Online Lectures
Lectures and talks given by Dr. Hobbs on various subjects.
Sweet Bay Laurel (Laurus nobilis) with Dr. Christopher Hobbs
Sweet Bay Laurel (Laurus nobilis) with Dr. Christopher Hobbs
🍂 Sweet Bay Laurel — Warming Medicine for Soup Season
As the air cools and pots of soup and chili begin to simmer, consider adding a few leaves of Sweet Bay Laurel (Laurus nobilis). Used for centuries in both kitchens and medicine, bay leaves lend their gentle aroma while supporting healthy digestion.
I prefer Sweet Bay Laurel over California Laurel, which can be a bit too strong for flavoring soups and stews. A leaf or two in your next pot of chili adds both depth and quiet herbal nourishment.
Thank you for walking the plant path with me,
— Christopher Hobbs 🌿
#bayleaf #sweetbaylaurel #herbalmedicine #soupseason #plantwisdom #herbalist #chili #autumnherbs #kitchenmedicine #christopherhobbs
Shingled Hedgehog (Hawkwing) Mushroom with Dr. Christopher Hobbs
Shingled Hedgehog (Hawkwing) Mushroom
(Sarcodon imbricatus and related species)
This fascinating mushroom, commonly called the shingled hedgehog or hawkwing, is often found growing under fir and spruce trees. The species Sarcodon squamosus has smaller scales around the margin, while Sarcodon imbricatus — the most widespread species — is recognized by its distinct, layered, shingled cap.
Description 🌿
• Cap: Convex to flattened, with a shingled or tiled surface ranging from brown to reddish-brown.
• Hymenophore: Underside lined with soft spines instead of gills; these “teeth” can be easily separated from the cap.
• Stipe: Short, stout, and solid.
A Word of Caution 🍄🟫
Always practice caution and respect when foraging for wild mushrooms. Misidentification can lead to serious health consequences. If you’re new to mushroom identification, learn directly from an experienced forager or mycologist, and consult reliable field guides.
Thank you for walking the plant (and mushroom!) path with me 🌿
Christopher Hobbs
#mushroomforaging #wildfood #mycology #plantmedicine #naturewisdom #forestwalks #shingledhedgehog #hawkwing #sarcodonimbricatus
Pomegranate with Dr. Christopher Hobbs
Pomegranate (Punica granatum) has a rich history spanning thousands of years. Revered for its symbolism, culinary uses, and health benefits, this remarkable fruit has much to offer.
Since ancient Greek times, pomegranates have symbolized fertility and renewal. Interestingly, they’re also one of the few natural sources of estrone, a plant compound that can gently support estrogen balance.
Modern research suggests that pomegranate fruit or juice may support cardiovascular health, reduce inflammation, protect against certain cancers, and promote joint and hormone health. Its high antioxidant content helps defend the body against oxidative stress and inflammation.
Thank you for walking the plant path with me 🌿
— Christopher Hobbs
#pomegranate #foodasmedicine #christopherhobbs
Osha with Dr. Christopher Hobbs
🌿Osha, known through two species, Ligusticum porteri from the Rocky Mountains and Ligusticum grayi from the Pacific coastal ranges, has long been revered as a powerful herbal ally for colds, flu, and other upper respiratory infections.
The roots and seeds are often made into tinctures or brewed as teas. They can also be dried and stored for later use, a simple and traditional way of preserving their potency.
I used to carry a root with me in a small medicine pouch so I could bite off a little piece, suck on it for a while, then chew and swallow. No packaging required, and it bypassed all the handlers, distributors, packagers, and bottlers. Of course, there is nothing wrong with well-made herbal products. They are convenient and useful. But I have always found that harvesting my own plants in a sustainable and grateful way adds another layer of medicine, a kind of spiritual nourishment that cannot be bottled.
We often talk about farm-to-table and eating locally. Why not bring that same philosophy to medicine? Growing herbs at home, tending a small garden, and learning about the “weeds” that are treasured medicinal plants in other cultures all help us reconnect with the land and the healing it offers. And when we harvest wild plants, doing so with awareness and care ensures their abundance for generations to come.
With much gratitude,
Christopher Hobbs 🌿
#osha #osharoot #herbalmedicine #plantwisdom #localmedicine #wildharvest #herbalism #sustainableharvesting #earthmedicine ##natureheals #christopherhobbs
Basil (Ocimum basilicum) with Christopher Hobbs
Basil (Ocimum basilicum), a member of the Lamiaceae (mint) family, is a fragrant and time-honored herb that has been cherished for centuries for both its culinary and medicinal benefits.
Originating in India, Basil journeyed across ancient trade routes to Europe, where it became beloved for its aromatic leaves and versatile flavor.
Beyond the kitchen, Basil has a deep-rooted history in traditional medicine. Ancient cultures revered it for its potential healing properties — from soothing inflammation to supporting healthy digestion. Its essential oil, rich in natural compounds like linalool, is what gives Basil its signature aroma. Linalool not only provides a delightful scent but is also known for its calming and relaxing qualities. Research suggests it may help ease stress and promote a sense of well-being, which is why Basil essential oil continues to be a favorite in aromatherapy.
In modern times, garden Basil remains a treasured herb — easy to grow, deeply aromatic, and endlessly versatile. Its enduring significance across cultures speaks to its unique ability to nourish both body and spirit.
With gratitude and best wishes for your health,
Christopher Hobbs 🌿
#Basil #OcimumBasilicum #HerbalMedicine #PlantWisdom #Herbalist #HerbalRemedies #MedicinalHerbs #NaturalHealing #Herbalism #HerbOfTheDay #HealingHerbs #HolisticHealth #Christopherhobbs
Turkey tail Mushroom, why is it the Most Valuable of All?
**Learn how to make your own extract powder. Check out my book, Medicinal Mushrooms, the Essential Guide**
SOME MAJOR BENEFITS
Immune regulation powerhouse – Contains polysaccharopeptides (PSK, PSP) that are among the most studied mushroom immunomodulators, enhancing both innate and adaptive immunity.
Strong anticancer evidence – PSK is approved in Japan as an adjuvant cancer therapy; clinical trials show improved survival and reduced recurrence in gastrointestinal, breast, and lung cancers.
Broad-spectrum microbiome support – Rich in prebiotic β-glucans and complex polysaccharides that selectively nourish beneficial gut bacteria and strengthen gut–immune interactions.
Global recognition and safety – Extensively researched in Asia, Europe, and North America; consistently shown to be safe and well tolerated even in long-term use.
Model species for medicinal mushroom science – With over a thousand peer-reviewed studies, turkey tail serves as the reference point for validating the clinical potential of other medicinal fungi.
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