 The importance of nurturing sexual health cannot be understated, especially since it is a vital part of your well-being. It does not only mean having a pain-free and comfortable sexual intercourse, but also having harmony between your mind and body. Problems with sexual functioning can ultimately affect confidence towards one’s own body, affecting how you treat yourself and interact with other people. That being said, finding solutions that address problems with sexual functioning and nurturing your sexual health at the same time is very important. Yoga is a holistic regimen that should be added to your daily routine to help nurture and boost sexual function. Understanding Sexual HealthSexual function plays a vital part in achieving optimal wellness and quality of life. It is affected by different factors during sexual intercourse, such as comfort, satisfaction, absence of physiologic abnormalities, desire, arousal, and orgasm. Problems in any of these factors can alter a person’s sexual health and self-esteem, eventually disrupting relationships, control, expression, and judgment. Yoga for Mind-Body ConnectionYoga is a holistic approach to health that makes use of physical postures, mindfulness techniques, breathing exercises, and relaxation to nurture different body systems and their connection with one another, especially the mind and body. Each lesson is carefully tailored to help nurture a healthy body and soul. The benefits of yoga for both mental and physical health are deeply connected to its foundational belief that stress is the root of all diseases.3 Originating from India, this integrative method of healing is especially helpful in nurturing sexual health through its abilities to strengthen muscles and bones, improve control, and regulate important processes that keep the body strong and healthy.2 Yoga for Women’s HealthYoga is rooted in its holistic approach to health, boosting physical well-being while enhancing intimate relationships by nurturing sexual function. In women, yoga helps:
Additionally, yoga helps nurture the body’s parasympathetic nervous system, which plays a crucial role in promoting arousal and response during sexual intercourse.1 This means that yoga is also effective in fostering intimate relationships between people through nurturing one’s sexual experience. Physically, yoga actually helps strengthen your pelvic floor for stronger orgasms! Coupled with Kegel exercises, which involve repetitive movements of contracting and relaxing your pelvic floor muscle, can help nurture both strength and endurance. To learn more about the wonders of Kegel exercises for your health, we have the perfect blog post for you! Yoga for Men’s HealthTwo of the most common problems that affect sexual function in men are erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation. Erectile dysfunction (ED) happens when there is a recurrent problem in achieving or maintaining erection during sexual acts, eventually causing feelings of stress and anxiety.2 Premature ejaculation, on the other hand, happens when a man regularly ejaculates within just a minute of having sexual intercourse.2 Caused by different factors, such as hormonal imbalances, nerve problems, alcohol abuse, or blood vessel insufficiencies, these conditions are primarily treated with sildenafil, commonly known as Viagra. Although beneficial in temporarily addressing the symptom of ED, the use of sildenafil carries serious health risks, such as vision problems, hearing loss, cardiovascular disease, and painful erections. Most critically, these meds don’t address the underlying problem causing ED. Yoga offers a safe and effective approach that holistically manages erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation in men, which in turn, help nurture confidence and self-esteem during intimate moments.2 In men, yoga helps:
The Naturopathic ApproachSexual health is a vital part of your well-being that should always be considered and taken care of. It not only affects your physical health, but also alters your self-confidence and self-esteem. The ability of yoga in nurturing your sexual health is a perfect example of how natural connections can be built and rebuilt with holistic regimens that target the root causes of your problems, instead of just focusing on treating your symptoms. Naturopathic medicine combines clinical understanding of hormonal balance and your physiology, lifestyle and stress management, and tools such as yoga, herbal medicine, clinical nutrition, supplements, and more to help you achieve all of your health and wellness goals. At Natural Path to Wellness, your team of naturopathic medicine advisors will help you discover the power of nature for your health, talk to us today! This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your licensed naturopathic physician or other licensed healthcare provider before making changes to your medications or supplements. Disclosures & Policies: This and other blog posts may contain affiliate links. Please view our disclosures page for more information. REFERENCES:
 Having to experience persistent symptoms of hormonal dysfunction, such as persistent fatigue, menstrual migraines, unexplained weight gain, menstrual cramps, acne, or brain fog, and undergo staggering amounts of conventional blood tests to determine the problem can be quite frustrating, especially when results come back indeterminate or vague. While laboratory blood tests can detect levels of certain hormones in real-time, such as thyroxine (a thyroid hormone), assessing hormonal imbalances may need a more comprehensive and proactive test that is able to examine how hormones are being secreted, metabolized, and cleared from the body. The Dried Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones (DUTCH) Test is a revolutionary method of hormone testing that illustrates a complete picture of the life cycle of your hormones, thereby providing answers to your questions without having to undergo a complex cycle of testing! What is the DUTCH Test?The DUTCH test is a non-invasive and convenient method of assessing hormone production and metabolism through the use of dried urine samples collected for at least 24 hours. It uses mass spectrometry technology which is highly sensitive and precise in assessing steroid hormones even with small sample volumes, thereby showing complete and comprehensive hormone profiles.1 The DUTCH test specifically measures sex hormones, adrenal hormones, and organic acids that play essential roles in keeping the body strong and healthy. The best part is that you can take the test at home! Urine samples are obtained through filter papers, which are dried and sent to the laboratory after an elapsed time. The DUTCH test includes different collection rounds and intervals throughout the day, helping capture different hormonal variations that happen on a day-to-day basis.1 Additionally, it helps assess how your body produces and metabolizes hormones, helping understand the mechanisms behind imbalances, such as estrogen dominance. The DUTCH test is more comprehensive than a single laboratory test, because it is able to assess the daily pattern of your hormones instead of a static amount captured during medical laboratory testing. Click here to learn more about the DUTCH test. Signs You Might Need a DUTCH TestThe DUTCH test will help you uncover the presence and degree of hormonal imbalance no matter your gender. Hormone problems may present with:
How the Testing Process WorksThe whole testing process begins by ordering a kit through us at Natural Path to Wellness once you thoroughly discuss your care plan with our naturopathic medicine advisors. Afterwards, you will then receive your test kit in the mail with detailed instructions to show you how to effectively obtain adequate samples. Once you have completed the kit, you may then mail the specimens back and visit us again to discuss your test results! A detailed instruction guide is included in your test kits. If you have not received any, you may check out these instructions to help you understand what to do before, during, and after collecting your own samples. The Naturopathic ApproachThe DUTCH test may be requested by your naturopathic doctor to help identify the root causes of hormonal imbalance. Your test results will serve as a guide to your naturopathic treatment plan, which includes targeted supplements according to your unique health needs, herbal medicine to support your body’s natural abilities to heal itself, and nutritional and lifestyle changes to help nurture balance within! At Natural Path to Wellness, your team of naturopathic medicine advisors will help you nurture your optimal health through intensive and holistic care. Talk to us today!
