The genus Sambucus numbers some thirty species distributed throught the world. It is a very propular medicininal plant and has been since ancient times. The elder tree has been known as a medicine chest in its own right with all parts of this amazing plant being used. This herb that assists the human body from head to toe and has a long standing presence in Herbalism. Shakespeare makes reference to the elder tree in Cymbeline. And in medieval times the tree was a traditional symbol for mourning and green branches were commonly seen at grave sites during this time. Elder berry has been shown to be very useful for colds and flus and has been shown in clinical studies to strengthen cell membranes which protects against viral penetration. Furthermore, elder berry was shown to be effective against 10 strains of the influenza virus. It also reduced the duration of flu symptoms to 3 to 4 days in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized study. Parts Used: Berries, flowers, (leaves, bark, inner bark, root – may contain some toxic principles, do not self-dose) Family: Adoxaceae Actions: Anti-Inflammatory Diaphoretic Laxative Diuretic (flowers) Anti-Rheumatic Anti-Viral Alterative Emollient Astringent Nutritive – Contains Vitamin A, C, Calcium, Potassium, and Iron Antiseptic Mild Laxative Cooling (Flower) Slightly Blood Thinning (Flower) Soothing (Flower) Stimulating (Flower) Slightly Tonic (Flower) Anti-fungal (Leaves/Topical only) Blood Building (Berries) Chemical Constituents: Flavonoids (anti-inflammatory, immune stimulating) - Rutin and Quercetin (Flowers) Triterpenes Volatile oils Sterols Tannins (Flowers) Mucilage (Berries and Flowers) Pectin Sugars Phenolic compounds Anthocyanins (Berry) Vit A, B, and C, Iron, Sugars What are its uses?Head, Ears, Eyes, Nose, and Throat:
Kidneys/Urinary:
Cardiovascular/Blood:
Reproductive System:
Nervous System/Mental Health:
Specific Diseases/States/Infections/Viruses:
Safety Concerns and Contraindications
References:
Summer is winding down, so it's time to think about school again. As you prepare for back-to-school shopping, here are a few supplements that can make a real difference in your child's health and academic success this year. In addition to proper nutrition and herbal remedies, often times supplements can help with appropriate balancing of the gut microbiome, supporting the nervous system, and bolstering the immune system. Genestra, Pure Encapsulations, and Douglas Lab brand supplements are ones that I personally use and trust. The products are clean, are minimally processing, and hold minimal to zero non-medicinal ingredients. To order supplements, ask questions, or to schedule a back to school wellness consultation, please call the office at 778-866-3320 The Supplements:Supports Gastrointestinal and Skin Health in Children • Provides live microorganisms that temporarily modify gut flora • Helps to maintain eyesight, skin, membranes and immune function • Helps in the development and maintenance of night vision, bones, cartilage, teeth and gums • Provides 12.5 billion CFU per daily dose from a combination of four proprietary human-sourced strains • Delicious natural blackcurrant flavour HMF Child + Multi is a great tasting combination of probiotics and vitamins that helps to promote optimal health in children. The intestinal microbiota, which contains more than 400 bacterial species, can be altered by antibiotic use, aging, and premature or caesarean births.1-3 The most commonly used probiotics are Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria, which are safe for both adults and children.4 They effectively colonize the intestines; however, once their ingestion ends, their counts decrease or disappear.1,4,5 In addition to decreasing the survival of pathogenic bacteria by reducing the pH, probiotics reinforce the epithelial barrier.4 They control permeability by mediating tight junction integrity, and prevent pathogenic adherence to epithelial cells by increasing mucin release on intestinal surfaces.4 Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant, and is required for the production of collagen, the primary structural protein in bones, cartilage, teeth, and wound healing.6 Vitamin A promotes the natural barrier function of the skin, helps to stimulate immune cell development, and maintains eyesight and night vision to further promote optimal health.7-9 REFERENCES 1. Nagpal, R, Yadav, H, Kumar, M, Jain, S, Yamashiro, Y, Marotta, F. (2013). In Otles, S. (Ed.), Probiotics and Prebiotics in Food, Nutrition and Health (pp. 1-24). Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press. 2. Lyra A, Tiihonen K, Lehtinen MJ, Ouwehand AC. (2013). In Otles, S. (Ed.), Probiotics and Prebiotics in Food, Nutrition and Health (pp. 156-178). Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press. 3. Thomas, DW, Greer, FR. Pediatrics. 2010; 126(6): 1217-1231. 4. Saulnier, N, Zocco, MA, Di Caro, S, Gasbarrini, G, Gasbarrini, A. Genes & Nutrition. 2006; 1(2): 107-116. 5. Saavedra, JM. Nutrition in Clinical Practice. 2007; 22: 351-365. 6. Combs, GF. (2012). In (4th ed.) The Vitamins (pp.233-259). USA: Elsevier. 7. Ruhl, R. Proceedings of the Nutrition Society. 2007; 66: 458-469. 8. Al Tanoury, Z, Piskunov, A, Rochette-Egly, C. Journal of Lipid Research. 2013; 54: 1761-1775. 9. Mukherjee, S, Date, A, Patravale, V, Korting, HC, Roeder, A, Weindl, G. Clinical Interventions in Aging. 2006; 1(4): 327-348. Comprehensive multi-vitamin supplement for children and adolescents • Supports bone health, immune function, and normal growth and development • Available in a great-tasting, cherry-flavoured liquid Improved formula • Better taste from natural cherry, vanilla cream and raspberry flavours for enhanced compliance • Increased amount of essential nutrients: vitamins D and E, niacinamide, pantothenic acid, iodine, magnesium, zinc, choline and inositol • Added vitamin K for additional bone health support • More servings per bottle, providing an additional two-week supply Pediatri Vite provides a delicious, natural cherry-flavoured, full-spectrum liquid vitamin and mineral combination specifically formulated to support optimum nutritional status in children one year and older. Adequate amounts of vitamins and essential minerals are required for the healthy functioning of all physiological processes.1Optimal nutrient intake is particularly important to the proper development of the skeletal system and maintenance of good health in children.1,2 Pediatri Vite contains more than 10 vitamins and minerals in the appropriate ratios needed for the most efficient utilization by young children. It helps in energy metabolism and tissue formation, building strong bones and teeth, and maintaining cognitive, immune and proper muscle function. Research has demonstrated that the supply and use of nutrients is most biologically relevant during early childhood, and the quantity and quality of this nutrient supply can have long-lasting effects on health.3 References 1. Prentice, A, Schoenmakers, I, Laskey, MA, de Bono, S, Ginty, F, Goldberg, GR. Proc Nutr Soc. 2006; 65: 348-360. 2. Weichselbaum, E, Buttriss, JL. Nutr Bull. 2014; 39, 9-73. 3. Koletzko, B. E Spen Eur E J Clin Nutr Metab. 2008; 3: e179-e184.
Vita-Kids™ is a great tasting, natural grape-flavoured chewable vitamin-mineral-trace element supplement formulated for children ages one to eight. The unique teddy bear shaped Vita-Kids™ chewable tablets provide 27 vitamins, minerals and trace elements in bioavailable forms and nutritionally meaningful amounts. Vita-Kids™ is more than just another children's multivitamin-mineral supplement. Research shows that the intake of many vitamins above RDA levels may have significant positive effects on the structure and function of growing bodies. Compared to major brands of children's chewable multivitamins, the convenient chewable tablets of Vita-Kids™ provide several times the levels of the important antioxidant vitamins C and E. Vita-Kids™ also delivers significantly higher levels of most B-vitamins than brand-name vitamins, and provides easily absorbable calcium and magnesium, as well as a full spectrum of bioavailable trace elements. Vitamin D is also added to help maintain bone health. In fact, Vita-Kids™ is one of the most complete children's chewable multivitamin/mineral formulas on the market. It provides essential vitamins and minerals that help maintain optimal eyesight, skin, energy metabolism, bones and teeth, and proper muscle, immune and thyroid gland function. Vita-Kids™ uses only the purest, most hypoallergenic ingredients and contains no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives. Vitamin D 1000 IU is an excellent source of vitamin D. Adequate vitamin D intake is important for ensuring normal calcium absorption and maintaining proper calcium plasma levels. Thus, vitamin D has a critical role in the development and maintenance of bones and teeth. Studies have shown that supplementation with high doses of vitamin D maximizes bone health in adults and may decrease the risk of fractures in the elderly.
