What happens now? Now, you leave your home and family. But your parents are not upset about it. In fact, they are very, very proud and so are you. You have been chosen to begin training for a career of incredible importance and significance both socially and spiritually – you are going to be a Tibetan herbalist, one of the most important positions in your society.

Brief History of Tibetan Herbalism

The primary intention of the Buddhist path is to liberate all beings from ignorance, the source of all suffering. According to ancient Buddhist texts, the Buddha often taught this principle using health as a metaphor. Because Tibetan herbalism focuses so clearly on this aspect of liberation, it is considered by Tibetans as among the most essential of all areas of study.

Although herbal expertise was present in Tibet far longer than Buddhism, Buddhist spirituality brought additional purpose. Along with influences from Ayurveda (Indian), Chinese and ancient Greek, Persian and Central Asian cultures, the Buddhist religion helped form Traditional Tibetan Herbalism (TTH) as it has existed for the past 1,400 years – a system that promotes well-being and a healthy, balanced life.

Traditionally, herbalists study TTH for at least 10 years before becoming professionals. For those ten years, a practitioner lives and breathes their studies, avoiding all worldly distractions – even family. It is thought to take 30 years for a person to master the art of TTH, and historic Tibetan herbalists began their training early in life – often leaving their parents and moving into monasteries for training even before the age of 10 years old.

The Difference is Balance

You know how that bottle of pills you pick up at the pharmacy helps one area of your health, but come with a long list of potential side effects that hinder other areas of health? Not so with Tibetan formulas.*

A Tibetan herbal formula always consists of several ingredients, often more than 20 and sometimes even more than 100! Generally, these ingredients can be grouped into three classes:

1. A major group that targets a specific focus in the body
2. A secondary group that supports and sustains the effect of the major group
3. A third group that helps balance the first two groups of herbs in the rest of the body

In this way, a specific area of health may be addressed, but the health of the entire body is supported.*

Finding a Cause

For a Tibetan herbalist, the purpose behind their craft is not simply to focus on individual areas of health, but to look at each person as a whole and address that person’s entire body, mind and spirit. Additionally, the causes of any imbalances are always considered in formulating the right herbal support.

Addressing the root cause of an imbalance so it doesn’t reoccur? You have to wonder what expensive drug industries think of this approach…

Where to Find Traditional Tibetan Herbalism Today

After the Chinese invasion of Tibet in the 1950s, an exodus of Tibetans followed the Dalai Lama’s escape in 1959, bringing TTH to the rest of the world, in addition to continuing in modern Tibet. The highest concentrations of Tibetan herbal culture can be found today in Tibet, the Himalayan regions, India, Mongolia and Siberia. The practice can also be found in Western countries and, in general, wherever Tibetan communities thrive.

Padma Basic, an Ancient Tibetan Formula

Padma Basic is based on an ancient herbal formula originally used in Tibetan monasteries.

In the 1960s, Dr. Karl Lutz, then a Senior Vice President at a Swiss pharmaceutical company, learned of the effectiveness of Padma from the Tibetan herbalist refugee who introduced this ancient Tibetan formula to Eastern Europe. Lutz’s “discovery” began extensive research on the properties and benefits of the formula that has continued for over three decades.

More than 35 years of clinical, peer-reviewed research confirm the unique benefits of Padma Basic. Modern scientific studies continue to verify the multiple health benefits of this ancient herbal formula, which has been used for centuries to help people maintain vitality, immunity and overall wellness.*

Padma Basic is still manufactured in Switzerland at a state-of-the-art facility under strict current Good Manufacturing Procedure (cGMP) guidelines.

What is Padma Basic?

Padma Basic contains 19 botanical ingredients along with natural camphor and calcium sulfate, to support healthy immune function, combat free radicals and support cardiovascular and circulatory health.* Based on a traditional “cooling” formula, Padma Basic’s botanical ingredients are rich in active ingredients such as tannins, flavonoids, polyphenols and essential oils which work synergistically to support immunity, promote antioxidant activity, and support circulation and cardiovascular function.* Like all Tibetan herbal formulas, Padma Basic also supports balance and overall health.*

Learn more about Padma Basic here. 

