In Sense Botanicals

Adaptogens, Nature’s Ancient Answer to Modern Stress

Heather Hawkins — Mon, 11 Apr 2022 12:12:22 +0000

Adaptogens, Nature’s Ancient Answer to Modern Stress

I first discovered adaptogens in 2017-2018 and began taking Mucuna pruriens as well as Ashwagandha to help with the stress of being newly sober.

I had no clue how to operate in the world without self medicating, so adaptogens offered me a new chance at life. And some adaptogens are truly life changing – like Mucuna pruriens.

MUCUNA PRURIENS – MY FAVORITE ADAPTOGEN

Adaptogens are rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Adaptogens regulate cortisol levels which in turn calms anxiety and boosts your mood and energy levels – naturally.

One adaptogen in particular, called Mucuna Pruriens, contains L-dopa, a naturally occurring amino acid which is a precursor to dopamine, that feel good chemical in your brain.

Higher levels of dopamine are “linked to enhanced brain function, elevated mood and energy levels, and a more balanced nervous system,” writes Hallie Gould.

Modern life, with all of its conveniences, has a dark side: in our efforts to create ease and comfort we have created an artificial environment filled with stressors that assault us physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. We are exposed every day to a sea of toxic chemicals in our air, food, and water; this is coupled with intense time pressures and information overload at home and at work.

Excessive use of alcohol, nicotine, and recreational drugs, combined with the grow-ing use of prescription medications, adds to this load, further taxing our bodies to their limits.

On a daily basis our bodies are presented with a heavy burden of foreign substances to metabolize and eliminate. Not surprisingly, fatigue, minor illnesses, and chronic emo-tional stress are epidemic in our country, and can all be traced back to chronic stress. Meanwhile, beneath the surface, deeper and more serious problems can arise.

There’s no question that we have benefited from science and technology. But in the process we have lost our connection to Earth, to her natural rhythms, and most importantly to the ancient wisdom that for thousands of years has guided human beings in living in health and harmony with our internal and external environments,” Donald Yance writes in his book ADAPTOGENS IN MEDICAL HERBALISM.

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The word adaptogen refers to the nonspecific, endocrine- regulating, immune-modulating effects of certain plants that increase a person’s ability to maintain optimal balance in the face of physical or emotional stress. These botanical agents provide the perfect antidote for the life robbing deficiencies in vitality created by the demands of modern life.

Speciosa Powder Potentiators and Benefits

Heather Hawkins — Tue, 22 Mar 2022 00:38:07 +0000

Did you know you can boost your daily routine by adding potentiators into your mix?

It’s a fun way to add variety to your wellness regimen so you don’t get bored with taking the same things every day.

WHAT IS A POTENTIATOR?

A potentiator is a substance that is added to your tea which can help boost the effects so that you get a better kick, so to speak. Or, to put it another way, more bang for your buck. If that sounds like a great idea to you, then read on for instructions on what to use and how to use it.

Basically, it’s an amplifier that gives you double the effects!

TURMERIC

One of the best spices used in Ayurvedic medicine is Turmeric. “Known for its medicinal qualities, this super herb has many uses. Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is extensively used as a spice, food preservative and colouring material in India, China and Southeast Asia.

It has been used in traditional medicine as a household remedy for various diseases, including biliary disorders, anorexia, cough, diabetic wounds, hepatic disorders, rheumatism and sinusitis.

For the last few decades, extensive work has been done to establish the biological activities and pharmacological actions of turmeric and its extracts.

Curcumin, the main yellow bioactive component of turmeric has been shown to have a wide spectrum of biological actions. These include its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticarcinogenic, antimutagenic, anticoagulant, antifertility, antidiabetic, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and antiulcer activities. Its anti-cancer effect is mainly mediated through induction of apoptosis.

Clinically, curcumin has already been used to reduce post-operative inflammation. Safety evaluation studies indicate that both turmeric and curcumin are well tolerated at a very high dose without any toxic effects. Thus, both turmeric and curcumin have the potential for the development of modern medicine for the treatment of various diseases,” says Ranajit K. Banerjee, the lead author of a research paper on Turmeric.

According to Everyday Health:

Like many spices, turmeric (Curcuma longa) has a long history of use in traditional medicine. This flavor-filled spice is primarily cultivated from the rhizomes, or roots, of a flowering plant in India and other parts of Southeast Asia, and aside from giving curry its vibrant yellow color, turmeric is also known for having potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, according to a past review.