This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your licensed naturopathic physician or other licensed healthcare provider before making changes to your medications or supplements. Disclosures & Policies: This and other blog posts may contain affiliate links. Please view our disclosures page for more information. REFERENCE:
 Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection has affected the lives of many, eventually becoming a health issue that brought an ongoing stigma against those infected. The revolutionary discovery of HIV in the United States paved the way for its awareness, diagnosis, and management, thereby helping those with the condition prevent complications and opportunistic infections that can harm their well-being. Understanding HIVHuman immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a type of retrovirus that was first discovered in Africa from primates, where it was thought to be transmitted to humans through direct contact with infected animal blood. Its destructive nature comes from its abilities to directly attack your immune system, thereby causing damage to the cells that are supposed to protect your body from harm.1 Particularly, HIV affects your CD4+ helper T cells, which are a type of white blood cells that help regulate your immune response and activate other immune cells to successfully fight off infections.1 Did you know? Your helper T cells also undergo self-destruction to prevent the virus from replicating and causing further damage to the body. The effects of this sacrifice, although effective in reducing viral replication, is short-lived and eventually puts you at risk of infections due to an impaired immune protection. How is HIV transmitted?HIV is primarily transmitted through sexual activity, where breaks or trauma in the mucosa exposes cells underneath it to seminal or vaginal fluids that contain the virus. Other forms of transmission include sharing injectables (or straws, dollar bills, or other devices for intranasal drug use), transfusion with blood and blood products infected with HIV, and exposure to potentially infectious body fluids, such as breastmilk or amniotic fluid from a mother (who is not undergoing treatment and still considered infectious) to her fetus. It is important to remember that HIV cannot be transmitted through saliva, tears, sweat, or even discharges from your nose, unless these secretions are visibly bloody! This means that it is safe to interact with, hug, hold hands, comfort, and exchange other forms of non-sexual contact with a person who is HIV-positive. Allopathic OptionsHIV infection is primarily managed with antiretroviral drugs, such as zidovudine, with specific type and dose depending on your unique case. Although unable to completely clear the infection, antiretroviral therapy can effectively suppress viral activity by attacking different stages of the virus’ development and replication. This has paved the way for people with HIV to live longer and help prevent them from transmitting the disease to other people. Presently, anti-retroviral drugs also help prevent HIV infection when taken before or after sexual acts or exposure to blood and fluids infected with HIV.1 Presently, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PREP) is readily available to prevent HIV infection in people belonging to high-risk groups, such as various healthcare teams working with HIV-positive patients, community care workers, bisexuals, transgenders, gays, and people engaging in occupational intercourse (sex workers).5 In people with high risks of acquiring HIV due to sexual practices, including their partners in the treatment regimen is important. One of the most pressing concerns behind the use of antiretroviral drugs is non-compliance that may be attributed to the number of tablets that should be taken everyday, as well as the wide array of side effects and adverse reactions, such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, rash, fatigue, and even mouth sores or blisters, all of which can affect your daily activities. This is one vital part where naturopathic care can help! At Natural Path to Wellness, we will help you explore holistic, natural options that can effectively reduce unwanted side effects from medication use and nurture your quality of life throughout your treatment regimen at the same time. The Naturopathic ApproachNaturopathic care aims to nurture optimal well-being through helping you address and prevent chronic inflammation and immune activation. Our goal is to ultimately treat the whole person and not just focus on your current disease. Promoting Gut Health HIV infection can impair the abilities of your gut mucosa to protect the body against harm from food and environmental particles that enter the body through your gastrointestinal tract. This is because the infection primarily damages your CD4+ Helper T cells, which are heavily responsible in initiating your body’s protective mechanisms against foreign invaders. Chronic infection and inflammation can also cause damage to cells that regulate the normal composition of your gut microbiota, which eventually triggers and sustains a never-ending cycle of inflammation.2 To prevent this cycle from happening, probiotics and prebiotics can be incorporated into your daily regimen. Probiotic and prebiotic supplementation can help prevent inflammation and improve the composition of your gut microbiota, thereby preventing gut dysbiosis. Nutrient Supplementation HIV infection cannot only exhaust your body’s immune response, but also trigger a heavy amount of stress that can eventually deplete your body’s nutrients and cause potential deficiencies that can affect your overall healthy state. Additionally, problems with your gastrointestinal mucosa can lead to malabsorption of essential vitamins and minerals that eventually causes or exacerbates nutrient deficiencies. Antioxidants normally produced in the body to protect it from oxidative damage are also depleted during the course of HIV infection. Supplementing your diet with essential vitamins and minerals, such as zinc, magnesium, and selenium can help promote your overall health and nurture your body’s natural abilities to produce antioxidants. Botanical Medicine Herbal medications are effective natural remedies that can help support your immune system and improve the efficacy of your treatment regimen.
