As the colder months roll in, many of us notice the familiar shift toward seasonal sniffles, sore throats, and that “run-down” feeling that comes with busy lives and shared indoor spaces. In this episode, Caitriona Hegarty reflects on how she personally navigates that time of year — not with quick fixes, but with rest, warmth, community support, and long-respected herbal traditions.
Caitriona shares the story of her own path from conventional medical practice into plant-based care, and what drew her toward herbs as part of a broader, whole-person approach. Along the way, she talks through simple kitchen-cupboard staples and traditional blends that many households reach for at this time of year — including warming teas and seasonal favourites like ginger, turmeric, elderberry, yarrow, carrageen moss, and honey-lemon.
This conversation is rooted in lived experience, old wisdom, and practical everyday care — with a steady reminder to listen to your body, slow down when needed, and seek professional help when something feels beyond the usual run of things.
In this episode, we cover:
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Why seasonal illnesses are a normal part of life, especially in community settings
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Caitriona’s personal transition from clinical medicine to herbal practice
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Traditional Irish and Western herbal approaches used in wintertime
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Simple supportive teas and comforting kitchen remedies
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The role of rest, warmth, nourishment, and neighbourly care
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When it’s sensible to check in with your GP or a qualified medical herbalist
Important note:
This episode is shared for general educational and cultural interest. It is not medical advice, and nothing here is intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition. If symptoms feel severe, unusual, or persistent — or if you have an underlying health concern — please seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional.
About The Book
Uprooted Medicine is Dr. Dilis Clare’s new work exploring the connection between people, plants, and the systems we rely on for care. Through stories, history, and lived experience, the book examines how traditional plant knowledge and modern healthcare can sit alongside one another, offering a broader view of what “joined-up” medicine can look like in everyday life. It’s a reflective, thought-provoking read for anyone interested in herbal traditions, community care, or the evolving landscape of healthcare.
Buy Uprooted Medicine: https://joinedupmedicine.com
Dr. Clare’s Apothecary: https://drclareapothecary.com
Dr. Clare Clinic: https://drclare.ie
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