The primary active component of turmeric — and the one that gives the spice its characteristic yellow color — is curcumin. In fact, you can credit curcumin as the compound responsible for most of turmeric’s potential health benefits.

So, what makes Turmeric go hand in hand with speciosa tea?

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Turmeric slows down the absorption of the alkaloids in your favorite cup of Asian tea. This enables it to have “longer legs” meaning it sticks around longer in your system.

In addition to Turmeric, people also use grapefruit juice or orange juice.

What’s your favorite way to potentiate? Let us know in the comments below!

Moringa Benefits for Modern Stress

Heather Hawkins — Wed, 16 Mar 2022 00:24:20 +0000

If you’re like the rest of society, you’re constantly on the go and over committed, which leaves very little room for eating healthy.

Additionally, standard agriculture nowadays has very little to offer in the way of minerals and nutrients due to depleted soils. (You can thank pesticides such as Roundup for that.)

Do your mind and body a favor and make a commitment to adding in herbal supplements such as Speciosa tea and Moringa.

WHAT IS MORINGA?

Moringa oleifera has been praised for its health benefits for thousands of years.

It is very rich in healthy antioxidants and bioactive plant compounds. So far, scientists have only investigated a fraction of the many reputed health benefits.

Below, Healthline outlines various health benefits of Moringa oleifera

“Moringa oleifera is a fairly large tree native to North India. It goes by a variety of names, such as drumstick tree, horseradish tree or ben oil tree. Almost all parts of the tree are eaten or used as ingredients in traditional herbal medicines. This especially applies to the leaves and pods, which are commonly eaten in parts of India and Africa.

In Western countries, the dried leaves are sold as dietary supplements, either in powder or capsule form.

Compared to the leaves, the pods are generally lower in vitamins and minerals. However, they are exceptionally rich in vitamin C. One cup of fresh, sliced pods (100 grams) contains 157% of your daily requirement.

The diet of people in developing nations sometimes lacks vitamins, minerals and protein. In these countries, Moringa oleifera can be an important source of many essential nutrients.”

Moringa oleifera is rich in antioxidants

“Antioxidants are compounds that act against free radicals in your body.

High levels of free radicals may cause oxidative stress, which is associated with chronic diseases like heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

Several antioxidant plant compounds have been found in the leaves of Moringa oleifera.”

In addition to vitamin C and beta-carotene, these include:

Quercetin: This powerful antioxidant may help lower blood pressure.

Chlorogenic acid: Also found in high amounts in coffee, chlorogenic acid may help moderate blood sugar levels after meals.”

Together with Mitragyna speciosa, Moringa can give your body that extra boost of energy it needs!

Meet Mucuna, the Mood Boosting Bean that’s Better than Coffee

Heather Hawkins — Thu, 10 Mar 2022 02:09:14 +0000

Brain health is rarely discussed in terms of diet. Usually we eat what we think will be healthy in terms of keeping a trim waist, amirite?

But if we want to fuel our brains for a tough day when we really need to be at the top of our game, we have to feed our brains, too!

Mucuna pruriens is an excellent tool for supporting your healthy lifestyle and brain health!

Mucuna pruriens is a prevalent Ayurvedic herbal adaptogen also known as velvet bean.

It is also well identified for its wide range of unifying, strengthening and all around constructive properties such as increasing brain power, calming the nerves and uplifting the mood. Perhaps it is best known as a potent herbal aphrodisiac.

“It is also considered as of the most beneficial herbs for normalizing the Vata dosha. In other words, it is a great herb for calming the nervous system and deeply nourishes tissues and fluids of the body. It is one of the rare Ayurvedic herbs that balances all three doshas or body types Vata, Pitta and Kapha,” says Dr. Krishna Maddikera.

The tropical climbing legume Mucuna pruriens is an ancient healing ally known for its wide range of tonifying, strengthening, and long lasting mood and health balancing gifts. The seed of Mucuna, commonly known in the west as velvet beans or cowhage, is an important herb in the ancient Indian Ayurvedic system of medicine and Unani Tibb (Greco-Arabic) medicine, and has been worked with medicinally for at least 2000 years.

