The Top 3 Herbs You Should Have

Ganoderma Lucidum, courtesy of Wikipedia

Herbal supplements often make the news, and the big splash back in November about many supplements not being what they seem was something natural medicine practitioners have been aware of for some time - that manufacturer makes a BIG difference.  Herbs and supplements can be of amazing benefit to your health IF you take the right ones, in the right dosages from the right manufacturers.  This is one of the number one reasons you should consult with an Acupuncturist, Nutritionist or Naturopath to make sure you are getting the best herbal supplements and that your brand choice is safe and reliable.

I myself don’t let a day go by without taking herbs and supplements.  As a busy mom of two, a business owner, and a caregiver for my mom who lives with us, I have to keep my nutrition tip top to be able to care for my family.  Being so busy, however, I often eat on the go due to my responsibilities.  Ever seen “A Christmas Story” with the scene around dinner where the mom is feeding everyone and can’t get to  the table herself for a hot meal?  Yeah, that’s me.  

Herbs and supplements are my insurance policy so that even when my dietary choices aren’t on par due to time and circumstance, my body is still getting the nutrients it needs to stay healthy and strong.  When my dietary choices are on par, herbs and supplements are an important piece of my preventative medicine plan.

I take a moderate list of things - multivitamin, fish oil, B complex, vitamin D, probiotics, green food supplement and a Reishi Mushroom complex.  I recommend a similar combination for all my patients as part of my All Ways Wellness program, but I know this quantity feels like a lot to some people.  That’s why I wanted to share the top 3 herbal supplement I believe can make a significant difference in your health.

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The Top 3 Herbs You Should Have Right Now:

1. Vitamin D - while not strictly an herb, per se, it is an essential vitamin that enhances immunity and decreases cancer risk.  Yes, if you live in a sunny climate and expose 80% of your body to the sun for at least 30 minutes between the hours of 11am and 2pm you are probably generating enough vitamin D to meet your body’s needs.  Here in the Pacific Northwest none of that is happening in the fall or winter months so we must supplement.  2,000 IU a day is recommended, 4,000 IU if you are pregnant or nursing.  My preferred brands are Biotics D-Mulsion Forte and Seroyal D-Mulsion 1,000.  Both of these are liquid and provide 1,000 IU of vitamin D per drop.  A small $20 vial will last you 6-12 months depending on your intake level.  It is pure, easily absorbed and the Seroyal brand even tastes like a creamsicle!  Available in office or online via my Virtual Dispensary.
2. Reishi Mushroom  - Called Ling Zhi in Chinese herbal medicine, Reishi has long been hailed as a longevity herb.  It is used as a general health tonic, and has a special focus on stress, anxiety and sleep.  I honestly consider it to be one of the best herbal supplements you can take.  Western research shows that it has a mild diuretic action which can decrease blood pressure as well - never a bad thing in our hectic modern world.  My preferred brand is People’s Herbs.  They grow many of their herbs themselves here in the U.S., and what they don’t grow the source from very pure, high quality organic sources.  Available in office or for drop shipment if you order through me via email.
3. Isatis Root - This herb, known as Ban Lan Gen in Chinese herbal medicine, is an anti-viral.  It’s used for colds and flus and has an anti-cancer application in high doses as well.  It is rarely found alone, usually it is combined in a formula for colds and flus, but something with a high Ban Lan Gen content should always be kept in the medicine cabinet.  If someone is sick around you - start taking it.  If you get a tickle in your throat - start taking it. A Ban Lan Gen infusion is even safe for children.  My favorite combinations are Ban Lan Gen Chong Ji, a Chinese instant drink which has been around for ages, and Ilex 15 by Seven Forests which is a pill formula for colds and flus made here in Portland.  Formulated by an alumni of my alma matter, Seven Forests has excellent purity of ingredients.  Available in office or can be drop shipped if you order through me via email.

These are my top three herbal supplement tips.  Vitamin D for immunity, Reishi for health and longevity, Isatis for anti-viral cold and flu prevention.  For the best most personalized recommendations, you should always see a provider, but if all you do is adopt these three additions to your regime this year I guarantee you will improve your sleep, energy and immunity towards a happier and healthier 2014.

Until next time,

~Rebecca