And many more! Nurturing Your Immune HealthThe health of your immune system is crucial for the overall health of your body, especially when you have HIV infection. Nurturing your immune system through supplementing your treatment regimen with essential vitamins and minerals, optimizing your gut health, and incorporating herbal medications that can help support your immune response are essential in achieving an undetectable viral load, preventing transmission to other people, and avoiding complications of an ineffective immune response, such as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). To learn more about how to begin your holistic health and wellness journey, talk to us today! Take note : it is best to consult with your healthcare provider first before exploring natural and alternative options for your optimal health to ensure that your treatment regimen is what is best and safe for you. Additionally, most herbs are contraindicated during pregnancy and in special populations, so talking with your healthcare provider can prevent you from experiencing unwanted effects associated with unregulated use. This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your licensed naturopathic physician or other licensed healthcare provider before making changes to your medications or supplements.
Disclosures & Policies: This and other blog posts may contain affiliate links. Please view our disclosures page for more information. REFERENCES:
2/2/2025 A Controversial Take on Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs: Pain Relief with Added Health RisksRead Now 
The wonders of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain relief cannot be understated. In just a few minutes after taking the medication, you can get back on track and forget about your headache for the rest of the day. Although the discovery of the power of NSAIDs for pain relief is groundbreaking in allopathic medicine, their unregulated and frequent use can cause dire health consequences, especially to your gastrointestinal tract.
What are NSAIDs?
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are a class of medications that help reduce inflammation and pain relief, making them useful in managing muscle pain, fever, migraines, arthritis, and even period cramps. The wonders of NSAIDs come from their ability to block the action of cyclooxygenase, a special enzyme that exerts protective and regulatory effects to body processes and at the same time drives your body’s inflammatory response. Cyclooxygenases are divided into two subgroups: cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). COX-1 is regularly expressed in the body, as it plays a big role in nurturing the lining of the gastrointestinal tract, promoting platelet aggregation to stop bleeding and assist in wound healing, and regulating kidney function. COX-2, on the other hand, is not regularly expressed and is only present during inflammation.
The wide variety of NSAIDs available in the market allows people to choose their preferred type and brand. A very important consideration to remember when choosing the type of NSAIDs for your health problem is that not all medications are made equal. In fact, NSAIDs are classified into two types: nonselective COX inhibitors which block the effects of COX-1 and COX-2, and COX-2 selective inhibitors which only suppress COX-2. This means that although their actions in suppressing inflammation are the same, their side effects may be different from the other.
The Consequences of NSAID Use
NSAIDs affect all major organ systems in the body. From the very first day of taking the medication, your risks of having stomach ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding (GI bleeding), heart problems, and stroke, are higher than those who have not taken the medication.2 Since non-selective COX inhibitors affect both COX-1, that helps protect your gastric mucosa, and COX-2, which is necessary during inflammation, you may experience pain relief but at the same time put yourself at risk of stomach irritation and ulcers with long-term and unregulated use. Opting for a COX-2 selective NSAIDs may mitigate these risks since it does not hamper the protective effects of COX-1.
However, the use of COX-2 selective NSAIDs is not entirely beneficial since these medications do not help regulate platelet aggregation, putting you at risk of developing blood clots with prolonged use.2 The risk of side effects with NSAID use is higher in the elderly population, since these people are likely to take medications that may modify the effects of NSAIDs and because it can reduce the effects of aspirin therapy.2 Safety and Considerations
NSAIDs may cause hypersensitivity reactions to people who are allergic to the medication. Additionally, the use of NSAIDs are contraindicated in people who have undergone coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG) and mothers during the second half of pregnancy.1 When ultimately necessary, the benefits of its use for your health should outweigh possible health risks.
The improper use of NSAIDs may lead to toxicity, damaging your kidneys and liver, inducing high blood pressure levels, and causing gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding.1 As previously mentioned, the use of non-selective NSAIDs may also cause gastrointestinal damage, since it blocks the protective effects of cyclooxygenase to your stomach and intestinal lining. Once prolonged, this damage can lead to decreased nutrient absorption, putting you at risk of developing anemias and malnutrition. Naturopathic Solutions for Pain and Inflammation
Rather than dealing with unwanted consequences of long-term NSAID use, naturopathic medicine offers alternative holistic remedies that will not only help relieve pain and inflammation, but also target the root cause of your health problems.
Botanical Medicine
Acupuncture Acupuncture has been used by traditional medicine to manage pain and reduce inflammation by inserting needles through the skin at specific surface points to recover the natural energy flow within. Its wonders in pain control comes from its ability to nurture your body’s natural energy flow.3 Acupuncture has been observed to provide pain relief within 30 minutes of the procedure, which can last for months or even a whole year after therapy.3 Aromatherapy Aromatherapy focuses on applying essential oils on the skin or inhaling them to relieve pain and provide relaxation.4 These essential oils are made from plants that contain healing and relaxing properties. Additionally, the pleasant smell of essential oils can help you enjoy each aromatherapy session.4 Aromatherapy can be an invaluable treatment option, but this realm is also full of false claims, greedy companies, and pseudoscience. Burns, kidney failure, worsening of chronic disease and cancer, and even infant deaths have occurred because of inappropriate use of aromatherapy. Always talk to a trusted and knowledgeable healthcare professional before utilizing essential oils. The Naturopathic Approach
The naturopathic approach aims to support the body’s natural ability to heal itself. This is done through exploring holistic solutions that incorporate lifestyle, nutrition, supplementation, and natural remedies that are all aimed to nurture. Explore the wonders of naturopathic medicine for pain relief and inflammation today.
