Yesterday I attended the #herbalmedicine conference in #Lincoln hosted by the #bscclinicalherbalism team. It was an amazing day with an array of talks, stalls and workshops, lots of goodies given out too and a CPD certificate for attending. Lunch was included in the ticket price and was delicious 😋, catered by the savvy herbalist; I really want some of her recipes. She then hosted the herbal mocktail workshop which went down a treat. It is running again next year and I highly recommend attending, whether you attend Lincoln or not the conference is open to all herbalists and was jam packed with information. I have included a few cheeky snippets from the day. #herbalist #herbalism

BURDOCK (Arctium lappa & Arctium minus) Also called: Beggar’s Buttons, Burr, Cocklebur, Sticky‑Willie, Clot‑bur, Gobo (Japan) Essence: A plant of tenacity, purification, grounding, protection, and ancestral strength. Nature: Earthy, stubborn, persistent — a plant that clings, endures, and draws out what is hidden. Folklore & Myth European & British Isles Burdock burrs were believed to catch evil spirits, preventing them from following a person home. Children sometimes wore them on clothing as accidental amulets. In rural English lore, burdock was a witch’s herb of binding — its clinging burrs symbolised spells that “stick” or intentions that cannot be shaken off. In Scottish tradition, burdock was used to protect cattle from faery mischief; burrs were hung in barns to repel “elf‑shot”. Some old charms used burdock root as a ward against envy and ill‑will, especially from neighbours or rivals. Slavic Traditions Burdock was considered a plant of resilience and survival, associated with ancestors who endured hardship. It was used in banishing rituals to remove curses, illness, or lingering negativity. In some regions, burdock leaves were placed on the forehead to “draw out” fevers or bad spirits. East Asian Lore In Japan, burdock (gobo) is a symbol of strength, longevity, and nourishment. It is associated with family lineage, deep roots, and the ability to thrive in adversity. Symbolic Themes Clinging → Binding, attachment, persistence Deep roots → Ancestral memory, grounding, endurance Bitter root → Purification, detoxification, truth‑revealing Magical Associations & Uses Primary Magical Virtues Protection (especially from envy, malice, and spiritual intrusion) Purification & cleansing Grounding & stabilising energy Banishing negativity, illness, or harmful influences Breaking hexes or bindings Strengthening willpower and resilience Shadow work & ancestral healing Magical Uses in Ritual & Spellcraft Protection & Warding Scatter dried burdock around the home to repel harmful energies.

Cleavers is a humble plant with a deep affinity for the body’s inner waters. Cleavers are well known for their sticky leaves and stems. They consist of weak, sprawling stems, of up to 1 m (39 inches) long. They bear whorls of 6–8 mm long, slender green leaves with a prominent central vein. Tiny greenish-white flowers are borne in branching clusters between May to August and develop into round, green (later brown/purple) fruits between 3–5 mm in diameter. Stems, leaves and seed have stiff hooked hairs and are sticky or velcro like. Often growing abundantly in the spring, it has long been valued for its ability to bring gentle movement and clearing to areas of stagnation. Its primary action is as an alterative, supporting the body’s natural processes of cleansing and restoration. This influence is most noticeable through the lymphatic system, kidneys, and urinary tract, helping to move fluids, reduce congestion, and support elimination. It is also commonly used as a skin tonic, reflecting the connection between the lymph, kidneys, and the surface of the body. More specifically, Cleavers can be understood as a diuretic and lymphagogue alterative, encouraging flow where there has been accumulation, whether physical or energetic. For medicine making, Cleavers is best harvested fresh right as it begins to flower in late spring or early summer. At this stage, its vitality is at its peak. Once dried, much of its potency is lost, which is why it is traditionally worked with fresh whenever possible. TRADITIONAL MEDICINE USES: - Urinary System: One of the main traditional Uses for Cleavers. A cooling and soothing plant, effective in cases of heat, irritation and inflammation within the urinary tract. Helping to ease the burning caused by cystitis, UTIs, and stones. Cleavers are a valuable remedy for cystitis, benign prostatic hyperplasia, prostatitis, epididymitis, urethritis, UTIs, and interstitial cystitis. As a mild astringent it provides support in cases of bleeding, whilst it's diuretic properties flush the urinary system. Can be used in dry and or damp constitutions, however, heat is its primary constitution for prescription. Particularly apt when the situation also causes nervousness, anxiety and tension whilst affecting sleep. As a demulcent cleavers is ideal for supporting the mucous membranes, such as those in the urinary tract, due to the presence of silica, which strengthens weak connective tissue and improves its structure and function.

NATIONAL HERBALIST DAY • Date: April 17th. • Purpose: To honor herbalists and promote awareness of the medicinal uses of herbs. • Significance: It serves to honor teachers and peers in the field of herbalism. • Traditions: Celebrations often include herb walks, workshops on making herbal remedies, and tea blending. • Background: The day highlights various global traditions including Ayurvedic medicine, Curanderismo, and Traditional Chinese Medicine. How to Celebrate • Learn: Research different medicinal plants and their uses. • Engage: Participate in workshops or try making homemade herbal remedies. #herbalist #herbalism #herbalmedicine #naturalhealth #naturalliving