Tag: health

Ask Me Anything Wednesday for July 2, 2025

by Dr. David Orman

QUESTION: What forgotten or lesser-known ancient remedy—once used by indigenous cultures but now rarely discussed—could hold the key to solving a modern chronic illness without pharmaceuticals?

ANSWER: One such forgotten remedy is pitcher plant extract (Sarracenia purpurea), a carnivorous plant once used by Native American tribes, particularly in the northeastern regions of North America. The Cree and Mi’kmaq people used the root and fluid of this plant to treat conditions ranging from smallpox to digestive disorders. It was believed to possess potent antiviral and immune-stimulating properties, and anecdotal reports suggest it offered relief from systemic infections at a time when modern medicine didn’t exist.

In the modern era, pitcher plant has largely vanished from mainstream health conversations. Yet recent interest has quietly reignited among herbalists and integrative physicians who are exploring its application for viral diseases and inflammation-based conditions such as fibromyalgia or post-viral fatigue. Research is limited, but preliminary studies have hinted at antiviral effects against certain herpes strains. The plant’s unique chemical structure—rich in secondary metabolites and enzyme inhibitors—may help regulate immune overreactions, a critical component in many autoimmune disorders.

What makes pitcher plant especially compelling is that it works on both the immune and digestive systems—two foundational aspects of natural health. Unlike pharmaceutical antivirals that often suppress symptoms, this remedy seems to modulate the system holistically, allowing the body to recalibrate itself. Because many modern chronic illnesses stem from immune dysregulation and gut disruption (like IBS, Hashimoto’s, or chronic fatigue syndrome), Sarracenia’s dual action could offer a forgotten yet potent route to true systemic healing.

Reviving such remedies isn’t just an academic exercise—it reflects a broader question about what wisdom has been overlooked in our rush toward synthetic solutions. Nature often whispers what labs shout. The pitcher plant, like many ancient botanicals, beckons us to reconsider what healing means when it aligns with the rhythms and intelligence of the Earth. Exploring its potential requires both reverence and rigorous study—but it could very well be one of nature’s buried treasures waiting to be rediscovered.

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Ramulus Cinnamomi: The Great Digestive Warmer

by Dr. David Orman

Ramulus Cinnamomi, known in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as Gui Zhi, is the tender twig of the cinnamon tree. While many are familiar with cinnamon bark for its culinary uses, the twig itself holds a special place in classical herbal formulas. Harvested when the branches are young and pliable, Ramulus Cinnamomi is considered warm, sweet, and pungent in nature—making it a versatile remedy for a range of internal cold patterns and stagnation issues. In TCM, it is frequently used to release the exterior and promote the flow of Yang energy, especially in cases where the body struggles to circulate warmth.

One of Gui Zhi’s primary functions is to disperse cold and improve circulation. In clinical use, it is often included in formulas to relieve chills, mild fevers, and body aches associated with wind-cold invasion. It excels at guiding the body’s natural warmth outward, unblocking the superficial layers so that pathogenic influences can be vented through the skin. Gui Zhi is also known for its ability to harmonize the relationship between Ying (nutritive) and Wei (defensive) Qi—making it especially useful for conditions where this balance is disrupted, such as spontaneous sweating or alternating hot and cold sensations.

Beyond its effects on the immune and circulatory systems, Ramulus Cinnamomi also warms the channels and is used to treat joint and menstrual pain caused by cold obstruction. In formulas targeting arthritic pain, cramps, or cold-related stiffness, Gui Zhi helps warm and open the meridians, restoring fluid movement and relieving discomfort. This function also makes it a favorite for treating cold-type dysmenorrhea, where warmth and improved flow are essential. Often combined with herbs like Bai Shao (White Peony) or Sheng Jiang (Fresh Ginger), Gui Zhi works gently yet powerfully to bring heat to cold, stagnant areas.

