Whether you are sitting all day completing your tasks at your desk job or enjoying life after retiring from spending so much time working in your chosen profession, low back pain is a universal problem that we complain about every once in a while, especially as we grow older. Back pain is actually a very common cause why people visit the emergency department!₂ The reasons behind your back pain are vast, ranging from acute, insidious causes to fractures or unresolved trauma that affected the structures in your back. Identifying the root cause of your low back pain and discovering natural, holistic options that will address your problem allows you to experience back pain-free days and enjoy life as you grow older.
Understanding Back Pain
In general, pain is an uncomfortable experience that occurs as your body attempts to signal a warning of injury or respond to the problem. Low back pain, in particular, stems from a variety of causes. These may include degenerative problems that your body undergoes as you grow older, autoimmune conditions, spine infections, trauma such as in cases of falls or mechanical accidents, congenital diseases that affect the development of your spine, improper posture, and pain referred or radiated from other organs in the body. Generally, the structures in your lower back are extremely prone to stress from your environment or abnormal processes in your body and each of these can trigger low back pain.₁ Acute back pain typically lasts for less than 6 weeks, while chronic back pain can occur for more than 12 weeks.₂ The diagnosis of your low back pain problems are primarily driven by your personal history and work-up that are supplemented with a variety of imaging tests to detect the underlying condition. Knowing which activities trigger or minimize the pain should also be considered. Hence, taking the first step of becoming proactive about your health and talking to your healthcare provider about your low back pain are vital to achieve low back pain-free days!
Allopathic Care
Treatment for low back pain depends on the type and extent of pain, as well as its specific underlying cause. Pain relievers and muscle relaxants are generally prescribed to address the pain, in combination with physical therapy or psychological management strategies for specific patients.₁ In severe cases with complex causes, surgery may be indicated to manually fix or replace damaged structures. Although beneficial to some extent, management strategies for low back pain can be expensive and only target single causes of the discomfort. This is concerning since low back pain is complex, associated with multifactorial causes, and may be persistent when not appropriately addressed.₁
The Naturopathic & Alternative Medicine Approach
The naturopathic approach does not only address your back pain, but also improves your optimal well-being through targeting the root causes of your health problems. Rather than solely relying on medications that only temporarily suppress your pain, nurturing the intricacies of the processes within your body and the interconnectedness of your organs ultimately helps your body as it naturally heals itself. It is important to remember that your body is wonderfully made to protect and nurture itself. Supporting your body as it regains balance is the best reward your future self can receive for the years to come.
Herbal Medicine
Herbal medicine can be used to reduce inflammation, nourish and heal damaged tissue, and reduce pain. Natural ingredients such as curcumin, bromelain, and quercetin have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties that will help you say goodbye to your back discomforts! As a natural aspirin, white willow bark can also be beneficial in relieving pain. However, since it has similar effects to aspirin, you may also experience gastric irritation similar to when you use aspirin. Not to worry! Your naturopathic medicine advisors will guide you in exploring the benefits of herbal remedies for your health, making sure that you are able to use the right herbal medication and receive its optimal benefits, while monitoring therapeutic levels to keep your health on track!
Massage
Massage has been used for centuries to relieve acute and chronic health problems, such as joint and muscle pain, backache, and osteoarthritis.₃ The procedure promotes clearance of lactate which is increasingly produced in your body when it becomes subjected to increased stress and damage, thereby reducing its toxic buildup and effects.₃ Additionally, massage nurtures your immune response and cognitive function, as well as exerts beneficial effects in reducing anxiety and mental health problems.₃ Rehabilitative Exercises Complex cases of low back pain due to trauma, developmental problems, or those requiring targeted interventions are recommended to not only alleviate pain, but also nurture optimal well-being. These may include stretching, muscle strengthening, and proprioceptive training, under the guidance of your naturopathic doctors who are expert in mind and body reconditioning. Hydrotherapy Hydrotherapy is wonderful in stimulating and regulating essential processes in the body, such as your digestion, immune response, and blood circulation.₃ By achieving and nurturing the balance of the processes that keep your body going, stress is reduced, pain is relieved, and your body becomes rejuvenated.₃ With different kinds of hydrotherapy that target specific health concerns, it is important to identify which one is best for you! Talking with your naturopathic doctor will help you in exploring the best procedure type and duration for you.
Yoga (Ayurveda) Yoga is a non-invasive and effective routine to address your low back pain. Since it targets both the mind and body, yoga enhances your body’s flexibility, endurance, and allows your mind to actively control your body.3 The benefits of yoga do not stop there! Yoga also promotes your body’s capabilities to regulate processes and functions, as well as promote healthy thoughts and behavior. Acupuncture (Traditional Chinese Medicine) A powerful tool in promoting pain relief, this procedure addresses the blockage or excessive flow of qi throughout the body, relieving muscle spasms and promoting joint mobility and function. The wonders of acupuncture stems from the belief that wellness is interconnected: rather than being an isolated symptom, pain arises from blockage or excess in elements (wood, fire water, earth, metal) that disrupts your body’s vital energy.₄
The First Step
At Natural Path to Wellness, we are committed to guiding you in making conscious and proactive decisions for your health. The journey to optimal health may be long and difficult, but your courage in taking the first step to achieve your health goals is already inspiring. After all, your body’s #1 support system is you! To learn more about the benefits of naturopathic care for your optimal health and wellness, talk to your naturopathic doctors today! REFERENCES:
You may have heard of “seed cycling” once or twice in your life, especially when you have problems with your menstrual cycle! Seed cycling (seed rotation diet) is an effective practice that can help regulate your hormone levels by eating specific seeds that contain beneficial properties during each phase of your menstrual cycle.
The Power of Hormone Balance
The primary hormones that drive menstrual cycles are estrogen, progesterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH), each of which play major roles in preparing your body physically and mentally for possible pregnancy or restarting your cycle once fertilization did not occur. As the level of these hormones fluctuate to signal another phase in your menstrual cycle, a simple disruption can inevitably lead to menstrual health problems, such as irregular periods, menstrual cramps, fatigue, pain, heavy bleeding, and acne (which we definitely do not want)! Hence, regulating your hormone levels is a top priority to prevent your body from having to experience pain and discomfort every month!
