CHAPTER 7
Support
THESE DAYS, DISORDERS of the thyroid, adrenal glands, heart, liver, and bladder seem to be all too common. Whether the problems are genetically based or acquired through modern living, it has become necessary to care for all areas of our body. Because prevention is key, I’ve included the following information and recipes to offer support for these systems.
LIVER HEALTH
The liver is the main organ responsible for hormone production and detoxification for the entire body. This is no small task. This organ is so valuable that the body was designed to regenerate it if needed. You can lose up to 70 percent of your liver and it will work its way to full regeneration if given the chance. It is truly one of the most fascinating organs of our body.
As we go through life, we place many demands on our liver. With the development of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), synthetic medications, food preservatives, and environmental toxins, our modern livers are working overtime. In Chinese medicine, the liver is considered the general of the body; its job is to plan, organize, and direct all bodily functions. Chinese medicine also considers the liver the house of all emotion. It states that if the liver is healthy and well, emotions will be appropriate and even. But if the liver is burdened, its energy can slow down, leading to a rise in imbalanced emotions such as depression, frustration, and repressed anger. Therefore, supporting the liver can only improve physical and emotional well-being. This leads to hormonal balance, decreased stress, and a body free of waste.
When to use the following recipes? If you are living a relatively healthy lifestyle, my suggestion is to spend one month each year devoted to a different body system. For example, every March I focus on my liver. I drink the Liver Love Tea (see right) each day and put daily castor oil packs on my abdomen. The castor oil supports the liver’s detoxification efforts. Another option is to simply rotate in your supportive teas, capsules, tinctures, and topical treatments throughout the year.
Red Clover
LIVER LOVE TEA
This blend supports overall function of the liver and can be used regularly as a liver tonic.
1 ounce (28 g) dried burdock root
1 ounce (28 g) dried dandelion root
1 ounce (28 g) dried red clover
1 ounce (28 g) dried white oak bark
1 ounce (28 g) dried milk thistle seeds
2 ounces (56 g) dried spearmint leaf or 1/2 ounce (14 g) each ginger root, cinnamon bark, and licorice root, depending on your flavor preference
YIELD: 7 ounces (196 g)
Combine all ingredients; store in a glass jar. Make by the cup or make medicinally (here) with 5 tablespoons (22 g) in a quart (1 liter) of almost boiling water; let steep overnight.
LIVER TONE AND BLOOD BUILDING TINCTURE
This is a wonderfully nourishing mixture of herbs for the liver that support function and health of the hepatocytes.
2 tablespoons (30 ml) bupleurum tincture
2 tablespoons (30 ml) milk thistle seed tincture
2 tablespoons (30 ml) dandelion root tincture
1 tablespoon (15 ml) dong quai tincture
1 tablespoon (15 ml) nettle leaf tincture
YIELD: 4 ounces (120 ml)
Combine all ingredients in a 4-ounce (120 ml) amber dropper bottle. Take 1 dropperful 3 times per day as desired; for a more tonifying effect, take consistently for 3 to 6 weeks.
INFUSED CASTOR OIL PACK FOR THE LIVER
If you’ve ever seen a naturopathic physician, you are probably quite familiar with a castor oil pack. Nature cure at its best is clearly demonstrated with this therapy. By utilizing the healing and anti-inflammatory agents of the castor plant, you can greatly support the liver in improved function and health.
18 ounces (500 ml) castor oil
4 ounces (120 ml) olive oil
1/2 ounce (14 g) dried red clover leaf
1/2 ounce (14 g) dried yellow dock root
1/2 ounce (14 g) dried artichoke leaf
1/2 ounce (14 g) dried burdock root
YIELD: 18 ounces (500 ml)
Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 1 week to infuse. Store in a glass jar in a cool dark place. Strain and apply daily to abdomen with gentle heat for 30 to 45 minutes.
SKIN GLOW TINCTURE
Skin health is often a reflection of liver health. When the liver is backed up processing waste, the skin picks up the slack and starts to purge through our outer layers. This tincture works to support both the liver detoxification pathways and the health of the skin.
3 tablespoons (40 ml) dandelion root tincture
2 tablespoons (30 ml) marshmallow root tincture
4 teaspoons (20 ml) saw palmetto berry tincture
4 teaspoons (20 ml) wild yam root tincture
2 teaspoons (10 ml) echinacea root tincture
YIELD: 4 ounces (120 ml)
Combine all ingredients in a 4-ounce (120 ml) amber dropper bottle. Take 1 dropperful 3 times per day for 4 to 6 weeks.
