Common Roots is a podcast run by the wife-and-wife team of Caitlin and Cheshire. We are American-born residents of the beautiful seaside community of Brighton in the UK. Caitlin is a practicing herbalist and Cheshire is a history buff. We are both seekers of justice and knowledge. Each episode dives into plant-based medicine, complementary medicines, the history of healthcare, and more. Our goal is to shine a light on marginalised communities that banded together to take care of one another, and how you can incorporate natural, plant-based wellness into your life to improve your health, ease your stress, and help your community.
Finally uploading part two of our honey episode! Support your local beekeepers, and your local bees! Enjoy learning all about the bees and the amazing products they produce.
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27 Jul 2026
'H' is for Honey (Part One)
This week's un-bee-lieveable episode is part 1 of a two-parter. We had so much to talk about when it came to honey and the magic of bees! We hope you enjoy learning about what is honey, where it comes from, how bees use honey, and how you can use honey, respectfully and ethically. Honey is truly Nature's ambrosia, as the Ancient Greeks believed.
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4 Jul 2026
Episode Eight: 'G' for Ginger
In this episode of Common Roots, Caitlin and Cheshire delve into the Boston Women's Health Book Collective, a second-wave feminist push for health education in the 1970s. We discuss how a male dominated health industry has impacted women's health over the decades. PSA: Get your cervical screening done!
Resources for free or low-cost cervical screenings:https://www.cdc.gov/breast-cervical-cancer-screening/about/screenings.htmlhttps://www.plannedparenthood.org/get-care/our-services/wellness-preventive-carehttps://csas.nhs.uk/patients/
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19 Jun 2026
Episode Seven: 'F' for Fir
Today's episode stretches back to the dawn of humanity itself. In an exploration of ancient healthcare, we discuss the so-called brutish Neanderthal, early hominid compassion, and dive into one of Caitlin's favourite medicinal mummies, Otzi the Iceman. We discuss what it means to be human, and what it means to care for others.
In our herbalism segment, we discuss the mighty Fir tree, the tallest and strongest of the evergreens. A representation that spring will always come again, the fir is so powerful that it has become part of the most famous celebration in Christendom, adorning our fireplaces, hearths, and mantles with fragrant greenery during the darkest winter months.
Music in this episode by order of appearance:Uplifting Acoustic Guitar And Piano by Music for Creators is licensed under an Attribution 4.0 International License.
Sleep Easy Ambient Downtempo Mix by Ketsa is licensed under an Attribution 4.0 International License.
Follow us: @alchymishealing on Instagram
17 Apr 2026
Episode Six: ‘E’ for Elder
In this week’s episode, we first dive into some heavier, political topics specifically focusing in on the 70’s miners strikes here in the UK. We discuss the impact of the strikes on the working class, the reaction of the workers and the government, and the cost they had on families and quality of life. In addition, we discuss new foraging laws that were implemented during this time.
Following this, we talk about the Elder plant, more specifically its berries and leaves, as these are the edible parts of the plant. Caitlin shares some recipes and advice about its benefits and preparation.
Follow us: @alchymishealing on Instagram
27 Mar 2026
Episode Five: ‘D’ for Dogwood
In today’s episode, we discuss the introduction of physicians and medicine in Ancient Egypt, as well as medical gender stereotypes ranging from BC to modern, followed by a discussion of Dogwood and it’s healing properties.
Follow us: @alchymishealing on Instagram
13 Mar 2026
Episode Four: ‘C’ for Cherry
In today’s episode we talk about a heavier topic: systemic racism and the Black Panthers. Most of the discussion focuses on America, but we also touch on how similar issues have shown up in Europe and the UK. We look at the Panthers’ free clinics and their work advocating for better access to healthcare. After that, the conversation shifts to something calmer. We talk about the cherry tree and the benefits of its different components, and we finish the episode with a short meditation.
Follow us: @alchymishealing on Instagram
26 Feb 2026
Episode Three: ‘B’ for Birch
What did healing truly look like in the Middle Ages? In today’s episode, we explore the relationship between medieval religion and medicine, dive deeper into some common misconceptions about healthcare in the Middle Ages, including the Four Humours, hand washing, midwifery and bloodletting. Additionally, we discuss the fascinating healing properties of the birch tree, from the bark to the sap, and our own experiences with it.
Follow us: @alchymishealing on Instagram
12 Feb 2026
Episode Two: ‘A for Ash’
In this week’s episode, we explore the HIV/AIDS crisis through the lens of holistic healing, looking at how physical, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing intersect. We also discuss the spiritual significance of the Ash tree and its traditional symbolism.
Alongside the conversation, we guide a meditation that you’re welcome to join in with whether you’re drinking a herbal tea or just relaxing in your bedroom.
Follow us: @alchymishealing on Instagram
29 Jan 2026
Episode One: Introducing Caitlin & Cheshire
Welcome to Common Roots.
In our pilot episode, we introduce ourselves and begin an open, honest conversation about psychedelics, exploring Cheshire’s personal experiences, the potential benefits, and the possible risks.
Common Roots is a safe, inclusive space to learn about herbalism, altered states, and the many ways they can impact our lives.
Follow us: @alchymishealing on Instagram
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Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
1 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
4 ratings
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