Your Thoughts

Have you ever used Traditional Tibetan Herbalism for your health? What are your thoughts and experiences with these ancient methods?

Honokiol is a powerful polyphenol compound extracted from Magnolia officinalis bark. Extensive pre-clinical research shows that honokiol (pronounced ha-no-kee-ohl) supports cellular health and provides gentle relaxation, as well as being a potent antioxidant. In addition, a study published in the European Journal of Pharmacology has found that the botanical extract protects muscles from the normal inflammation caused by intense exercise. This study broadens honokiol’s acknowledged benefits in supporting and maintaining overall health and wellness.*

Faster Recovery from Exercise

Extended exercise can cause normal stress in skeletal muscles. Marathons, triathlons and other feats of strength and endurance typically generate inflammation in the muscles as a result of exertion. However, honokiol is shown to address this normal inflammation response, and support faster recovery from intense exercise.*

“Honokiol is an incredibly versatile botanical extract derived from magnolia bark, which has been used in traditional Asian herbalism for centuries,” says product formulator and integrative health pioneer, Dr. Isaac Eliaz. M.D., M.S., L.Ac. “That’s why we put so much effort into creating HonoPure^®, which is 98 percent pure honokiol. This study adds another layer of information supporting honokiol’s beneficial attributes.”*

In the study, researchers had rats perform an intense exercise regimen, both with and without oral intake of honokiol. The honokiol-fed rats were spared a great deal of the normal inflammation associated with extended exercise. Specifically, honokiol reduced the expression of a wide variety of inflammatory proteins that are generated normally by excessive exercise.*

This research could be excellent news for both weekend warriors and elite athletes, as honokiol’s ability to prevent normal inflammation from extended exercise could offer significant benefits for those engaged in active workout regimens.*

Supports Cells, Antioxidant Activity and Healthy Mood

In addition to this exercise study, a number of pre-clinical studies conducted over the past two decades have shown that honokiol strongly supports cellular health. In particular, the compound has been found to support prostate, lung, liver, colon and breast cells.*

Honokiol also offers powerful antioxidant support. Again, a number of pre-clinical studies have shown it is up to 1,000 times more powerful than vitamin E in its antioxidant abilities. Research has also confirmed one of honokiol’s most ancient applications—the ability to support gentle relaxation and restful sleep.*

Pure honokiol is easily absorbed, allowing it to quickly circulate throughout the body. Because the compound is so small, it is also shown to cross the blood-brain barrier and support cognitive health. With its high purity and wide range of applications, EcoNugenics’ HonoPure^® is an ideal daily supplement to promote numerous areas of health.*

“Each new study supports honokiol’s ability to promote cellular health, antioxidant activity and provide gentle relaxation,” says Dr. Eliaz. “With advanced extraction methods, we’ve been able to create HonoPure^®  98% Honokiol, adding momentum to the leading edge of botanical science combined with traditional ancient wisdom.”*

To learn more about HonoPure^® from EcoNugenics, click here.

What a gorgeous time of year it is! As we enjoy the delights of spring, I am continually inspired and uplifted by the beauty and energy of this season. This is an excellent time of the year to enhance your health with a gentle seasonal detox or cleanse — simple and so beneficial on every level. This time of year also offers an excellent opportunity to release old patterns, fears and frustrations, so we can move forward in a more harmonized way. The strong life energy of this season moves our emotions, and if we are listening, we can find the places where our energy is stuck — the places that need healing.

It is no coincidence that Mother’s Day comes at just this time of year. The archetype of motherhood is the source of all life — the most primary and primal connection that marks the beginning of our individual existence. This season ushers in a real opportunity to get in touch with the life force flowing within us, and to feel a deep sense of gratitude for our own life.

