Optimal Quality - Optimal Education - Optimal Innovation. We’re excited to announce our Podcast Channel - TechTalk with OptimalRx. Our insightful podcast is designed to be another way we keep the practitioner community informed with clinically relevant highlights including research on herbs in action, new products and their usages, guest speakers, and much more. *****DISCLAIMER: All information provided via OptimalRx is for educational and informational purposes only. The information provided is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for independent professional advice. Please seek the advice of a qualified health care professional in the event something you learn here raises questions or concerns regarding your health. Thank you.*****
In this episode of Tech Talk with OptimalRx, Miroslav Ivanovic is joined by experienced naturopath and herbalist John Miller-Crisp, who shares over 30 years of clinical insights into herbal medicine and integrative oncology. John discusses his journey into naturopathy, the experiences that led him to specialise in supporting people living with cancer, and the evolving relationship between herbal medicine and conventional oncology. Drawing from decades of clinical practice, including his own experience with cancer, he explores the principles of patient-centred care, supporting the body's innate healing capacity, and the role of herbal medicine alongside conventional treatment. The conversation also highlights underutilised herbs such as Thuja, Rabdosia, Reishi and Hawthorn, offering practical clinical insights into their applications for immune function, cardiovascular health, inflammation and oncology support. John shares memorable case studies, discusses the importance of understanding herbal actions rather than relying on trends, and encourages practitioners to combine traditional herbal wisdom with modern evidence and sound clinical judgement. Whether you're an experienced practitioner or new to herbal medicine, this episode offers practical, thought-provoking insights into integrative care, clinical decision-making and the enduring value of herbal medicine in modern practice. Send us Fan Mail www.optimalrx.com.au
Withania Under the Microscope: Safety, Evidence & Clinical Insights with Phil Rasmussen
In this episode of Tech Talk with OptimalRx, Miroslav Ivanovic is joined by respected medical herbalist, pharmacist and Phytomed founder Phil Rasmussen to discuss one of herbal medicine's most widely prescribed adaptogens, Withania ( Withania somnifera ). Recent media coverage and regulatory discussions have raised questions around the safety of Withania, and the use of root versus leaf extracts. Phil examines the current evidence, explores the quality of the available research, and shares his perspective on why practitioners should interpret recent reports with caution. The discussion also explores Withania's expanding clinical applications, including stress resilience, anxiety, cardiovascular health, endocrine support and its emerging role as an adjunct in integrative oncology. Phil highlights the importance of product quality, good manufacturing practices (GMP), and clinical judgement when prescribing herbal medicines. Whether you're an experienced practitioner or newer to herbal medicine, this episode provides a practical, evidence-informed update on one of the profession's most valuable botanical medicines. For educational purposes only. Send us Fan Mail www.optimalrx.com.au
Mentorship, Connection and the Future of Herbal Medicine with Michelle Cose
In this episode of Tech Talk by OptimalRx, Andrew Whitfield-Cook sits down with herbalist and naturopath Michelle Cose to explore the power of collaboration within the natural medicine profession. Drawing on more than 30 years of clinical experience, Michelle shares why connection, mentorship and community are essential for both practitioner growth and the future of herbal medicine. Together, they discuss the isolation many practitioners face, the importance of sharing knowledge across generations, and why collaboration, not competition, strengthens the entire industry. Michelle also highlights the value of creating supportive practitioner communities, nurturing students entering the profession, and preserving the wisdom of experienced clinicians before it is lost. This is an inspiring and thought provoking conversation about leadership, legacy, professional connection and the future of natural healthcare. Send us Fan Mail www.optimalrx.com.au
Fertility - The Male Factor with Raul Pastrana