Both traditional use and modern research and applications share of its multi-diversified functions in the management of Parkinson’s disease, increasing dopamine levels in the body naturally, aiding in addiction issues, promoting fertility in both men and women, increasing strength, endurance and energy, and as a nootropic (an herb that gives broad cognitive benefits to the human brain. )

Some direct applications for Mucuna are to help protect humans from free radical mediated diseases, atherosclerosis, nervous system disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, depression and much more. Mucuna has been successfully worked with as a companion and cover crop and a nitrogen fixing soil builder across the globe.

It has a long tradition as an amulet herb and of ceremonial and ritual usage in several different indigenous cultures.

There is a modern day resurgence of interest in Mucuna for helping people with chronic disease, dopamine deficiency depression, infertility and addiction issues. It’s important to note that Mucuna is big medicine, containing l-dopa (the precursor to dopamine) and has a potent effect on our entire physiology.

Mucuna pruriens is also an antioxidant and contains serotonin which supports digestive wellness and a sunny mood,” writes The Alchemist’s Kitchen.

Cat’s Claw Benefits

Heather Hawkins — Wed, 23 Feb 2022 22:59:27 +0000

Cat’s Claw Health Benefits

Cat’s Claw, aka Uncaria tomentosa has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Molly Helfend over at House of Citrine writes:

“Sacred herb of the Rain Forest. Life-giving vine of Peru. Uña de gato. These are all names used to describe the medicinal tropical vine known in western cultures as Cat’s Claw.

Like kratom, Cat’s Claw is a member of the Rubiaceae family.

Cat’s Claw is a sacred plant traditionally used in Peruvian cultural medicine and more recently introduced into western herbalists’ armamentarium. Not much research has been done on this herb, but what has been found is astronomical. “Research has shown the plant contains immune stimulating alkaloids, which also enhance the parasympathetic nervous system” (Horne, 2010).

In simpler terms, it is an immune stimulating powerhouse that been proven to help eliminate free radicals that cause cellular damage. It curatively inhibits cancer growth and improves DNA repair. Some say, it works better than medicinal mushrooms!

According to indigenous Shamans, uña de gato serves as a bridge and balancer between the physical and spiritual worlds, which is helpful to health problems since they believe in spiritual causes of bad health” (Draxe, 2016).

Washing a tincture down with water or any other preparation with lemon juice or apple cider vinegar is key to allowing the magic to permeate into the jungle of your soma and soul.

Molly’s “Superherb” Savory Chocolate Delight

1 cup Yerba Mate
2 tbs Cacao Powder
1 tbs Tocos
1 tbs Cat’s Claw
1 tbs Tigernuts
1 tbs Maca
1 tsp Chrawnaprash
1 tsp Vanilla Powder
Splash of Raw Coconut Milk

*Optional* – Dash of Peppermint Essential Oil

Steep 1 cup of Yerba Mate in boiling water for suggested time. If Cat’s Claw is in dried bulk form, steep in 1 cup of boiling water for about 10 to 15 minutes. (If it is in tincture or liquid extract, please put suggested amount directly into the blender). Once ready, pour both steeped teas into the blender with the cacao powder, tocos, tigernuts, maca, chrawnaprash and vanilla powder. Blend until smooth. Pour into mug or glass jar and add a splash of coconut milk. Enjoy!

It’s also been used in South American folk medicine to treat arthritis, intestinal complaints and wounds.

One of the most impressive effects of cat’s claw is its scientifically proven ability to repair DNA.

WHAT IS CAT’S CLAW USED FOR?

ARTHRITIS – CAT’S CLAW BENEFITS

The most common use of Cat’s Claw is for pain associated with arthritis.

“Multiple studies have confirmed using cat’s claw to naturally improve both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. In a 2001 study, 45 subjects suffering from osteoarthritis of the knee either took 100 milligrams per day of freeze-dried cat’s claw or a placebo for four weeks. Researchers found that “pain associated with activity, medical and patient assessment scores were all significantly reduced with benefits occurring within the first week of therapy.” Knee pain at rest or at night and knee circumference were not significantly reduced by cat’s claw during the short trial, but results led researchers to conclude that cat’s claw is an effective treatment for osteoarthritis with no significant side effects.”

BLOOD PRESSURE – CAT’S CLAW BENEFITS

Cat’s claw’s ability to improve blood pressure has been attributed to an alkaloid called hirsutine. This health-promoting alkaloid has been found to specifically act at the calcium channels of the heart and blood vessels as a calcium channel blocker.