In terms of emotional and energetic use, Gui Zhi is often used by Taoist and classical practitioners to soften inner rigidity and promote emotional fluidity. As a plant that brings warmth and movement, it is seen as a metaphor for the gentle activation of blocked energy within the spirit. When used skillfully, Ramulus Cinnamomi not only treats physical cold, but also acts as a botanical ally to help the body and heart regain flow, warmth, and harmony. Whether used in decoction, powder, or classical formulation, Gui Zhi remains a cornerstone of elegant herbal medicine.

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Spirulina: Nature’s Ancient Superfood

by Dr. David Orman

Spirulina is a blue-green algae that has been consumed for centuries due to its exceptional nutritional value and health benefits. Originating from alkaline lakes and warm, mineral-rich waters, this microscopic organism is often called a “superfood” because it contains an extraordinary concentration of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Just a small amount of spirulina delivers a broad spectrum of nutrients, including B vitamins, iron, magnesium, potassium, and essential amino acids, making it an excellent supplement for those seeking vitality and balance through natural means.

One of spirulina’s most profound benefits lies in its ability to detoxify the body, particularly from heavy metals such as arsenic, lead, and mercury. In parts of the world where arsenic-contaminated water poses a health hazard, spirulina has shown promise in reducing the toxic load on the liver and kidneys. Its high chlorophyll content also assists in cleansing the blood, while the phycocyanin compound found in spirulina has been shown to protect cells from oxidative damage and support healthy inflammation levels. This makes it especially valuable for those dealing with environmental toxins, inflammation, or sluggish digestion.

Spirulina also supports immune function and energy production. It stimulates white blood cell activity, enhances antibody responses, and has been shown to improve endurance in athletes. Many individuals who supplement with spirulina report increased mental clarity, improved stamina, and better skin health. These effects are believed to be due in part to the bioavailable iron and B12-like compounds present in the algae, which help combat fatigue and boost red blood cell production naturally.

While often overlooked in mainstream nutrition, spirulina holds a sacred place in ancient healing traditions. From the Aztecs who harvested it from Lake Texcoco to modern naturopaths and herbalists, its power is now being rediscovered and respected. As with all powerful natural remedies, quality matters—look for organic, lab-tested spirulina grown in clean environments. Used wisely, this ancient algae can serve as a quiet force for renewal in a world that desperately needs detoxification, nourishment, and deep healing.

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Stop Westernizing Natural Medicine

by Dr. David Orman

In recent years, natural medicine has exploded into the mainstream. Yet beneath the glossy packaging and influencer-approved branding lies a troubling trend — the Westernization of an ancient, patient-centered practice. Instead of honoring the roots of Eastern wisdom, many so-called “natural” products now mimic the pharmaceutical model: isolate symptoms, match them with a formula, and sell it in bulk. This disease-first mindset is exactly what natural medicine was never meant to be.

At the heart of the Western model lies pathology. It begins with a diagnosis — a label. The patient becomes a condition, a case file, a problem to be solved. From there, the model applies a reductionist solution: suppress the symptom, adjust the numbers, override the body. Whether it’s a pill or a plant, the approach is mechanistic. This works well for emergencies and trauma. But it fails miserably when dealing with the subtle, chronic, energetic, and emotional patterns that define true healing.

Eastern medicine, by contrast, begins with the patient. The person is seen as a whole — body, mind, spirit, environment, and ancestry. Symptoms are not the enemy. They are messages, part of a larger pattern the practitioner learns to decode. Herbs are prescribed not by what disease they treat, but by how they harmonize with the individual’s constitution. Two people with the same diagnosis may receive entirely different treatments. That’s because the medicine is not about the disease — it’s about the human being.

Unfortunately, many modern product creators have lost this thread. In an attempt to scale, simplify, and “modernize,” they stuff their formulas with long lists of herbs, assuming that more is better. But cramming 30 ingredients into a capsule doesn’t create balance. It creates confusion. These blends often ignore herbal energetics, preparation methods, and synergy. The result? A Frankenstein supplement that may look impressive on the label but bears no resemblance to true medicine. They’re chasing results, not healing.