How Seed Cycling Works
Seed cycling follows a systematic approach of eating special seeds such as pumpkin, flax, sunflower, and sesame, at specific days throughout the month to help balance the hormones which regulate your menstrual cycle. During the follicular phase, pumpkin seeds are taken to balance out the increasing level of estrogen that primarily drives this phase, preventing excess production of estrogen that can trigger a wide array of menstrual problems. Pumpkin seeds are specifically rich in phytoestrogens, which are natural compounds that mimic the estrogen produced in your body!₁ These phytoestrogens can bind with estrogen receptors made for endogenous estrogens (produced by the body), thereby potentially regulating the processes driven by this hormone!! Flax seeds, on the other hand, contain lignans, which act as a quality control officer and effectively regulate your hormone levels by binding to excess estrogen1 to prevent estrogen dominance. As you enter the second phase of your menstrual cycle (luteal phase), eating sesame seeds and sunflower seeds can help boost and regulate progesterone, which is the hormone that is most essential during this phase of your cycle. Sesame seeds are beneficial as they are not only rich in zinc which boosts progesterone levels, but also lignans, which are effective in blocking off excessive amounts of estrogen to pave way for progesterone to play its part during the luteal phase.₁ Sunflower seeds, on the other hand, are rich in vitamin E and selenium, which help boost progesterone production and detoxify excess estrogen from your liver, respectively.₁
A note on preparation
The medicinal components of these seeds are fragile, especially flax. We recommend that you buy raw, organic seeds from your local bulk food or health food store that has frequent turnover to ensure freshness. Store the seeds in your fridge or freezer and grind them fresh daily (or up to weekly), storing the ground seeds in your freezer to protect the fragile oils.
How to use seed cycling
Typical use is 1 Tablespoon of each seed indicated for the current phase of your cycle. These can be sprinkled on your food, like a power bowl or salad, blended in a smoothie, as a topping for yogurt or overnight oats, or eaten by the spoonful. One of our favorite methods is to add them to fat bombs or homemade chocolates for a sweet and satisfying treat!
Don’t have a regular cycle? Many like to sync their cycle with the phases of the moon, starting the flax & pumpkin seeds with the new moon and switching to sunflower & sesame seeds with the full moon. Most notice their cycles begin to regulate and sync after about 3-4 months of consistent use.
Here is a simple guide to help you start your seed cycling journey:
Naturopathic Reminders
Rather than forcefully introducing hormones into the body with medications or injectables, seed cycling takes a more holistic and fundamental approach by helping your body naturally produce and regulate your very own hormones! Simply put, seed cycling is considered a safe and non-invasive practice to regulate your hormone levels without putting yourself at risk of having side effects associated with synthetic products and medications containing estrogen or progesterone. However, the power of seed cycling comes from seeds that you may be allergic to! Additionally, the beneficial effects of seed cycling can only be achieved if you are consistent and willing to eat these special seeds every day, which may not be for everyone’s preference and lifestyle. Hence, it is vital to first talk with your naturopathic doctors before starting and continuing your seed cycling journey. At Natural Path to Wellness, we are committed to guiding you in your journey towards optimal health by working with you to create customized wellness plans that fit your goals and lifestyle. Talk to your naturopathic medicine advisors today! REFERENCES:
The common cold is like a bird that is flitting in the sky, eventually flying away as your immune system gets into action and clears the clouds. Although total relief can be achieved in a matter of days, the common cold may cause a wide array of symptoms that can affect your overall health and well-being. Medications for the common cold focus on treating your symptoms, allowing you to get through the day without coughing and wiping your nose all the time. Although beneficial, these may put you at risk of having side effects that can trigger entirely different symptoms and affect your long-term health. Rather than solely relying on allopathic treatments for the common cold, exploring naturopathic approaches for your condition will not only help relieve your symptoms, but, most importantly, nurture your body’s natural ability to protect and heal itself.
Understanding the Common Cold
Generally, the common cold is caused by viruses that can trigger inflammation to the lining that protects your throat and nose.₁ Symptoms caused by the common cold may be mild and include a stuffy nose, cough, sneezes (which can be uncomfortable in social settings), and sore throat. The common cold may also trigger headaches, fever, joint and muscle pains, and fatigue, all of which can affect your productivity (and willingness to go to work). The good news is that these symptoms are self-limited, which means that they typically resolve on their own. However, having the common cold won’t protect you from getting infected with another common colds in the future, as the strains of the viruses that cause the condition are over 100 in number, which means your immune system has to adapt every time.₁ To help your body prevent the common cold, we have the perfect blog post for you!
The Power of Naturopathy
The naturopathic approach for the common cold focuses on nurturing your body’s natural ability to protect and heal itself through supplemental vitamins and minerals that regulate the processes within your body, herbal medications that target the virus and your holistic health, and home remedies to support your immune system that you can easily make in your kitchen! Natural Supplements
Botanical Medicine
Managing your symptoms through conventional medications are typically not needed, since these are only helpful in minimizing your symptoms without guarantee that you will not experience unwanted side effects. More importantly, antibiotics are not and should not be used for treating the common cold, since these target bacteria whereas colds are caused by viruses! Instead, natural remedies that will not only help relieve your symptoms, but also help nurture your overall health, are your best options for your long-term well-being!
And the list goes on! Exploring herbal medications for your health can be overwhelming, but with the guidance and expertise of your naturopathic doctor, you are guided to the right medication, preparation, dosage, and timing for your fast recovery and optimal well-being!
Home Remedies
Aside from the wonders of botanical medicine for your health, strengthening your immune system can be as simple as making fresh pressed juices with vegetables, eating produce rich in vitamin C, and incorporating ginger, turmeric, and lemon in your meals and juices. Additionally, you could make your very own elderberry syrup! Here’s our version of this wonderful concoction: What You’ll Need:
Directions:
Key Takeaways
Kids are no exception for the common cold and may have more exposure to the virus that can cause the condition as they play and go to school. Making a kid-safe herbal tea with fruit puree and turning them into popsicles can help soothe a sore throat. By simply mixing your favorite tea with fresh fruit juices (carrots, oranges, fresh turmeric, pineapples, or lemons) and popping them off into the freezer in your coolest popsicle mold, your child (and you!) will be able to enjoy a healthy and immune-boosting treat! Make sure to press out the extra water from the tea bags since that will be very concentrated and beneficial. Bonus point! You can actually make your very own Elderberry Popsicles for Sore Throats.