Why is this significant?

Calcium channel blockers can lower blood pressure by blocking calcium from entering the cells of the heart and blood vessel walls. Calcium channel blockers also widen and relax the blood vessels themselves, which helps blood flow in a healthy, smooth manner.

CAT’S CLAW FOR IMMUNE FUNCTION

Both animal and human studies have demonstrated cat claw’s powerful immune-boosting abilities. In one animal study, researchers gave subjects a water-soluble extract of cat’s claw (Uncaria tomentosa) for eight weeks. They found that this supplementation significantly elevated subjects’ infection-fighting white blood cell count. Researchers also observed a repair of DNA, both single and double strand breaks. These two highly impressive findings came with no signs of acute or chronic toxicity in the animal subjects.

Another human study had adults supplement with cat’s claw for two months before receiving pneumonia vaccination. The results showed “statistically significant immune enhancement” in the individuals taking the cat’s claw supplements compared to the untreated control group.

How to Use Cat’s Claw

The traditional use of cat’s claw was to make a tea from the inner bark of the vine.

HISTORICAL USAGE OF CAT’S CLAW

Cat’s claw is also called the “life-giving vine of Peru.” Its use for health purposes actually dates back to the ancient Inca civilization in Peru. Cat’s claw or uña de gato is also the most sacred herb among the Ashaninkas, Campo and other Amazonian tribes. According to indigenous Shamans, uña de gato serves as a bridge and balancer between the physical and spiritual worlds, which is helpful to health problems since they believe in spiritual causes of bad health.

Today, ethically harvested cat’s claw bark continues to be a significant source of income for many Peruvian and Brazilian villages.

Possible Side Effects and Caution with Cat’s Claw

Cat’s claw is generally well-tolerated by users and considered non-toxic. Few side effects have been reported when it’s taken in small amounts, but some people taking the herb have reported dizziness, nausea and diarrhea. However, diarrhea or loose stools are typically mild and subside with continued use of the herb.

Talk to your doctor before taking cat’s claw if you currently take any medication because cat’s claw is known to interact with several medications, including high blood pressure and immune-modulating drugs. Also, talk to your doctor first if you have any ongoing health concerns, especially any type of autoimmune illness (like multiple sclerosis and lupus), bleeding disorder, low blood pressure or leukemia.

This article was adapted from an original article on Cat’s Claw. The original piece in its entirety can be found here.

Adaptogens, Nature’s Ancient Answer to Modern Stress

Heather Hawkins — Tue, 22 Feb 2022 23:15:11 +0000

Adaptogens

I first discovered adaptogens in 2017-2018 and began taking Mucuna pruriens as well as Ashwagandha to help with the stress of being newly sober. I had no clue how to operate in the world without self medicating, so adaptogens offered me a new chance at life. And some adaptogens are truly life changing – like Mucuna pruriens.

MUCUNA PRURIENS – MY FAVORITE ADAPTOGEN

Adaptogens are rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Adaptogens regulate cortisol levels which in turn calms anxiety and boosts your mood and energy levels – naturally.

One adaptogen in particular, called Mucuna Pruriens, contains L-dopa, a naturally occurring amino acid which is a precursor to dopamine, that feel good chemical in your brain.

Higher levels of dopamine are “linked to enhanced brain function, elevated mood and energy levels, and a more balanced nervous system,” writes Hallie Gould.

Excessive use of alcohol, nicotine, and recreational drugs, combined with the grow-ing use of prescription medications, adds to this load, further taxing our bodies to their limits.

The word adaptogen refers to the nonspecific, endocrine- regulating, immune-modulating effects of certain plants that increase a person’s ability to maintain optimal balance in the face of physical or emotional stress. These botanical agents provide the perfect antidote for the life robbing deficiencies in vitality created by the demands of modern life.

Shilajit Benefits

Heather Hawkins — Wed, 16 Feb 2022 08:54:03 +0000

SHILIJIT BENEFITS, WHAT IT IS AND WHAT IT DOES

Shiliajit has become more popular over the past few years and for good reason. As the authors of a review called the Therapeutic Potential of Fulvic Acid in Chronic Inflammatory Diseases and Diabetes, noted, “Chronic inflammatory diseases like diabetes are on a rise in the Western world. Based on the tsunami of new cases every year, new therapeutic measures must be considered.