In this episode of Tech Talk with OptimalRx , Andrew Whitfield-Cook chats with naturopath Raul Pastrana about the often-overlooked role of male fertility. Raul Pastrana, a recognised expert in fertility and reproductive health with a strong focus on male fertility. Known for his practical, inclusive approach, Raul combines evidence-based nutrition, herbal medicine, and lifestyle strategies to help individuals and couples optimise their reproductive outcomes, while making complex health topics accessible and relevant in everyday practice. Raul shares his journey into naturopathy and how he came to focus on supporting men with fertility concerns, an area that’s frequently under-represented in clinical conversations. He talks through some of the key factors he sees in practice impacting sperm health, including metabolic issues, stress, and lifestyle, and why these need to be addressed early. The discussion covers Raul’s approach to testing, particularly the importance of blood work to uncover underlying drivers such as insulin resistance and cardiovascular health. He also touches on how he uses herbal medicine in clinic, including herbs like Fenugreek , Rhodiola , and Vitex , depending on the individual case. A key theme throughout the episode is the need to look at both sides of the fertility equation, and to support men in taking a more active role in the process. Raul also introduces his book, The Male Factor , which is designed to help educate men around their contribution to fertility outcomes. A practical and insightful conversation for practitioners wanting to better support male fertility in clinic. To purchase Raul Pastrana's Book, The Male Factor - Fertility is a Shared Responsibility : https://www.rhreproductivehealth.com/bookstore Send us Fan Mail www.optimalrx.com.au
In this episode of Tech Talk with OptimalRx, Kristin and Julianne continue their Herbal Medicine Dispensary series with an inspiring discussion with medical herbalist, Deanne Apostolou. Deanne’s journey to becoming a medical herbalist and iridologist began over 30 years ago, and her unique experiences and education in the field of herbal medicine has led her to be a fierce advocate for the continued sharing of knowledge and tradition in plant medicine. As such, Deanne was a founding member of Estuary Learning and continues to teach the use, science, and tradition of herbal medicine. In this podcast, Deanne discusses her own path to owning a herbal medicine dispensary, how she individualises her herbal prescriptions via dosing and the addition of flower essences, and touches on her favourite plant medicines that have deep traditional roots, as well as a few of her more modern additions. Send us Fan Mail www.optimalrx.com.au
A Herbal Dispensary - Your Way
In this episode of Tech Talk with OptimalRx, Kristin and Julianne discuss the ins and outs of owning your own herbal medicine dispensary; from our Naturopathic and Herbalist roots, to the unique nuances of plant medicine offerings and their individualised prescription, herbal medicine dispensaries offer a manner of prescribing that is unique to our profession. This discussion also covers the main obstacles practitioners may face when choosing to own a dispensary, including cost, how to choose the appropriate herbs for your practice, patient compliance, and storage. If you have ever thought of developing and owning your own herbal medicine dispensary, this is an ideal podcast for you! Send us Fan Mail www.optimalrx.com.au
As our Summer Series of podcasts moves into January 2026, we continue with providing our listeners with the second of Dr. Lise Alschuler’s cognition and mood webinars from 2016, Healthy Minds. In this podcast recording, Dr. Alschuler discusses the use of several phytomedicines that can successfully be utilised to support declining cognition, with a particular focus upon cerebral circulatory stimulants, nootropics, neuroprotectives, anti-inflammatories and antioxidants. Dr. Alschuler provides relevant research and clinical wisdom on Lion’s Mane ( Hericium erinaceus ), Ginkgo, ( Ginkgo biloba ), Rosemary ( Rosmarinus officinalis ), Bacopa ( Bacopa monnieri ), Korean Ginseng ( Panax Ginseng ), Schisandra ( Schisandra chinensis ), and Gotu Kola ( Centella asiatica ). Send us Fan Mail www.optimalrx.com.au
Summer Series - Phytomedicine Wisdom from the Masters: Botanical Management of Anxiety with Dr. Lise Alschuler
In 2016, OptimalRx had the privilege of hosting Dr. Lise Alschuler for two remarkable webinars on the topic of cognition and mood, the first being Botanical Management of Anxiety. In this podcast recording, we have highlighted the herbal medicine component of this first webinar where Dr. Alschuler shares with us her favourite phytomedicines for anxiety, namely Lavender ( Lavandula angustifolia ), Ginkgo ( Ginkgo biloba ), Valerian ( Valeriana officinalis ), Withania ( Withania somnifera ), Magnolia ( Magnolia officinalis ), Turmeric ( Curcuma longa ), Black Cohosh ( Actaea racemosa ), Passion Flower ( Passiflora incarnata ), Skullcap ( Scutellaria lateriflora ), St. John’s Wort ( Hypericum perforatum ), and Chamomile ( Matricaria chamomilla ), and as always, shares her years of clinical experience in the management of anxiety. Send us Fan Mail www.optimalrx.com.au
Clinical Comparison of the Ginsengs