The First Step
Managing the common cold is simple and with the right expertise, your short-term symptoms are relieved and long-term health is nurtured. Since the common cold is a condition that eventually comes and goes, you should help your body prepare as it strikes again! At Natural Path to Wellness, we are committed to guide you as you make conscious decisions for health. Excited to take the first step? Talk to your naturopathic medicine advisors today! REFERENCES: 1. InformedHealth.org [Internet]. Cologne, Germany: Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG); 2006-. Overview: Common colds. [Updated 2023 Dec 11]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279543/ 2. Mammari N, Albert Q, Devocelle M, et al. Natural Products for the Prevention and Treatment of Common Cold and Viral Respiratory Infections. Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2023;16(5):662. Published 2023 Apr 28. doi:10.3390/ph16050662
The cold, rainy season has finally entered the chat and along with its heartwarming breeze comes the high number of people getting affected with coughs and colds (some even skipping work because of fatigue and fever). On average, adults experience 2-4 colds in a year, mostly occurring during the colder months.₁ Given that most celebrations occur during this time of year, we could expose ourselves or others to different viruses that can activate our immune response and cause our bodies to suffer from increased stress in order to fight off the harmful pathogen. For our symptoms to not get in the way of celebrations (and scrumptious food), it is important that we understand how we could get infected, infect other people, and prevent the infection from happening in the first place!
Understanding the Common Cold
Common colds occur when a virus enters your body and triggers an immune reaction to the lining of your nose and throat, causing you to develop sore throat, sneezing, hoarseness, cough, a stuffy nose, and sometimes muscle and joint pain, fever, and headache.₁ The tricky part is that the common cold is actually caused by a wide variety of viruses with over a hundred strains, making it difficult to actually become immune to the infection for life. Simply put, recovering from a cold does not mean you cannot catch another one and your immune system needs all the help it can get to learn to fight off each new virus!1 Not to worry! Your immune system is fully capable and equipped to fight off the infection and prevent it from causing damage to your body.
The Common Cold vs The Flu
The common cold and flu are two entirely different health problems caused by different sets of viruses. Unlike the common cold, the flu is a specific viral infection in that it is generally caused by the influenza virus with fewer viral strains (lesser chance to get re-infected).₁ Vaccines for the flu are also available and can be injected yearly by your healthcare provider.
Allopathic Treatments
Generally, allopathic strategies for the common cold focus on treating individual symptoms through taking NSAIDs (ibuprofen or mefenamic acid) for fever and sore throat, antihistamines to minimize sneezing and stuffy nose, cough medications, and decongestants to reduce clogging and stuffy feeling in your nose.₂ Are antibiotics helpful to manage the common cold? The answer is NO. Antibiotics are not effective to help fight off viruses since these target harmful bacteria and the structures that allow them to thrive within the body.₁ The unnecessary use of antibiotics may contribute to the global health problem of antibiotic resistance, as well as increase your risk of developing side effects that may cause unnecessary harm to your body. The only exception to the rule happens when complications develop, and secondary infections thrive because of the body’s weak and ineffective immune response.
The Power of Prevention
Although your body has wonderful abilities to fight off the viruses that cause the common cold and fully recover without any extensive help, it can take a few weeks for your symptoms to go away (which may cause discomfort and inconvenience in social settings). The best solution to fight the common cold is by preventing it from happening in the first place. It can be as easy as switching your favorite fish oil supplements to cod liver oil which helps improve your vitamin A and D levels, helping your body respond efficiently and effectively against infections. Vitamins A and D are the best of their kind in modulating your immune response. Particularly, vitamin A exert its immune-strengthening effects by enhancing the efficacy of dendritic cells, which play key roles in initiating and regulating the immune response.₃ On the other hand, vitamin D (most importantly vitamin D3) works wonders in modulating your immune system by improving its ability to destroy (phagocytosis) and clean harmful pathogens out of your body.₃ To support healthy vitamin D levels, supplementation may also be essential, especially when you live in a colder and less sunlit environment during the winter months. Vitamin C, fire cider, and switchel are other effective options in keeping your body protected and healthy. Keeping a sickness kit ready just in time for the colder season ensures you can have easy access to essential medications and supplements for preventing and managing the common cold. Your naturopathic doctors will help you build your own sickness kit and guide you in exploring the best holistic treatments and remedies for your optimal well-being.
The Naturopathic Approach Apart from preventing the development of infection by strengthening your immune system, regaining its balance when you have gotten the common cold is equally essential. Since the disease typically resolves on its own, making conscious decisions about your health can help your body fully recover and reestablish the lost balance. Not to worry! Managing the common cold can be done at the comfort of your own home. Drinking fresh-pressed juices with vegetables that are beneficial for your health, eating food rich in vitamins, as well as those containing lemon, ginger, and turmeric have added immune-regulating effects. Naturopathic doctors are committed to guide you in making conscious and empowered decisions for your health, from prevention to cure. To learn more about the naturopathic approach for the common cold, talk to your naturopathic medicine advisor today! REFERENCES: 1. InformedHealth.org [Internet]. Cologne, Germany: Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG); 2006-. Overview: Common colds. [Updated 2023 Dec 11]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279543/ 2. Mammari N, Albert Q, Devocelle M, et al. Natural Products for the Prevention and Treatment of Common Cold and Viral Respiratory Infections. Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2023;16(5):662. Published 2023 Apr 28. doi:10.3390/ph16050662 3. Džopalić T, Božić-Nedeljković B, Jurišić V. The role of vitamin A and vitamin D in modulation of the immune response with a focus on innate lymphoid cells. Cent Eur J Immunol. 2021;46(2):264-269. doi:10.5114/ceji.2021.103540 As one of the mainstay medications to manage different types of infections, antibiotics have helped millions of people recover from diseases which were once thought to be deadly and incurable. Statistically speaking, antibiotics added 23 years to the average human lifespan!₁ From the discovery of penicillin (the first antibiotic) to the present day, different types have been developed to target broad infections and specific disease conditions. However, the effects of antibiotics to the body aren’t all that good and could even have long-lasting disruptions to your healthy microbiota. This disruption eventually leads to an imbalance, putting you at risk of developing health problems from your environment and the very cells that are made to protect your body from harm! How Antibiotics Work Antibiotics help your body fight off different types of infections by either preventing the growth of bacteria or killing them off until they are reduced into small amounts, assisting the cells of your immune system to do its wonders of killing the foreign or opportunistic pathogen. This job is done through preventing the reproduction of the bacteria or disrupting cellular processes or functions within the bacterial cell.