Sunday Supplements Archives - Journey With Healthy Me

Amla Berry aka Indian Gooseberry

Although I’m familiar with gooseberries, I had not heard of Indian Gooseberries, also know as Amla Berries, until recently. These little fruits are rich in antioxidants that provide many health benefits, especially to the liver.

What are Amla Berries?

These berries, classified as a superfood, are native to southeast Asia and grow on deciduous trees. The trees range in size from small to medium and produce fruits that are round, greenish-yellow in color, with six vertical stripes.

High in fiber and vitamins C and E, Amla berries also contain micronutrients such as manganese, vitamin A and potassium.

The gooseberry taste is described as sour, strong and bitter. In India, it is often eaten with salt and red chili powder to enhance the flavor.

Health Benefits of the Amla Berry

Amla is used as a natural medicine thanks to its impressive nutrients and the wide array of health benefits that it has to offer.

• High in phytochemicals, which are plant compounds with antioxidant properties that fight off harmful free radicals in the body. Free radicals cause oxidative damage to cells and contribute to the development of chronic disease, aging, and age-related disorders.

• Protects the liver from old inherited toxins as well as new exposure to toxic substances. The berries’ high vitamin C content feeds the liver’s personalized immune system, protecting it from infection while helping the immune system seek out and destroy pathogens inside the liver. Amla berries improve liver function and help to restore glucose.

• Improves heart health and decreases the risk of coronary heart disease by reducing cholesterol levels in the blood and preventing the buildup of plaque.

• Maintains normal blood sugar levels due to their high fiber and antioxidant properties. Fiber slows the absorption of sugar in the bloodstream and helps to prevent spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels. Gooseberries prevent high blood sugar and reduce the risk of diabetes complications such as kidney or nerve damage as a result of uncontrolled blood sugar levels.

• Affects cancer cells and potentially has the ability to prevent cancer.

• Decreases inflammation throughout the body, which lowers the risks for many diseases.

• Improves skin and hair health, and is often an ingredient in beauty products. Amla berries increase the production of collagen, the protein that is responsible for providing youthfulness and elasticity to the skin.

• Protects the digestive system and keeps it working efficiently while preventing problems such as gastric ulcers. The berries promote regularity to prevent issues such as constipation.

• Recent studies show that gooseberry extract increases memory retention and antioxidant levels in the brain while decreasing levels of acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme associated with Alzheimer’s disease.

(Info from Anthony William and Dr. Axe)

How to Use Amla Berries

It’s rare in my area to find fresh Amla berries, however they can be purchased in Indian grocery stores, and sometimes in health conscious food stores, in cans or in the freezer section.

It’s easiest to buy dried or powdered berries online or look for the supplement in capsule form. Adults can take up to 2 capsules, twice a day, or add one teaspoon of dried or powdered gooseberries to water or a smoothie.

I’ll be checking out my Joplin health food stores and Natural Grocers, to see if they have Amla berry products in any form. I’ve already found capsules and powdered berries online. See links below.

I look forward to trying this new-to-me supplement and reporting back!

Order your supplements below!

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5-MTHF

This supplement, with the strange name, plays a crucial role in good health. One in three Americans have a genetic mutation that prevents them from properly utilizing folic acid, also known as vitamin B9. Folic acid is important to our health, due in part to its role in a biochemical process called methylation. The important thing to know here is that methylation, which should occur billions of times a day in the body, is essential for our health.

Folic acid is the synthetic form, used to fortify foods, and it is available in supplement form. 5-MTHF, also called methyltetrahydrofolate, or more simply, methylfolate, is the metabolically active form of folic acid. It is found in certain whole, unfortified foods, like raw leafy greens. This form of folic acid has to be separated from its protein carriers, in the body, in order to be absorbed.

Once absorbed, folic acid has to undergo several biochemical conversations to become 5-MTHF. Half of all Americans have genetically insufficient enzymes to create 5-MTHF. Which is a long explanation for why taking a 5-MTHF supplement is so critical. Millions of people can experience improved health and a longer life taking 5-MTHF, and since most of us don’t know whether we have the mutant or impaired genes or not, it becomes important that we all take this supplement daily.

5-MTHF helps with DNA synthesis and repair. Having adequate levels of 5-MTHF reduces the risks for tumors and certain types of cancers, including childhood leukemia, breast, colon, cervical and lung cancers, helps to prevent depression, and eases arthritis symptoms.