In this episode of Tech Talk with OptimalRx, Kristin and Julianne discuss the clinical use of different Panax species (American Ginseng, Korean Ginseng, and Tienchi Ginseng) as well as two other important plant adaptogens that are often part of the Ginseng discussion, Siberian Ginseng and Withania. Kristin and Julianne outline the differences in clinical presentations that call for the use of each plant and explain the subtle differences between each patient type and disease/condition picture. This is a valuable listen for all practitioners wanting to explore these powerful adaptogens further in their clinical practice. Send us Fan Mail www.optimalrx.com.au
Herbal Lymphatics: Part 2, with Kristin Gilmour
In Part 2 of our Herbal Lymphatics podcast, Kristin and Julianne delve into the unique cell type, structure and function of the lymphatic system, and how herbal medicines can be utilised to support lymphatic integrity and activity. Kristin generously provides patient case examples where the addition of herbal lymphatics made a tremendous difference to treatment outcomes, with cases ranging from reproductive, skin, and metabolic health conditions. This podcast highlights the importance of herbal lymphatics and how their addition to individual treatment plans can make a world of difference in health outcomes. Send us Fan Mail www.optimalrx.com.au
Herbal Lymphatics: Part 1, with Kristin Gilmour
In Part 1 of our Herbal Lymphatics podcast, Julianne interviews Kristin regarding the importance and unique role of herbal lymphatics and lymphagogues. Kristin outlines the significance of this broad and varied group of phytomedicines in maintaining health, particularly in chronic illnesses, and helps the practitioner to understand how to differentiate between these herbal medicines in order to select the most efficacious herb for their individual patient. Kristin provides clear examples of different herbal lymphatics as well as touches on the term glymphatics and how herbal medicines can be utilised to optimise this particular system. Send us Fan Mail www.optimalrx.com.au
Phytomedicine Wisdom from the Masters – Mary Bove: Botanical Management of Metabolic Syndrome
In 2015 OptimalRx had the privilege of recording some lectures presented by wonderful American Naturopathic doctor, herbalist, and midwife, Mary Bove, who we sadly lost this year. Mary was such an inspiring and passionate advocate for botanical medicine and in remembrance and in honour of her amazing legacy, here are some excerpts from her 2015 lecture, “Botanical Management of Metabolic Syndrome”, where she particularly highlighted the importance of adaptogens for these patients, discussing the practical nuances of many different herbs. Send us Fan Mail www.optimalrx.com.au
The Five Elements with Janella Purcell
Kristin and Julianne speak with Janella Purcell, a pioneer in Australia’s Health and Wellness industry with over 25 years of clinical experience as a Naturopath, Herbalist and Nutritionist. Janella rose to prominence as a whole-food TV chef on shows like Good Chef Bad Chef , The Biggest Loser , and What’s Good For You , and has since become a sought-after public speaker, retreat facilitator, and healer in private practice. Janella is also the award-winning author of five best-selling books, widely used in Natural Health Colleges and wellness communities. In this podcast, Janella shares her knowledge of the Traditional Chinese Medicine concept, the Five Elements (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water). She discusses each element and their corresponding season, taste and attributes, and provides examples of herbal medicines that may be supportive for each element and season. Janella’s podcast beautifully rounds out our Traditional Herbalism podcast series which have provided insights into this month’s (July 2025) webinar series, “Traditional Herbal Medicine Series – Roots and Remedies: Essentials of Traditional Herbal Prescribing”. Send us Fan Mail www.optimalrx.com.au
Astrology - The Missing Energetic Map of Western Herbalism with Rebecca Holly
Kristin and Julianne speak with Rebecca Holly, a Naturopath, Astrologer, and Green Witch practicing Folk Herbalism in an earth-centred and heart-led way. In this podcast, Rebecca explores some of the language and concepts in Astrological energetics, differentiates Western and Vedic Astrology, and discusses herbal medicine prescribing using Astrology, particularly focusing on the properties of solar herbs and their capacity to act as antidepressants. Rebecca generously shares patient case examples which incorporate Astrological energetic concepts and offers her wisdom to practitioners who would like to incorporate Astrology into their clinical practices. Through this podcast, Rebecca provides our practitioners with an insight into her upcoming webinar “Astrology - The Missing Energetic Map of Western Herbalism” as part of our July 2025 webinar series, “Traditional Herbal Medicine Series – Roots and Remedies: Essentials of Traditional Herbal Prescribing”. Send us Fan Mail www.optimalrx.com.au
Traditional Herbal Prescribing – Incorporating TCM, Ayurveda, and Western Energetics with Dr. Jimi Wollumbin