A promising avenue might involve the attenuation of underlying inflammation through natural health products (NHPs). This is because most NHPs have a rich history in traditional medicine and might be considered safer under appropriate doses and conditions.”

SHILAJIT IS RICH IN FULVIC ACID

The same review went on to write, “Fulvic acid (FvA), one such NHP, comes from humic substances produced by microorganisms in soil. Traditional medicine and modern research claim FvA can modulate the immune system, influence the oxidative state of cells, and improve gastrointestinal function; all of which are hallmarks of diabetes.”

HOW HUMANS DISCOVERED SHILAJIT

While researching Shilajit benefits, I came across a really interesting story (with citations) about how humans came to discover it and it’s really fascinating, so I’d love to share it with you. It comes from the students at the California College of Ayurveda. Shilajit is a “thick, blackish-brown, sticky substance made from plants and organic matter that have been trapped by many layers of rocks over millions of years in the areas surrounding India, China, Tibet, Nepal, Pakistan, Central Asia and Scandinavia. First “discovered by Himalayan villagers, they would observe large white monkeys gather and journey to the mountain tops each summer. The monkeys were frequently seen eating a soft, black substance that the villagers eventually realized came from the Himalaya Mountains. The villagers then started consuming this organic matter. It didn’t take long for them to realize Shilajit’s amazing healing powers of both physical and mental health, as well as increased muscle and bone strength and the potential of increased longevity. The extreme variations of hot and cold weather combined with the massive pressure from the weight of the mountains creates the mineral rich matter to flow out of the rocks. In some areas, foot-long scorpions will sting the rocks and the poison that is dispersed causes the shilajit to flow out of the rocks.

HOW SHILAJIT IMPROVES CHRONIC FATIGUE SYMPTOMS

According to the International Journal of Alzheimer’s, “researchers hypothesize that Shilajit is produced by the decomposition of plant material from species such as Euphorbia royleana and Trifolium repens. This decomposition seems to occur through centuries, and on this basis, shilajit is considered a millenary product of nature.”

According to Healthline, “It can function as an antioxidant to improve your body’s immunity and memory, an anti-inflammatory, an energy booster, and a diuretic to remove excess fluid from your body.”

The most interesting information I found came from Dr. Axe, a leading authority on nutrition and health. He states that Shilajit can provide both energy and relaxation!

“One way shilajit helps provide the body with energy is the way it increases the function of mitochondria within the body. Mitochondria are organelles that serve as the “power source” of cells in the body because they convert oxygen and nutrients into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the substance that actually powers body cells. Shilajit encourages the function of mitochondria, helping them oxygenate more efficiently. Not only does it help mitochondrial function on its own, but it’s been found to create a powerful effect on mitochondrial oxygenation when combined with supplemented CoQ10, an antioxidant naturally found in all human cells. As this substance helps increase the production of ATP, it increases overall energy and stamina. In fact, it’s commonly used to enhance athletic performance. Chronic fatigue syndrome, a disorder classified by at least six months of inescapable fatigue, has been successfully treated with shilajit supplementation, also evidenced by the way it enhances mitochondrial function,” writes Dr. Axe.

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The Waiting Room: How Modern American Medicine Has Failed Us

Heather Hawkins — Fri, 11 Feb 2022 12:59:58 +0000

According to recent surveys, most people drink Speciosa tea because they were cut off of their pain medication or lack health insurance. Or, they are unemployed, or fighting for disability which can take years, if they get approved at all. Regulatory agencies and law enforcement should not be making medical decisions for millions of Americans who are suffering from chronic pain, depression or other conditions.

“Something is wrong when regulatory agencies pretend that vitamins [and herbal remedies] are dangerous, yet ignore published statistics showing that government-sanctioned medicine is the real hazard,” states author Gary Null in his book, “Death by Prescription.”

Comments about herbal medicine range from “Medical Marijuana is a Joke” by former DEA head Chuck Rosenberg to Scott Gotlieb’s erroneous statements about kratom reveal that the government should not be involved in health care.

For example. one cannot get a prescription for a drug without first seeing a physician IN PERSON. By that logic, neither should regulatory agencies and law enforcement make medical decisions for people they have no history with and with whom they’ve never spoken.

They are making blanket decisions that harm our health.