We must return to a patient-first paradigm. This doesn’t mean rejecting innovation. It means rooting it in tradition. Every product, every protocol, every practitioner should begin with this question: Who is this person? Not what’s trending. Not what sells fast. Not what symptom can be squashed. Real natural medicine listens first. And if we want to preserve its power, we must stop Westernizing it — and start remembering where it came from.

—
Dr. David Orman
Acupuncture Physician & Wellness Expert
davidorman.com | david@davidorman.com

Master Health Quote Thursday: 6/19/25

by Dr. David Orman

Shilajit, a sticky, tar-like substance found in the Himalayas and other high mountain ranges, has long been revered in Ayurvedic medicine for its wide-ranging health benefits. One of its most powerful yet lesser-known effects is its ability to support the body’s natural production of nitric oxide (NO), a molecule vital for circulation, energy, and cellular communication. Unlike synthetic NO boosters that often rely on isolated compounds, shilajit provides a full-spectrum mineral matrix that nourishes the body and works in harmony with its natural processes.

Nitric oxide plays a crucial role in vasodilation—relaxing the inner muscles of the blood vessels—which improves blood flow and lowers blood pressure. This has major implications for cardiovascular health, athletic performance, brain function, and even sexual vitality. Shilajit enhances this process by providing fulvic acid and over 80 trace minerals, many of which are necessary cofactors in the enzymatic conversion of L-arginine into nitric oxide. This makes it a holistic and sustainable option for anyone seeking to improve circulation and overall vitality.

What sets shilajit apart is not just its mineral content, but its adaptogenic nature. It helps the body resist stress, stabilize blood sugar, and increase energy at the mitochondrial level—where nitric oxide is also synthesized. This multi-layered support makes it especially valuable for older adults, athletes, and individuals recovering from illness or fatigue. Regular use of high-quality, purified shilajit has been shown to restore strength, increase endurance, and promote clarity of mind.

To integrate shilajit into your routine, a pea-sized amount (typically 300–500 mg) of resin or powder can be dissolved in warm water or herbal tea once daily, preferably in the morning or before exercise. As always, ensure the product is purified and tested for heavy metals. In the realm of natural medicine, few substances deliver such deep nourishment with so little effort. As modern science catches up to ancient wisdom, shilajit stands out as a true master herb for those seeking vitality from the inside out.

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Ask Me Anything: June 18, 2025

by Dr. David Orman

Question: how does natural medicine use this timing to enhance healing?

Answer: Yes, the time of day you take an herbal remedy can significantly influence its effectiveness. In natural medicine systems like Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda, the body follows rhythmic cycles known as “organ clocks” or dosha cycles that align with nature’s flow. These systems teach that different organs and energetic functions are more active at specific times, and aligning herbal intake with these natural rhythms can optimize both absorption and energetic resonance.

In TCM, for example, the Liver is most active between 1:00 and 3:00 AM, while the Lungs dominate between 3:00 and 5:00 AM. If someone is taking herbs to support liver detoxification, consuming them in the late evening may help prepare the liver for its early-morning activity. Conversely, lung tonics or respiratory herbs may work better when taken upon waking. This is not only due to organ energy but also to how the body’s hormonal and metabolic systems operate in harmony with light, sleep, and digestion.

Ayurveda offers a similar view, structuring the day into three repeating cycles of Vata (movement), Pitta (transformation), and Kapha (stability). A stimulating herb like ginger may be best taken during Kapha time (early morning) to energize and clear sluggishness, while cooling herbs like Brahmi might be more effective during Pitta hours (midday) to calm the fire of digestion or overthinking. The ancient sages viewed the body not as a machine but as a garden responding to the sun, moon, and elements.