One of the main sources of vitamin D is from exposing skin to sunlight. However, this process can be limited by skin colour, sunscreen use, season and geographic location. People living close to the equator can easily produce vitamin D throughout the year, while those living farther away have to rely on foods and supplements for adequate vitamin D status. As few foods naturally contain high levels of vitamin D, supplementation is a great alternative to increase vitamin D levels. As seen in Home Herbalist Magazine Many discussions on female health can be plagued with uncertainty and unanswered questions, especially in western culture where access to more natural means may not be readily discussed in a modern doctor’s office. This of course, in my opinion, is not due to any maliciousness on the practitioner’s part, but rather that these types of options are not yet fully embraced as a partnered path to healing in modern western medicine. I think that in modern times, it is often forgotten that Herbalism is the oldest healing modality known to man and has a rich history of traditional use. In the spirit of learning, it is my full intention to offer an understanding of this female reproductive issue from the standpoint of modern western medicine as described in medical texts, and to share the more common herbal, supplemental, lifestyle, and dietary allies that are readily available. Due to the fact that this is indeed a clinical issue, I have not included a full herbal protocol as each individual is different and their needs will be different. Please contact a clinical herbalist if you would like to explore the option of herbal medicine, and continue to work with your medical doctor. Understanding Uterine Fibroids: Uterine fibroids (also known as Leiomyoma of the uterus or just Myoma) are the most common type of tumor of the genital tract. They are bundles of smooth muscle and connective tissue, surrounded by a thin capsule that can be as small as a pea or in some cases, as large as a grapefruit. Although they are sometimes referred to as tumors, fibroids are considered non-cancerous. However, because they disrupt the blood vessels and glands in the uterus like a tumor, they are spoken of in these relative terms. Uterine Fibroids are generally classified by their location in the uterus, these are:
Causes: Current medical science has not yet determine the actual cause of uterine fibroids, some of the theories are that they occur with genetic changes, hormone imbalances (fibroids contain more estrogen and progesterone receptors than normal uterine muscle cells), and other growth factors (other hormones or external factors that might affect the bodies substances that maintain healthy tissues – possibly xenoestrogens). Despite medical science not having a clear understanding of the mode of cause, it is known that fibroids do require high estrogen levels as a mechanism to grow. Concentrations of estrogen receptors are higher in fibroid tissue than in the surrounding tissue. In addition to an excess of estrogen production within the body, a strong case can be made for the role of the most significant environmental factor assaulting female hormonal health – as discussed earlier, these compounds are known as xenoestrogens. These compounds are endocrine/hormone disruptors, environmental estrogens, hormonally active agents, estrogenic substances, estrogenic xenobiotics, and bioactive chemicals. Examples of xenoestrogens include phthalates (used in most plastics), pesticides and herbicides, tobacco smoke and by-products, and various solvents (think about your common household cleaners). Xenoestrogens enhance or block the effects of estrogen in the body by binding to estrogen receptors. They also promote a shift from healthy estrogen breakdown products to cancer-causing estrogen metabolites in some people. Lastly, another theory is that chronic use of the birth control pill can also contribute to the growth of fibroids. It is also common to see fibroids shrink after menopause. A Brief commentary on phytoestrogens (plant based estrogens): Phytoestrogens are able to bind to the same cell receptors as the estrogen your body produces. That’s a very good thing, because when phytoestrogens occupy the receptors, estrogen can’t affect cells. By competing with estrogen, phytoestrogens cause a drop in estrogen effects, and are thus sometimes called “antiestrogens”. Great sources of phytoestrogens include organic, non-processed soy, ground organic flax seed, and organic nuts and seeds. In particular, it is recommended to have 1 to 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed daily. On the opposing view, some have suggested that since soy foods are high in phytoestrogens (specifically isoflavones), which have a weak estrogenic effect, women with uterine fibroids or endometrial cancer should avoid phytoestrogens. This recommendation has not stood up to clinical trial. Soy isoflavones appear to be selective in terms of tissues in which they have an estrogenic effect and the tissues in which their effect is antiestrogenic. Soy phytoestrogens do not appear to have an estrogenic effect on the human uterus and may in fact help shrink uterine fibroids due to an antiestrogenic effect. It is recommended to have moderate, but not excessive soy consumption in the range of 45 to 90mg of soy isoflavones per day, you can find this in a standardized capsule if needed, but again, be mindful of processing. Common symptoms of uterine fibroids:
