Rame Herbal Health

22/03/2026

This weekend I had the pleasure of teaching advanced home herbalist students at Betonica School of Herbal Medicine, Somerset.

Our focus was the gastrointestinal system and how herbal medicine can support its function. It was a lovely day, there is something special about meeting new students at the beginning of their herbal journey. Their curiosity, enthusiasm and thoughtful questions remind me why I love this work. Teaching involves not only sharing information, but finding meaningful ways to communicate the principles of herbal medicine.

We talked through herbs like fennel, chamomile, artichoke and mugwort. Considering their roles in aiding digestion and supporting the liver. We also reflected on the importance of our gut biome. How herbs can strengthen the system before illness takes hold. Alongside, how lifestyle and seasonal awareness play a role in maintaining health.

Students were given the resources and confidence to make their own remedies to take home. We finished the day with a blind tea tasting. A gentle, sensory exercise and opportunity to feel and sense the herbs in our bodies. Without knowing which herb, students were invited to tune into taste, texture and subtle effects. It was a chance to slow down, reflect and connect with the plants in a more intuitive way.

Meeting new learners and watching them begin to weave their own understanding is always encouraging. It reminds me that this work is not static; it’s dynamic, evolving and rooted in care and community. Herbal medicine is as much about relationship as it is about science. It’s about listening, observing and responding with care.

I’m grateful to be contributing to the next generation of herbalists and sharing what I’ve learned along the way. I look forward to seeing how their herbal paths unfold and to many more days of shared learning ahead.

18/03/2026

Small steps, rooted in the season can become powerful medicine.

This Saturday I’m returning to the school where I studied herbal medicine. This time to help teach the advanced home herbalist day. I’m really looking forward to meeting the next generation of herbalists and exploring the digestive system. We’re looking at safe ands effective ways to support common complaints with herbs. As spring moves forward and the plants return it feels like the best time to reconnect. With learning, the medicine growing underneath our feet and the once dormant hedgerows. Simple, steady practices provide the best medicine.

12/03/2026

Why Routine Blood Pressure Checks Are Essential

Regular blood pressure checks are one of the simplest and most effective ways to stay on top of your health. High blood pressure often develops quietly, without obvious symptoms. Yet it remains a major risk factor for heart attack, stroke and kidney disease. A quick check offers a clear snapshot of how your cardiovascular system is doing. This can highlight early changes long before they become more serious. Monitoring helps ensure that treatments and lifestyle measures are working as they should. Especially important for anyone living with diabetes, heart disease or other ongoing conditions.

I'm offering free blood pressure checks on the last Saturday of every month, between 10am and 12pm, at my practice in Millbrook. You’re welcome to drop in, but if you’d like a little more time to talk about anything, you can book a slot. The sessions are relaxed, friendly and designed to make preventative care feel accessible and supportive.

In a world where so much of our communication now happens through screens, the value of face‑to‑face contact has never been more important. Digital tools are helpful, but they can’t replace the warmth and nuance of being in the same room as someone. When we meet in person, we pick up on tone, body language and the small cues that help us feel understood. Moments of connection build trust, reduce isolation and remind us that we’re part of a community that cares.

There’s also growing evidence that regular social interaction supports our physical health. Studies have shown that strong social ties can help regulate stress responses. As well as support immune function and even contribute to longer life expectancy.

During the Saturday sessions, there will also be a small selection of handmade seasonal herbal remedies for you to try and buy. If you’d like to book a slot for the next Saturday blood‑pressure session (28th March), send me an email and I’ll reserve a time for you.

26/02/2026

Nourishment as a Foundation for Health.

Nourishment is often spoken about as if it were a matter of food or rest. In practice it is a broader, more layered process. To nourish is to supply what is required for growth, repair and ongoing function. It is both a biological requirement and a way of paying attention.

For humans, nourishment is not only nutritional. It includes the conditions that allow the body to maintain stability. Adequate sleep, balanced digestion, hydration, movement and the regulation of stress. These are measurable, observable processes. When they are supported, the body tends to function more efficiently, when neglected, signs of depletion appear. Reduced energy, digestive discomfort, lowered resilience to stress and slower recovery from illness.

To nourish ourselves is to respond to early signals rather than waiting for exhaustion. It is a practical act, not an indulgent one.

Plants operate within a system where nourishment is reciprocal. Soil structure, microbial activity, water availability, sunlight and biodiversity all influence plant health. When we speak of nourishing the plant world, we are referring to actions that protect and enhance these conditions. Maintaining soil fertility, avoiding over‑harvesting, supporting pollinators and preserving habitats.

In herbal practice, nourishment has a specific meaning. Many herbs are considered nutritive or tonic because they act in a number of ways. Supply minerals, support metabolic processes or help restore normal physiological function. Other herbs nourish in quieter ways like supporting digestion and elimination and calming the nervous system. Or helping the body to better absorb nutrients.

If you’d like to explore nourishment in a hands‑on, seasonal way, you’re very welcome to join one of the Nourish Plant Sessions at Mott’s Sauna. You'll get to take herbal remedies home, experience a reflective tea tasting and nourishing herbs in the sauna and enjoy a seasonal lunch. Next one March 14th, next door to Mothers day. A lovely way to spend a morning together. Book online @ motts-sauna.com

05/02/2026

Permaculture, Herbal Practice and the Art of Working in Relationship.