This supplement reduces homocysteine levels. High levels of this amino acid damage arteries, which contributes to heart disease, and can also cause stroke, deep vein thrombosis, peripheral vascular disease, depression, miscarriage, birth defects, hearing loss, osteoporosis, cancer, arthritis, dementia, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and diabetes complications.

According to Anthony William, in his books Medical Medium and Thyroid Healing, 5-MTHF helps strengthen the endocrine system and the central nervous system. It is extremely helpful for supporting reproductive health that has been compromised by the Epstein Barr virus. This supplement is an ally in healing from EBV caused issues such as infertility, endometriosis and PCOS.

I began taking this supplement to help heal and support my central nervous system, after 20+ years of inflamed sciatic nerves due to the shingles virus. After learning about how important 5-MTHF is to overall good health and longevity, I’ve continued to take it daily, long after my sciatic nerves healed.

I purchase and take the capsules, which are very inexpensive, while also eating foods that contain this form of folic acid. That list of foods includes raw leafy greens, beets, legumes, onions, tomatoes, cruciferous vegetables, shiitake mushrooms, citrus fruits, berries, seeds, rosemary and curcumin. It’s a simple, daily practice that is reaping huge health benefits in my life.

You can purchase 5-MTHF by clicking the link below.

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Olive Leaf

I have many associations with the olive tree. The olive leaf, along with the olive branch, has long been known as a symbol for peace. In addition, I was familiar with the health benefits of the fruit of the tree, the olive. And I’ve had the pleasure of walking in the olive groves of Tuscany in Italy, and sampling cold pressed olive oil while there. I did not know, until recently, that the olive LEAF has many health boosting benefits as well.

The leaf of the olive tree is a powerful and effective medicinal that contains tremendous healing properties for the immune, cardiovascular, circulatory, respiratory, digestive, and lymphatic systems. It is particularly beneficial in fighting viruses and bacteria in the body such as shingles, herpes, E. coli, salmonella, staphylococcus, and Klebsiella pneumonia, and it can help to wipe out colds and flu viruses faster than most over the counter medications.

This leaf can significantly lower blood pressure and maintain it at a healthy level. It contains a compound called Oleuropein which helps to prevent the constriction of arteries, increase blood flow, and improve functioning of the heart. It also helps to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and prevent the risk of strokes and heart disease.

The olive leaf has been known to benefit those suffering with diabetes, high cholesterol, bronchitis, gastritis, and auto-immune disorders such as chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, addison disease, guillain-barre syndrome, arthritis, colitis, lupus, celiac disease, eczema, scleroderma, psoriasis, cardiomyopathy, graves disease, and HIV.

Plus, it contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties which help to improve circulation, reduce swelling, and increase energy and flexibility in the body. It is also a great digestive aid and helps to remove excess acidity from the body. (Info from Medical Medium website. Visit his site HERE.)

Olive leaf extract can be found online or at your local health food store in liquid, tincture, cream, and phyto-cap form. Dried olive leaf can be found in tea and capsule form. I take olive leaf in capsule form although I’m very interested in obtaining dried leaves for tea.

I still associate olive leaves with peace. Now, I also think of them as an incredible ally as they deliver health and wellness to my body.

Order olive leaf extract and dried olive leaves below.

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Lobelia Herb

As a gardener, I have been familiar with a variety of the lobelia plant, known for its tiny attractive purplish blue or white flowers. I’ve planted it in containers in the backyard garden. When I read the chapter on the shingles virus, in Medical Medium by Anthony William, I learned that the plant, which is technically an herb, has health benefits as well. Anthony listed lobelia as a supplement to include, to fight the shingles virus. I ordered it immediately.

Lobelia inflata, also called Indian tobacco, was originally used, many years ago, by people suffering from nicotine withdrawal. The herb’s health benefits include stimulating the respiratory system, relaxing and opening the lungs, and easing allergy and asthma symptoms and congestion. Lobelia has expectorant properties, making it useful as well for bronchitis.

As a diaphoretic, lobelia promotes perspiration, which may not sound like a benefit, but it helps to relieve fevers by cooling the skin and rids the body of toxins, while contributing to healthy blood circulation. Diaphoretics are useful in treating diarrhea, and liver and kidney disorders.

Lobelia is also a powerful relaxant for smooth muscles and the nervous system, providing pain relief and easing spasms, especially in the respiratory system. And as I learned in the Medical Medium book, lobelia kills the shingles virus.