₂ The effects of a specific antibiotic may depend on its concentration levels within your body or the duration of its use.₂ Additionally, antibiotics are not made equally. Some are effective in managing infections found in certain areas of the body, while others impact the entire body and may be inappropriate for organ-specific conditions. The Growing Global Health Crisis The increasing misuse of antibiotics has led to the alarming phenomenon of antibiotic resistance, wherein antibiotics previously used to manage certain infections are now ineffective as the bacteria has developed immunity against the medication’s effects. The growing antibiotic resistance becomes a threat to optimal health and undoubtedly increases healthcare costs. Bearing in mind that antibiotics are not to be used for viral infections, following the recommended dose and duration of your antibiotics as prescribed by your healthcare provider, not sharing your antibiotics to other people, and sharing your understanding about proper antibiotics use to your friends and loved ones are simple yet impactful ways to prevent the growing resistance to antibiotics, which were originally developed to protect our bodies instead of causing unwanted harm. Ultimately, exploring natural options that will help treat or augment antibiotic treatment of infections with your naturopathic doctors will not only minimize the problem with antibiotic resistance, but also ensure that your health decisions nurture your holistic well-being. Adverse Effects of Antibiotic Use
Effects on the Intestinal Microbiota Just like how they are specialized to manage specific health conditions, each antibiotic has a unique effect on your intestinal microbiota. However, since the concentration and amount of time the drug has been present in the body matter, antibiotics used in combination consequently have longer and stronger effects. As a recap, the different species that make up your intestinal microbiota work together to maintain the integrity of your gut and regulate optimal body function. When this balance is disrupted, your body becomes vulnerable to different disease conditions and opportunistic infections. Unfortunately, antibiotics are infamous for disrupting the healthy diversity and abundance of the intestinal microbiome. The effects of antibiotic use to your body’ normal microbiota may be few or massive, damaging several species or triggering a widespread imbalance due to massive loss of dozens of species. This imbalance can lead to other, normally helpful, species overpowering their neighbors and creating new issues. An example of this is a yeast infection that occurs after antibiotic treatment of a urinary tract infection. Interestingly, the gut microbiota of children who were given antibiotics during their first three years of life are less diverse and stable.₃ This can greatly affect the body’s ability to protect itself from infection, irritation, and potent drugs growing up. Additionally, children who have been given antibiotics during the first year of life are more likely to have asthma, allergic reactions, and attention problems.₄ The Gut-Brain Axis Antibiotics may affect the body in different ways, aside from their antibacterial activities. Interestingly, these medications can affect your mental well-being through the gut-brain axis. The microbiota in your gut sends signals to the vagus nerve, affecting your stress response and mental well-being. Generally, the effects of antibiotics on your mental well-being may vary and could either be good or bad. Isoniazid, which is the first known antidepressant, is actually an antibiotic! It is no longer used as an antidepressant because it is so damaging to the liver, but, since the medication has positive effects on noradrenaline, dopamine, and serotonin levels in the brain, isoniazid paved the way for specialized antidepressant drugs to be developed.₄ Ironically, antibiotics can also negatively affect your mental well-being. Tryptophan, which is used to make the happy hormone serotonin, can be either absorbed from the diet or produced by microbes in the gut.₄ When the healthy environment of your gut becomes haywire as a consequence of antibiotic use, the production of your happy hormone may be affected, eventually affecting your mood, productivity, and emotional well-being. The Naturopathic Approach
When using antibiotics to combat infections, maintaining the balance of your intestinal microbiota should be a top priority. Taking probiotics, getting healthy sleep, and following intuitive eating practices ensure your body’s balance is maintained while it fights off infections and protects itself everyday. In exploring the best options for your gut and immune health, talking with your naturopathic medicine advisors is the first step you should take. Discover the naturopathic approach for your optimal health today! REFERENCES: 1. Hutchings MI, Truman AW, Wilkinson B. Antibiotics: past, present and future. Curr Opin Microbiol. 2019;51:72-80. doi:10.1016/j.mib.2019.10.008 2. Patel P, Wermuth HR, Calhoun C, Hall GA. Antibiotics. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; May 26, 2023. 3. Yassour M, Vatanen T, Siljander H, et al. Natural history of the infant gut microbiome and impact of antibiotic treatment on bacterial strain diversity and stability. Sci Transl Med. 2016;8(343):343ra81. doi:10.1126/scitranslmed.aad0917 4. Dinan K, Dinan T. Antibiotics and mental health: The good, the bad and the ugly. J Intern Med. 2022;292(6):858-869. doi:10.1111/joim.13543
Acne vulgaris is a skin condition involving your oil (sebaceous) glands. Although all age groups may be affected by its many variants, the peak incidence is during adolescence. Acne vulgaris affects 85% of the adolescent and young adult population, particularly those who are biologically male1 or females with hormone imbalances. Pimple breakouts may be seen on the face, trunk, neck, and back, which are sites with high numbers of sebaceous glands. Acne vulgaris is often mild and self-limiting, but severe forms may produce scars and hyperpigmentation (dark spots) that may be difficult to manage without professional care.₁ This may occur with improper treatments and self-medications! Albeit not life-threatening, acne may have severe implications on emotional well-being as breakouts affect cosmetic appearance, causing those with acne to feel extra self-conscious and with reduced self-confidence in social settings.
Understanding Acne Vulgaris
Acne develops when cells which are normally supposed to slough off and shed from your skin build-up inside your hair follicle. Over time, this accumulation of dead skin cells creates a sebum plug, which is favorable for the growth of the bacteria causing acne: Cutibacterium acnes. It is important to note that Cutibacterium acnes normally live on your skin and do not cause disease when balance is maintained. However, dysbiosis of your skin’s microbiome and lack of diversity between your normal flora can trigger an immune response, leading to inflammation.₃ Additionally, the microorganisms in your gut, through its connections with your skin’s flora, may trigger your breakouts!₃ Harsh rubbing or picking your pimples can also lead to further inflammation, worsening your pimples. Using occlusive ingredients on your skin and hair, such as pomade, may trigger your acne breakouts! Your hormones have important roles to play in the development of acne, as women with higher levels of androgens may have severe breakouts compared to those with lower levels. Androgen receptors are found all over your skin and affects the growth of your sebaceous glands, as well as sebum (oil) production.₃ Given that higher amounts of androgens, such as testosterone (which may be familiar to you as the primary male hormone but is also produced in women and those assigned female at birth) facilitate sebum production, this may inevitably support the colonization of Cutibacterium acnes, triggering your breakouts! This is precisely why boys and individuals assigned male at birth may have intense acne breakouts during puberty!
