This episode lays the foundation for everything the podcast will explore: honoring plant science, herbal history, lived wisdom, and the traditions Eclectic Herb has been rooted in for over 40 years.
Growing Up With the Plants
Chris shares vivid memories of her Japanese mother and grandparents, whose gardens were overflowing with dahlias, flowers for the temples, and a garden that nourished the whole family.
Mel reflects on growing up outside, falling in love with mud, moss, and the wild world long before she realized she was destined for herbalism.
These childhood moments created lifelong relationships with plants. The very relationships that continue to guide their work today.
Astrology & Plant Wisdom
Since this show will weave astro-herbalism through the seasons, Chris and Mel share their sun, moon, and rising signs, exploring how these traits show up in their lives, work, and connection to the plants.
Health Challenges & Turning Points
Chris opens up about a frustrating and painful medical experience that left her feeling dismissed and unsupported. This pivotal moment led her to naturopathic school, then back to Japan, and eventually to meeting Dr. Ed Alstat, founder of Eclectic Herb, completely by chance.
(Or maybe not by chance at all.)
The Plants as Teachers
Both hosts share stories of plants showing up at just the right time, and the ways in which the plants “spoke” to them. Whether through dreams, intuition, or stumbling upon them on the trail. These stories reinforce a guiding truth for the show:
Plants are wise. When you listen, they will teach you.
Favorite Herbs of the Moment
• Milky Oats — Chris’s go-to for restoration, resilience, and nourishing the nervous system.
• Tulsi (Holy Basil) — Mel’s beloved adaptogen for clarity, digestion, and steadying an overwhelmed mind.
Both herbs reflect the collective need for nourishment and balance in today’s fast-paced world. And, we’re sure you’ll be delighted by them too.
What You Can Expect from the Eclectic Herbal Wisdom Podcast
This episode sets the stage for:
• Deep dives into the Herb of the Month
• Explore herbs through astrology and seasonality
• Conversations with herbalists, naturopaths, and other brilliant beings
• Eclectic history and legacy
• Practical, science-rooted herbal education
• And plenty of stories along the way
Up next: our Herb of the Month episode — followed by Sagittarius Season herbal insights.
If you're ready to experience the freeze-drying difference Chris talks about in this episode, be sure to visit eclecticherb.com to explore Milky Oats, Tulsi, and the full range of organic, freeze-dried herbal capsules that preserve volatile oils, enzymes, and full-spectrum compounds without heat damage.
If you liked this episode, please let us know by sharing it with your friends, and connecting with us @eclecticherb on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook for herbal wisdom, plant spotlights, and behind-the-scenes looks at our herbal product creations.