Emergency room physician Ed Boyer’s statement regarding using kratom to treat opioid withdrawal made sweeping assumptions about the people who are taking kratom, saying that, “Providing something that you can just walk into a head shop and purchase … you eliminate getting true professional help.”

Another statement made by FDA spokesperson more recently:

“As our nation struggles with epidemic levels of opioid abuse, we should be doing everything possible to ensure that those suffering with addiction have access to FDA-approved medicines and appropriate treatment options; not unregulated substances bought and sold over the internet,” said FDA spokeswoman Katherine Pfaff

These statements make erroneous assumptions that people have access to the following :

Steady employment with health benefits
The ability to take time off once a month to go to the doctor
Transportation
Gas money or bus money
The desire to take synthetic pharmaceutical drugs in the first place

Now I’m going to speak for not just myself but for the hundreds of people I’ve spoken to over the past two years. Most of us take kratom because we were CUT OFF from our pain medications. In my case, the DEA decided, without speaking to me or anyone else, that Tramadol should be scheduled, citing “potential for abuse.”

On August 18th, 2014, the Drug Enforcement Administration scheduled Tramadol as a Schedule IV substance. And that wasn’t the first time they busted into the lives of people who were dependent on pain medication that WORKED FOR THEM. Before that, the FDA discontinued Darvacet, a mild pain killer which I was on for pain.

I was taking Darvacet and they took that away. Later I was prescribed Tramadol and then they took that away. And now they want to take the only affordable option we have away. It could be regulated which would be ideal but they don’t seem to be headed in that direction. I had to go through hell just to even get the Tramadol. All I was trying to do was live a normal life and to do that I had to be able to function. In 2012 I had gone back to college in an attempt to get my life back together after years of pain and depression had stolen any semblance of a normal life.

Over a period of two weeks I went to the ER three times before anyone would take me seriously. I was judged. I was condescended to. I was placed on steroids despite the fact that I told the ER physician that I could not take them due to having been diagnosed with bipolar disorder.

Finally, on the third trip, I was taken seriously when a doctor actually listened to me and ordered an MRI which revealed the cause of my pain. When my chiropractor saw the MRI, he said, “It looks like you’re screwed.” The MRI revealed a herniated disc, two pinched nerves (one on the right side of my neck and the other on my left) cervical osteoarthritis, degenerative disc disease and bursitis.

I was given a ten day supply of Lortab and sent home and told to see my family physician.

When I went to see my GP, he gave me a prescription for 4 tramadol a day and that amount worked great. Nothing more, nothing less. But when I could no longer afford to pay $125 a visit plus $30 a month for my meds, I had to go to the county clinic where I would sit – all. day. long. Just to get a reduced amount of Tramadol because “they weren’t allowed to prescribe more than that.”

So, I ran out early, of course, because there was no point in only taking two a day. It didn’t work. Then I was accused of “drug seeking.” That’s when I found kratom. But I couldn’t afford that either because I was getting it from a head shop in Pensacola that charged $30 for 15g. When I would run out, I never had withdrawal symptoms. Not like I did with synthetic pharmaceuticals.

Then they put me on several drugs such as Gabapentin, Elavil, Trazodone, Zoloft and Topamax. I had to take FIVE drugs instead of ONE and ended up in the ER with serotonin syndrome and nearly died. If that wasn’t enough, I was later diagnosed with Interstitial Cystitis, an excruciatingly painful disease that impacts the person’s quality of life about the same as having cancer. Also, IC causes extreme psychological distress.

After a while of being on those drugs, I could no longer function at all. I couldn’t get out of bed. I couldn’t think and I lost my memory. I also had two failed surgeries.

I’d had enough of being in the Waiting Room. My whole life revolved around going to doctors. None of them listened and the one who did said, “I’m sorry, I’m not allowed to prescribe that.” So I went on Facebook determined to find a way to learn how to buy kratom that didn’t cost an arm and a leg and that’s when I found the American Kratom Association‘s Facebook page and learned everything there was to know about this fascinating plant.

And so, here we are now. Fighting yet again for “permission” to treat our own health. For permission from regulatory agencies and law enforcement agencies who are not medical professionals and have no business treating individuals with whom they have no relationship. This has been going on since at least the 17th century when my ancestor Nicholas Culpeper, the famous herbalist, fought for medical freedom.

