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Matrimony Vine: Ancient Nourishment for Body, Spirit, and Longevity
Matrimony Vine (Lycium barbarum), commonly known for its bright red berries, has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. These berries, often referred to as goji berries in the West, are praised for their ability to nourish the liver and kidneys—organs crucial for detoxification, energy balance, and vitality. Rich in antioxidants, polysaccharides, and essential…
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Question of the Week: Can the timing of herbal supplementation based on your circadian rhythm improve absorption and effectiveness of natural remedies?
Yes, aligning herbal supplementation with your circadian rhythm can significantly improve both absorption and effectiveness. The human body follows a 24-hour internal clock that governs hormone release, digestion, detoxification, and immune responses. Many of these biological processes fluctuate throughout the day, and taking herbs when the body is most receptive can enhance their impact. For…
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Astragalus Root: Ancient Defender of Vitality
Astragalus root, known in Traditional Chinese Medicine as Huang Qi, has been revered for over 2,000 years as a powerful adaptogen and immune tonic. Derived from the leguminous Astragalus membranaceus plant, the root is typically sliced, dried, and brewed into teas or concentrated into extracts. Unlike quick-fix remedies, Astragalus works gradually, strengthening the body’s core…
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Ask Me Anything Wednesday for July 16 , 2025
QUESTION: “Can the phase of the moon influence the potency or absorption of herbal remedies, and if so, how should timing be adjusted when using tinctures or decoctions?” This is from Shauna who lives in Bangor, ME. Thank you Shauna! ANSWER: Throughout the ages, lunar rhythms have been honored as subtle but potent influencers of…
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Tylophora Indica: The Ayurvedic Ally for Lungs, Immunity, and Inflammation
Tylophora indica, commonly known as Indian Ipecac or Antamul, is a traditional Ayurvedic herb recognized for its powerful therapeutic effects, particularly on the respiratory system. Native to India and Southeast Asia, the plant is a climbing vine with distinctive purple flowers and soft, oval leaves. For centuries, Ayurvedic physicians have used its leaves to support…
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Urtica (Stinging Nettle): A Potent Natural Remedy
Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, has been used for centuries in traditional medicine systems across Europe, Asia, and North America. Despite its sting, which comes from tiny hairs on its leaves containing histamine and other chemicals, this plant is a powerhouse of nutrients. Rich in iron, calcium, magnesium, and vitamins A, C, and…
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Question of the Week for 7/11/25
QUESTION: “What are the medicinal benefits of black garlic—and how does its fermentation process enhance its healing properties compared to raw garlic?” ANSWER: Black garlic is a fermented version of regular garlic that undergoes a controlled aging process under high heat and humidity for several weeks. During this transformation, its pungent flavor softens into a…
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Black Seed Oil: Nature’s Timeless Remedy for Healing and Balance
Black seed oil, derived from the seeds of Nigella sativa, has been revered for centuries as a powerful natural remedy. Commonly known as “the remedy for everything but death,” this potent oil boasts an impressive history in traditional healing systems across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. Its benefits stem primarily from thymoquinone, a bioactive…
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Ask Me Anything Wednesday for July 9 2025
Question: “If your body could write you a letter right now using the language of natural medicine — what do you think it would say? Herbs, energy systems, foods, feelings… nothing is off limits. Let’s talk healing.” Answer: If my body could write me a letter through the lens of natural medicine, it might begin…
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Privet Fruit: A Potent Ally for Longevity and Immunity
Privet fruit, also known in Traditional Chinese Medicine as Nu Zhen Zi, is a small, glossy black berry harvested from the Ligustrum lucidum plant. Long revered for its restorative properties, this herb is especially valued for its ability to nourish the liver and kidneys—organs central to vitality and aging in Eastern medicine. Often prescribed for…
