Dr. David Orman

Trace minerals are the silent architects of cellular vitality. Among them, zinc, selenium, and magnesium hold special importance for the mitochondria, the tiny engines that power every living cell. When these minerals are deficient, energy output drops, and fatigue or poor recovery often follow. They are not just nutritional add-ons but elemental signals that guide…

Sunlight is one of the most powerful and underappreciated medicines in existence. When natural light enters the eyes—without the interference of glass or sunglasses—it signals the brain to awaken, energize, and synchronize with the rhythm of the Earth. The light activates specialized cells in the retina that communicate directly with the hypothalamus, the body’s internal…

Q: What natural compounds most effectively stimulate mitochondrial biogenesis and energy renewal in aging cells? In other words, how do I awaken the powerhouse in the cell? A: Mitochondria, often called the powerhouses of the cell, determine how vibrant and youthful we feel. When they falter, fatigue, pain, and premature aging follow. Yet nature provides…

In the heart of ancient Chinese medicine lies a small yet powerful seed known as Suan Zao Ren, or Jujube seed. Renowned for centuries as a natural sedative, it is revered for its ability to calm the Shen—the spirit that resides within the heart and mind. When daily life becomes heavy with stress, this humble…

Q: Is the gut capable of producing enough neurotransmitters to alter mood even without changes in diet or therapy? A: Scientists have long referred to the gut as the body’s second brain, and with good reason. Within the intestinal walls lies a vast network of neurons called the enteric nervous system, capable of producing many…

Hidden within the fabric of your body is a remarkable healing system known as the endocannabinoid system. This network of receptors and natural compounds operates as a built-in pharmacy, producing its own pain-relieving molecules called endocannabinoids. Unlike external drugs that often override natural rhythms, these internal messengers bring balance to pain, mood, and inflammation. They…

Q: Is there a connection between a specific emotion and gut health? A: Within the quiet chambers of the body, countless microbes communicate through subtle chemical exchanges that shape mood, immunity, and vitality. These microscopic beings respond not only to diet and environment but also to emotion. When a person practices daily gratitude, especially while…

Poria Mushroom, known in Chinese medicine as Fu Ling, has been treasured for centuries as a gentle yet profound tonic. Beneath the forest floor, this unique fungus grows around the roots of pine trees, forming a dense, earthy mass that embodies the calm and stability of nature itself. When harvested and dried, it becomes a…

Chaos and violence often emerge not from pure malice but from deep psychological disconnection. In modern society, individuals experience chronic overstimulation paired with emotional isolation. Constant digital noise, social comparison, and fear-based media keep the nervous system in a perpetual state of alertness. This activates the survival brain, the primitive regions designed for fight, flight,…

Q: Could intermittent standing (every 30 minutes) during the day improve joint lubrication and reduce arthritis risk? A: Modern life often chains us to chairs, whether at desks, in cars, or on couches. This constant sitting robs the body of its natural rhythm of movement, especially in the joints. Cartilage, unlike muscle, does not have…