The New England Herbary Podcast By Brenda J. Sullivan cover art

The New England Herbary

The New England Herbary

By: Brenda J. Sullivan
Listen for free

Welcome to The New England Herbary, a podcast (formerly Living and Lovin Herbs) where we explore the timeless wisdom of herbs and how they can support health, home, and spirit in today's world. I'm Brenda Sullivan—herbalist, author, and teacher—inviting you to discover simple, practical, and inspiring ways to weave herbs into everyday life. Each episode blends stories, traditions, and down-to-earth uses of plants—from the kitchen to the garden, from self-care rituals to seasonal living. You'll hear about herbal history and folklore, modern wellness practices, and even the astrology-herbal connections that help us align more deeply with nature's rhythms. Whether you're curious about growing herbs at home, crafting bath and body products, exploring plant-based rituals, or just looking for stress-friendly, inflation-smart wellness ideas, this podcast offers tools you can use. My mission is to demystify herbs and make them approachable, safe, and enriching—while sharing the stories and seasonal traditions that make them unforgettable. New episodes are released monthly. Join me as we explore the rich world of herbs, rooted in New England soil but connected to listeners everywhere.(C) Thompson Street Farm LLC - All rights reserved Alternative & Complementary Medicine Hygiene & Healthy Living
Episodes
  • 31 Return of Inner Fire

    31 Return of Inner Fire
    Feb 1 2026
    Return of Inner Fire is a quiet Imbolc offering for anyone feeling worn thin by late winter — when the world feels loud, the days still feel heavy, and hope can seem fragile. In this long-form episode, we step into the old Celtic threshold of Imbolc, the season of hearth fires and becoming. Together, we explore the wisdom of tending what cannot yet be seen — hope without proof, warmth without urgency, and the steady return of inner light. You'll hear reflections on: Imbolc folklore and the enduring presence of Brigid, keeper of the hearth and the forgeThe illuminating energy of the Full Moon, and what it reveals in winterHerbal allies for this season of quiet restoration — rosemary for morning clarity, moringa for deep nourishment, and oatstraw and chamomile for evening calmA cozy original story, The Inner Flame, reminding us that the fire never truly goes out — it simply becomes an ember, waiting to be tended This episode is an invitation to slow down, breathe, and remember: You do not have to bloom yet. You only need to keep the fire. If you'd like to stay connected through seasonal letters, herbal teachings, and gentle companionship, you can find links in the show notes. Thank you for listening — and may your inner flame burn steady through the turning of the year. 🌿 Herbs & Favorite Tools (affiliate links — thank you for supporting this work) Herbs featured in this story: 1. Moringa Leaf https://amzn.to/4a1F8Bk 2. Milky Oats / Oat Tops https://amzn.to/4a3cvnx 3. Tulsi / Holy Basil https://amzn.to/4rlebQq 4. Chamomile https://amzn.to/3Z8EyNl 5. Lavender https://amzn.to/4k9sODY My favorite tea-making tools: BAYKA French Press Coffee Maker, https://amzn.to/4r4LYNH Cold Brew Coffee Filter for Wide Mouth Mason Jar, https://amzn.to/4qWQr4L Heat proof wide mouth mason jars https://amzn.to/4pNflmq Bookstore - Brenda J. Sullivan Books https://www.brendajsullivanbooks.com/ 🌱 My Garden Journal – A How-To Garden Book for Kids Because every gardener starts with a single seed — and a little curiosity. My Garden Journal is part how-to guide, part creative keepsake, designed to help children (and their grown-ups) learn the basics of growing food and flowers while documenting their journey. Inside you'll find: Simple planting guidanceSpace for drawings, photos, and notesImaginative themed gardens (Harry Potter Herb Garden, Young Chef's Garden, Monarch Butterfly Garden) Perfect for homeschooling families, budding herbalists, and anyone who wants to grow confidence by growing plants. ✨ You'll be amazed at how much you — and your garden — grow when you take time to journal the journey. 🌿 Work With Me 🌙 Herbal Consultations (Now Open) Root your wellness in the wisdom of the plants — and the stars. My one-on-one consultations offer gentle, grounded guidance rooted in traditional herbalism, vitalist principles, and (if you wish) astrology. Each session begins with listening. 👉 Learn more here: https://mailchi.mp/351efb18cd6b/one-on-one-consultations-landing-page 🌿 Join Me on Patreon Support this work and receive exclusive herbal & holistic content ✨ Membership includes:✔ Monthly herbal & lunar insights✔ DIY recipes & printable guides✔ Free class replays✔ Bi-annual personalized herbal consultations (Tier 3) Membership can be as little as a cup of coffee ☕️ 👉 Join here: https://patreon.com/ThompsonStreetFarm?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink ♈ FREE Zodiac Herbs Guide Unlock the secrets of personalized wellness with my free Zodiac Herbs Guide. https://www.brendajsullivanteach.com/zodiacherbguidefreebieor ☕ Buy Me a Cup of Tea If this story brought you comfort, you can support the channel here: https://buymeacoffee.com/thompsonstg 🎶 Music Credits A heartfelt thank you to Alexander Nakarada for the music featured in this story. I am a Patreon supporter of Alexander's work. 🎼 Song: Planning - 320bit - September 5, 2021 🔗 https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com/ 🌿 Stay Connected Website: https://thenewenglandherbary.com/ Youtube: https://youtube.com/@thenewenglandherbary?si=f7_MB0XEz0vn0Xr Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenewenglandherbary/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578148227744 Thompson Street Farm LLC: https://thompsonstreetfarm.com/ 💬 I'd love to hear how this story landed for you. Feel free to share your reflections in the comments.
    Show more Show less
    46 mins
  • 30 When the World Seems Loud