Signs and Symptoms
Acne presents with open and closed comedones, which may be familiar to you as blackheads (open comedones) and whiteheads (closed comedones). When inflamed, these may develop into papules (solid spots bulging on the skin), nodules (solid spots that are larger than papules), and pustules (small bumps containing white blood cells).₁ Breakouts are typically found on body areas where your sebaceous glands are most abundant. These include your neck, face, chest, shoulders, and upper back. Allopathic Options The market offers a wide variety of options to manage acne, from topical medications to laser or invasive treatments. A patient with acne is typically managed with retinoids and salicylic acid, which are applied directly onto the skin. In severe cases, topical or oral antibiotics may be given. Although effective, some retinoids may cause severe birth defects and other problems during pregnancy and should be avoided when you are pregnant or breastfeeding.₁ Oral contraceptives are often prescribed when the cause of your breakouts is hormonal imbalance.₁ Treatments are typically prescribed in a progressive manner until effective. However, it can take weeks to months for the treatment to take effect and improvements to be observed. Additionally, acne treatments may cause dryness, redness, and even unwanted irritation that will make your skin more sensitive, if not properly used. Generally, these medications act to suppress your symptoms, not target the root cause of your problem. If toning down on your acne medications is your goal, naturopathic doctors are committed to helping you rebuild your overall health to prevent future flares and support your body throughout the withdrawal process.
Improving Your Skin Health
It is undeniable that we become conscious of our looks as we grow older. Having good and flawless skin increases our confidence, especially in social situations. Skin health has become a hot topic, with people paying hefty amounts in treatments and products. Although with a great number of promising benefits and ingredients, anything you apply to your skin may cause more harm than good when not guided by a skin health expert! That being said, the development of acne can be triggered by over-developed skin care routines. It is important to note that each of your products are packed with ingredients that may be beneficial on its own but can cause detrimental effects when combined with other products. Additionally, applying too much skin products may clog your pores and worsen your breakouts! The key is to taper down on these intense rituals that can disrupt your natural microbiome and oils, with the guidance of your health care provider. Avoiding harsh scrubs or aggravating products can also help minimize irritation. Also, manipulating or picking on your lesions is never a good idea! This may cause further irritation and can lead to infections and scarring (worst case scenario!). As previously mentioned, the development of acne can also be triggered by fluctuations in your hormones. When this occurs, it is important to reduce inflammation by regulating your hormone levels! A solid understanding of how your hormones work and how your body keeps these in check can unlock more effective, faster, and tailored options for your acne problems.₂
Botanical Medicine for Glowing Skin
Seed Cycling
Seed cycling is an interesting and effective option to help manage menstrual irregularities and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which can cause hormonal imbalances and ovarian problems in women who menstruate. As a traditional approach, seed cycling helps maintain hormonal balance through incorporating the use of seeds which contain antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, healthy fats, proteins, and carbohydrates, all of which promotes normal levels of your hormones throughout all phases of your ovarian cycle.₄ These seeds include sunflower, pumpkin, flax, and sesame. Flax and pumpkin seeds are rich in phytoestrogens, which help nurture healthy estrogen levels during the follicular phase, while sunflower and sesame seeds contain phytoprogesterones that support optimal progesterone levels during the luteal phase. Seed cycling can also be beneficial in regulating thyroid hormone and prolactin levels in the blood, which is associated with weight gain when you are diagnosed with PCOS.₄
The Naturopathic Approach
Acne vulgaris is a universal problem that has affected people’s self-esteem and confidence for years. Although it appears on the surface of your skin, acne vulgaris provides important insights into what's happening inside your body. This is a sign that you should start considering your optimal health. Rather than masking your symptoms with medications that may cause further irritation and inflammation, it is important to target the root cause of your problems to maintain long-term health and confidence. Discover the naturopathic approach to managing acne vulgaris with Natural Path to Wellness today! REFERENCES: 1. Proença AC, Luís Â, Duarte AP. The Role of Herbal Medicine in the Treatment of Acne Vulgaris: A Systematic Review of Clinical Trials. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2022;2022:2011945. Published 2022 Jun 15. doi:10.1155/2022/2011945 2. Elsaie ML. Hormonal treatment of acne vulgaris: an update. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2016;9:241-248. Published 2016 Sep 2. doi:10.2147/CCID.S114830 3. Branisteanu DE, Toader MP, Porumb EA, et al. Adult female acne: Clinical and therapeutic particularities (Review). Exp Ther Med. 2022;23(2):151. doi:10.3892/etm.2021.11074 4. Rasheed N, Ahmed A, Nosheen F, et al. Effectiveness of combined seeds (pumpkin, sunflower, sesame, flaxseed): As adjacent therapy to treat polycystic ovary syndrome in females. Food Sci Nutr. 2023;11(6):3385-3393. Published 2023 Mar 25. doi:10.1002/fsn3.3328 The answer is YES! Although the most common demographic affected by breast cancer are women, those assigned male at birth or who are transmasculine are not exempted from getting breast cancer. Breast tissue, despite being smaller in size compared to that in women, are also present in men. In the presence of mutations, this can also become malignant and spread, eventually causing damage to nearby structures in the body.₁ However, breast cancer in men is considered rare and generally covers only 1% of breast cancer cases.₁ Despite a smaller number, male breast cancer is typically diagnosed late in the disease process where advanced characteristics of the condition are already present, leading to higher mortality than breast cancer types in women. This calls for a proactive approach to advocating for breast cancer awareness, especially in men who are more likely to develop the disease condition. More importantly, this highlights the importance of prevention for your optimal health as you walk through all stages of life. Understanding Breast Cancer Breast cancer occurs due to the unregulated presence of an abnormal cell which has the ability to proliferate (rapidly multiply), build-up in tissues, and spread to other parts of the body during the late phase of the disease. The development of this abnormal cell occurs due to a mutation caused by environmental exposure or genetic susceptibility. Getting exposed to harmful radiation, chemical compounds, or hot environments at work may increase your susceptibility to developing breast cancer.₂ Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, which are responsible for DNA repair, have also been linked to the disease.₂ Generally, you will have a higher risk of having breast cancer if you have family relatives with the condition, especially parents or siblings.₁ Additionally, your risks of having breast cancer increases with age. Preventing the development of breast cancer starts with proactively making decisions for your health. Knowing your risk factors, avoiding your personal triggers, and nurturing your body’s abilities to protect and heal itself are simple yet impactful ways for your optimal health and well-being. Signs and Symptoms People with breast cancer may have different symptoms, depending on the course of the condition. However, men with breast cancer typically complain of a painless mass on one breast.