BASIC BALANCE: HORMONE LIVER SUPPORT TINCTURE
Get to the root of the imbalance by encouraging liver hormonal health.
2 tablespoons (30 ml) bupleurum root tincture
2 tablespoons (30 ml) dandelion root tincture
1 tablespoon (15 ml) dong quai root tincture
1 tablespoon (15 ml) yellow dock root tincture
1 tablespoon (15 ml) wild yam room tincture
1 tablespoon (15 ml) black cohosh root tincture
YIELD: 4 ounces (120 ml)
Combine all ingredients in a 4-ounce (120 ml) amber dropper bottle. Take 1 dropperful 3 times per day for 8 to 12 weeks.
DIGESTIVE SUPPORT
Babies poop and we say, “Oh! You pooped! Good job!” like they’ve just learned to walk or talk. The function is often exclaimed over and praised joyfully, and the babies feel so proud that they’ve done this miraculous thing. As we age, this simple eliminatory function can become challenged and troublesome. Sometimes it becomes so difficult that when you do finally have a successful bowel movement, you almost want to jump up and down and pat yourself on the back. When and how did our digestive systems get so off track? IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), Crohn’s disease, leaky gut, and so on are twenty-first-century problems, and they are almost now considered mainstream. I have a few theories as to why that is, but what I do know is that when I educate my patients on how to get back to the basics of digestion, things improve.
HEARTBURN SUPPORT CAPSULES
Although it is always best to identify the cause of heartburn, these capsules will soothe the burn and relieve the suffering in the moment.
1 ounce (28 g) gentian root powder
1/2 ounce (14 g) skullcap leaf powder
1/2 ounce (14 g) ginger root powder
YIELD: 100 capsules
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Use the mixture to fill empty vegetable capsules. Take 2 capsules with every meal.
AFTER DINNER SPOT OF TEA
Drink this tea to encourage healthy digestion and ease of the digestive process.
1 ounce (28 g) dried gentian root
1 ounce (28 g) dried chamomile flowers
1/2 ounce (14 g) dried fennel seed
1/4 ounce (7 g) dried anise seed
YIELD: 3 ounces (84 g)
Combine all ingredients; store in a glass jar. Put on the kettle as you are clearing the table. Use 1 to 2 teaspoons (1.5 to 3 g) per cup (235 ml) hot water. Let steep 10 minutes; strain before drinking.
Fennel Seed
OVERINDULGENCE TINCTURE
We all do it. But you don’t have to suffer from celebrating, whether that means overeating or indulging in the types of foods—fatty or rich, for example—that don’t make your body feel good.
2 tablespoons (30 ml) fenugreek seed tincture
2 tablespoons (30 ml) fennel seed tincture
4 teaspoons (20 ml) gentian tincture
4 teaspoons (20 ml) catnip tincture
2 teaspoons (10 ml) marshmallow root tincture
2 teaspoons (10 ml) licorice root tincture
YIELD: 4 ounces (120 ml)
Combine all ingredients in a 4-ounce (120 ml) amber dropper bottle. Take 2 to 3 dropperfuls at the first sign of overeating. Take 2 more dropperfuls 30 minutes later.
INTESTINAL REPAIR TEA
Long-term inflammation due to poor dietary choices and stress can damage the intestinal track. This blend works hard to heal it. By nourishing and supporting the structure of the intestines, your energy will increase and digestive management get back on track.
2 ounces (56 g) dried cranesbill root
1 ounce (28 g) dried marshmallow root
1/2 ounce (14 g) dried goldenseal root
1/2 ounce (14 g) dried plantain leaf
1/2 to 1 ounce (14 to 28 g) dried ginger root
1/2 ounce (14 g) dried fennel seed, optional
YIELD: 5 ounces (140 g)
Combine all ingredients; store in a glass jar. To make a cup of tea, simmer 1 to 2 teaspoons (1.5 to 3 g) per 1 cup (235 ml) of hot water, covered, over low heat. After 10 minutes, turn off heat and add 1 teaspoon (1.5 g) more of the blend. Let steep 10 minutes. Drink 2 to 3 cups per day for 4 to 6 weeks.
VARIATION: INTESTINAL REPAIR TINCTURE
If you’d prefer drops versus a tea, here is the above recipe as a tincture.
