Dr Lucy

Did you know you can make laundry detergent from ivy? Explore the history of washing with plants, the natural chemistry of saponins and how to turn a handful of English ivy leaves into a simple botanical laundry liquid, inspired by Nancy Birtwhistle's recipe.

Fresh thyme, apple cider vinegar and raw honey become one of the simplest additions to the autumn home apothecary. Here’s how I make thyme oxymel, why thyme has traditionally been used for chesty coughs, and what the evidence actually tells us.

What does a useful home apothecary actually contain? Come and look inside mine as we gather, make and formulate our way into autumn - from elderberry syrup and fire cider to thyme oxymel, throat pastilles, an aromatic chest balm and respiratory inhaler.