This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your licensed naturopathic physician or other licensed healthcare provider before making changes to your medications or supplements. Disclosures & Policies: This and other blog posts may contain affiliate links. Please view our disclosures page for more information. REFERENCES:
1/20/2025 Naturopathic Care for Alopecia Areata: Special Herbs to Revitalize Your Hair NaturallyRead Now 
Hair is inevitably a vital part of most people’s appearance, reflecting self-esteem and personality.
We can all agree that our hair is our crowning glory and having problems with it can undeniably affect our self-confidence. For people with alopecia areata, episodic hair loss has become a challenging battle. Not to worry, we are here to help you unravel the wonders of naturopathic care in revitalizing and nurturing your best accessory!
Understanding Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition that can cause destruction to the hair follicles and nails by disrupting their normal cycle, leading to hair loss. The condition specifically disrupts the anagen phase of the hair growth cycle, making the damage it causes temporary but life-changing. Typically, special sites in the body have the ability to endure exposure to irritants and foreign invaders without triggering an immune response, including the eyes, brain, testes, and hair. These are also known as “immune-privileged” sites and their unique ability protects them from getting destroyed from the collateral damage that normally follows an immune response.1 Loss of this privilege accompanied by problems with immune regulation eventually leads to alopecia areata. The condition may be triggered by viral infections, stress, recent vaccinations, and use of certain medications.1 Episodes of alopecia areata may also be driven by emotional or physiological stress, such as during puberty, illnesses, family problems, and major life changes.
Signs and Symptoms
Alopecia areata is characterized by patterns of hair loss lasting for weeks, hence the name alopecia (baldness) areata (patches). These patterns vary and may only either affect the back of your head, or all over your scalp except for the back of the head! Hair loss can also be observed on the eyebrows, beard, eyelashes, arms, or legs. In some cases, people with alopecia areata may experience total hair loss across the entire scalp or body.
Allopathic Options
People with alopecia areata are usually able to regrow their lost hair within a year without having to undergo any special intervention. However, corticosteroids may be given to begin regrowing hair in a few weeks. These medications act by inhibiting your immune response, thereby reducing the inflammation that causes hair loss and facilitating regrowth of hair in bald areas. However, corticosteroids do not prevent hair loss from happening again! Although temporarily effective in suppressing symptoms, these may also compromise your immunity in the long run and cause your body to become vulnerable against infections, in addition to the unwanted side effects caused by corticosteroid use such as pain, dilated skin veins, and loss of skin pigment.1 Additionally, you may have to get these injections repeatedly every few weeks!
Before we delve into the wonders of herbal medicine in preventing hair loss and nourishing your hair strands, it is important to remember that alopecia areata is an autoimmune problem. Hence, you should target and solve the root cause of inflammation to prevent losing too much hair in the first place!
Botanical Medicine for Healthy Hair
Although there are currently a wide variety of chemicals present in the market to promote hair regrowth, the safety and effectiveness of these synthetic products may be questionable in the long run, and their abilities to affect your overall well-being is unclear. Rather than the synthetic route, exploring natural options for your hair is a safe and effective alternative that not only targets the root cause of your health problems, but also nurtures the natural ability of your hair to grow beautifully. Botanical options for hair health include:
And many more! Before using these wonderful herbs for your healthy hair, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider and naturopathic doctors to ensure these do not cause irritation or unwanted effects to your body. Additionally, most herbs are contraindicated during pregnancy or breastfeeding, so it is important to talk to your doctor about the best natural solutions for your health concerns without causing harm to your baby. The Naturopathic Approach
The health of your hair undeniably plays a huge role in your self-esteem and taking care of it is a vital step to achieve bouncy and strong strands, even when you have alopecia areata. Talking to your naturopathic doctors will help you in exploring the best natural options for your hair, taking into consideration the root cause behind your patchy hair loss. Begin your journey towards the natural path to wellness today. Our team will help you in every step of the way!
This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your licensed naturopathic physician or other licensed healthcare provider before making changes to your medications or supplements. Disclosures & Policies: This and other blog posts may contain affiliate links. Please view our disclosures page for more information. REFERENCES:
Crohn’s disease is an autoimmune condition that affects any part of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, from the mouth to the end part of the large intestine.1 It occurs from chronic, severe inflammation of the walls of the digestive system. Signs and symptoms of the disease, especially severe abdominal pain and diarrhea, have taken a toll on the lives of those affected, not only disrupting productivity, but also causing severe fatigue, weight loss, and malnutrition.
Understanding Crohn’s Disease
Crohn’s disease results from immune-mediated inflammation that affects the entire thickness of your intestinal lining. It is considered a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), with ulcerative colitis as its counterpart. The exact cause of Crohn’s disease is unknown. However, it may develop due to an impaired immune response against environmental and internal irritants. The condition can also develop due to genetic mutations that run across families. Normally, the lining of the small intestines is responsible for absorbing nutrients from the food you eat. However, lesions from Crohn’s disease dig into this entire section and are replaced with scar tissue, impairing its ability to absorb essential vitamins and minerals that the body needs to stay healthy.
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The Naturopathic Approach
The goals of naturopathic care for Crohn’s disease focus on healing and nurturing the intestinal lining by targeting the root cause of inflammation. This is done through a combination of nutrition, herbal medication, and lifestyle practices that are all aimed at achieving remission and whole-body health.
Anti-Inflammatory Foods
Supporting the health of your intestine by eliminating grains that are sources of gluten in the diet can help break the vicious cycle of inflammation that triggers and exacerbates Crohn’s disease. Gluten has the ability to drive inflammation and loosen the tight junctions that protect your intestinal lining, eventually causing disease flare-ups. Eating food that is rich in omega-3 and polyphenols can help reduce inflammation.