3 tablespoons (40 ml) cranesbill root tincture
4 teaspoons (20 ml) marshmallow root tincture
4 teaspoons (20 ml) goldenseal root tincture
4 teaspoons (20 ml) plantain leaf tincture
2 teaspoons (10 ml) ginger root tincture
2 teaspoons (10 ml) fennel seed tincture
YIELD: 4 ounces (120 ml)
Combine all ingredients in a 4-ounce (120 ml) amber dropper bottle. Take 1 dropperful 3 times per day for 4 to 6 weeks.
DIARRHEA RELIEF TEA
It’s never a good day when you are suffering from diarrhea. Do yourself a favor and be proactive in your care.
Note: Chronic diarrhea should be addressed by seeking professional care.
1 ounce (28 g) dried Cranesbill root
1 ounce (28 g) dried Oregon grape
1/2 ounce (14 g) dried Echinacea
1/2 ounce (14 g) dried Agrimony
1/2 ounce (14 g) dried Catnip
1 ounce (28 g) dried lemongrass
YIELD: 4 ounces (112 g)
Combine all ingredients; store in a glass jar. Simmer 1 to 2 teaspoons (1.5 to 3 g) per 1 cup (235 ml) of hot water, covered, over low heat. After 10 minutes, turn off heat and add 1 teaspoon (1.5 g) more of the blend. Let steep 10 minutes. Drink 1 to 3 cups as needed throughout the day.
Oregon Grape
DIGESTION SPECIFIC CASTOR OIL PACK
This treatment is meant to slow down the evacuation of the bowels and alleviate inflammation. Apply this castor oil pack at the first sign of loose stool.
18 ounces (500 ml) castor oil
4 ounces (120 ml) olive oil
2 ounces (56 g) dried fennel seed
1 ounce (28 g) dried agrimony leaf
1/2 ounce (14 g) dried catnip
1/2 ounce (14 g) dried chamomile flower
YIELD: 1 castor oil pack
Place all ingredients in a slow cooker; heat on low for 1 week to infuse. Strain and store in a glass jar until needed. Apply daily to abdomen with gentle heat for 30 to 45 minutes.
CONSTIPATION CANDY
This is a great recipe that I’ve passed along many times over. Eating 1 to 2 of these candies a day can encourage relief of the bowel without an emergency trip to the bathroom.
1 ounce (28 g) slippery elm powder
1 ounce (28 g) dried senna leaf
1 ounce (28 g) dried marshmallow root
1/2 cup (120 ml) aloe vera juice
1/4 cup (21.5 g) cacao powder
1/2 cup (130 g) nut butter of choice (optional)
Honey to achieve desired consistency
YIELD: 12 candy balls
Mix all ingredients together thoroughly; form into 1-inch (3 cm) balls. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
BEDTIME TEA FOR MORNING RELIEF
This blend is considered gently laxative in nature, not purgative. That means it works slowly and on a gentler plane then a purgative. Purgatives create intense spasms to clear the bowel out, often leading to a run to the bathroom when it strikes. Take before bed to help the morning go smooth.
2 ounces (56 g) dried gentian root
1 ounce (28 g) dried marshmallow root
1/2 ounce (14 g) dried licorice root
1/2 ounce (14 g) dried senna leaf
YIELD: 4 ounces (112 g)
Combine all ingredients; store in a glass jar. When needed, steep 1 to 2 teaspoons (1.5 to 3 g) per 1 cup (235 ml) of hot water for 10 minutes.
GET THOSE JUICES FLOWING!
This is an effective bitters tincture for pre- and post meals. Bitters is one of the best ways to kick off proper digestion.
2 tablespoonss (30 ml) orange peel tincture
11/2 tablespoons (25 ml) gentian tincture
11/2 tablespoons (25 ml) angelica tincture
11/2 tablespoons (25 ml) fennel seed tincture
4 teaspoons (20 ml) ginger tincture
YIELD: 4 ounces (120 ml)
Combine all ingredients in a 2-ounce (60 ml) amber dropper bottle. Take 1 to 2 dropperfuls 10 minutes before and after meals.
BREAST HEALTH
Dandelion
Breasts. If only we could reshape our society’s view of this female body part. Highly sexualized, the breasts are undervalued and highly criticized in both their function and appearance. They come in all shapes and sizes, and though loving what we are born with is necessary, it is not taught. Often breasts can be viewed as cumbersome or embarrassing, depending on how the community we surround ourselves with views them. Exquisitely feminine, they are a universal symbol of the female and mother. Although their most obvious job is to create and secrete breast milk for offspring, they also respond to sexual stimulation and estrogen and progesterone through receptor sites in the breast tissue. This is most often seen around the menstrual cycle, as breast tissue can swell and become tender.
