Shatavari for Rejuvenation

Shatavari is one of my favorite adaptogens. Shatavari’s name translates to “she who possesses one hundred husbands,” which gives you an idea of its rejuvenating effect on the female reproductive system. Although it has a special affinity for women, shatavari has significant health benefits for everyone– men, women, and children alike. These days, we all…

Getting To Know Reishi

Reishi’s Chinese name translates as “Spirit Plant”, or “Herb of Spiritual Potency”. It is a remarkable, adaptogenic mushroom that has been used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years. Like all adaptogens, Reishi has a normalizing effect on our overall physiology, and it can help restore us to health from a truly incredible range of…

Schisandra Berry

Schisandra Berry — Wu wei zi The fruit of the Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis) vine is one of my favorite adaptogenic herbs for the change of season from late summer into autumn. This transitional time can be hard on the lungs and immune system, and Schisandra is the perfect ally for the season.

An Adrenal/Immune Tonic for the Fall

The change to Fall is one of my favorites, but it does bring challenges to the immune system and adrenals. I like to mix up some of this tonic to give myself a leg up for the seasonal change. This is a fantastic recipe because it combines therapies for immunity, stress, and energy into one…

Rejuvenation In A Cup: Pacifying Vata in the Fall

In Ayurveda, Vata dosha is characterized as “dry, light, mobile, subtle, rough, hard, changeable, and clear.” Sounds a lot like Fall, doesn’t it? The leaves dry out and a cool, dry wind blows them away, the days become colder and shorter, the air is more subtle and changeable. In Ayurveda, Fall is the Vata time…

Herbal Aphrodisiacs

Herbal Aphrodisiacs Herbal aphrodisiacs are as varied and numerous as the plants themselves. Some herbs, like Yohimbe, give the body an immediate “boost” of libido and work directly on the reproductive system. Other herbs are more nutritive; they work on a long-term basis to rejuvenate the reproductive system and the adrenals to build lasting energy…

The Many Benefits of Holy Basil

Holy Basil Called “The Incomparable One” in its native India, this beautiful plant is a powerful and easy to grow medicinal herb. Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum or Ocimum tenuiflorum, also known as Tulsi) isn’t your ordinary Basil. While it makes a great pesto, it does lots more than add flavor to a dish; its antioxidant and…