Permaculture has always been more than a way of growing food for me, it’s a way of seeing the world. A lens for understanding how living systems function, how relationships shape outcomes and how care and patience create real change.

Over time, I’ve realised the same principles that guide me in the garden also guide me in my herbal practice. They feel like two expressions of the same language.

In permaculture, we begin with observation. Noticing patterns, needs, strengths and stresses. In clinic, it’s the same. I start by listening deeply to someone’s story, understanding the landscape of their health before making any assumptions.

Then comes design. In the garden, it’s about creating supportive systems and beneficial relationships. In practice, it’s exploring how the body’s systems interact. Where balance can be restored and what direction feels supportive for the person in front of me.

Implementation, maintenance and regular review follow. Small, thoughtful adjustments that keep things moving in the right direction. A thriving garden relies on diversity and community and so does a person. We’re not meant to heal in isolation.

At the heart of permaculture are three ethics, Earth Care, People Care and Fair Share. These guide my work on the land, in myself and with my patients. They remind me that everything is connected. That true nourishment comes from tending relationships. With nature, with others and with our own inner landscapes.

If you’re curious to explore these ideas, permaculture and herbal medicine both offer rich pathways into more connected ways of living. The Permaculture Association is a great place to start. For herbal medicine send me a DM or visit the National Institute of Medical Herbalists for more information.

26/01/2026

Herbs don’t work as single, isolated compounds. They arrive with hundreds of constituents, all interacting, balancing and influencing one another. A kind of natural synergy that mirrors the way our own bodies function.

We’re not mechanical parts acting alone. We’re complex physiological systems, constantly communicating, adapting and healing in layered ways. Mind, body and spirit are never truly separate.

Orthodox medicine absolutely has its place, especially in acute or severe situations. But where conventional options may have reached their limit, herbal approaches can offer a different kind of support. Not a single “active ingredient,” but a whole‑plant conversation with the body.

A reminder that healing rarely happens in isolation. It happens in relationship within us and with the natural world.

26/01/2026

16/01/2026

Rame Herbal Health Community Health Checks

I’m back in the community offering free blood pressure checks. I’m working alongside the The Peninsula Trust on the last Friday of every month. It’s a relaxed, informal space where you can talk to me about any health concerns. Or you may just be curious and that’s welcome too.

Regular blood pressure checks matter because high or low blood pressure often develops without any symptoms. When symptoms do occur they may include: dizziness or faintness, nausea, headaches, blurred vision, chest pain or shortness of breath. Having some or one of these symptoms may prompt a check in with your GP.

If you have other health conditions linked to blood pressure like heart or kidney disease monitoring can help track your overall well-being.

Some medicines require routine monitoring to ensure they are not affecting blood pressure. During pregnancy blood pressure checks are part of routine antenatal care. Any changes are important to keep a track of.

If you simply want to stay well regular check ups help spot changes early and reduce long term risks. These checks are invaluable in my own clinic. All of the clinical examinations help to build a clearer picture over time.

You know your body best, it’s good to take notice of any changes, however small and talk to a health professional. Sometimes even a brief conversation can offer reassurance and make you feel more confident about your health.

I look forward to meeting with you in person soon.

14/01/2026

Herbal Medicine and Seasonal Health

January arrived with a rush of expectations. We’re encouraged to set new goals, new routines and reinvent ourselves. And yet when we look at the natural world we see a different rhythm. Nothing in nature is pushing for dramatic change. Instead winter invites slow preparation, gentle renewal and steady foundations.

Understanding the word “new” through a seasonal lens can transform how we approach our health. Newness can also look like small, supportive shifts within our existing routines. Changes that align with the season rather than fight against it.

In traditional herbal practice winter is associated with restoration, nourishment and conserving energy. The body benefits from warmth, steadiness and routines that support the nervous system and digestion. Foundational health matters in winter with attention to sleep, warmth, hydration and gentle movement.

Roots and seeds from dandelion, oats and burdock are traditionally used and for good reason. They help support resilience, calm and long term vitality.

Instead of dramatic resolutions, consider introducing routines that fit into winter. A warm herbal infusion throughout the day to support rest. Short, mindful walks outside or a moment of stillness each morning to reduce stress. Nourishing foods that support digestion and immunity.

Aligning with the natural environment will remind us our bodies need rest, reflection and quiet preparation. By doing this we’re investing in our future health and more balance in the months ahead.

06/12/2025

Thank you for everyone who came to the open day today! The shop will be open the next few days. Please DM me any questions you have or if looking for availability 🌿😉

15/11/2025

This session will be a lovely morning. All hand foraged materials included along with a lovely taster board and festive drink from the stars at the Canteen. Not your ordinary wreath workshop. Call or email if you would like to come along. 07815 778689

14/11/2025

Create your own unique Christmas wreath. I have foraged some gorgeous local flora, its been dried and prepared ready for you to add into your creative display. No experience is necessary as I guide to throughout the process. Two sessions available at my practice in Millbrook. A late night and Sunday morning. Thursday 11th at 6pm or Sunday 7th. Get in touch to book your space.