    30 When the World Seems Loud
    Jan 18 2026
    The past weeks—and months—have felt especially heavy. Even something as simple as checking the weather can quickly turn into being flooded with difficult news and unsettling headlines. At times, it can feel like there's no quiet place to rest our attention. I know I'm not alone in feeling this way. And while we can't completely step away from the world, we can choose moments of pause. I created this video as one of those moments—a gentle space to sit, listen, and be softly guided back to ourselves. A moment to slow down, sip a cup of herbal tea, and breathe. I've come to believe that these small pauses matter more than we realize. In fact, I carry a simple wish with me: that each of us, wherever we are, might stop for a few minutes each day—make a cup of tea, sit quietly, and sip without distraction. No talking. No media. Just presence. Even thirty minutes of stillness can be a powerful act. And perhaps, if enough of us step back—just a little, just long enough—we begin to tend the world by tending ourselves. So I'll ask you gently: Will you join me for tea at 4:00 PM? Sincerely, Brenda❤️ Herbs and Favorite Tools (affiliate links) Organic Whole Chamomile Flowers https://amzn.to/3NPQmS3 Organic Nettle Leaf https://amzn.to/3YN6nur Organic Rubbed Sage Leaf https://amzn.to/4pPV93n My favorite Loose Leaf Tea Containers and Filters BAYKA French Press Coffee Maker, https://amzn.to/4r4LYNH Cold Brew Coffee Filter for Wide Mouth Mason Jar https://amzn.to/4qWQr4L Heat proof wide mouth mason jars https://amzn.to/4pNflmq Bookstore - Brenda J. Sullivan Books https://www.brendajsullivanbooks.com/ 🌿 Join My Patreon for Exclusive Herbal & Holistic Content! ✨ Love learning about herbalism, astrology, and holistic wellness? Get exclusive access to bonus content, free class replays, DIY herbal recipes, and live Q&A sessions by becoming a Patreon member! 🌱💡 ✨ What You'll Get:✔ Monthly herbal & lunar insights 🌙✔ Exclusive DIY recipes & printable guides 📖✔ Access to free class replays 📺✔ Bi-annual personalized herbal consultations (Tier 3 members!) 💚 Membership can be as little as a cup of coffee. ☕️ 👉 Join today & deepen your herbal wisdom: https://patreon.com/ThompsonStreetFarm?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink 🌿 Herbal Consultations Are Now Open Root your wellness in the wisdom of the plants — and the stars. Healing is not one-size-fits-all. Each body carries its own rhythms, history, and patterns, and true support begins with listening. My consultations are designed to offer gentle, grounded guidance rooted in traditional herbalism, vitalist principles, and (when desired) astrological insight. Whether you're seeking simple herbal support or a deeper understanding of your constitution through astrology, I offer two personalized consultation options. To learn more click here: https://mailchi.mp/351efb18cd6b/one-on-one-consultations-landing-page Unlock the Secrets of Personalized Wellness with Your FREE Zodiac Herbs Guide https://www.brendajsullivanteach.com/zodiacherbguidefreebieor Buy Me A Cup of Coffee (Tea) https://buymeacoffee.com/thompsonstg Music A special thank you to Alexander Nakarada for writing and producing this music. I am a Patreon Member and support Alexander creatively. For more information about Alexander, check out his website https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com/ Song: Planning - 320bit - September 5, 2021 Social Media I would love to hear about your experience trying out any recipes featured on our podcasts! Follow me on all our social media outlets so you can stay up to date with all the new recipes we feature. We look forward to connecting with you soon! Website: https://thenewenglandherbary.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenewenglandherbary/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578148227744 Youtube: https://youtube.com/@thenewenglandherbary?si=f7_MB0XEz0vn0XrY Thompson Street Farm LLC: https://thompsonstreetfarm.com/
    Show more Show less
    25 mins
  • 29 A Cozy Yule Gathering

