Dr. David Orman

Gardenia, a fragrant flower long revered in traditional Chinese medicine, offers a potent array of healing benefits that extend far beyond its delicate beauty. Known as Zhi Zi in Chinese herbal texts, Gardenia is most commonly used to clear internal heat and calm irritability. Its cooling nature helps reduce inflammation, making it especially useful for…

Q: What are the best herbal or nutritional approaches to naturally balance hormones in men over 50? A: Balancing hormones naturally in men over 50 requires a multifaceted approach, as testosterone, DHEA, and growth hormone levels tend to decline with age, while estrogen and cortisol may rise. One of the most foundational strategies is optimizing…

Safflower oil, derived from the seeds of the safflower plant, is a powerhouse of skin-loving nutrients, most notably vitamin E. Among all plant-based oils, safflower oil boasts one of the highest concentrations of this essential antioxidant. Vitamin E plays a critical role in neutralizing free radicals, reducing oxidative stress, and preserving the integrity of skin…

QUESTION: “What are the top three signs that your liver may be overloaded—and how can natural remedies like herbs, diet, and lifestyle shifts help restore balance?” – Brock J. from NY ANSWER: When the liver becomes overloaded, it often sends early warning signals through the body—subtle, but powerful if you know what to look for.…

Massa Fermentata, also known as Shen Qu, is a unique herbal preparation created through the fermentation of wheat flour, bran, herbs, and occasionally other botanicals. Used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, it holds a special place as a digestive aid. This ancient formula works by stimulating the stomach and spleen, two organs central to…

In Taoist philosophy, the neck is not just a physical bridge between the head and the body—it is also a symbolic threshold between thought and flow. When tension gathers in the neck, it often reflects a mind entangled in control, rigidity, and fear of the unknown. This tightness is not just muscular; it is energetic.…

from Jane W., Atlanta, GA QUESTION: What is the most effective natural remedy for reducing chronic inflammation without using pharmaceutical drugs? ANSWER: One of the most effective natural remedies for chronic inflammation is turmeric, specifically its active compound curcumin. Curcumin has been extensively studied for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It works by downregulating…

Oregano oil, derived from the leaves and flowers of the oregano plant, has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for a wide range of ailments. Rich in powerful compounds like carvacrol and thymol, this essential oil is a potent antimicrobial and antioxidant agent. These properties make it highly effective in supporting the immune…

QUESTION: Can regularly eating one single herb or natural food over a long period subtly reshape your personality or mental outlook? ANSWER: Yes, over time, consistently consuming certain herbs or natural foods can gently influence not just physical health but personality and mindset. This is especially true with herbs known to affect the nervous system,…

Atractylodes root, known as Bai Zhu in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is a time-honored herb revered for its ability to strengthen the Spleen and dry dampness. Rooted in the Earth element, it offers foundational support for digestion, metabolism, and energy production. In TCM, a weak Spleen often manifests as fatigue, bloating, poor appetite, or loose…