Botanical Medicine
- Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum). This natural remedy supports the immune system and regulates metabolism. Its wonders in managing Crohn’s disease comes from its ability to suppress TNF-alpha, which is an inflammatory marker that rises in the condition.4
- Curcumin (Curcuma longa). This kitchen staple is made up of 70% curcuminoids, which are active ingredients that help block and reduce inflammation. Its wonders in Crohn’s disease comes from its ability to reduce oxidative stress in the intestine, regulate the body’s inflammatory process, and support healing of the intestinal lining.2
And many more!
Nurturing Your Gastrointestinal Health
Since your gastrointestinal tract is an important gateway to critical processes that keep your body healthy, nurturing its abilities to digest food, absorb nutrients, and protect your body from harm is your utmost responsibility. Although the exact cause of Crohn’s disease has not yet been fully discovered, you can prevent the disease from affecting your overall well-being by simply targeting the cycle of inflammation that triggers and exacerbates the problem. At Natural Path to Wellness, we are committed to helping you end this cycle. Talk to us to learn more!
Before using herbal medicine for your health problems, it is important to talk to your primary care providers and naturopathic doctors to make sure it is right for your case and preference. Additionally, most herbs are not allowed during pregnancy and lactation, so seeking professional help prior to using natural formulas helps to ensure that you and your baby are protected from unwanted side effects and potential harm.
This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your licensed naturopathic physician or other licensed healthcare provider before making changes to your medications or supplements. Disclosures & Policies: This and other blog posts may contain affiliate links. Please view our disclosures page for more information.
REFERENCES:
- Ranasinghe IR, Tian C, Hsu R. Crohn Disease. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; February 24, 2024.
- Lin Y, Liu H, Bu L, Chen C, Ye X. Review of the Effects and Mechanism of Curcumin in the Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Front Pharmacol. 2022;13:908077. Published 2022 Jun 20. doi:10.3389/fphar.2022.908077
- Lewis JD, Daniel SG, Li H, et al. Surgery for crohn’s disease is associated with a dysbiotic microbiome and metabolome: Results from two prospective cohorts. Cellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology. 2024;18(3):101357. doi:10.1016/j.jcmgh.2024.05.005
- Liu C, Dunkin D, Lai J, et al. Anti-inflammatory Effects of Ganoderma lucidum Triterpenoid in Human Crohn's Disease Associated with Downregulation of NF-κB Signaling. Inflamm Bowel Dis. 2015;21(8):1918-1925. doi:10.1097/MIB.0000000000000439
Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa) is a wonderful plant packed with medicinal and aromatic ingredients that has been famous all over the world as flavorful tea. Its wonderful effects in lowering blood pressure are similar to allopathic medications, but without putting your body at risk of developing adverse effects that can affect your overall quality of life. Hibiscus tea is the perfect drink to savor the relaxing effects of tea, while enjoying the benefits of hibiscus in regulating blood pressure and protecting your cardiovascular health!
Understanding Hypertension
Hypertension is a very strong predictor of heart and blood vessel problems, putting those with uncontrolled levels at risk of having blood clots, heart rhythm abnormalities, and even stroke. It is actually considered the most common long-term medical condition characterized by unregulated rise in blood pressure levels. Guidelines to determine hypertensive status change regularly and may depend on the country you live in, but these have reached a consensus that people with persistently elevated blood pressure readings of 140/90 mmHg should be subjected to blood pressure management.3 Aside from genetic predisposition to hypertension, nutrition and lifestyle practices greatly affect your chances of developing the condition.
Historical Background
Hibiscus, also known as sour tea or roselle, belongs to the Malvaceae family. The aromatic medicinal plant that originated from Asia is currently grown all over the world. Hibiscus is not only used for the purpose of healing, since its fibers and flowers are also used to produce a variety of food and beverages! Aside from its wonderful benefits, hibiscus is also used as a natural food colorant, making it a safer alternative to artificially-made pigments for food production.1
Effects in Blood Pressure regulation
Although allopathic medications for blood pressure regulation are effective, these may produce unwanted effects that can negatively affect your quality of life. You may have dizziness, imbalances in your body’s electrolyte levels, and even feel fatigued all the time.2 Rather than having to experience these effects, the naturopathic approach offers a well-rounded course of management that targets nutrition, lifestyle, supplementation, and natural remedies to help regulate blood pressure levels. Interestingly, these natural remedies can also be taken in forms you can actually enjoy! By simply enjoying relaxing hibiscus tea sessions with your family and friends or even pairing this healthy drink with your favorite meals, you are also able to take care of your health as you grow older.
Mechanism of action
The antihypertensive and anti-inflammatory benefits of hibiscus come from its bioactive ingredients, namely, polyphenols, ascorbic acid, tannins, and carotenoids, all of which work together to widen blood vessels and regulate blood flow, ultimately reducing your risks of developing complications from lack of blood pressure control.2 Hibiscus can also help regulate blood pressure by inhibiting angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), which is responsible to convert angiotensin I to angiotensin II, a potent hormone that increases blood pressure. Interestingly, the blood pressure effects of hibiscus are stronger in people who have higher blood pressure levels.2 Aside from its wonderful effects in regulating blood pressure, the hydroethanol component of hibiscus also exerts antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, helping to kill or inhibit microorganisms that may cause potential harm to the body.1
Safety and Considerations
Hibiscus tea is generally safe to drink daily and has not been observed to produce side effects, aside from lowered blood pressure and mild gastrointestinal discomfort that may be factored by the way the tea was prepared.2 However, most herbal remedies should not be used during pregnancy and lactation and it is best to talk with your healthcare providers and naturopathic doctors to help you discover the best strategies for your unique case.