As with any aspect of the lymphatic system (the breasts include an extensive amount of lymphatic tissue), proper circulation is vital to health. Stagnation of surrounding fluid and consumption of lymph congestive substances (like coffee, unfortunately) can result in breast tissue changes. Yes, giving up that regular coffee habit can make a big difference, resulting in smoother breast tissue, but so can regular breast massage. Even better, using an herbal lymphatic breast oil will move and break up fibrotic tissue, which feels like lumps in the breast. Herbs such as poke root, cleavers, and even dandelion root all support breast health.
BREAST HEALTH MASSAGE OIL
This blend focuses on reducing fibrotic breast tissue and improving lymphatic flow through the breasts.
1 ounce (28 g) dried poke root
1/2 ounce (14 g) dried chamomile flower
1/2 ounce (14 g) dried dandelion root
11/2 cups (355 ml) olive oil
20 drops grapefruit essential oil
10 drops rosemary essential oil
YIELD: 1 to 2 ounces (29 to 60 ml)
Preheat oven to 170°F (77°C). Place herbs in a glass baking dish and pour olive oil over them. Bake for 4 hours. Strain and transfer to a 1- or 2-ounce (29 or 60 ml) amber bottle. Add essential oils. Use this oil a few times a week in the shower; rub 1 to 2 teaspoons (5 to 10 ml) on each breast and massage in a slow circular motion for a couple minutes.
NIPPLE HEALTH
Make a mask for your nipple to encourage healthy glow and texture to this unique skin.
1 ounce (28 g) powdered calendula flowers
1 ounce (28 g) powdered rose petals
1/2 ounce (14 g) powered comfrey leaf
1/2 ounce (14 g) powdered elderberry flowers
1/2 ounce (14 g) French green clay
YIELD: 4 ounces (98 g)
Mix all ingredients together; store in a glass jar. For treatment, place 1 to 3 tablespoons (15 to 45 g) of the blend in a bowl. Add just enough hot water to make a spreadable paste; apply to both nipples. Be sure to completely cover the entire areola. Let sit for 10 to 15 minutes with a warm towel covering the breasts. Wash gently with warm water afterward and apply Day-to-Day Breast Oil.
DAY-TO-DAY BREAST OIL
Our breasts, like any body part, need to be nourished and touched regularly. Recognizing your breasts is important—it mobilizes energy and reduces stagnation. Take a moment and visualize energy moving all throughout your body, including your breasts. Then apply this daily breast oil after each shower. Learn and love your breast terrain.
4 ounces (120 ml) jojoba oil
40 drops neroli essential oil
5 drops vetiver essential oil
YIELD: 4 ounces (120 ml)
Place all ingredients in a 4-ounce (120 ml) amber bottle with a therapeutic pump. Use 1 to 2 pumps per breast each day.
STRESS ATTACKS
Stress attacks are moments when you feel anxiety, anxiousness, panic, insomnia, adrenalized, explosive, or knocked out from fatigue. As we move through life, our ability to compensate physically, mentally, and emotionally can be challenged. If stress is on auto repeat in our lives, we begin to get worse and worse at handling the physical and emotional symptoms that arise as a result. Many of my young patients don’t know how to recognize stress in their lives. Once we discuss the above symptoms, they often realize they’ve been living with it for a while. What I see most commonly in my practice is stress caused by the following:
• Overworking
• Taking on too much
• Being overly involved in too many activities
• Lack of exercise or some other sort of healthy release
• Relationship stress: intimate, familial, or professional
• Lack of resources: home, money, food
• Situational stress: midterms, a project deadline, a relationship ending
If any one of these situations is occurring, the central nervous system and the adrenal glands step up to the plate to support you. The problem is, after repetitive stress “attacks,” the body declines in its ability to calm everything back down. It’s like your favorite slippers. After putting them on and off, over and over, they wear out.
Our adrenal glands particularly are affected by stress. They support the release of cortisol, the stress hormone. Stress can take the form of decreased blood sugar, pain, inflammation, or emotional upset. When any of these occur, we release cortisol to “handle” the situation. The problem is that when we don’t address our body’s physical and emotional needs appropriately, we sail into cortisol autopilot zone, which dumps cortisol right and left, thinking that is what is best. Learning to regulate our adrenals takes practice, support, and nourishment.
