Dr. David Orman

QUESTION: “Can stinging nettle actually reverse seasonal allergies—and if so, how should it be used for best results?” ANSWER: Yes, stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) can significantly reduce symptoms of seasonal allergies due to its natural antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties. Unlike pharmaceutical antihistamines that often cause drowsiness or dehydration, nettle works by stabilizing mast cells and…

Echinacea, also known as coneflower, is a vibrant purple herb native to North America and long revered by Native American tribes for its potent healing properties. Most commonly used to support immune function, echinacea works by activating key white blood cells and increasing the body’s natural defense mechanisms. It’s especially popular during cold and flu…

Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum) has been revered in Traditional Chinese Medicine for over 2,000 years, earning titles such as “Mushroom of Immortality” and “Spirit Plant.” Found growing on decaying hardwood trees, this striking reddish-brown fungus holds a sacred place in herbal medicine due to its potent adaptogenic and immunomodulating properties. It is not consumed for…

Stillness is often misunderstood as mere inactivity. But in Taoist philosophy, stillness is a profound skill cultivated with awareness and discipline. It is not the absence of motion but the conscious control of it. The calm within the storm. When one masters stillness, they can move through life with clarity and strength, rather than reacting…

Dioscorea, commonly known as wild yam, is a powerful herb that has long been revered in traditional medicine for its rejuvenating properties. Rich in diosgenin, a natural plant steroid, Dioscorea is often used as a natural remedy to support hormonal balance, especially in women experiencing menopausal symptoms. However, its benefits extend beyond hormonal health—it has…