In ancient spiritual traditions, one of the fundamental tenets is that “everyone was once your mother.” This concept has many important meanings. Human beings and living beings are interdependent and interconnected, whether we recognize it or not. Respecting all beings, and treating each with the kindness that we would extend to our own mother, are powerful tools that we can practice moment-to-moment. This image, this metaphor, can inspire us to develop greater kindness toward our own mothers, toward ourselves, and toward anyone we are connected with.

I encourage you to make some time to contemplate your relationship with your mother. Often in our culture people have challenging relationships, or have had particular experiences that were difficult, with their mothers. We tend to continue carrying this burden throughout the years, which can create a deep but perhaps unconscious wound in our fundamental relationship to life.

Healing this relationship is very important, and this time of year enhances our ability to transform these old wounds. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the spring season is associated with the liver. The liver, as you know, processes what comes into our bodies, so that we can use what’s beneficial and safely eliminate what’s not. If the liver and digestion are not functioning well, toxins get recycled back into our bodies. This is true on an emotional level as well. In TCM, the liver is associated with anger and frustration, common feelings that many in our culture have had with their mothers, at some point in life. We can work on it, but more importantly, we can simply allow the attitude and practice of deep love and gratitude to our mothers as the ones who gave us life, to open our hearts toward all living beings.

It is always possible to heal and restore this relationship to our mothers. You can do this even if your mother is no longer alive.

I’d like to share some excerpts from a writing called “A Rose for Your Pocket” by Thich Nhat Hanh, who writes beautifully on the subject of healing our relationship with our mothers.

Even an old person, when he loses his mother, doesn’t feel ready. He too has the impression that he is not yet ripe, that he is suddenly alone. He feels as abandoned and unhappy as a young orphan. When I was a child I heard a simple poem about losing your mother, and it is still very important for me.

That year, although I was still very young
My mother left me.
And I realized
That I was an orphan.
I realized that to lose your mother
Is to lose the whole universe.
We swim in a world of tender love for many years,
And, without even knowing it, we are quite happy there.
Only after it is too late do we become aware of it.

We tend to think that healing this relationship is complicated, and many times we get stuck not knowing how or what to do. Thich Nhat Hanh, in his beautiful straightforward way, gives us a starting path that is simple and yet very powerful:

The next time you visit your mother, you may wish to go into her room and, with a calm and silent smile, sit down beside her. Without saying anything, make her stop working. Then, look at her for a long time, look at her deeply. Do this in order to see her, to realize that she is there; she is alive, beside you. Take her hand and ask her one short question to capture her attention, “Mother, do you know something?” She will be a little surprised and will probably smile when she asks you, “What, dear?” Keep looking into her eyes, smiling serenely, and say, “Do you know that I love you?”

Ask this question without waiting for an answer. Even if you are thirty or forty years old, or older, ask her as the child of your mother. Your mother and you will be happy, conscious of living in eternal love.

Then tomorrow, when she leaves you, you will have no regrets.

This kind of approach, this kind of profound experience, does not only have the potential to heal your relationship with your mother; it has the potential to heal your relationship with yourself and others.

If your mother is not alive, you can do this practice by visualizing your mother and talking with her. You may have many layers of feelings to experience and release as you go through this process. Allow it to unfold and peel away, letting go of everything that is arising. You will eventually come to this very simple place of unconditional love, acceptance, and if necessary, forgiveness. It’s important to recognize that it is okay to ask for guidance from a qualified therapist or healer as you navigate this process. The tools you develop will benefit all of your relationships, and restoring this connection with your mother can transform the life she gave you. Love and compassion, an open heart, are the greatest healers. They protect us and offer us the opportunity to heal ourselves and others.

May this spring season bring healing and renewal to all aspects of your life.

Seasonal Allergies

According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI), seasonal allergies affect approximately 60 million people in the United States. Symptoms include sneezing, stuffy or runny nose, watery eyes, sinus headaches, and itching of the nose, eyes or roof of the mouth. The scientific term for this condition is allergic rhinitis. Most of us just think of it as pure misery.

