Caribbean Herbalism & Modern Medicine W/ Aleya Fraser

In this episode of the Sunbeam Chats Podcast, we’re diving into the powerful connection of culture, plants, healing, and heritage. I am chatting with Aleya Fraser, an Author, Ethnobotanist, and Land Steward dedicated to preserving and honoring Caribbean plant knowledge.

We talk about her professional training, her journey writing this important book, the healing power of herbs, and what it means to reconnect with land, knowledge, and ancestral wisdom in today’s world. 

Aleya spoke about her serepedipitous journey into health and wellness practice, which started out with her studying Medicine to become a Doctor. After volunteering on a farm during college, she came to a keen realization that food and herbs were medicine. She then switched her studies and careers goals and choose to focus on the traditional form of medicine over the western side. 

While farming Aleya discovered many plants and herbs which inspired her to find out more about their use. Through this study she was able to understand the roots and benefits of herbs as medicine; and for her working with the land is tied to herbalism and healing. 

We talked about her book Caribbean Herbalism, which started as a blog on Substack about herbs, plants, it's use and benefits. After which a Publisher contacted her and asked her to write a book on Caribbean Herbalism. 

Aleya spoke about the process, research and travel across the Caribbean which informed and helped shape the book. We spoke about the Caribbean connection of rituals, food, herbs and practices in culture which is described in the book. 

We talk about using herbs and the belief system and rituals surrounding them. Our ancestors believed in their healing powers; which is part of knowing the benefits, believing in how they can heal and be used for general health and wellness. 

We discussed how to responsibly use herbs; that is understanding doses. Aleya spoke about some herbs that can be incorporated into our daily diet, lifestyle and for preventative healthcare. Plus, for culinary and beauty use. 

We chat about the use of herbalism in skincare and beauty products; Aleya talks about using sorrel and honey for a mask, aloe to tighten and clear pores, bacano leaf and ratchet used as shampoos for hair etc. 

We chat about her work as a Land Steward; like the tours, hikes,  ethnobotany walks they offer. Plus the cocoa bean to bar chocolate making experience, on their land. 

For Aleya this lifestyle and the practice of herbalism is about creating harmony in your body. It's her life's work and life to which she has fully embraced. 

Caribbean Herbalism, a groundbreaking work that blends memoir, cultural record, and practical herbal guide. Her book explores traditional Caribbean healing practices, plant wisdom passed down through generations, and modern research, while thoughtfully documenting oral traditions with deep respect for their cultural roots.