Complications of uterine fibroids:
Natural Suggestions for uterine fibroids:
Commonly Used Herbs:
Commonly Used Supplements:
I hope you have found information of value in this article, and that the richness of our herbal allies show once again that for man-kind’s maladies, nature has supplied us with a remedy. In health and wellness, -Petra References:
I am seeing more of this in clinic as of late, particularly in cases where multiple runs of antibiotics have failed and the individuals are having issues with wasting, increased GERD, and severe difficulty with nausea, slow digestion and gastric motility. When I was in school, I did quite a bit of extensive research on H-pylori and it's ties to gastrointestinal carcinomas, as it is the first confirmed carcinogenic bacterium (meaning, a bacteria that has direct ties to some gastrointestinal cancers). The following is a copy of my newest client handout, and further down you will find a copy of my research paper as well, if you are so inclined to read 45 pages of commentary about this amazing little bacterium. Helicobacter pylori is the first formally recognized bacterial carcinogen (meaning it is a bacterium that is recognized to play a part in some cancers) and is one of the most successful human pathogens, as over half of the world's population is colonized with this gram-negative bacterium. Unless treated, colonization usually persists lifelong. H. pylori infection represents a key factor in the causative factors of many gastrointestinal diseases, ranging from chronic gastritis to peptic ulcers, and some gastric cancers. It is not to say however, just because you have an h-pylori infection that there is reason to panic. This bacterium is one that both standard western medicine, and natural healers have many options available to the individual. Unlike other types of bacterium, H-pylori are adapted to live within the harsh, acidic environment of the stomach. Whereas in some cases bacterium may become eradicated by the presence of our gastric juices and hydrochloric acid within our stomach, h-pylori will instead thrive within the human GIT. It is a very opportunistic bacterium and can use specific chemical modifiers in order to penetrate the lining of the stomach where they are protected by the mucous lining in the gut. Additionally, the bacterium can interfere/communicate with the human immune system, causing it in essence to turn a ‘blind eye’ and thus it may pro-create and multiply freely within its host’s gastro-intestinal tract. Causes: Despite advances in modern medicine, the exact method of how H-pylori infections spread is generally unknown. The bacterium has existed with mankind over many thousands of years and the infections are thought to spread from oral interaction. Additionally, it may be transferred when an individual is in contact with feces. This can occur when an individual does not properly wash their hands, or if they are in contact with animal feces which interacts with mucosa such as hands going to mouth or eyes (currently theoretical). Lastly, it is believed that H-pylori can be spread via contact with contaminated food and water. It is good to know that although H. pylori has indeed been detecting in saliva, vomitus, gastric refluxate, and feces, there is currently no conclusive medical evidence for predominant transmission via any of these products. Currently the medical establishment has concluded that H. pylori is most likely contracted in childhood and from close family members who may also be silent carriers of the bacterium. In developing countries, the statistics for this are vastly different as hygiene levels and availability to clean food and water sources are often impacted. How does H-pylori impact the body? Some of the ways in which H. pylori impacts the body are the initiation of the body’s defensive inflammatory cycle, and conditions such as:
Additional diseases where H. Pylori interaction is suspected include Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Irritable bowel disease (IBD), Crohns, Colitis, and inflammatory diverticulosis. There is also evidence linking H. pylori to other conditions like iron-deficiency anemia and vitamin B12 deficiency. In studies there has been evidence that H. pylori has correlating factors not only with gastrointestinal diseases, but in fact it has shown correlating and contributing factors to all inflammatory disease. These include cardiovascular disease, neurological diseases, gynecological diseases, ophthalmology, skin, and oral mucosa diseases, diseases of the ears, nose, and throat, hematological diseases, hepatobiliary diseases, and issues with obesity. Symptoms and Complications of H-pylori: Most people with H. pylori infection will never have any signs or symptoms. It's not clear why this is, but some people may be born with more resistance to the harmful effects of H. pylori. When signs or symptoms do occur with H. pylori infection, they may include:
Some of the more common complications associated with H. pylori infection include:
Natural Suggestions for H-pylori Infection: Commonly Used Herbs: Echinacea - Boosts the immune system, changes the environment of the body in relation to the bacterium. This herb is a general tonic, immune modulator, immune stimulant, helps move lymph, antiseptic, anti-microbial, anti-bacterial, anti-parasitic, anti-inflammatory, detoxifier, bitter, and peripheral vasodilator. It is specific in its use for chronic infections of various types and can be used in cases of peptic ulcers, and general GIT infections. Cat’s Claw – A native to the Amazon basin, this herb is a powerful healer. Its traditional actions are: tonic, restorative, immune stimulant, antioxidant, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, astringent, alterative, and can also be hypotensive. It strengthens the immune system and is a powerful agent against microbes and bacterium. Poke Root – This herb is considered a restricted herb, please see a clinical herbalist for proper dosage. For short term use, this herb is a powerful combatant against h-pylori. It is an immune-stimulant, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-parasitic, anti-inflammatory, moves lymph, alterative, detoxifier, and bitter. Meadow Sweet – Often used in formulations for healing the GIT. It is astringent, antiseptic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antacid, carminative, digestive, liver tonic, and anti-ulcer in action. In the GIT it helps regulate gastric levels and pH. It protects and soothes the GIT mucosal lining and is specific in issues with nausea, heartburn, peptic ulcers, indigestion, diarrhea, and IBS which can be associated with H-pylori. Thyme – Common garden thyme is a very versatile herb. It is considered to be tonic, antioxidant, antiseptic, anti-microbial, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-fungal, anti-parasitic, anti-inflammatory, astringent, digestive, and antispasmodic. In issues with the GIT, its astringent actions can help heal mucosal linings and it is specific in issues with gastritis and IBS. Plantain Leaf – Traditionally used in cases where mucosal membranes need healing. Plantain leaf is antiseptic, anti-microbial, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, demulcent, refrigerant, alterative, blood tonic, and antacid in action. In the GIT it is a soothing agent and is often used specifically in issue with acidity and gastritis. Oregon Grape Root – This herb is rich in berberine and is tonic, antiseptic, anti-microbial, alterative, hepatic, and anti-bacterial. It is specific as a general blood cleanser with its actions upon the liver, and can be used for conditions of the GIT. Commonly Used Supplements: Multi-Vitamin – For the general function of all metabolic and cellular functions. This is an aggressive bacterium; the body needs every opportunity to heal. CoQ10 – Improves cellular oxygenation, protects cardiovascular health, and promotes proper circulation. Vitamin B Complex – Needed for proper digestion, metabolic function, and cellular repair from inflammation. Potassium – Increases cellular metabolism and aids in balancing blood pH. Vitamin A – Helps to protect the mucous membranes and to protect the body from the damages of the inflammatory cycle. Colostrum – Promotes accelerated healing of the GIT and boosts the immune system. Probiotic – Supports the re-establishment of gut health, improves healing and lowers inflammation. Dietary/Lifestyle Suggestions:
References:
nettle seed. I've found these two together to be quite an impressive combination for all things kidney, but specifically in issues with chronic kidney inflammation. I hope you enjoy this little monograph. In health and wellness, - Petra General and Historical Info:
Common Names: Couch Grass, Quack Grass, Cooch Grass, Twitch, Dog Grass, Quick Grass, Durfa Grass, Scotch Quelch, Triticum, Quecke (German), Chiendent (French), Grama (Spanish), Caprinella (Italian). Family: Graminaceae Parts Used: Rhizome (Dried), seeds