There are many ways to manage these irritating occasional symptoms without resorting to prescription and over-the-counter pharmaceuticals like antihistamines and steroids. Natural methods include such things as:

• Ingredients and herbs like quercetin, nettle and Bromelain*
• Homeopathic preparations*
• Spring cleanse and detox programs*
• Dietary changes*
• Neti pot therapy for nasal congestion and irritation*
• Simple avoidance during high pollen count days and other “high-risk times”

(This last choice is the most unfortunate approach, in our opinion, since it means missing out on the beauty of the outdoors during this magnificent season.)

What About Local Honey?

One unconventional approach to seasonal allergies is eating local honey. But while many people swear by eating 2-4 teaspoons per day in divided doses for allergy prevention, the general consensus in the medical world is skeptical. Few studies have been published on the subject, and so far, the results are far from conclusive. The logic behind the idea of using honey to help allergies is similar to the way vaccinations work: Introduce a safe amount of a pathogen to your system to encourage your body to develop immunity to greater doses of that same pathogen. Flu shots are an example of this type of approach.*

Study Showing Honey is Effective in Allergy Relief

A 2011 study published by the South Karelia Allergy and Environmental Institute focused on 44 human participants specifically allergic to birch tree pollen.*

This study approached allergy treatment much like a flu vaccine that works only on the specific strain of flu present in the vaccine. This study tested the theory that honey may reduce allergies only to those pollens present in the honey.*

A portion of the group was treated with honey that was specifically created from birch tree pollen in addition to their normal protocols. Another portion was treated with non-specific honey in addition to their normal protocols. A third group was given a honey-flavored placebo along with their normal protocols.

The results showed that those patients who were treated with honey specifically created from birch pollen had “significantly better control of their symptoms than did those on conventional medication only.”*

Counterpoint: Another Study Shows no Definitive Results from Honey

A 2002 study published by the University of Connecticut Health Center conducted a very similar study but received very different results.

Similar to the 2011 study, this study examined the use of local honey likely made from the same pollens that caused the participants’ allergies, as well as nationally collected honey. The researchers wanted to test the idea that eating local honey may help remedy seasonal allergies. Participants were asked to use their usual protocols only when needed, rather than in preventative fashion.

Like the 2011 study, 36 human participants were split into 3 groups: one group consumed a tablespoon of local, unpasteurized, unfiltered honey per day; a second group consumed a tablespoon of nationally collected, pasteurized, filtered honey per day; and a third group – the control group – consumed a tablespoon of honey-flavored placebo per day.

The results showed no definitive difference in allergy relief between the three groups.*

Your Opinion Matters!

Conflicting data is not uncommon in the world of medical research. And with so few studies conducted on local honey as a treatment for allergies, the question comes down to personal experience.

What’s your opinion? Have you tried using local honey to combat seasonal allergies? What have been your results? Add your thoughts in the comments below, and help contribute to our community of collective wisdom and shared personal experience!

P.S. If you’re interested in engaging in a seasonal cleanse and detoxification program this Spring, EcoNugenics is offering 15% off of PectaClear and Detox Complete through the month of May. Enter promo code: SOP3M  Learn more! 

It’s not exactly news that these overly-caffeinated, overly-sweetened drinks are bad for us. Just looking at the amount of sugar, artificial colors and ingredients, and other questionable components listed in these drinks would make any health-conscious consumer’s head spin.

But at the same time, we need our energy! Chronic stress, high performance jobs, children to care for, school, social events – no matter our lifestyle, most of us need a little extra “go.” To add to that, we tend to neglect proper sleep; eat too many processed foods and engage in other numerous other habits and lifestyle factors that can fuel fatigue. So the allure of those “refreshing” energy drinks makes sense. They beckon to us in the cold beverage cases of supermarkets, gas stations and corner stores, promising endless, explosive energy.