It is time for this nonsense to end.

I will not spend the rest of my life in a doctor’s waiting room. I want to go out and LIVE and if I have to leave the country to do that, then that’s exactly what I’ll do. Unless the regulatory agencies decide I can’t do that either since they seem hell bent on ruining any shred of dignity and happiness chronic pain patients find.

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Shilajit Benefits

Heather Hawkins — Tue, 18 Jan 2022 15:19:54 +0000

Are you looking for a natural supplement to help boost mood, strengthen the immune system and give you a general feeling over overall wellbeing? Have you heard of Shilajit? What are the benefits of this ancient substance and how is it used? Read on to learn more.

“Shilajit is a sticky substance found primarily in the rocks of the Himalayas. It develops over centuries from the slow decomposition of plants. Shilajit is commonly used in ayurvedic medicine. It’s an effective and safe supplement that can have a positive effect on your overall health and well-being,” according to Healthline.

Shilajit is thought to form, in part, when certain plants decompose. It contains an important compound known as fulvic acid and is rich in minerals. Shilajit is one of many herb and mineral formulations (Rasaoushadhies) used in Ayurveda, a healing system that originated thousands of years ago in India. Shilajit has been used in traditional herbal medicine to treat a wide variety of conditions, ranging from bone fractures to impotence. Shilajit is available as a dietary supplement.

According to the International Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, “Shilajit is a natural substance found mainly in the Himalayas, formed for centuries by the gradual decomposition of certain plants by the action of microorganisms. It is a potent and very safe dietary supplement, restoring the energetic balance and potentially able to prevent several diseases. Recent investigations point to an interesting medical application toward the control of cognitive disorders associated with aging, and cognitive stimulation. Thus, fulvic acid, the main active principle, blocks tau self-aggregation, opening an avenue toward the study of Alzheimer’s therapy. In essence, this is a nutraceutical product of demonstrated benefits for human health. Considering the expected impact of shilajit usage in the medical field, especially in the neurological sciences, more investigations at the basic biological level as well as clinical trials are necessary, in order to understand how organic molecules of shilajit and particularly fulvic acid, one of the active principles, and oligoelements act at both the molecular and cellular levels and in the whole organism.”

Shilajit has strong cognitive and memory benefits,” Elizabeth Dorow, an herbalist, reports in an article in Men’s Health.

“Research is beginning to support shilajit’s potential to prevent several diseases, with a primary application in the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease. In addition to its cognitive benefits, a study by the Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine states that “shilajit, an Ayurvedic formulation, is safe for long term use as a dietary supplement for a number of disorders like iron deficiency anaemia.”

Ten potential benefits of shilajit

When it is used correctly, shilajit may have several benefits for the body. This may be due in part to the high concentration of fulvic and humic acids, as well as many minerals.

Here are ten benefits of using Shilajit according to Medical News Today:

1. Brain function

The numerous compounds found in shilajit may be helpful for brain function, and may even aid Alzheimer’s therapy.

A study in the International Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease noted that shilajit is traditionally used for longevity and to slow aging. The compounds in it may help control cognitive disorders, such as Alzheimer’s.

Researchers expect shilajit to have an impact in preventing cognitive disorders, but more research is needed to explore these possibilities.

2. Aging

One study noted that fulvic acid, one of the key compounds in shilajit, acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound. As such, it may help reduce free radicals and cellular damage in the body, which are two key factors in aging.

Daily supplementation of shilajit may contribute to overall vitality and a slower aging process in some people.

3. Anemia

Anemia develops when the blood does not have enough healthy cells or hemoglobin. There are many causes of anemia, including iron deficiency.

Iron deficiency anemia can cause numerous symptoms in the body, including:

irregular heartbeat
fatigue and weakness
cold hands and feet
headache

Shilajit contains high levels of humic acid and iron, which may be helpful in treating iron deficiency anemia. It is important to explore this option with a doctor before taking supplements, however.

4. Antiviral

The wide range of minerals and compounds found in shilajit may also help fight off viruses. A research study noted that shilajit could fight off and kill many different viruses in isolated environments, including some herpes viruses.

Researchers commented that while it does appear to be effective, more studies carried out with live subjects are needed to back up these claims.

5. Chronic fatigue

A 2012 study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that shilajit helped reduce symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome in test subjects.

