In this episode, host Caitriona Hegarty and Dr. Dilís Clare unpack what people mean by “Where’s the evidence?” in herbal medicine. Dilís walks through common study designs (from lab work to clinical trials), why results can vary, and how tradition and careful practice inform day-to-day decisions. We also explore alteratives—a traditional term for herbs used in blends with a gentle, “clearing” reputation in herbal practice—and discuss a published case example involving burdock root tea and knee comfort markers.
What we cover
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How different kinds of evidence (lab, animal, volunteer, clinical) answer different questions
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Why some trials may not map neatly onto how herbs are actually used in practice
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What herbalists mean by alteratives and why they often appear in balanced blends
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A case example on burdock root tea and measured markers in a small study
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Funding realities and why some areas remain under-researched
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A heads-up about Uprooted Medicine, the new book by Dr. Dilis Clare & Tim Morrissey
Pre-order / buy Uprooted Medicine: https://joinedupmedicine.com
Dr. Clare’s Apothecary: https://drclareapothecary.com
Dr. Clare Clinic: https://drclare.ie
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This podcast is for general information and education only. It doesn’t offer medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional about your own situation.
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