Explosive is right — these drinks are like land mines to long term health. The good news is, there are better energy alternatives!

Try these 7 tips for healthy, caffeine-free ways to increase your energy. These tips can promote natural endurance, concentration, alertness and productivity, while supporting overall health in the process. And guess what? These vitality boosters won’t cause an energy crash the way sugary, over-caffeinated drinks do.

1. Control Stress

The body is built to handle short bursts of stress as a survival mechanism. Increased adrenaline and stress hormones temporarily heighten senses and provide a quick burst of “fight or flight” energy. The body is not, however, built for ongoing stress. When we experience chronic or long-term stress, our bodies can’t keep up the production of stress hormones, and we end up “burning out” with adrenal fatigue and other imbalances. In other words, long-term stress is exhausting.

Decreasing stress in your life will help support adrenal and overall health, and reduce the amount of energy used by your body. Over time, you can experience more vitality.

Click here for 6 Natural Solutions to Stress.

2. Exercise

Boosted blood flow from an increased heartbeat pumps more oxygen into your cells and more nutrients into your muscle tissue, allowing you to feel more alert and energetic. In addition, improving your cardiovascular system trains it to work more efficiently, which means using less energy to do the same tasks, and more energy in the end.

Read more about how regular exercise increases energy and reduces fatigue.

3. Sleep

Brain cells use large amounts of energy even doing normal, everyday tasks. It’s not only your body that needs to rest — your brain does too. Recharge with 8-9 hours of sleep every night.

Having trouble sleeping? Read Sleep Well Tonight! A New Solution for Healthy Relaxation.

4. Hydration

Water is the primary source of energy in the body. Proper hydration encourages efficient delivery of oxygen to your muscles. Even mild dehydration can seriously drain your energy. Staying properly hydrated throughout the day can significantly reduce fatigue and improve other areas of health.

5. Herbs and Spices

The rich, abundant world of herbs and spices offers numerous healthy energy boosters, which act in different ways to support balanced energy. They can work to maintain healthy circulation, heart rate and blood pressure; help balance hormones; support detoxification and digestion; promote antioxidant activity, and provide additional benefits to promote healthy energy levels and sustain mental and physical function.* They can be added to teas, drinks, soups, vegetables and other foods, or taken as supplements. Some top recommendations include:

• Cinnamon
• Rosemary
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Fennel
• Ginseng
• Cumin
• Coriander
• Turmeric
• Padma Basic® Tibetan Herbal Formula*

For a delicious, stimulating drink, try spicy lemonade: fresh lemon juice, turmeric and ginger, and organic agave or stevia to taste.

Learn more about turmeric: Discover the Many Benefits of Turmeric and Curcumin

6. Green Smoothie for Breakfast

Juicing or blending dark leafy greens (such as kale or spinach) rather than cooking them maintains the natural energy-promoting plant enzymes, which are otherwise destroyed by heat. Leafy greens also contain high levels of chlorophyll, another energizer. Add fruit, yogurt and milk (or milk alternative) for a sweet and satisfying breakfast. We bet you won’t even taste the greens!

7. Beneficial Mushrooms

Many athletes and fitness enthusiasts treasure certain mushroom species for their abilities to support energy, strength, endurance and general wellness. EcoNugenics recommends two powerful mushroom formulas which help promote overall health and vitality, while supporting immunity, digestion, detoxification and more.*

MycoPhyto Complex® is made with six beneficial mushrooms, grown in the U.S. within a special blend of immune-supporting herbs. This innovative growing method promotes significant increases in the beneficial properties of these mushrooms, as demonstrated in independent studies. Mycophyto Complex is an excellent supplement during times of stress, or when you need an additional boost for cellular health, immunity, energy and more.*

Ten Mushroom Formula® is a comprehensive blend of ten beneficial mushrooms, which are combined synergistically based on the principles of traditional Chinese herbalism. Ten Mushroom Formula supports numerous areas of health and is an excellent daily tonic for maintaining overall immunity, vitality and energy.*

Share Your Story

What do you do to boost your daily energy and brain power? Write your comments below! Or, try out one or all of the tips above and let us know how you feel.