I was suffering greatly from severe sciatica when I began taking lobelia. The shingles virus had kept the nerves in both legs inflamed for years. I had tried everything to ease my discomfort. So there was no hesitation on my part in eliminating certain foods from my diet, and incorporating more fruits, veggies and supplements that targeted the virus, in an attempt to heal. I began feeling a difference in my legs in the first seven days. Within a few months the pain and inflammation had disappeared.

Lobelia is available in several forms, including capsule, tincture, dried loose leaf tea and powders. It’s also found in many over the counter cold remedies. I currently take it in capsule form, but I’d love to try it dried as a tea.

Steeping a small amount of lobelia leaves with sage, chamomile and peppermint would create a soothing and relaxing hot tea. And that would provide the perfect end to a busy day.

Order Medical Medium, and Lobelia, by clicking the links below.

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Star Anise

Today’s featured supplement is actually a aromatic spice, used for centuries in China, India and parts of Vietnam to add flavor to meals. It grows on a type of evergreen tree native to these countries. The tree produces the star anise fruit, which is green and then turns brown and woody as it ripens. The star shaped fruits are picked before they fully ripen and dried in the sun to harden.

Valued for its sweet, licorice like flavor, star anise also has important health benefits.

Star anise is rich in vitamin C, calcium and iron. It has powerful anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties, making star anise great for treating the flu. In fact, this spice contains a compound called shikimic acid that is the main ingredient in the anti-viral drug Tamiflu.

Star anise has strong expectorant properties that help to clear up mucus and congestion in the body. It is used as a digestive aid to relieve gas, bloating, constipation, cramping, heartburn and indigestion. Star anise is also beneficial in treating asthma, bronchitis, rheumatism, back pain, shingles, herpes and sinus infections.

In addition, star anise has sedative properties that ensure a good night’s sleep. And it supports female reproductive health and helps to increase the flow of milk in lactating mothers.

As a tea, which is how I primarily use this spice, star anise significantly boosts the immune system and wards off colds and flus. It can be purchased as a capsule or in dried or powder form. As a cream it helps to treat skin disorders such as eczema and psoriasis.

I’m down to pieces of star anise in the bag, instead of the pretty star shaped dried whole flowers. No matter. The tea tastes the same.

I initially purchased dried star anise because of its fragrant, spicy scent. I included it in homemade potpourri. Then I discovered its amazing health benefits. No more letting this valuable spice go up in smoke. I add two teaspoons of the dried fruit, which looks like star shaped pods, to my tea infuser basket, pour boiling water into the cup and cover, letting the tea steep for 15 minutes.

The tea has a delicate and mild licorice flavor with hints of cinnamon and cloves. I’m sipping on a cup now as I write this post, and thinking I need to enjoy star anise tea more often. The dried flowers are also a wonderful addition to hot spiced apple cider in the winter.

I think I might go prepare a second cup of star anise tea!

Rose Hips

Rose hips are technically a wild food. Because I benefit from them in hot tea form, I am labeling rose hips as a supplement.

Rose hips contains the most bioavailable form of vitamin C in existence, meaning it’s in the most usable form for the body. And although we know how important vitamin C is, especially when we are combatting a cold, we often don’t think about this crucial supplement on a daily basis. We should. Vitamin C is anti-inflammatory, and the C we receive from rose hips is more anti-inflammatory than from any other source.

Vitamin C helps to increase the blood’s white cell count and boosts the immune system against viruses, bacteria, yeast, mold, and other fungus. Rose hips fight against any type of infection. The vitamin C in rose hips has a dissolving effect on biofilm, a jelly-like substance given off by the neurotoxins and dermatoxins secreted by the Epstein Barr virus. This biofilm gunks up major organs, such as the liver, and can break loose into the blood. The sticky residue can get caught in the heart’s mitral valve, causing palpitations, tachycardia, arrhythmia and atrial fibrillation.

Rose hips aid in alleviating urinary tract infections, skin conditions, dental issues, ear infections, intestinal tract disorders, cold and flu symptoms, strep throat, adrenal fatigue and chronic fatigue. They restore a sluggish or stagnant liver and help with all neurological symptoms.

Rose hips can be taken in capsule form. However, I enjoy using dried rose hips, which can be purchased by the ounce, to create a flavorful hot tea. (Link included below.) Add two teaspoons of dried rose hips to a cup, or to a loose tea mesh basket or tea ball, pour boiling water into the cup, cover and steep for at least five minutes. Add a squeeze of lemon and a spoonful of raw honey to enhance the vitamin C.

Rose hips tea is one of the teas I use throughout the week, for afternoon tea time. I drink a different health boosting hot tea every day. When warmer weather arrives, I’m looking forward to trying an iced tea version, from Anthony William, that includes rose hips, steeped and then cooled, combined with half a cup of orange juice. That sounds incredibly refreshing!