₁ Other symptoms may include breast discomfort, sores, or discharges. Any nipple discharge in a male is considered abnormal and needs to be examined by a physician immediately. Since men have smaller breasts compared to women, the presence of a mass may look more obvious. However, most men do not have themselves checked early compared to women, which is precisely why it is more difficult and challenging to manage the condition. This is a sign to fight off the stigma and advocate for your long-term health, no matter your gender! Treatment Options The management of breast cancer depends on the grade and stage of the tumor, rather than the gender of the patient. Particularly, the management of breast cancer in men has been adopted from treatment approaches developed for breast cancer in women.₃ Naturopathic oncologists (FABNO) are experts in this field and work with the allopathic oncology team to help guide patients into holistic therapies, incorporating both conventional and naturopathic methods, to efficiently manage the disease, achieve remission, prevent recurrence, and nurture well-being. The Power of Prevention Routine breast cancer screening and assessment for men are not that common and well-established, since the condition rarely occurs in this demographic. However, this should not stop you from making conscious decisions for your health. Learning your risk factors as you grow older and evaluating your susceptibility to a wide array of conditions due to your genetic background are a few important steps to nurture your long-term health. Additionally, avoiding exposure to an environment that is not good for your health ensures that your body remains in balance and is not put at increased stress and harm. If a mass is observed, getting the appropriate diagnostic tests rules out harmful conditions, such as breast cancer. Diagnostic and screening methods for breast cancer in men are similar to those utilized in women. These may be through physical exams, mammography, or imaging studies, such as ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Undergoing a wide array of tests may feel overwhelming, but these serve as building blocks into unlocking the best holistic approaches for your health needs. The Naturopathic Approach The best approach in managing breast cancer is to prevent it from developing in the first place. Identifying your risks early and making conscious decisions about your health everyday are a few of the most important steps you can take to not only prevent the development of breast cancer, but also protect yourself from other disease conditions that could affect your overall well-being. After cancer has already developed, naturopathic physicians trained in integrative oncology can help provide options to enhance the efficacy of your cancer treatment, speed recovery, and restore health post-treatment to help you recover from conventional treatment and prevent future recurrence. In every step of your health journey, your naturopathic doctors are committed to ensuring you are guided towards the best options for your personal health goals. To learn more about the naturopathic approach to nurturing your health, talk to your naturopathic medicine advisors today! REFERENCES:
1. Khattab A, Kashyap S, Monga DK. Male Breast Cancer. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; September 26, 2022. 2. Zheng G, Leone JP. Male Breast Cancer: An Updated Review of Epidemiology, Clinicopathology, and Treatment. J Oncol. 2022;2022:1734049. Published 2022 May 24. doi:10.1155/2022/1734049 3. Gucalp A, Traina TA, Eisner JR, et al. Male breast cancer: a disease distinct from female breast cancer. Breast Cancer Res Treat. 2019;173(1):37-48. doi:10.1007/s10549-018-4921-9 Birth control is an essential practice to explore as you start your reproductive health journey for your present and future self. With nearly half of pregnancies all over the world unintended, birth control options help reduce unwanted pregnancies and empower couples to foster healthy families.3 Different methods are available to prevent pregnancy and choosing what is best for your health and lifestyle is important in ensuring that you are able to reap the benefits of birth control without putting yourself at risk of experiencing detrimental effects on your well-being. What is birth control? Birth control (contraception) is an empowered approach that allows you to take charge of your reproductive health and actively plan for your future family by preventing or delaying pregnancy. This may be achieved through introducing hormones that will modify the stages of your uterine cycle, using barriers that will physically block the entry of sperm into the uterus, or not having sex during fertile days.1 The best birth control option for you may depend on your health history, medications you are currently using, and lifestyle practices that may affect your adherence to a specific method. Additionally, the best way to increase the effectiveness of any method of contraception is adherence and discipline. Hormonal Contraceptives Hormonal contraceptives are a form of birth control which utilize either progestin or estrogen, two hormones which control the stages of the uterine cycle. Progestin, which progesterone is derived from, suppresses ovulation (the release of an egg) by limiting the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone, which is responsible to activate luteinizing hormone (LH) from the pituitary gland.2 A surge in LH signals the beginning of your fertile period and its inhibition prevents you from getting pregnant. Estrogen, on the other hand, works by suppressing the development of a viable egg that interacts with sperm to form a baby. Other than being effective birth control options, hormonal contraceptives are also used to manage irregular bleeding in people diagnosed with hormonal disorders, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).Hormonal contraceptives are a form of birth control which utilize either progestin or estrogen, two hormones which control the stages of the uterine cycle. Progestin, which progesterone is derived from, suppresses ovulation (the release of an egg) by limiting the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone, which is responsible to activate luteinizing hormone (LH) from the pituitary gland.2 A surge in LH signals the beginning of your fertile period and its inhibition prevents you from getting pregnant. Estrogen, on the other hand, works by suppressing the development of a viable egg that interacts with sperm to form a baby. Other than being effective birth control options, hormonal contraceptives are also used to manage irregular bleeding in people diagnosed with hormonal disorders, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Non-hormonal Contraceptives Non-hormonal contraceptives consist of reversible and irreversible options that aim to prevent pregnancy without causing disruptions in your body’s estrogen and progesterone levels, thereby preventing the unwanted side effects of hormonal contraceptive use. Traditional Family Planning Traditional methods of birth control highlight your willingness and adherence to regularly monitor important dates and events in your cycle, as well as practice self-control on your partner’s end to withdraw prior to ejaculation.4 Tracking your fertile days (period in your cycle when you are ovulating and more likely to get pregnant) may require you to check changes in your temperature at the same time each day, inspect your vaginal secretions for color and consistency, or use a bracelet that will help you monitor specific dates to perform intercourse.2 The failure rate of this type of contraception is 22 out 100, which means that 22 per 100 women are able to get pregnant