Herbanopathy is the creation of two loves - herbal medicine and naturopathy. There are thousands of medicinal plants in the world and history shows that they have been used successfully for centuries by many cultures for health and wellness purposes. I have always been fascinated by plants, even before receiving my naturopathy degree. I remember as a child, my mom grew geranium plants near the house to keep mosquitos and insects away. Today, I use geranium in my lotion in the summer time to ward off biting creatures. Another childhood memory, that wasn't a fond one, is the time I was stung by yellow jackets. My mom grabbed some Plantain leaves (Plantago major which is considered a weed) from the yard and quickly made a poultice to put on my stings. The pain stopped within seconds. Today, I have lavender in the kitchen for burns and aloe in my window to soothe my skin. I guess you can say that I embrace the healing elements of plants and herbal remedies.
As a traditional naturopathic doctor, I was trained in Western Herbalism, a practice which focuses on herbal actions and constituents. What does this mean? An action is the way an herb works in the body. For instance, as an anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, diuretic, etc. Constituentsare plant chemicals that have medicinal properties. These are the main chemical extracts that are often made into drugs. When I was a pharmaceutical chemist, many moons ago, I was aware that many of the drugs I worked with were inspired by plant-derived compounds. For instance, Acetylsalicylic acid (Aspirin) is a semi-synthetic anti-inflammatory compound based on extracts from the willow tree.
Naturopathic doctors choose herbs that have the right combination of actions and constituents to assist someone with a particular ailment. What I love about this approach is that herbal concoctions are just a part of the therapeutic plan, not only because they’re extremely effective, but also because they can be tailored to the individual. What may work for one person, may not work or work as well for another. That's the beauty of herbal remedies. By blending herbs, you can achieve a synergetic effect because they are all bringing out the best in one another.
Herbal or plant preparations are available in a variety of forms including lotions (liniments), liquid extracts, tinctures, salves, and teas, just to name a few. I have created my own recipes and have personally used them for years with much success. After many requests, I have brought my recipes to others through lotions, liquids, tinctures and Celestial soaks for a variety of health concerns utilizing organic, therapeutic grade materials. The most popular population who use my creations are women. I assist them with symptoms ranging from fatigue, anxiety, lack of sleep, hot flashes, mood, night sweats, including menopausal symptoms, adrenal concerns and pregnancy as well as general health.
Products Currently Available
Dream Cream - It is not uncommon for women to experience sleep difficulties during the stages of perimenopause and menopause. In fact, almost half of the women during this phase of life will experience lack of sleep and other unpleasant symptoms impeding slumber. This lotion contains key essential oils of lavender and chamomile along with magnesium and other natural ingredients that can assist by slowing down the nervous system and creating balance in the body.
apply a 1/4 teaspoon to chest and arms ~ 30 minutes before sleep. An added bonus is that it smells great and is soothing to the skin.
New Moon Serum - Hormone fluctuations happen, but when there is an imbalance or domination of estrogen to progesterone and testosterone levels are also in disharmony, it's difficult to focus, feel calm and confident. This serum can assists with hormone fluctuations and help bring serenity to your day. Key ingredients are geranium and clary sage along with some other flower essences and essential oils aimed at bringing balance to extreme hormonal fluctuations.