    29 A Cozy Yule Gathering
    Dec 20 2025
    In this special seasonal episode of The New England Herbary Podcast, you're invited into A Cozy Yule Gathering — a slow, reflective journey through the traditions, plants, and quiet wisdom of the Winter Solstice. Together, we explore the ancient celebration of Yule and the longest night of the year, reflecting on how our ancestors marked this turning point with fire, evergreens, shared meals, and simple herbal comforts. You'll learn about the enduring symbolism and practical uses of evergreen allies like juniper, white pine, and cedar, and why they became powerful symbols of protection, resilience, and hope during winter's darkest days. We also step into the winter kitchen, where warming herbs and spices — rose hips, cinnamon, cloves, rosemary, orange peel, and more — helped nourish bodies and spirits when fresh food was scarce. Through folklore, history, and gentle storytelling, this episode invites you to see winter not as something to rush through, but as a season to savor. The episode closes with a personal reflection and a simple Winter Ember Tea recipe — a warming blend meant to comfort, ground, and remind us that even in darkness, light is already returning. So settle in with a warm cup of tea, light a candle, and join me for this cozy gathering as we honor rest, resilience, and the quiet promise of the returning sun. Winter Ember Tea 1 tablespoon Crushed Rose Hips 1 Tablespoon Dried Rose Petals 1 Cinnamon Stick 3-4 Cloves 1 Fresh Orange Slice Place the ingredients in a heat-proof container. I like to use a mason jar with a coffee filter tucked inside. Carefully pour boiling water over the herbs, then place a lid on top without tightening it — just rest it loosely so the steam can't escape. Let the tea steep for about 10 minutes, then strain if needed and enjoy. 🌿 Join My Patreon for Exclusive Herbal & Holistic Content! ✨ Love learning about herbalism, astrology, and holistic wellness? Get exclusive access to bonus content, free class replays, DIY herbal recipes, and live Q&A sessions by becoming a Patreon member! 🌱💡 ✨ What You'll Get:✔ Monthly herbal & lunar insights 🌙✔ Exclusive DIY recipes & printable guides 📖✔ Access to free class replays 📺✔ Bi-annual personalized herbal consultations (Tier 3 members!) 💚 Membership can be as little as a cup of coffee. ☕️ 👉 Join today & deepen your herbal wisdom: https://patreon.com/ThompsonStreetFarm?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink 🌿 Herbal Consultations Are Now Open Root your wellness in the wisdom of the plants—and the stars. Your healing journey is deeply personal, and I'm honored to walk beside you. Whether you're seeking grounded herbal support or a soul-aligned path through astrology and plant medicine, I now offer two personalized consultation options to support your well-being. 🍃 Option 1: Herbal Wellness Consultation – $100 Plant-based support for your body, mind, and spirit. This session is ideal if you're looking for natural ways to restore balance, boost vitality, and explore herbal wellness. You'll receive: ✔️ A 60-minute private session (Zoom)✔️ A thoughtful discussion of your health, lifestyle, and goals✔️ A personalized herbal wellness plan with teas, tinctures, or rituals tailored to your needs 🌱 No astrology here—just the gentle, grounded support of the herbs. ✨ Option 2: Herbal Astrology Consultation – $150 Astrology + Herbalism for cosmic clarity and seasonal alignment. This is a deeper, more soulful experience that weaves together your astrological chart with plant allies and energetic guidance. You'll receive everything in the Herbal Wellness Consultation, plus: 🌙 An intuitive reading of your natal chart and current transits🌀 Insights into your elemental constitution and seasonal alignment🌿 A custom herbal and lifestyle plan guided by your cosmic makeup Perfect if you're craving clarity, direction, and a more spiritually attuned wellness journey. 💌 Ready to Begin? Email or DM me to book your session Once I receive your request, I'll send you a quick survey form and booking link. Let's walk this path together—season by season, with the plants and stars as our guides. Unlock the Secrets of Personalized Wellness with Your FREE Zodiac Herbs Guide https://www.brendajsullivanteach.com/zodiacherbguidefreebieor Show's Sponsor 🌿My Garden Journal – A How-To Garden Book for Kids Because every gardener starts with a single seed—and a little curiosity. Gardening is a learned skill, and the best way to grow confidence is by getting your hands in the soil and keeping track of your journey along the way. My Garden Journal is part how-to guide, part creative keepsake—designed to help kids (and their grown-ups) learn the basics of growing food and flowers while documenting their progress. Inside, you'll find simple tips on the how, when, and where of planting, ...
    Show more Show less
    31 mins
No reviews yet