Episode 174 - FOLKLORE AND HERBALISM

Episode 174 - FOLKLORE AND HERBALISM

Author: Mark Norman June 3, 2025 Duration: 1:12:00

This episode of The Folklore Podcast is an interview of two halves, as host Mark Norman sits down to chat with herbalist and writer Su Bristow.

In an interview recorded live at Su's dining table, the first half of the show explores her work as a herbalist. We chat about the history of using plants in folk medicine, the approaches used and how valuable or otherwise volumes such as Culpeper's Herbal are in the modern world. Su discusses her techniques and dispels some of the myths about herbal treatments and plants in folklore.

Moving on from this, the conversation turns to Su's writing. As well as two non-fiction books on herbalism, Su is also the author of two folklore-themed novels. The conversation begins with her prize-winning first novel 'Sealskin' which is a reimagining of the Scottish selkie legends, before turning to 'The Fair Folk' and a foray into fairy folklore.

Finally, Su discusses the novel that she is currently working on, and reads a short extract from her work in progress.

Find Su on the internet at https://subristow.weebly.com/

To help to keep The Folklore Podcast going and producing even more folklore content, please consider joining the Patreon page at www.patreon.com/thefolklorepodcast with a small monthly donation from just £1. A small contribution makes a massive difference. Thank you.


Mark Norman hosts The Folklore Podcast, a series that digs into the stories, customs, and beliefs passed down through generations across the globe. This isn't just about fairy tales; it's an exploration of how folklore shapes our identities, communities, and understanding of the world, touching on history, culture, and even spirituality. The podcast stands out for its direct conversations with researchers, authors, and other specialists, making deep scholarship accessible to everyone. You'll hear specific episodes examining everything from local legends and seasonal rituals to the deeper symbolic meanings behind familiar traditions. The show's consistent quality and engaging approach have placed it among the most listened-to podcasts internationally. Each episode offers a chance to step into a different cultural landscape, understanding the human experiences behind the myths. Tune in to this documentary-style podcast for thoughtful, well-researched discussions that connect ancient patterns to modern life, all presented in a clear and compelling way by a host deeply embedded in the subject.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

The Folklore Podcast
Podcast Episodes
Episode 189 - OPENING THE BOX OF DELIGHTS [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:25:45
A very special feature length episode of The Folklore Podcast, with a panel consisting of the cream of those people associated with the classic children's title THE BOX OF DELIGHTS.Podcast host Mark Norman discusses the…
Episode 188 - UK GHOST STORY FESTIVAL CHATS [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 52:39
In this episode we visit the 2025 UK Ghost Story Festival, which was held at the Museum of Making in Derby. Host Mark Norman meets some of the presenters from the festival and chats to them about ghost stories and their…
Episode 187 - WICKED STRANGE: GHOSTS AND LEGENDS OF NEW ENGLAND [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:00:34
Folklore Podcast host Mark Norman chats with special guest, broadcaster and author Jeff Belanger, about some of the ghosts, folklore and other legends found in New England, in the north-eastern corner of the United State…
Episode 186 - MEDIEVAL GHOSTS [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 54:08
Mark Norman is joined by broadcaster, author and medievalist Dr Eleanor Janega to look at the role of the ghost in the medieval period. What elements of the behaviour of the ghost might we still recognise today? What was…
Episode 185 - THE FOLKLORE OF PROVERBS [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 16:40
The Folklore Podcast returns to its original first principles for the first show of Season 11, with an episode written and presented by creator and host Mark Norman.The episode is a short exploration of the role of prove…
Folklore Podcast 2026 announcement [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 5:16
Want to know what to expect from the show as we head to 2026, and where to find the content you enjoy?Listen to this short announcement from creator and host, Mark Norman.
Christmas Special 2025 - The Mistletoe Bride [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 13:24
Welcome to the 2025 Folklore Podcast Christmas Special.Folklorist Mark Norman, the creator and host of The Folklore Podcast for the last 10 years, relates the legend of the Mistletoe Bride and provides a rare look at a v…
Episode 184 - THIRST: RIVERS AND FOLKLORE [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 52:46
In this episode of the podcast, host Mark Norman discusses some points relating to the folklore of rivers, with a particular focus on their perceived need for sacrifice and to 'claim a heart' each year.This is followed b…
Episode 183 - GHOST STORIES WITH MICHELLE PAVER [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:01:15
I chat with author Michelle Paver about all things ghost story. What makes a good haunt? Which are her favourites and which doesn't she like? And what do ghosts mean to her?For the second part of the interview we take a…
Episode 182 - GATHERINGS [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 40:49
The British ritual year is full of fascinating public events, sports, games, processions and festivals. Whether long-running or modern, revival or continuous, there is something for everyone and a rich background of folk…