Learn more about rose hips, and 49 other power foods, in Life Changing Foods, by Anthony William. Link provided below.

I am an Amazon Affiliate and may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for considering making a purchase of these products, or any other items, through my Amazon link!

And here is the link for dried rose hips:

Hawaiian Spirulina

Today’s featured supplement was new to me when I began a plant based diet. Spirulina is a spiral shaped microalgae that grows naturally in the wild, in warm, fresh water lakes. Spirulina is also cultivated and harvested in man made reservoirs, such as those established in Hawaii. The algae’s blue green color gives the water in lakes or reservoirs a vivid greenish hue.

Spirulina, preferably from Hawaii, is considered a superfood, high in protein, minerals and vitamins such as B12 and K. This algae contains all the amino acids that are essential for health and it is a naturally rich source of iodine. It is also high in omega 3.

There are many health benefits associated with spirulina including reducing pain sensitivity, supporting the liver, relieving allergy symptoms and boosting energy and the immune system.

Spirulina farms in Hawaii.

In his book Thyroid Healing, Anthony William recommends including this supplement because it is an incredible ally in rebuilding the central nervous system and it removes heavy metals such as mercury and toxic copper from the liver, reproductive system, intestinal tract, thyroid and brain. And eliminating these metals gets rid of some of the favorite fuels that the Epstein Barr virus feeds on.

Further, spirulina helps the thyroid by feeding healthy thyroid tissue, which has a restorative affect on the gland. And the algae’s iodine content acts as an antiseptic against EBV in the thyroid, reducing the viral load so it can heal. Spirulina can also reduce the growth of nodules, tumors and cysts on the thyroid, both cancerous and benign.

Hawaiian spirulina is available in capsule or powder form. I’ve taken both. However, I find the powdered form easy to include in my morning smoothies or smoothie bowls. I add a heaping teaspoon of the powder. It is virtually tasteless in my smoothie and because I also include wild blueberries with spirulina, the dark color doesn’t turn my drink green. The powder can be added to juices or stirred into water and consumed that way. There are intriguing recipes on Pinterest that show healthy treats such as spirulina coconut pie or ice cream.

However you prefer to take spirulina, include it daily to bring its amazing healing and protective properties into your life.

You can purchase Hawaiian spirulina at health food stores, health conscious grocery stores or by clicking the link below.

I am an Amazon Affiliate and may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for considering making a purchase of these products, or any other items, through my Amazon link!

For more information on healing your thyroid and ridding your body of the Epstein Barr virus, order Thyroid Healing below.

Nettle Leaf

I first became aware of this plant as a youth. Brushing bare arms or legs against it could result in a temporary stinging sensation. Stinging nettles were something I learned to avoid. However, long before I switched to a plant based lifestyle, I discovered the surprising benefits of drinking nettle tea.

This adaptogenic herb provides support for our bodies during times of stress. The leaves contain vast amounts of phytochemicals, anti-inflammatories and alkaloids. Nettle leaf is also full of bone building and bone protecting silica, 40+ trace minerals, and it contains a potent natural pain reliever.

This wild food, that many consider a weed, provides amazing support for the adrenal glands and the endocrine system that are often overburdened, overworked and fatigued. Adrenal fatigue can severely affect women in particular, causing reproductive system symptoms such as hormonal imbalance, infertility and perimenopause. The problem can be that the adrenals need help, rather than the reproductive system. Nettle helps to address multiple sources of hormone disruption.

Nettle leaf eases infections in the urinary tract, bladder and kidneys, and fights against cystitis and reproductive cancers. It’s a powerful ally against viruses such as Epstein Barr and shingles, and helps the body to recover from rheumatoid arthritis, post traumatic stress disorders, autoimmune diseases, anxiety, depression and mood swings.

For the greatest benefit from this centering herb, use it in dried form to create tea. I buy dried nettle leaf by the ounce. It’s available in health food stores and health conscious grocery stores. Add a couple of teaspoons of dried nettle to a tea ball or mesh basket and drop into a tea cup or mug. Fill cup with boiling water, cover and steep for at least five minutes. Other dried herbs can be combined with nettle leaf, for unique blends. Raw organic honey or a squeeze of lemon can be added as well.

I have gone from avoiding the plant to regularly drinking a cup of nettle tea during my afternoon tea time. The hot tea brings comfort and a sense of settling and centering to my busy mind.