Researchers noted that shilajit might help improve cell functions in the body, which means it may reduce fatigue at the source of the problem and increase energy levels naturally.

6. Altitude sickness

One of the claims made by traditional practitioners is that shilajit can help alleviate altitude sickness. The changes in pressure at high altitudes can greatly affect some people. Symptoms of altitude sickness range from body pain and fatigue to lung congestion and low oxygen in the brain.

Shilajit is a complex substance that contains more than 80 different minerals, as well as fulvic acid and humic acid. Because of this broad spectrum of beneficial components, shilajit is thought to help reduce many symptoms of altitude sickness.

It may help improve the brain’s cognitive processes, boost the immune system, and reduce inflammation, all of which could lessen altitude sickness.

7. Liver cancer

Shilajit also shows promise in fighting against certain types of cancer cells. One study found that shilajit helped force the destruction of cancerous cells in the liver.

It also stopped these cancer cells from multiplying. Researchers noted that their results show that shilajit has an anti-cancer effect, but more studies are needed.

8. Heart health

Shilajit may also protect the heart and improve heart health. A recent study using rats noted the protective effects shilajit has on the heart.

Animals who were treated with shilajit prior to cardiac injury had less damage to the heart than those who were not given shilajit.

It is important to note that shilajit may reduce blood pressure in some cases and should not be taken by anyone who has an active heart condition.

9. Obesity

Carrying extra weight can tire the muscles and put stress on the bones. A study in the Journal of Medicinal FoodTrusted Source noted that people who were obese who took an oral supplement of purified shilajit responded better to exercise than those who did not.

Researchers noted that the shilajit seemed to activate genes in the body that helped the skeletal muscles quickly adapt to the new workout. This could mean less fatigue and more strength over time.

10. Male fertility and testosterone

Shilajit has also been studied to increase male fertility. One studygave 60 infertile men shilajit twice a day for 90 days.

After the test period, almost half of the men who completed the treatment showed an increase in total sperm count and sperm motility, or how many and how well the sperm move towards the egg, both of which are factors in male fertility,

Another study looked at the ability of shilajit to increase testosterone levels in healthy volunteers. Men between 45 and 55 years old were given shilajit for 90 days. At the end of this period, researchers noted significant increases in the levels of total testosterone.

PURCHASE SHILAJIT FROM IN SENSE BOTANICALS

California Poppy Benefits

Heather Hawkins — Fri, 07 Jan 2022 21:34:19 +0000

California Poppy Benefits

California poppy is a beneficial plant used to support healthy sleep patterns and assist with anxiety.

Found in many herbal tinctures available on the herbal market today, this herbal is sure to help you get the rest you need.

According to Health Benefits Times, “California poppy is a perennial or annual plant that grows about 5–60 in (13–152 cm) tall. The plant is found growing in open, well drained areas, in grasslands in deserts, and from valleys to foothills. The plant normally thrives well even in sandy, poor soils, with proper drainage. Plant has alternately branching glaucous blue-green foliage. The leaves are alternately divided into round, lobed segments. The bright yellow-to-orange flowers are solitary, axillary and long-pedicled. They are 2.5 to 4 cm in diameter with a cup-shaped receptacle. The sepals are fused. Four crenate petals, orange-red at the base, form an open dish. The stigma is thread-like. There are numerous yellow stamens. Flower color ranges from yellow to orange, with flowering from February to September. The petals close at night or in cold, windy weather and open again the following morning, although they may remain closed in cloudy or rainy weather.”

“The California poppy (Eschscholzia californica) is a flower that belongs to the Papaveraceae or poppy plant family. It’s the state flower of California but grows in many other U.S. states, including Arizona, as well as in Northern Mexico,” according to Healthline.

“California poppy is very useful for soothing nervous tension, anxiety, difficulty sleeping, and even bedwetting due to the plant’s ability to help normalize psychological function (Chevallier, 2000). Gentle enough to use on children, this poppy does not produce a narcotic effect.

Use California poppy anytime that an antispasmodic is needed, like in cases of colic (Hoffmann, 2003). California poppy may also be deeply beneficial for those that suffer from pain, as it can ease pain, and is non-addictive” (Chevallier, 2000) according to Herbal Academy.

If you’re looking for a mild herbal remedy to assist with sleep and anxiety, check out In Sense Botanicals California Poppy collection today.