even after using traditional family planning methods. Aside from preventing pregnancy, traditional family planning methods are also used to help the woman in having a baby as these ultimately track body changes signaling ovulation (when your eggs are released and ready to be fertilized by a sperm). Talking to your naturopathic doctors on what type of birth control is best for your preference, health risks, and lifestyle, are important as you take charge of your health and plan for your future family. Chemical and Physical Barriers Condoms and diaphragms protect you from getting pregnant by acting as physical barriers that prevent sperm from entering into the vaginal canal or impair their movement. Additionally, physical barriers (such as condoms) help protect users against sexually-transmitted diseases or infections (STDs or STIs). Spermicides, on the other hand, are chemical barriers that contain ingredients which are destructive to sperm. Although helpful in boosting the efficacy of condoms, spermicides may cause vaginal irritation. When used in combination with a cervical cap or diaphragm (internal vaginal barrier methods), spermicides have a good success rate against pregnancy, but these methods do not provide STI protection. Intrauterine Devices (IUDs) The widely used form of contraception is the copper intrauterine device (IUD), which is inserted into the vagina for 5-10 years to prevent pregnancy. These devices can protect users from getting pregnant by releasing copper ions that trigger an inflammatory response in the uterus, thereby reducing the survival and movement of sperm.4 Despite being efficient and effective forms of birth control, copper IUD insertion may put you at higher risk of developing pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), especially when proper hygiene is not practiced. Sterilization Both males and females have the option to permanently avoid pregnancy through undergoing surgery that irreversibly prevents fertility. In women, tubal ligation is a surgical option that seals or removes both fallopian tubes, preventing viable eggs from reaching your ovaries and blocking the entry of sperm that could fertilize these eggs.4 Vasectomies, on the other hand, are surgical procedures that prevent pregnancy by sealing off the vas deferens in males, which is responsible for supplying sperm into the semen. Once performed, the procedure prevents the release of sperm during ejaculation, thereby avoiding the possibility of fertilization. Since surgical methods of birth control may be permanent and lifelong, careful considerations on their implications to your long-term health and well-being are crucial to fully enjoy the benefits of undergoing surgery for your reproductive health. Common Health Issues All forms of birth control have their own side effects, either physically or emotionally, and making the right choice for your health and lifestyle should be your first priority. The use of hormone-based methods may increase risks of cancer and formation of blood clots, which is why the type of birth control should be individualized based on your health risks1 and lifestyle. Since these alter hormone levels and cause changes to the normal stages of your uterine cycle, you may also experience irregular bleeding from using birth control, which can be inconvenient especially when you’re busy and hustling every day! For green tea lovers, oral contraceptives may reduce the clearance of caffeine in your favorite drinks, increasing the risks of unwanted effects of excessive caffeine levels. Intrauterine devices, which are commonly used in this country for convenience, may put you at risk of having pelvic infections and affect your chances of giving birth altogether.1 Most importantly, no method of birth control, except complete abstinence, can guarantee a 100% chance of avoiding pregnancy. As you explore the best birth control options for your optimal health, talking with your healthcare providers ensures you are guided and fully supported through every step. The Naturopathic Approach for Birth Control Recovery Stopping birth control is another step in family planning that includes a variety of steps you should be guided with. If your body has become acquainted with the effects of hormonal contraception, recovering from it may require support as your body adjusts and reestablishes a healthy cycle. Additionally, you will need to support and nurture your liver as it flushes out excess hormones from contraceptive use. Your skin may also show the effects of the imbalance caused by hormonal birth control and managing this is another important factor to consider with your naturopathic doctor. At Natural Path to Wellness, we empower you to make conscious decisions for your reproductive health without sacrificing your optimal well-being. Discover the naturopathic approach for an empowered you! AuthorKate Nemenzo studied in nursing school as an academic scholar. Her passion for holistic health has led her to become a registered nurse who promotes optimal care throughout her patient’s therapeutic journey. When not writing, she spends her time crocheting, watching Korean dramas, and playing the guitar! 10/9/2024 Managing Anemia of Chronic Disease: Naturopathic Approaches to Boost Health and EnergyRead Now Anemia occurs when you have low levels of, or weak or poorly formed, red blood cells (RBCs) in the blood, which are vital in keeping your organs’ optimal function. Normally, your body has powerful capabilities to solve this problem on its own, precisely why anemia can remain unnoticed until you experience severe symptoms that will prompt you to visit your healthcare provider. In some instances, anemia can be coincidentally identified during its early stages when you undergo routine screening for work or have pre-existing conditions that need to be monitored regularly, such as in cases of chronic health problems and autoimmune disease. Chronic diseases, in particular, increase your risks of developing anemia as your body attempts to hide iron from the blood as a way to supposedly protect itself. Hence, targeting the root cause of your autoimmune problem and avoiding triggers that may cause severe imbalance to your immune response are essential in not only preventing anemia, but also in keeping your body healthy! Understanding Anemia of Chronic DiseaseYour liver cells produce a hormone named “hepcidin” to regulate your body’s iron levels. This hormone is responsible for degrading a protein called “ferroportin” that transports iron from the intestine, macrophages (white blood cells), and liver cells into the blood. Balance is maintained in two ways: once iron levels are low in the body, your liver cells produce less hepcidin to allow more absorption of iron into the blood. High iron levels, on the other hand, trigger your liver to produce more hepcidin, causing lower absorption and transport of iron into the blood. However, this balance is disrupted in the presence of chronic inflammation! When this occurs, your body is set into thinking that harmful pathogens are causing damage to your cells, eventually triggering a unique mechanism to reduce available iron for their consumption by increasing the production of hepcidin, regardless of the amount of iron present in the body. This means that iron remains sequestered (hidden) inside your body cells rather than being readily available in the blood to be used for optimal body function. Although not harmful short-term, chronically high levels of hepcidin can affect your body’s efficient ability to make new red blood cells as iron is a significant component in their production. Signs and Symptoms With anemia of chronic disease, you may experience weakness, fatigue, and problems with learning or memory recall.2 You may also feel easily tired when exercising. Looking out for pale gums, conjunctiva (clear layer protecting the eye), palmar creases (single lines on the palms of your hands), and nailbeds is important. Tests should be conducted in order to rule