Additionally, the use of hibiscus in combination with other antihypertensive agents should be further evaluated with your healthcare providers, as this may synergize the effects of your maintenance medications and cause more harm than good. At Natural Path to Wellness, your team will help you discover the wonderful benefits of hibiscus tea for your optimal health and well-being, making sure that this herb is right for you and its therapeutic levels in the body are kept in-check!
Additionally, the use of hibiscus in combination with other antihypertensive agents should be further evaluated with your healthcare providers, as this may synergize the effects of your maintenance medications and cause more harm than good. At Natural Path to Wellness, your team will help you discover the wonderful benefits of hibiscus tea for your optimal health and well-being, making sure that this herb is right for you and its therapeutic levels in the body are kept in-check!
Regulating Your Blood Pressure Levels
Optimal blood pressure regulation requires a holistic approach that targets nutrition, lifestyle, and supplementation, in combination with natural herbal remedies that nurture your cardiovascular health. This means that although hibiscus tea is greatly beneficial in controlling hypertension, nutrition and lifestyle modifications are equally (or even more!) important. At Natural Path to Wellness, our team is committed to guiding you in your journey to health and wellness, helping you discover the best natural and holistic options for your unique case and preference. To learn more about the naturopathic approach for regulating blood pressure levels, talk to us today!
This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your licensed naturopathic physician or other licensed healthcare provider before making changes to your medications or supplements. Disclosures & Policies: This and other blog posts may contain affiliate links. Please view our disclosures page for more information.
REFERENCES:
- Jabeur I, Pereira E, Barros L, et al. Hibiscus sabdariffa L. as a source of nutrients, bioactive compounds and colouring agents. Food Res Int. 2017;100(Pt 1):717-723. doi:10.1016/j.foodres.2017.07.073
- Ellis LR, Zulfiqar S, Holmes M, Marshall L, Dye L, Boesch C. A systematic review and meta-analysis of the effects of Hibiscus sabdariffa on blood pressure and cardiometabolic markers. Nutr Rev. 2022;80(6):1723-1737. doi:10.1093/nutrit/nuab104
- Iqbal AM, Jamal SF. Essential Hypertension. [Updated 2023 Jul 20]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539859/
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.
- Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea – associated with constant redness with temporary flushing of the cheeks and nose. Red spots from dilated superficial blood vessels (telangiectasia) may also be present.
- Papulopustular Rosacea – associated with small, raised lesions (papules) and small vesicles containing white blood cells (pustules) on the face. The lesions in papulopustular rosacea are similar to adult acne and may be mistaken for the latter.
- Phymatous Rosacea – associated with scarring and enlarged sebaceous glands, especially on the nose, chin, and cheeks.
- Ocular Rosacea – unique from other subtypes, ocular rosacea may cause tearing, eye dryness, feelings of having sand in the eye, itchiness, and swelling of the eyelids.
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.
- Prolonged flushing
- Persistent or transient erythema (redness)
- Telangiectasia (dilated superficial blood vessels on the skin)
- Papules
- Pustules
- Phymatous changes
- Burning, stinging, or migraine-like pain
- Eye and eyelid involvement
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
Roll-On Rosacea Relief |
Jade Stone Roller |
Manuka Honey |
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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.
Taking care of your skin is another essential step to reduce flare-ups.
- Incorporating gentle and natural ingredients into your daily skincare routine prevents irritation from harsh chemicals and rubbing.
- Look for products that can be spritzed onto the skin or use gentle application.
- Keeping a rose quartz, jade, or stainless steel facial roller in the fridge can provide cooling relief to the skin and help you spread product without irritating friction.
- You can pamper yourself and soothe skin by using manuka or kanuka honey as a mask for 30-60 minutes. Rinse off with warm water, gently pat dry, and continue your rosacea skincare routine.
- Limiting exposure and protecting your facial skin from the sun through applying non-toxic and chemical-safe sun products are equally important to prevent the worsening of your present symptoms.
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!
Author
Kate 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!
This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your licensed naturopathic physician or other licensed healthcare provider before making changes to your medications or supplements.
Disclosures & Policies: This and other blog posts may contain affiliate links. Please view our disclosures page for more information.
9/26/2024
Honey for the Bones (and a tangential discussion of medical research into traditional remedies)
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When I think of the medicinal properties of honey, my first thoughts are of using it to reduce coughing and soothe sore throats. I think of medical-grade honey to help speed healing and prevent infections in wounds and burns. But, a while back I read this Bible verse and it made me wonder if honey was actually good for the bones.
“Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.”
- Proverbs 16:24
- Proverbs 16:24
In our current medical system, there is an attitude of dismissiveness to traditional medicines as a whole or to specific applications that have yet to be proven by current medical research. However, we have to remember that:
Why do researchers investigate traditional remedies? Because they work. If the evidence in support of traditional remedies was not so compelling, the research would not be undertaken. Even when we know that a treatment is effective, modern research helps us understand how it works, and that helps us know how else it can be used to our benefit.
It is easy for us to fall into the trap of thinking that we are at the pinnacle of human advancement and that our ancestors lacked knowledge or understanding. But we are only a point in the line of human advancement. Others will come after us and put rest to things we thought fact and prove things we theorized but were unable to prove.
After all, here we are nearly three millennia later conducting research that supports the wisdom espoused by the Israelites of 700 B.C.
A 2019 literature review (an evaluation of available research) described several potential benefits of honey for bone health:1
Humorously, the researchers referred to honey as a potential “novel dietary supplement to prevent osteoporosis.” Hmm…it is amusing to me how researchers have a tendency to lay claim to having discovered the medicines we have been using for thousands of years...