Anti-bacterial, Anti-microbial, Diuretic, Demulcent, Tonic Diuretic, Aperient, Catarrhal (General), Anti-Inflammatory, Laxative, Urinary Antiseptic, Nutritive Emollient, Anti-Cholesterol, Remedy for dryness and atrophy, Antibiotic, Uricosuric Chemical Constituents:
What are its Uses?Head, Ears, Eyes, Nose, and Throat:
Integumentary System (Skin):
Respiratory System:
Digestive System:
Excretory System:
Endocrine System (Hormones):
Cardiovascular System:
Circulatory System:
Immune/Lymphatic System:
Reproductive System:
Musculoskeletal System:
Herbal PharmacyThe below information is meant as educational and informative only, do not self dose, please see an appropriate practitioner to discuss current issues and any medications you may be taking. Combinations:
Misc:
Max Doses: Max Daily Dose: 3 to 6ml of 1:1 LE (1:1 @ 25%) Max Weekly Dose: 1:1 @ 25% 20 to 40ml Application: Infusion
Further Commentary
Safety Concerns
The above information is copyright to Petra Sovcov - Clinical Herbal Therapist - 2019 Reproduction or distribution of any of the above information in full or part is prohibited without written consent from the author. References:
This week marks my first week teaching at the Institute of Holistic Nutrition in Vancouver. To say I'm excited is an understatement. I was very surprised to receive the invite, and then over the moon with joy when I was told they were interested in having me teach Nutrition and the Environment. In essence, the class focuses on the non-sustainability of our current food system, the massive pollution factors that are involved, and the impacts it has on the environment and human beings. Tonight will be my first session, we will be focusing on the beef industry and agricultural pollution as a whole. When I started doing the research for tonight's lesson, I got the sense of going down the rabbit hole. I was Alice and the deeper I went, the creepier things got. If I were to take only one thing out of the hours of research, it would be that pollution from livestock and grain feed agriculture are mated, and that this broken process exists because either the consumer is not aware of it, it is hidden, or not enough individuals care about the issues that arise from it. I felt so passionate about the info that I found, I though to make a printable available to students and the public which reflects the over-inflated consumption of meat products and its consequences. Of course, I am in no way seeking to start a battle with the beef industry, but I will say that there must be a better way of doing things...and I think that starts with you and me, and putting our money where our beliefs are. After-all, the organic movement didn't start until consumers wanted organics available. Maybe we can now start demanding the humane housing and slaughtering of animals, a reduction in animal protein consumption, and the elimination of harmful herbicides, pesticides, growth hormones, and antibiotics in our foods. I'll leave it to you to decide. I hope you enjoy the print-out
Alchemilla monticolla/vulgaris : |
It is always my desire to be certain that clients have their questions answered when they have them. I also feel passionate that individuals ought to have access to information about the herbs they may use. Often times information on the internet is not fully reliable, this is due to opinion and articles written by herbalists who may |
dirty_dozen_and_clean_fifteen_-_healing_house_herbal.pdf | |
File Size: | 13300 kb |
File Type: |
Petra Sovcov is not a Medical Doctor (MD) nor a Naturopath (ND), she is a Clinical Herbal Therapist (CHT) and holds a Doctorate in Natural Medicine (DNM). The suggestions or recommendations made on this site are not meant to be a substitute for advice from your MD, or as a substitute for any prescriptions you may be taking. Suggestions followed will be the responsibility of the reader, and are stated with the intention of interest and education only. If you have a health issue, please see your primary care physician (MD) first and foremost.
All
Allergies
Cardiovascular Health
Children's Health
COVID 19
COVID-19
Digestive Health
Healthy Living
Hormonal Health
Integumentary (Skin/Dermatological)) Health
Materia Medica (Herbs)
Mental Health
Musculoskeletal Health
Neurological Health
Nutrition
Printables
Reproductive Health
Respiratory Health
Seasonal Holiday
Sleep
Supplements
Viral Infections
Weight
Women's Health
July 2023
May 2023
December 2022
November 2022
September 2022
April 2022
July 2021
May 2021
April 2021
March 2021
February 2021
January 2021
December 2020
September 2020
August 2020
July 2020
June 2020
May 2020
April 2020
March 2020
January 2020
December 2019
August 2019
July 2019
June 2019
May 2019