If you are experiencing any stress symptoms, consider the recipes below to nourish and support both the central nervous system and the adrenal glands. Meanwhile, here are some basic tips for adrenal nourishment.
1. Wake up and go to bed at approximately the same time each day to regulate circadian and hormonal patterns.
2. Eat within an hour of the same time each day to better regulate blood sugar.
3. Find a daily outlet of release: a ritual cup of tea, a meditation, exercise, etc.
4. If you have chronic pain or inflammation, treat it with herbs, diet, or body treatments such as massage or physical therapy, and don’t repeat the stressors that cause it to continue.
5. Make a list of your daily stressors. Include everything, no matter how big or how small, even if you think there is nothing you can do about it. Write them all down. Choose one at a time to work with. Brainstorm solutions to rid yourself of it. If driving in traffic is a huge stressor, perhaps shifting your driving time or listening to engaging audiobooks can help. If you don’t get along with your boss, you may not be able to do much about that stress, but you can reshape how you handle it.
STAND STRONG ADRENAL SUPPORT TINCTURE
This is a strong adrenal tonic to rebuild balance in those who often feel stressed or “adrenalized.” Adrenalized is that feeling when something small happens, but it triggers a huge physical response such as shaking, heart racing, stomach clenching, or the like. Remove the licorice root from this formula if you are experiencing hypertension.
2 tablespoons (30 ml) rhodiola bark tincture
4 teaspoons (20 ml) schizandra berry tincture
4 teaspoons (20 ml) ashwagandha root tincture
4 teaspoons (20 ml) burdock root tincture
4 teaspoons (20 ml) eleuthero root tincture
2 teaspoons (10 ml) licorice root tincture
YIELD: 4 ounces (120 ml)
Combine all ingredients in a 4-ounce (120 ml) amber dropper bottle. Take 1 dropperful 3 times per day for 6 to 12 weeks.
PEACE AND CALM TEA
Nourishing the central nervous system will calm your mind and your perspective on the day’s events. Drink as often as you’d like if you’d like a peaceful day.
1 ounce (28 g) dried passionflower leaf
1 ounce (28 g) dried skullcap leaf
1 ounce (28 g) dried chamomile flowers
1/2 ounce (14 g) dried catnip leaf
1/4 ounce (7 g) dried lavender flowers
1/4 ounce (7 g) dried rose petals
YIELD: 4 ounces (112 g)
Combine all ingredients; store in a glass jar. Steep 1 teaspoon (1.5 g) per cup of hot water for 8 to 10 minutes as needed.
RELAX NOW TINCTURE
For when you are “in it” and can recognize your need to take a step back and breathe.
2 tablespoons (30 ml) passionflower leaf tincture
2 tablespoons (30 ml) celery seed tincture
4 teaspoons (20 ml) kava rhizome tincture
4 teaspoons (20 ml) California poppy flowers tincture
2 teaspoons (10 ml) nettle leaf tincture
2 teaspoons (10 ml) hop flowers tincture
YIELD: 4 ounces (120 ml)
Combine all ingredients in a 4-ounce (120 ml) amber dropper bottle. Take 2 dropperfuls as needed.
TUMMY TENSION SALVE
Some of us hold all our stress and tension in our stomach. Using this salve topically will help alleviate the tightness held in the abdomen due to stress.
16 ounces (475 ml) olive oil
1/2 ounce (14 g) dried agrimony leaf
1/2 ounce (14 g) dried skullcap leaf
1/4 ounce (7 g) dried hop flowers
1 to 2 ounces (28 to 56 g) grated beeswax
YIELD: 16 ounces (475 ml)
Place oil and herbs in a slow cooker; turn heat to low and steep for 1 day. Strain and add beeswax. Stir until beeswax is melted, applying gentle heat if needed. Pour mixture into storage containers and let completely cool. Seal, label, and store in a cool, dark place. Apply as needed to abdomen to relieve stress held in the stomach or apply twice daily, morning and night.
ANXIETY RELEASE TINCTURE
Fear associated with nervousness is different from stress. It can lead to a sense of panic. This formula is focused on calming both the physical and mental aspects of anxiety.
