Eclectic Herb's bestsellers, while Mel explains the science behind this powerful plant and its uses beyond liver support.  What's in this episode:  The 2,000-year history of milk thistle, from Pliny the Elder to Victorian physicians  How Eclectic Physicians used milk thistle for digestive complaints and sluggish bile Silymarin: the compound complex that protects and regenerates liver cells  Using milk thistle for liver support, fatty liver disease, hepatitis, and cholesterol management  Why milk thistle works for acne, skin health, and detoxification pathways  Growing milk thistle: Chris's insights on harvest, seeds, and why it's invasive The antidote potential for poisonous mushroom exposure  Why freeze-dried whole seed milk thistle makes a difference  Herbal Terms in This Episode:  Silymarin: A complex of flavonolignans found in milk thistle seeds that includes silibinin, silychristin, and silydianin. This compound stabilizes cell membranes, reduces oxidative stress, and supports liver detoxification and regeneration. Hepatoprotective: An herb that protects the liver from damage caused by toxins, medications, alcohol, or disease. Galactagogue: An herb that promotes or increases breast milk production in nursing mothers. Biliousness: A term used by Eclectic Physicians referring to sluggish bile flow and digestive complaints. We'd love to hear from you!  Do you already use milk thistle for liver support? Have you noticed benefits for your skin or digestion? Share your experiences with us on  Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook @eclecticherb Get your freeze-dried milk thistle here and explore other liver-supporting herbs at eclecticherb.com  Full show notes, transcript, and Chris's in-depth blog on milk thistle: 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!  Follow @eclecticherb on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook

    29 min

  9. JAN 2

    Capricorn Season Herbs: Ashwagandha for Stress & Immunity

    Ashwagandha for stress and immunity is a powerful ally during Capricorn season, a time marked by ambition, determination, and the weight of responsibility. What happens when chronic stress meets winter’s demands? How can this adaptogenic root support your nervous system, immune resilience, and groundedness during a season of goal-setting?  In this episode of Eclectic Herbal Wisdom, Chris and Mel explore Capricorn energy, the shadow side of burnout, and why Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a foundational herb for stress resilience, vitality, and winter wellness.  What’s in this episode:  Capricorn traits and the shadow side of ambition, recognizing when responsibility becomes burden Ashwagandha as an adaptogen for chronic stress, nervous exhaustion, and HPA axis support Immunomodulator vs immune stimulant, and why Ashwagandha supports winter immune resilience Traditional uses for reproductive health, libido, and long-term vitality How to work with Ashwagandha: golden milk, fresh root tinctures, freeze-dried capsules, and growing your own Using Capricorn energy for goal-setting and boundaries, even if you’re not a Capricorn Journal prompts and plant rituals for releasing stress and connecting with earth energy We’d love to hear from you  Have you worked with Ashwagandha for stress or immune support? How does Capricorn season energy show up in your life? Share your experience with us on Instagram or TikTok @eclecticherb.  Resources & Links  Full show notes and transcript: eclecticherb.com/podcast/capricorn-herbs-ashwagandha  Shop freeze-dried Ashwagandha: eclecticherb.com/products/ashwagandha Explore all organic supplements: eclecticherb.com Connect with us on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook @eclecticherb 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!  Follow @eclecticherb on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook

    28 min

  10. 12/16/2025

    Skullcap: Herb of the Month for Calming the Nervous System and More

    Can’t turn off your racing mind at night? Feel like you’re constantly running on high alert? Skullcap might be exactly what your nervous system needs. This episode dives deep into one of the most beloved herbs for nervous system support, exploring its rich history from Native American medicine to Victorian-era Eclectic Physicians, and how it’s used in clinical herbalism today.  Chris and Mel share the fascinating ways Skullcap has been used throughout history. From menstrual support to snake bites, and why the Eclectic Physicians insisted on using it with fresh herb preparations.   You’ll discover why this herb is perfect for busy minds that can’t switch off, how to grow your own (it’s easier than you think!), the importance of proper botanical identification, and its astrological connections to the moon, Gemini, and Virgo. Whether you’re dealing with caffeine jitters, work burnout, or those 3am thought spirals, this episode will help you understand why Skullcap has earned its reputation as a go-to nervine for the overwhelmed and overstimulated.  What’s in this episode:  Native American and historical uses of Skullcap How Victorian Eclectic Physicians used Skullcap for women’s hysteria and men’s burnout  Why fresh is best: The importance of fresh tincture or freeze-dried preparation  Clinical uses today: Racing mind, burnout, caffeine jitters, and nervous system restoration  Skullcap for menstrual support and menopause irritability  The critical importance of botanical names and avoiding adulteration Growing Skullcap at home: Tips, harvesting, and companion planting Astrological connections: Moon, Gemini, Virgo, and crown chakra  Energetics and the Skullcap personality    Herbal Terms in This Episode  Trophorestorative: An herb that nourishes and restores a body system to normal function over time, especially after depletion. Nervine: A plant that supports, calms, or tones the nervous system. Antispasmodic: Helps reduce involuntary muscle spasms (digestive, uterine, or nervous system). Diaphoretic: Helps the body release heat through sweating. Energetics: The subtle qualities of an herb (warming, cooling, grounding, uplifting, etc.) and how they interact with a person’s constitution.    For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript: eclecticherb.com/podcast/skullcap-herb-of-the-month  Ready to experience Skullcap for yourself?  Visit eclecticherb.com to explore freeze-dried Skullcap capsules that preserve the volatile compounds and medicinal benefits of the fresh plant. Get Skullcap here: https://eclecticherb.com/products/skullcap Connect with us @eclecticherb on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook for more herbal wisdom.  Text Us & Let Us Know How You Liked The Show! Follow @eclecticherb on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook

    26 min

  11. 12/16/2025

    Sagittarius Season Astro-Herbalism: Rosemary, Rituals & the Adventurous Spirit

    Sagittarius season is all about expansion, adventure, and following that inner spark that wants to grow. In this episode, Chris and Mel explore the spirited, fire-driven energy of Sagittarius and the herbs that best support this season. You'll learn why rosemary has long been tied to travelers, students, memory, protection, and courage, along with practical ways to work with it both physically and energetically.  You'll also hear companion herbs that round out Sagittarius season, including turmeric for sustainable fire, garlic for boundary-setting protection, and aronia berry for endurance. Whether you're a Sagittarius yourself or just feeling the call to stretch beyond your comfort zone, this episode offers grounding herbal insight, nourishing rituals, and journaling prompts to help you move into the season with clarity and intention.  What's in this episode:  What makes Sagittarius energy unique  Behind the brave face: the deeper emotional world of Sagittarians  Why Rosemary is the perfect herbal match for Sag season  Rosemary for memory, circulation, digestion, and skin health  Using rosemary for spiritual cleansing and home rituals  Journaling prompts for growth and self-reflection  Companion herbs: turmeric, garlic, and aronia berry  Freeze-dried herbal allies for seasonal support  Closing thoughts and how to connect with us   🌿 Herbal Terms in This Episode:  Carminative: An herb that helps relieve gas, bloating, and digestive cramping by relaxing the digestive tract Astro-herbalism: The practice of connecting astrological energies with complementary herbs and plants Fire sign: In astrology, signs associated with energy, passion, and action (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius)  For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript: eclecticherb.com/blogs/news/sagittarius-season-rosemary Ready to explore Sagittarius season herbs? Visit eclecticherb.com to find freeze-dried Rosemary here: eclecticherb.com/products/rosemary or grab your Turmeric, Garlic, and Aronia Berry capsules.  Connect with us @eclecticherb on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook for more herbal wisdom and astrology insights.  Text Us & Let Us Know How You Liked The Show! Follow @eclecticherb on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook

    16 min

  12. 12/16/2025

    Welcome to Eclectic Herbal Wisdom: Meet Chris & Mel

    Meet Chris Alstat, owner of Eclectic Herb, and herbal educator Mel Mutterspaugh, two herbalists who found each other through their shared love of plants and are finally sitting down to do what they've talked about for years: share stories, wisdom, and a whole lot of herbal passion.  In this episode, you'll get to hear from Chris as she shares about her Japanese heritage, the influence her mother's garden had on her childhood, the health crisis that changed everything, and how a chance meeting in Tokyo led her to Eclectic Herb, a 40+ year legacy of organic, freeze-dried herbal supplements rooted in the Eclectic Physicians tradition. Mel shares the moment Lungwort Lichen literally appeared at her feet during every coughing fit from bronchitis.  You'll hear why they're both obsessed with nervous system herbs right now (hello stress), what it means when plants speak to you, and the one piece of advice they each give over and over. This is science-rooted herbal education wrapped in friendship, stories, and a whole lot of plant nerdery.  What's in this episode:  Why Mel and Chris started this podcast and what you can expect Astrological profiles: How earth and air signs shape their herbal practice Early plant memories: From Japanese gardens to backpacking trails Chris's path to owning Eclectic Herb via healing crisis and chance meeting Current favorites herbs: Milky Oats for chronic stress and Tulsi for daily balanceWhen plants speak: Lungwort and Chestnut Bud appearing exactly when needed The most important herb advice: Trust the plants & find what works for YOUR bodyWhat's coming: Victorian herbal history, astrology, expert interviews Herbal Terms in This Episode:  Trophorestorative: An herb that nourishes and restores a body system or tissue to normal functionality over time (like Milky Oats for the nervous system) Doctrine of Signatures: A traditional concept suggesting 'like treats like'—the color, shape, or texture of a plant can hint at its medicinal uses (like Lungwort Lichen for lung conditions)   We'd love to hear from you!   What early plant memories shaped your relationship with herbalism?   Have you ever felt guided by a plant or "nudged" toward a remedy intuitively?   Full show notes & transcript: eclecticherb.com/blogs/eclectic-herbal-wisdom Explore Eclectic Herb's freeze-dried supplements at eclecticherb.com. Share your stories and follow @eclecticherb on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook  Text Us & Let Us Know How You Liked The Show! Follow @eclecticherb on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook

    1h 8m
  • 12 Episodes

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
    12
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Eclectic Herbal Wisdom
  • Show Website
    Eclectic Herbal Wisdom

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