Vitamin D is a nutrient that has many roles within the immune system and central nervous system. For example, vitamin D benefits include having anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory effects, in part by activating immune defenses and enhancing the function of immune cells (including T cells and macrophages). Higher intake of vitamin D — both from natural sunlight…
If you’re dealing with frustrating or debilitating autoimmune symptoms — like profound fatigue, aches and pain, numbness and tingling or brain fog — you know how they wreak havoc on your life. But it doesn’t have to be this way. Many people, including me, have healed completely after devastating autoimmune diagnoses. You may be wondering…
If you ever spend time hiking or foraging in the woods in places such as the eastern United States or Canada, you may come across several types of wild berry shrubs that look similar. For example, huckleberry, blueberry and bilberry shrubs all closely resemble one another. Huckleberries might not be as widely available or popular…
Usnea is an herbal preparation that has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for over 2,000 years, including to support the kidneys, respiratory system and immune system in other ways, such as by fighting infections. According to the Gaia Herbs website, usnea lichen is known for its cooling and drying energetic properties and its…
Haritaki is a fruit used in Ayurvedic medicine for a wide range of traditional remedies, such as treating pain, anxiety, certain infections and indigestion. It's one of three main ingredients found in triphala and is considered in Ayurveda to be a naturally rejuvenating herb, especially well-suited for people with inflammation and trouble relaxing. It's even been referred to…
If you're a fan of mustard greens, cabbage and spinach, you'll probably love the taste and texture of tatsoi, a Chinese cabbage with a unique taste and impressive nutrition profile. This ancient green is an excellent source of micronutrients and is as versatile as popular leafy greens. It has even been nicknamed "vitamin green." To…
While basically all high-fiber foods have certain benefits to offer, some stand out due to specific types of fiber they provide. One type of fiber called beta glucan, found in foods like oats and barley, is associated with an impressive amount of health perks — such as protection against metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular issues and obesity.…
Your body faces constant attacks by germs, toxins and other harmful invaders. At the same time, everyday stress and worry can keep you and your body on constant high alert. All of those things demand attention from your immune system. And adding anything extra or unusual into the mix can throw everything further out of…
Hot peppers have been used for cooking and medical purposes for ages, and the serrano pepper is one of them. Not only does it share the characteristics of the desired spiciness in many popular dishes, similar to cayenne pepper, but the serrano pepper can actually generate relief for sore muscles, arthritic patients, those who have heart problems,…
Tips for beating cancer should always include dietary components, but all too often, this part of cancer treatment is ignored. We turned to William Li, MD, world-renowned doctor and author of the New York Times bestseller Eat to Beat Disease: The New Science of How Your Body Can Heal Itself to learn more about his thoughts…