2 tablespoons (30 ml) skullcap leaf tincture
4 teaspoons (20 ml) oat straw tincture
4 teaspoons (20 ml) California poppy tincture
2 teaspoons (10 ml) agrimony leaf tincture
4 teaspoons (20 ml) catnip leaf tincture
4 teaspoons (20 ml) celery seed tincture
YIELD: 4 ounces (120 ml)
Combine all ingredients in a 4-ounce (120 ml) amber dropper bottle. Take 2 dropperfuls as needed.
MONKEY MIND TEA
The monkey mind typically arises for me right as I lay down to sleep. Sometimes it’s first thing in the morning. Either of these times, I’d much rather be in a relaxed state instead of having my mind feeling as though it’s in the starting blocks of a race. This tea helps hush that monkey and get it back into its cage.
1 ounce (28 g) dried skullcap leaf
1/2 ounce (14 g) dried oat straw
1/2 ounce (14 g) dried lemon balm leaf
1 ounce (28 g) dried ginger root
YIELD: 3 ounces (84 g)
Combine all ingredients; store in a glass jar. To make a cup of tea, steep 1 to 2 teaspoons (1.5 to 3 g) per 1 cup (235 ml) of hot water for 8 to 10 minutes, as needed.
MORNING GIDDY UP CUP
Here’s a new alternative to the morning routine with natural pick-me-ups.
1 ounce (28 g) dried ginkgo leaf
1 ounce (28 g) dried chicory root roasted
1/2 ounce (14 g) dried licorice root
1/2 ounce (14 g) dried gotu kola leaf
1/2 ounce (14 g) dried maca root
YIELD: 4 ounces (112 g)
Combine all ingredients; store in a glass jar. Use 1 to 3 teaspoons (1.5 to 4.5 g) mixture per 1 cup (235 ml) of hot water. Let steep for 10 minutes; strain and drink.
CALM QUICK SHOT
This is an instant relaxer for when you are at home and ready to chill out.
3 tablespoons (45 ml) kava tincture
3 tablespoons (45 ml) oat straw tincture
3 tablespoons (45 ml) skullcap tincture
YIELD: 4 ounces (120 ml)
Combine ingredients in a 4-ounce (120 ml) bottle. Take as 1/2-ounce (14 ml) shot as needed.
BEDTIME SHUT DOWN TINCTURE
Say goodnight, as this blend is sure to help you fall asleep quicker than normal.
2 tablespoons (30 ml) hop flowers tincture
2 tablespoons (30 ml) hawthorn berries tincture
2 tablespoons (30 ml) skullcap tincture
2 tablespoons (30 ml) chamomile tincture
YIELD: 4 ounces (120 ml)
Combine all ingredients in a 4-ounce (120 ml) amber dropper bottle. Take 1 to 2 dropperfuls 30 minutes before bed and 1 dropperful as you slip between the covers.
BLADDER FREQUENCY, CYSTITIS, AND INTERSTITIAL CYSTITIS
Bladder issues can arise at almost any age and can be caused by a multitude of variances. Most arise from bladder irritation caused by diet, sex, muscle weakness, pregnancy, systemic pathologies (diabetes), medications, or hygiene failure. Some are triggered purely by emotional upset. I remember one young woman who complained of bladder frequency, irritation, and urgency with no infection. I asked her what she did for a living. She replied that she was a barista. I asked if she drank coffee. All day, was her reply. I recommended sticking to one cup and replacing coffee with water for the rest of the day. Within days, she was symptom free. Never underestimate the importance of examining your life and lifestyle choices when faced with new concerns.
TONE UP BLADDER SUPPORT TINCTURE
There are many times throughout our lives when our bladder isn’t as strong as we’d like it to be. Diet is important, but blame ligament laxity most of the time. This formula works to strengthen and tone the system.
2 tablespoons (30 ml) buchu tincture
2 tablespoons (30 ml) nettle leaf tincture
2 tablespoons (30 ml) red raspberry leaf tincture
2 tablespoons (30 ml) fenugreek tincture
YIELD: 4 ounces (120 ml)
Combine all ingredients in a 4-ounce (120 ml) amber dropper bottle. Take 1 dropperful 3 times per day for 6 to 8 weeks.
INTERSTITIAL CYSTITIS SUPPORT TINCTURE
This tincture is recommended for bladder frequency, pain, and urgency with no infection present.