The long list of honey’s beneficial properties do not stop here. In fact, honey is a staple ingredient in many people’s skincare routines! Famous for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities, honey is a wonderful ingredient to make sure your skin remains protected and nurtured.
- Research takes a great deal of time and money not typically dedicated to things that are not easily patented to ensure profitability.
- Sometimes our technology has not yet advanced to a point where certain studies can be performed or where their results can be accurately interpreted.
- There is an ongoing issue of a lack of communication between medical researchers and those who are educated and trained in the use of traditional medicines. This can lead to poor-quality research or the application of the wrong substance, dose, or form of the natural medicine being studied. In short, inaccurate results.
Why do researchers investigate traditional remedies? Because they work. If the evidence in support of traditional remedies was not so compelling, the research would not be undertaken. Even when we know that a treatment is effective, modern research helps us understand how it works, and that helps us know how else it can be used to our benefit.
It is easy for us to fall into the trap of thinking that we are at the pinnacle of human advancement and that our ancestors lacked knowledge or understanding. But we are only a point in the line of human advancement. Others will come after us and put rest to things we thought fact and prove things we theorized but were unable to prove.
After all, here we are nearly three millennia later conducting research that supports the wisdom espoused by the Israelites of 700 B.C.
A 2019 literature review (an evaluation of available research) described several potential benefits of honey for bone health:1
- “Honey can protect the bone via its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties”
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It contains polyphenols that help to stop the destruction of bone and its reabsorption into the bloodstream.
- Darker-colored honey tends to have more of the beneficial phenolic compounds.
- Several included animal studies showed more rapid fracture healing with the use of various types of honey.
- A combination of eating honey and performing jumping exercises (like rebounding!) improved bone density and diameter in animal studies.
- Likewise, honey plus aerobic dance helped improve muscle performance and reduce bone loss in women.
Humorously, the researchers referred to honey as a potential “novel dietary supplement to prevent osteoporosis.” Hmm…it is amusing to me how researchers have a tendency to lay claim to having discovered the medicines we have been using for thousands of years...
The long list of honey’s beneficial properties do not stop here. In fact, honey is a staple ingredient in many people’s skincare routines! Famous for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities, honey is a wonderful ingredient to make sure your skin remains protected and nurtured.
HEALING HONEY
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Quality, medical-grade manuka honey is something I recommend everyone keep in their herbal medicine cabinet. Manuka honey is made in New Zealand by bees that feed off of — and collect medical benefits from – the Leptospermum scoparium flowers. It can be taken for digestion or used topically for burn- and wound-healing. MGO numbers indicate the amount of methylglyoxal (the compound responsible for manuka’s amazing healing properties) with higher numbers indicating more medical benefits. In addition to manuka honey, I recommend keeping raw, local honey as a pantry staple.
How to find healing honey:
Warning: remember, you should never feed honey to a child under the age of one (1) year. Honey can contain botulism toxin at doses small enough not to harm healthy adults and children, but babies under 1 can not fight off this toxin and can die from consuming honey.
How to find healing honey:
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Buy local, raw, unfiltered honey when possible.
- Local & unfiltered because it will contain small particles of pollen local to your area which may help reduce your environmental allergy symptoms. Most beekeepers will strain the honey (a.k.a. microfiltration) to remove large particles, but we want to avoid ultra-filtered honey which removes the pollen. Plus, buying local reduces the carbon footprint.
- Raw because honey contains enzymes, vitamins & minerals, proteins & amino acids, and beneficial bacteria that are good for your health but are damaged or destroyed when heated. Buy from someone who doesn’t heat their honey at all or past about 95F, the typical temperature inside a beehive.
- Find a reputable beekeeper. Store-bought honey (in addition to usually being heat processed, ultra-filtered, and not local) is often adulterated with corn syrup or sugar syrup. Local farmer’s markets can be a great place to find quality honey. Trust me, it’s worth the extra effort to find someone selling 100% pure honey, your tastebuds (and your bones!) will thank you.
Warning: remember, you should never feed honey to a child under the age of one (1) year. Honey can contain botulism toxin at doses small enough not to harm healthy adults and children, but babies under 1 can not fight off this toxin and can die from consuming honey.
Author
Marney Johnson, ND, MSCI-TS, (she/her) received her Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine and Certificate of Natural Childbirth from National University of Natural Medicine (NUNM). Following graduation, she completed a CNME-approved Residency in Naturopathic Medicine with NUNM Health Center, a primary care clinic in Portland, Oregon. There she was trained and practiced in a variety of naturopathic and primary care. She is passionate about supporting the body's ability to heal itself with the support of naturopathic modalities and believes that everyone deserves outstanding care and should feel both safe and heard by those entrusted with their health and wellness.
REFERENCE:
1. Kamaruzzaman MA, Chin KY, Mohd Ramli ES. A Review of Potential Beneficial Effects of Honey on Bone Health. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2019;2019:8543618. Published 2019 Sep 19. PMID: 31641368
1. Kamaruzzaman MA, Chin KY, Mohd Ramli ES. A Review of Potential Beneficial Effects of Honey on Bone Health. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2019;2019:8543618. Published 2019 Sep 19. PMID: 31641368
Societal and cultural factors have a significant impact on men’s health across the globe. Men are often implicitly and explicitly encouraged to maintain a status as a model of strength without the need for help, which is often perceived as weakness. According to the World Health Organization, men are less likely to seek medical attention for an illness. Furthermore, while engaging in medical care, they are less likely to detail their symptoms to a professional. Certain barriers exist that could impact the accessibility of health services for men. These may include but certainly aren’t limited to constraints of working hours, availability of information regarding men’s health, and stigmas surrounding access. Culturally, we need to work to acknowledge the importance of preventative health appointments, particularly for men, and encourage healthy lifestyle choices.2
The Role of Primary Care
Primary care services are important for promoting health across all populations as primary care is often a first step in incorporating preventative measures into one’s lifestyle to avoid illness. With men being less likely to access primary care, there is an increase in emergency care received by men for acute intervention.2 Not only does this prove to be a greater financial cost, such measures may not fully address the source of the illness. Preventative care has the potential to save costs, lower incidence of chronic illness, and even save lives.