Kristin and Julianne speak with Dr. Jimi Wollumbin, a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) doctor and a registered medical practitioner with AHPRA, regarding the depth and richness of traditional medicine systems, including TCM, Ayurveda and Western Herbalism. Since completing his TCM internship in Beijing in 2002, Dr. Jimi has pursued extensive research across India, Tibet, Mongolia, Persia, and Siberia, exploring diverse healing traditions and integrating the wisdom of these traditions into his practice clinically and soulfully. In this podcast, Dr. Jimi discusses the meaning behind the term “Energetics”, compares and contrasts different traditional healing systems, and generously shares his case taking fundamentals and patient case examples which incorporate energetic concepts from traditional paradigms. Through this podcast, Dr. Jimi provides our practitioners with an insight into his upcoming webinar “Traditional Herbal Prescribing – Incorporating TCM, Ayurveda, and Western Energetics” as part of our July 2025 webinar series, “Traditional Herbal Medicine Series – Roots and Remedies: Essentials of Traditional Herbal Prescribing”. Send us Fan Mail www.optimalrx.com.au
Kristin and Julianne speak with Amanda Trieger, an experienced Naturopath, Doula and Women’s Health Educator. Amanda has a deep connection to Earth Medicine and cyclical living and in this podcast Kristin and Julianne discuss with Amanda how practitioners, and their patients, can thrive by aligning their lives and businesses with the natural rhythms of the seasons, the moon, and the menstrual cycle. Amanda discusses the use of herbal medicine in promoting both physical and emotional balance across the seasons, and how herbal medicine can support women in different lunar phases and through different hormonal transitions. Amanda is a passionate advocate for women’s health and wellbeing, and this podcast gives us a brief insight into her upcoming webinar “Harnessing the Rhythms Around Us: Herbal Wisdom Through Seasonal, Lunar, and Menstrual Phases” as part of our upcoming webinar series, “Traditional Herbal Medicine Series - Roots and Remedies: Essentials of Traditional Herbal Prescribing” to be held in July 2025. Send us Fan Mail www.optimalrx.com.au
In this podcast, Kristin and Julianne follow on from last month's Part 1 of Prescribing Medicinal Mushrooms by further discussing how they individually prescribe medicinal mushrooms based on the mushroom's clinical affinities and therapeutic actions. Kristin and Julianne differentiate the use of specific medicinal mushrooms in both cardiometabolic and nervous system/mood patient presentation, as well as provide the key clinical pictures for each of OptimalRx's eleven medicinal mushroom extracts. To learn more about our medicinal mushrooms and to obtain your free copy of the medicinal mushroom educational resource pack, please log into your OptimalRx account online. -- Available to registered practitioners only. Send us Fan Mail www.optimalrx.com.au
In this podcast, Kristin and Julianne discuss the clinical use of medicinal mushrooms with a focus on how the individual mushrooms can be a part of a wider herbal medicine dispensary, the impact of mushroom polysaccharides on the immune system, and how their individual immune nuances lead to efficacious prescribing. To learn more about our medicinal mushrooms and to obtain your free copy of the medicinal mushroom educational resource pack, please log into your OptimalRx account online. -- Available to registered practitioners only. Send us Fan Mail www.optimalrx.com.au
Summer Series - Unsung Herbal Heroes: a Clinician’s Perspective on Unique Phytomedicines (Part 2) with Kristin Gilmour and Julianne Grant
In this podcast, Kristin and Julianne delve into four unique phytomedicines, Houttuynia ( Houttuynia cordata ), Kawakawa ( Macropiper excelsum ), Magnolia ( Magnolia officinalis ), and Red Root ( Ceanothus americanus ). They discuss the characteristic ways in which they dispense these herbs, while also noting research insights to their clinical application. Kawakawa ( Macropiper excelsum ) - 00:25 Magnolia ( Magnolia officinalis ) - 10:50 Red Root ( Ceanothus americanus ) - 21:32 Houttuynia ( Houttuynia cordata ) - 36:00 For more information about these phytomedicines, and to access the free educational resources, please log into your account on our website. Send us Fan Mail www.optimalrx.com.au
Summer Series - Unsung Herbal Heroes: a Clinician’s Perspective on Unique Phytomedicines (Part 1) with Kristin Gilmour and Julianne Grant
In this podcast, Kristin and Julianne delve into four unique phytomedicines, Burr Marigold ( Bidens species), Holy Basil ( Ocimum tenuiflorum ), Japanese Knotweed ( Polygonum cuspidatum ), and Kudzu ( Pueraria lobata ). They discuss the characteristic ways in which they dispense these herbs, while also noting research insights to their clinical application. Timestamps: Burr Marigold ( Bidens species) - 1:40 Kudzu ( Pueraria lobata ) - 15:08 Holy Basil ( Ocimum tenuiflorum ) - 32:17 Japanese Knotweed ( Polygonum cuspidatum ) - 45:50 For more information about these phytomedicines, and to access the free educational resources, please log into your account on our website. Send us Fan Mail www.optimalrx.com.au