2 tablespoons (30 ml) buchu tincture
2 tablespoons (30 ml) burdock seed tincture
4 teaspoons (20 ml) lady’s mantle tincture
4 teaspoons (20 ml) goldenrod tincture
2 teaspoons (10 ml) catnip tincture
2 teaspoons (10 ml) pipsissewa tincture
YIELD: 4 ounces (120 ml)
Combine all ingredients in a 4-ounce (120 ml) amber dropper bottle. Take 1 dropperful 3 times per day for 8 to 12 weeks.
CYSTITIS PREVENTATIVE TEA
Some women are more prone to bladder infections than others. This formula was created just for them, to keep the tract clean and encourage proper pH balance.
1 ounce (28 g) dried corn silk
1 ounce (28 g) dried dandelion leaf
1/2 ounce (14 g) dried nettle leaf
1/2 ounce (14 g) dried goldenrod leaf
1/2 ounce (14 g) dried cleavers leaf
2 ounces (56 g) dried peppermint leaf
YIELD: 6 ounces (168 g)
Make medicinal strength tea (see here); drink 3 cups per day for 8 weeks.
BLADDER SOOTHE TEA
Drink this formula at the first sign of bladder irritation to soothe the membranes.
2 ounces (56 g) dried marshmallow root
1 ounce (28 g) dried cleavers
1 ounce (28 g) dried chickweed
1 ounce (28 g) dried chamomile
1/2 ounce (14 g) dried lavender
YIELD: 6 ounces (168 g)
Combine all ingredients; store in a glass jar. For a cup of tea, steep 2 teaspoons (3 g) per 1 cup (235 ml) of hot water for 10 minutes.
ANTIBACTERIAL BLADDER SUPPORT TINCTURE
This is formulated for urinary tract infections but must be used with regular consistency to be effective. Try this formula at the first sign of possible infection in an attempt to nip it in the bud. If no improvement occurs or your symptoms worsen within 24 hours, seek professional care. Urinary tract infections need to be diagnosed and treated professionally. An untreated or worsening infection can be life-threatening.
11/2 tablespoons (25 ml) goldenseal tincture
4 teaspoons (20 ml) echinacea root tincture
4 teaspoons (20 ml) uva ursi tincture
4 teaspoons (20 ml) dandelion leaf tincture
1 tablespoon (15 ml) pipsissewa tincture
2 teaspoons (10 ml) Oregon grape root tincture
2 teaspoons (10 ml) cleavers tincture
YIELD: 4 ounces (120 ml)
Combine all ingredients in a 4-ounce (120 ml) amber dropper bottle. Take 2 dropperfuls every 3 hours for 3 to 5 days.
THYROID HEALTH
Thyroid health and the pathologies of it in the twenty-first century are extremely common and well known. Why are so many people affected worldwide? There are many theories, including the rise in autoimmunity. Autoimmunity occurs when healthy systems go awry. Healthy tissues are attacked by their own kind, which leads to a degradation in function. Some research points to genetics and environmental factors as the causes; others indicate processed and genetically modified food consumption. In my clinical experience, I’ve seen direct correlation between digestion health and thyroid function. Discuss the recipes below with your health care practitioner before administration if you are currently taking thyroid medications. Taking herbs that support the thyroid in conjunction with thyroid medication needs to be supervised so as to not overstimulate or depress thyroid function.
THYROID SUPPORT CAPSULES
This blend is for the normally operating thyroid; it provides key ingredients to optimize the gland’s health and function.
1 ounce (28 g) kelp powder
1/2 ounce (14 g) fennel seed powder
1/2 ounce (14 g) parsley leaf powder
1/2 ounce (14 g) barberry powder
1/2 ounce (14 g) cleavers powder
YIELD: 200 capsules
Combine all powders in a bowl. Use the mixture to fill empty vegetable capsules. Take 2 capsules once daily upon rising.
CALMING OVERACTIVITY TINCTURE
This tincture is used as a tonic to reduce a hyperactive thyroid and support overall function. Discuss with you practitioner before initiating.
1 tablespoon (15 ml) motherwort leaf tincture
1 tablespoon (15 ml) goldenseal root tincture
2 teaspoons (10 ml) bugleweed herb tincture
2 teaspoons (10 ml) black walnut hulls tincture
2 teaspoons (10 ml) lemon balm leaf tincture
YIELD: 2 ounces (60 ml)
Combine all ingredients in a 2-ounce (60 ml) amber dropper bottle. Take 10 drops 3 times per day for 8 to 12 weeks.
THYROID SUPPORT OIL
This oil is recommended for any dysfunction of the thyroid gland (or any gland for that matter) to relieve congestion and stagnation.