Nettle brings that same sense of wellbeing to my body as it provides healing and restoration. When I’ve had a stressful day this is my go to herbal tea. I am extremely grateful for this incredible plant.

You can purchase Life Changing Foods, by Anthony William, by clicking link below.

I am an Amazon Affiliate and may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for considering making a purchase of this product, or any other items, through my Amazon link!

American Skullcap

Today’s featured supplement was unfamiliar to me, until recently. When my health mentor, Anthony William, shared a post about its benefits, I was eager to try it.

American Skullcap is a hardy perennial herb, in the mint family. Scutellaria lateriflora, known as blue skullcap, mad dog skullcap, or simply skullcap, is native to North America. There is also a Chinese Skullcap, that has different properties. Be sure to purchase the American variety, for the health benefits discussed here.

This medicinal herb is helpful for relieving stress, depression, anxiety, headaches and exhaustion. It is healing to the central nervous system, and is especially beneficial in easing nerve pain, nervous tension, muscle spasms, twitches, tics and cramping muscles.

Skullcap is helpful for those dealing with Parkinson’s, shingles, neuralgia, sciatica, migraines, PMS and menopause. It’s anti inflammatory properties help to stop histamine production, which can cause swelling and pain for those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, irritable bowel syndrome, chronic sinusitis, asthma and fibromyalgia.

In addition, Skullcap helps to lower blood pressure, supports the cardiovascular system and promotes a good night’s sleep by easing insomnia.

American Skullcap can be taken as a capsule, tincture or in tea form. I take a capsule daily. This supplement is available in health food stores or you can click the link below and order it through Amazon.

This herb has been a blessing in my life. I have experienced a great deal of nerve pain and suffered with chronic sciatica for 22 years. There was a time when I walked with difficulty, due to inflamed sciatic nerves. I couldn’t even touch the backs of my legs without causing further pain. Following Anthony’s health protocol eliminated the shingles virus causing the sciatica, ending years of discomfort.

I will happily take American Skullcap to bring continued healing and restoration to those nerves, and health and wellness to my body.

Order American Skullcap by clicking on the link below.

I am an Amazon Affiliate and may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for considering making a purchase of this product, or any other items, through my Amazon link!

Elderberry

I began taking this supplement 18 months ago, as I headed into my first fall season after switching to a plant based diet. All my life I suffered with seasonal allergies. October and November were my worst months, with March and April following closely behind. My nose would clog up causing sinus pressure and headaches and then drainage, congestion built up in my lungs, and my eyes would become so itchy and irritated that I often couldn’t wear contact lenses. Many times I went into bronchitis as a result of the allergies. I was miserable.

As my body healed from viruses and toxic heavy metal buildup, and my immune system strengthened, chronic pain eased and many other health issues and symptoms cleared up. Would my lifetime battle with allergies rage on or come to an end?

As the time for allergy season approached, I listened to a radio show by Anthony William on seasonal allergies. He explained that a healthy body doesn’t react as strongly to allergens. But a body already under siege by viruses and poisoned by toxins can’t handle anything else. Allergens set off massive reactions in the body as it struggles to fight off these new invaders.

In the past I have taken Mucinex, allergy meds, sinus meds, used eye drops…and still felt miserable. With my body in a healthier state of being, I opted to follow Anthony’s recommendations for supporting my immune system: lots of water and herbal teas, Ester C supplement, a spoonful of raw honey locally produced and a spoonful of elderberry syrup, all taken daily.

For the first time in my life, I did not suffer from seasonal allergies that fall, nor have I experienced it since.

Elderberry is an effective way to boost and support the immune system. In addition, it fights against cold, flu and sinus congestion, eases and helps to prevent allergies, lowers blood sugar, is a natural diuretic and laxative, improves the skin, alleviates inflammation and nerve pain, and may help to prevent cancer.

Taken within the first 48 hours of cold or flu symptoms, elderberry can shorten the duration of symptoms. And taking this herb 10 days before air travel helps prevent catching respiratory illnesses en route.

Elderberry can be taken in many forms, including capsules, tinctures, juice, wine, syrup or tea. I take a tablespoon of elderberry syrup a day. It has a pleasant fruity taste. I want to try the tea. And I am very interested in learning to make my own syrup. I have a recipe saved, to try.

As we head into spring, I love knowing my body is healthy and ready to combat, with ease, any allergens nature wants to launch at me!

Order your Elderberry Syrup by clicking link below.

I am an Amazon Affiliate and may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for considering making a purchase of this product, or any other items, through my Amazon link!