You don’t have to be sick to go to the doctor. Attending primary care appointments regularly can help establish a baseline of health and allow one’s doctor to more quickly identify changes in health in order to advise on preventive measures of disease. Additionally, primary care providers can point to a network of resources including specialists and mental health professionals. A holistic approach to men’s health is necessary in order to address, for example, the psychosocial factors that affect accessibility to health services while identifying physical and emotional risk factors in one’s lifestyle. Initiatives to improve men’s health could also benefit their partners and families by improving men’s quality and duration of life.
You don’t have to be sick to go to the doctor. Attending primary care appointments regularly can help establish a baseline of health and allow one’s doctor to more quickly identify changes in health in order to advise on preventive measures of disease. Additionally, primary care providers can point to a network of resources including specialists and mental health professionals. A holistic approach to men’s health is necessary in order to address, for example, the psychosocial factors that affect accessibility to health services while identifying physical and emotional risk factors in one’s lifestyle. Initiatives to improve men’s health could also benefit their partners and families by improving men’s quality and duration of life.
The Benefits of Prevention
Nutrient-Based Vitamins |
Reproductive & Heart Health |
Male Libido & Fertility |
Chronic illness, such as hypertension and coronary artery disease, are widely discussed as prominent factors in mortality (causes of death), but medical concerns specific to men are rarely highlighted, save for advertisements for erectile dysfunction, perhaps. In actuality, erectile dysfunction is a known risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Did you know that increased erectile dysfunction is also a symptom of diabetes in men? Other conditions, which could impact a man’s quality of life significantly, may include premature ejaculation, testicular cancer, and testosterone deficiency syndrome.2
Practitioners need to prioritize preventative care during appointments and encourage open communication throughout. Education is a key element of prevention, as it is difficult to make lifestyle changes without clear advice and positive implications.1 An important goal in education is to provide patients with greater autonomy in their own health. With greater knowledge of risk factors and how information applies to him specifically, a patient has the opportunity to be more confident in making decisions regarding his health, including whether to seek additional or alternative health services. When it comes to screening, for instance, it is important that men understand the impact of family history on recommended ages for screening. While the following are some of the generally recommended ages, your primary care provider can adapt these guidelines for your specific set of risk factors:
Practitioners need to prioritize preventative care during appointments and encourage open communication throughout. Education is a key element of prevention, as it is difficult to make lifestyle changes without clear advice and positive implications.1 An important goal in education is to provide patients with greater autonomy in their own health. With greater knowledge of risk factors and how information applies to him specifically, a patient has the opportunity to be more confident in making decisions regarding his health, including whether to seek additional or alternative health services. When it comes to screening, for instance, it is important that men understand the impact of family history on recommended ages for screening. While the following are some of the generally recommended ages, your primary care provider can adapt these guidelines for your specific set of risk factors:
- Colonoscopy: 45 years old
- Prostate exam: 55 years old
- Blood pressure screening: yearly
- Lung cancer screening: yearly between 50 and 80 years old if smoking history
Promoting Long-term Health
One of the key goals of preventative care is to establish a trusting relationship between patients and their healthcare providers in order to fully understand lifestyle factors that could contribute towards disease. Regular appointments are important for building trust and creating a personalized plan of care for optimal health. Additionally, identifying early risk factors for disease could save time and money down the line without the need for more drastic interventions. A gentler approach applied in the early stages of a disease can be beneficial for promoting enhanced quality of life and longevity. Discover the naturopathic approach for your optimal health today!
Author
Daelyn Quinn is a graduate of the University of South Florida, Class of 2024. She studied Cell and Molecular Biology, as well as Spanish, and has been accepted into a nationally accredited Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine program. Outside of academic and professional pursuits, she enjoys exploring cities with friends and family, running outdoors, and reading next to one of Florida’s many bodies of water.
This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your licensed naturopathic physician or other licensed healthcare provider before making changes to your medications or supplements. Disclosures & Policies: This and other blog posts may contain affiliate links. Please view our disclosures page for more information.
REFERENCES:
- Aoun S, Donovan RJ, Johnson L, et al. Preventive Care in the Context of Men’s Health. J Health Psychol. 2002; 7(3): 243-252. Published May 2002. doi.org/10.1177/1359105302007003219
- Moon DG. Changing Men’s Health: Leading the Future. World J Mens Health. 2018 Jan; 36(1):1-3. Published online 21 Dec 2017. doi.org/10.5534/wjmh.18101
THE BLOG AT NATURAL PATH TO WELLNESS
AuthorS
Natural 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.
Medical Reviewer:
Marney Johnson, ND, MSCI-TS is a Naturopathic Doctor and Naturopathic Medicine Advisor with a background in allopathic (standard American medicine) medical research, Dr. Johnson, is uniquely qualified to evaluate current scientific research and offer insight to help you make sense of how you can integrate natural medicine into your health plan. She is passionate about the roles of Nutrition, Lifestyle, and Nature in health and constantly seeks new ways to make these accessible through food as medicine, encouraging new, healthy habits, and promoting interaction with Nature in its many forms.
Disclosures & Policies: This and other blog posts may contain affiliate links. Please view our disclosures page for more information.
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