1 ounce (28 g) dried mullein leaf
1/3 ounce (9 g) dried lobelia leaf
1 to 2 cups (235 to 475 ml) olive oil
Sweet orange essential oil
YIELD: 11/2 cups (355 ml)
Preheat oven to 170°F (77°C). Place herbs in a glass baking dish and pour olive oil over them, making sure to leave 1 to 2 inches (3 to 5 cm) at the top. Bake for 4 hours, stirring occasionally. Allow to cool, and then strain into a storage container. Add sweet orange essential oil and mix well. Apply to neck at thyroid area each night before bed.
Lobelia
THYROID FATIGUE TINCTURE
My patients often share with me the extreme fatigue they experience on a daily basis. I visualize it as walking through knee-high mud all day. This formula was blended for them. Although it doesn’t specifically treat the thyroid, it supports the thyroid-adrenal axis to give them a bit of a boost while working to heal the underlying problem.
2 teaspoons (10 ml) spirulina tincture
1 teaspoon (5 ml) eleuthero root tincture
1 teaspoon (5 ml) alfalfa leaf tincture
1 teaspoon (5 ml) nettle leaf tincture
1 teaspoon (5 ml) licorice root tincture
YIELD: 1 ounce (28 ml)
Combine all ingredients in a 1-ounce (28 ml) amber dropper bottle. Take 1 to 2 dropperfuls when you need a pick-me-up.
CARDIAC HEALTH
As women, we often lead with our hearts—literally and figuratively. The need to care for our cardiac system is more evident than ever as heart disease rises. It is the number one-cause of death for women in America. Naturally, I believe our mental and spiritual health is equally as important as our physical health, and there should be practices in place to support both. Sometimes I lie down to bed and realize I haven’t taken a deep breath all day. Although the heart naturally pumps oxygen throughout our body, if we are holding our breath, that transport is greatly diminished. Start and end your day with ten full, deep breathes. Do them as you are waiting at stoplights or taking other pauses during your day. Whenever you can, remember this vital relationship between the lungs and heart. Place your hand over your heart to initiate a reconnection. In many acupuncture sessions, when I’ve needled a point over the heart, it has elicited great emotional release.
In Chinese medicine philosophy, the pericardium, the sheath that covers the heart, is considered the heart protector. It protects the heart by determining what will and will not be allowed in. As you can imagine, there is plenty that doesn’t make its way across the threshold and is held by the pericardium. We need to find ways to release this emotional and physical buildup. We can hold an enormous amount and often don’t ever release it.
HEART HEALTH TONIC TEA
This tea is a wonderful way to bring healing intention to the Empress of our body.
1 ounce (28 g) dried motherwort
1 ounce (28 g) dried hawthorn berry
1/2 ounce (14 g) dried hawthorn leaf and flower
1/2 ounce (14 g) dried ginger
1 ounce (28 g) dried hibiscus
1/2 ounce (14 g) dried rosehips
1/2 ounce (14 g) dried raspberry pieces
YIELD: 5 ounces (140 g)
Combine all ingredients; store in a glass jar. Make medicinal strength (see here) each evening; drink 3 cups per day for 8 to 12 weeks.
CIRCULATION SUPPORT TINCTURE
Supporting the circulation system means the heart doesn’t have to work quite as hard. By nourishing its vessels, you are nourishing your entire cardiac system.
2 teaspoons (10 ml) safflower tincture
2 teaspoons (10 ml) hawthorn berry tincture
1 teaspoon (5 ml) ginkgo leaf tincture
1 teaspoon (5 ml) maca tincture
1 dropperful cayenne tincture
YIELD: 1 ounce (28 ml)
Combine all ingredients in a 1-ounce (28 ml) amber dropper bottle. Take 1 dropperful twice daily.
Maca
HYPERHEART TINCTURE
Sometimes food, stress, or digestive upset can lead to heart palpitations, or a fluttering feeling in the heart. If you’ve been examined by your physician and all is well, yet you continue to experience these symptoms, this formula is worth a try.
2 teaspoons (10 ml) skullcap leaf tincture
2 teaspoons (10 ml) chamomile flower tincture
1 teaspoon (5 ml) catnip leaf tincture
1 teaspoon (5 ml) wild cherry bark tincture
YIELD: 1 ounce (28 ml)
Combine all ingredients in a 1-ounce (28 ml) amber dropper bottle. Take 1 to 2 dropperfuls as needed when you feel your heart picking up the pace.