Modern chronobiology is beginning to catch up. Studies show that circadian rhythms influence drug metabolism, hormone levels, and even immune response. Natural medicine, which has always observed nature’s timing, now finds scientific backing for what healers have known for thousands of years: timing matters. Healing isn’t just about what you take, but when you take it—because nature works like music, not a stopwatch.

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Question of the Week 5/30/25

by Dr. David Orman

Can Emotions Really Make Us Sick? If So, How Do We Heal Naturally?

Answer:

In natural medicine, there is a growing recognition that unresolved emotions do not just influence us. They become part of our physical reality. But can grief, anger, fear, or shame truly turn into illness? This is not just poetic language. It is a real phenomenon with roots in both ancient traditions and modern science.

Traditional Chinese Medicine teaches that every organ is linked to a specific emotion. The liver is tied to anger, the lungs to grief, the kidneys to fear, and the heart to joy. When emotions are not processed, they create stagnation in the body. This is not metaphor. Chronic stress raises cortisol, weakens immunity, alters digestion, and disrupts the nervous system. Emotions become chemistry. They tighten fascia, shift posture, disturb sleep, and silently build the foundation for chronic conditions.

Natural healing begins with movement and breath. Qi Gong, Bagua, and somatic techniques help the body unwind. Herbs like Holy Basil ease the mind. Schizandra nourishes the spirit. Reishi supports the heart and promotes deep calm. Meditation also plays a key role. It allows emotions to rise without resistance. This is not about pushing feelings away. It is about creating space to let them pass through.

The real lesson is this. Your body is not betraying you. It is speaking to you. Symptoms are not enemies. They are messages. When we meet emotions with awareness instead of suppression, healing begins. And nature is always ready to guide the way back to balance.

UPDATE: To go deeper into this work, explore my Bagua and Sacred Sounds course—a unique blend of circular martial movement and healing vibration. This course is designed to release trapped emotions, activate energy centers, and restore your inner rhythm. It is not just exercise. It is transformation. Enrollment opens Sunday, June 1. Begin your journey at:

Magnesium: The Master Mineral for Health and Healing

by Dr. David Orman

Magnesium is one of the most vital minerals in the human body, involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions. It supports everything from muscle function and nerve conduction to energy production, DNA synthesis, and heart rhythm regulation. Despite its importance, magnesium deficiency is common due to soil depletion, processed diets, stress, and certain medications. Symptoms of deficiency can include fatigue, irritability, muscle cramps, anxiety, and even irregular heartbeat.

Magnesium is often recommended for a wide range of health conditions including insomnia, high blood pressure, migraines, PMS, constipation, and anxiety. It also plays a key role in regulating calcium and potassium levels and supports bone health, making it essential for both structural and functional wellness. Because it’s involved in cellular detoxification, it’s also a favorite among natural medicine practitioners for aiding in liver function and reducing inflammation.

There are multiple forms of magnesium, each with different absorption rates and specific uses. Choosing the right type is key to getting optimal results. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular forms and what they’re best used for:

Types of Magnesium & Uses:

  • Magnesium Glycinate – Best for anxiety, insomnia, muscle relaxation; highly bioavailable and gentle on the stomach.
  • Magnesium Citrate – Ideal for constipation and bowel regularity; has a mild laxative effect.
  • Magnesium Malate – Great for chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia; supports energy production.
  • Magnesium Threonate – Enhances cognitive function and memory; crosses the blood-brain barrier.
  • Magnesium Oxide – Used for acid reflux and short-term constipation; lower absorption but cost-effective.
  • Magnesium Chloride – Well-absorbed and supports detoxification and metabolism; can be used topically.
  • Magnesium Sulfate (Epsom salts) – Common in baths for muscle soreness, stress relief, and detox.
  • Magnesium Lactate – Gentle on the stomach; good for those needing long-term supplementation.

Choosing the right magnesium form depends on your specific health goals. Always consult with a knowledgeable practitioner to determine the appropriate dosage and type for your needs.

