Ep.162: Lisa Fazio on the Tradition of Italian Folk Healing, Della Medicina

Welcome to the latest episode of the Plant Cunning Podcast! Join us as we sit down with returning guest, Lisa Fazio, an Italian American herbalist and author of the newly published book 'Della Medicina.' A few years have passed since our last chat with Lisa, when her book was just a work in progress. Now, she joins us to discuss its successful publication and enthrall us with stories of ancient Italian folk medicine and magic. In this episode, Lisa recounts her recent trip to Italy, where she brought a group to the Benevento region to explore its rich herbal traditions and sacred sites associated with witchcraft and folklore. She shares fascinating insights into the varieties of plants she encountered, such as Belladonna, Fennel, and Elder, and their uses in traditional Italian remedies. We dive into the significance of charms, including their protective qualities and cultural importance, as well as Lisa's personal experiences with Italian folk practices handed down through generations. Finally, we explore the inherent collectivist context of the village healer and the broader implications of these practices in today’s highly individualistic society and how we might adapt and integrate them into our modern lives. Whether you're interested in herbalism, folklore, or cultural history, this episode is packed with enriching content that sheds light on the profound connection between plants, people, and tradition. Tune in for a journey of discovery and rediscovery with your hosts, AC Stauble and Isaac Hill.