out other causes of such symptoms. When considering lab tests, it is important for your health care provider to not only take a look at your complete blood count, but also review iron, vitamin B, and ferritin levels in the blood as these can support the healthy red blood cells. Additionally, it is important to consider that although a range of reference values are present for every test, what is typically abnormal to one person may be normal to another! Hence, monitoring your personal trends is vital to ensure proper care. Allopathic Options Anemia of chronic disease is primarily managed with methotrexate or corticosteroids, which are medications that suppress your immune system, preventing it from responding and triggering inflammation.1 Although helpful in reducing inflammation, these medications put you at greater vulnerability towards harmful pathogens, opportunistic infections, and cellular mutations that may cause harm by preventing the body from triggering the very response that is activated to protect itself. Boosting Your RBC Levels Since anemia of chronic disease may put you at risk for developing iron deficiency as most of the iron that are supposed to be floating in the blood are hidden in macrophages (white blood cells), taking iron supplements is an effective approach to ensure healthy blood iron levels. However, iron-based supplements may cause you to experience nausea, vomiting, constipation, and stomach pain, all of which can affect your daily activities and well-being.3 Additionally, oral iron supplements may be poorly absorbed in your intestine due to increased production of hepcidin by the liver.3 Botanical medicine options that are effective in boosting your RBC levels without the same risk of unwanted side effects include:
The best and most effective way to prevent and manage anemia is to target the root cause of the underlying inflammation. This may be done through healing the intestines, supporting the health of your cells, and managing any forms of bleeding. Aside from reducing unwanted inflammation, rebuilding your blood supply holistically and supporting your progress with nutrition and supplements with the guidance of your naturopathic physician nurtures recovery and balance. Discover the naturopathic approach to achieve and maintain optimal health today! AuthorKate Nemenzo studied in nursing school as an academic scholar. Her passion for holistic health has led her to become a registered nurse who promotes optimal care throughout her patient’s therapeutic journey. When not writing, she spends her time crocheting, watching Korean dramas, and playing the guitar!
Rosacea is an inflammatory skin condition that typically causes swelling and redness (flushing) on the central portion of your face. This is different from the blush you get whenever you see your ultimate crush! Although mild cases of rosacea are harmless and remain undiagnosed, those with severe disease may experience lack of confidence and insecurity due to persistent skin discoloration and flare-ups. Not to worry! The primary management for rosacea is fairly simple: avoid your personal triggers! Through minimizing exposure to irritants that may precipitate flare-ups and exploring natural options to help regulate inflammation, you can recover your previously plump skin.
Understanding Rosacea
The word “rosacea” actually means “rose-like,” which describes the main symptoms you will experience with the disease. These may include erythema that may be temporary or persistent. Although the exact cause of rosacea is unknown, your risk of having the condition may be associated with your family history of the disease, problems with your immune response, infections with microorganisms, dysregulation in your neurovascular pathways, or factors from your environment.1 Generally, the manifestations of rosacea are classified into four different subtypes:1
It is important to note that the manifestations of rosacea are not exclusive to their specific groups. You may experience symptoms from two or more subtypes and the affected area may change over time. What Can Trigger Rosacea?
Episodes of redness and flushing are often associated with getting exposed to heat or steam, drinking alcohol, and experiencing changes in hormone levels due to menopause. Exposure to noxious cold and use of niacin (vitamin B-3) or topical steroids can also trigger flare-ups. These irritants activate your sensory nerves to release vasoactive and inflammatory substances that cause dilation (widening) of superficial blood vessels on the face and produce redness and swelling.
Signs and Symptoms
Rosacea is characterized by:
The presence and severity of your symptoms increase overtime, with greater numbers of flushing episodes after persistent exposure to your personal triggers. Since most symptoms present on the face, rosacea may inevitably affect an individual’s self-esteem, causing emotional and social burden. Erythema is allopathically managed with topical medications that cause local constriction of blood vessels to reduce swelling. Topical medications to reduce the number of opportunistic pathogens present on the skin that could actually cause greater inflammation may also be given. Although beneficial in the short-term, these strategies only act to reduce the severity of your symptoms. At Natural Path to Wellness, we are committed to help you alleviate the root cause of your health problems and not merely mask your symptoms. Through the healing power of nature, your naturopathic medicine advisors will guide you as you make conscious decisions for your optimal health. The Naturopathic Approach for Rosacea
The natural path in managing rosacea begins with making conscious nutrition and lifestyle changes to avoid potential triggers that may cause flare-ups! These include avoiding intake of your favorite spicy food, alcohol, chocolate, and citrus fruits. Cigarette smoking should also be avoided as this irritates and dries out your skin!
Taking care of your skin is another essential step to reduce flare-ups.
Aside from taking care of your skin surface, assisting your body as it heals from within through taking natural supplements with health benefits that help regulate inflammation, reduce irritation, and improve immune regulation is vital. These may include zinc, evening primrose oil, and gamma-linolenic acid. To fully enjoy the health benefits of each supplement, you should always remember to take them as directed by your healthcare provider. The risk of experiencing unwanted effects that may cause more harm than good increases when intake is not regulated and monitored. Talking to your naturopathic physician will help you in exploring the best natural supplements for your unique case. Improving Your Skin Health
Although rosacea is not a disease that can cause potentially life-threatening risks to those diagnosed with the condition, it can leave emotional and physical scars when left unmanaged. Making conscious decisions for your health is the building block to alleviate rosacea! Avoiding your personal triggers and taking care of your skin are essential to protect yourself from the consequence of flare-ups. Discover naturopathic options for your optimal health today!
AuthorKate Nemenzo studied in nursing school as an academic scholar. Her passion for holistic health has led her to become a registered nurse who promotes optimal care throughout her patient’s therapeutic journey. When not writing, she spends her time crocheting, watching Korean dramas, and playing the guitar! |
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THE BLOG AT NATURAL PATH TO WELLNESSAuthorSNatural Path to Wellness values community education and welcomes contributions from writers with a background in Naturopathic Medicine, natural health and wellness, herbalism, homeopathy, Nature Cure, and more. Disclosures & Policies: This and other blog posts may contain affiliate links. Please view our disclosures page for more information.
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