Is It Really Safe

by Dr. David Orman

Recent Studies Reveal The Truth About Marijuana

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Recent research underscores the potential risks of cannabis use on brain health, particularly among young adults and heavy users. A study from McGill University, led by Dr. Romina Mizrahi and PhD student Belen Blasco, utilized advanced brain imaging to examine 49 individuals aged 16 to 30, some of whom were at high risk for psychosis. The findings revealed that cannabis use was associated with decreased synaptic density in critical brain regions such as the prefrontal cortex, anterior cingulate cortex, and striatum—areas vital for cognitive and emotional functions. Dr. Mizrahi noted, “Cannabis appears to disrupt the brain’s natural process of refining and pruning synapses, which is essential for healthy brain development.”

Complementing these findings, a large-scale study published in JAMA Network Open analyzed data from 1,003 adults aged 22 to 36. The research indicated that 63% of heavy lifetime cannabis users—defined as those who had used cannabis over 1,000 times—exhibited reduced brain activity during working memory tasks. Similarly, 68% of recent users showed comparable impairments. These deficits were most pronounced in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, dorsomedial prefrontal cortex, and anterior insula, regions associated with decision-making, memory, and emotional processing. Lead author Dr. Joshua Gowin emphasized the importance of understanding these effects as cannabis use becomes more prevalent globally.

The potential negative effects of cannabis on the brain include:

  • Impaired working memory, affecting the ability to follow instructions or perform calculations.
  • Reduced synaptic density, leading to disrupted communication between neurons.
  • Increased risk of psychosis, particularly in individuals with a predisposition to mental health disorders.
  • Altered brain regions involved in motivation, reward processing, and emotional regulation.
  • Potential long-term cognitive deficits, especially with early and heavy use.

These studies highlight the necessity for further research into the long-term impacts of cannabis on brain health. As Dr. Gowin stated, “By doing so, we can provide a well-rounded understanding of both the benefits and risks of cannabis use, empowering people to make informed decisions and fully comprehend the potential consequences.”

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The Remarkable Benefits of Licorice Root

by Dr. David Orman

Licorice root, known botanically as Glycyrrhiza glabra, has been used for thousands of years in traditional Chinese, Ayurvedic, and Western herbal medicine. Its sweet flavor and powerful healing properties make it a staple in both therapeutic and culinary settings. Often used as a soothing agent, licorice is more than just a flavoring—it’s a potent herbal ally with wide-ranging benefits for the body and mind.

One of the most well-known uses of licorice is for digestive support. It has natural anti-inflammatory and demulcent properties, making it highly effective in calming ulcers, acid reflux, gastritis, and other gastrointestinal issues. Licorice helps coat the stomach lining and supports the repair of mucosal tissues. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is often used to avoid potential side effects of whole licorice while still reaping these digestive benefits.

Licorice also plays a significant role in supporting the adrenal glands and managing stress. It helps modulate cortisol levels, making it beneficial for those experiencing fatigue, burnout, or adrenal dysregulation. By gently supporting the body’s stress response system, licorice enhances endurance and resilience during periods of physical or emotional challenge. Its adaptogenic qualities make it a valuable herb for long-term vitality.

In terms of immune function, licorice root offers antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory effects. It has shown promise in helping the body fight respiratory infections, including sore throats, bronchitis, and even certain viral strains. The herb also assists in thinning mucus, making it easier to expel, while soothing irritated tissues along the respiratory tract. These immune-modulating effects make licorice a go-to herb during cold and flu season.

While licorice offers many benefits, it should be used mindfully, especially for those with high blood pressure or kidney concerns, as whole licorice can lead to water retention and elevated blood pressure when taken in large amounts over time. Nevertheless, when used appropriately—especially in its DGL form or under the guidance of a skilled herbalist—licorice root is a potent, versatile, and time-honored herb that offers deep healing for digestion, immunity, and overall vitality.