Rainforest Secrets From My 97-Year-Old Grandmother

What if the plants around you held generations of wisdom, healing, and connection?In this fascinating episode, I sit down with Aleya—an ethnobotanist, land steward, farmer, and author—to explore the world where science, tradition, and spirituality meet. From farming in Baltimore to stewarding rainforest land in Trinidad, Aleya blends a background in neurophysiology and research with Caribbean herbalism passed down through her grandmother (who’s nearly 97!)You’ll hear about:🍃 Healing plants and their everyday uses—like aloe, prickly pear, and Guinea hen weed🌱 The role of ritual, intention, and intuition in plant medicine🌎 How elders pass down knowledge that connects us to land, health, and ancestry🍫 The bean-to-bar cacao journey at her family’s cocoa estate in Trinidad📖 Insights from her new book, weaving together science, storytelling, and herbal wisdom.Whether you’re curious about natural healing, fascinated by plant traditions, or dreaming of visiting a cacao farm in the Caribbean, this conversation will open your eyes to the living medicine all around us.00:00 Introduction and Childhood Memories00:29 Meet Aleya: Ethnobotanist and Land Steward02:00 Aleya's Educational Journey03:21 Grandmother's Wisdom and Herbal Remedies06:37 The Importance of Herbal Medicine13:16 Intuitive Connection with Plants15:31 Exploring Aleya's Property and Experiences17:05 Exploring the Herb Garden Vision17:27 Favorite Medicinal Herbs20:42 The Wonders of Aloe21:45 Cacao Ceremonies and Chocolate Production25:40 Understanding Herbal Medicine26:52 Insights from the Book28:33 Cherished Herbal Stories30:13 Connecting with the AuthorFor Amy's 12 Week Clean Mastery Program go here: https://greenlivingnow.thinkific.com/...Check out Amy's website for free resources: https://www.greenlivingnow.com/👉 Learn more about Aleya:Website: caribbeanherbalism.comInstagram: @naturaleyaCacao Experiences: @panoramacacao📖 Her book is available through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and your local bookstore (distributed by Simon & Schuster).Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice and should not replace guidance from your own healthcare provider. Always consult with a qualified professional before making changes to your diet, lifestyle, or health practices. The views expressed are those of the guest and host and do not substitute for personalized medical or legal advice