Metabolic health has a huge impact on your overall health, and even on some specific aspects you may not be aware of, such as your glucose tolerance, daily energy, circulation, immune response and much more. Good metabolism can mean you feel great and are in good health. Poor metabolism… well… often means the opposite.

The state of your metabolic health can be affected by a variety of triggers, including lifestyle, diet, stress level and, unfortunately, plain old genetics. The good news is there are plenty of ways you can support your metabolism, thereby also improving your overall health and happiness.

First, we’ll list 4 signs that you need to support your metabolic health. Then, we’ll provide some simple ways to do just that.

1. Wide Waist

What’s your waste size? Excessive weight around the abdomen is the most common sign that you may need to support your metabolism. If you are a man with waistline of 40 inches or greater, or a woman with a waistline of 35 inches or greater, your metabolic health may need to be examined.

2. Fatigue

Do you generally feel run down, like you’re “running on fumes?” Feeling sleepy once in a while after a restless night can be expected. But, if you are frequently tired with low energy throughout the day even after a good night’s sleep, your metabolism may be to blame.

3. Excessive Sweating

Do you sweat for no apparent reason? It’s normal to sweat when it’s hot or during physical exertion, but if simple, everyday tasks like doing the dishes or walking up a flight of stairs make you drip, you may need to address your metabolic health.

4. Low Circulation

Are your fingers and toes always cold or do your hands and feet fall asleep frequently? When you hurt yourself, does it take you a long time to heal? Low circulation may be a sign that your metabolism could use some help.

How to Maintain Your Metabolic Health

So you’ve determined that your metabolism isn’t what you want it to be. Now what? The good news is, it’s not rocket science. Promoting your metabolic health mainly involves common sense actions and lifestyle adjustments.

Deal with your Stress

High stress is a little-known culprit in metabolic mayhem. Try adding 15 minutes of meditation to your daily routine. That time you spend hitting “snooze” in the morning, for example, may be better used for meditation. Using the first minutes of your day in this way can really get your day rolling in a positive way. Or try meditating for 15 minutes in bed just before you fall asleep. This may help relax your mind and prepare you for a deep, rejuvenating sleep. Better yet, try both!

In addition, when you feel your stress levels getting out of hand, take 20 seconds to stop whatever you’re doing and simply breathe. Take 3 deep breaths and exhale fully, pulling your bellybutton toward your spine to completely empty your diaphragm. 20 seconds is so quick that nobody will even notice that you “checked out” for that time – but it may be enough to bring you (and your metabolism) some peace.

Exercise

Any kind of cardio (aerobic exercise) will help to both rev up your metabolism and reduce your stress (which should please the multitaskers).

Recent studies are showing that 1 ½ hours per week of moderate physical activity, like brisk walking, keeps the average person healthy (more is needed if you want to lose weight). What’s more, studies show that 10 minutes here and there work just as well as 45 minute workouts, as long as your total exercise time adds up to 90 minutes or more over the course of the week. This is a relief for any busy person, as it’s much easier to fit a 15-minute walk into your daily lunch break than it is to get up an hour early to go to the gym.

Although cardio is absolutely necessary, don’t forget to include some muscle-building (anaerobic exercise). Muscle is more active than fat, so more muscle means higher metabolism. Explore different ways to fit muscle training into your day. Do squats while you’re waiting for dinner to cook. Do some push-ups or sit-ups while waiting for your shower to get hot. Install an over-the-door pull-up bar and do one or two pull-ups every time you walk by. Be creative!

Healthy Diet

Super easy tip: More vegetables, less sugar.

This alone should be enough to put you well on your way to metabolic health, but it’s not hard to take your food consciousness to an even higher level for greater vitality and health.

Learn the difference between good fats and bad fats (for example: fatty meat, deep-fry oil, trans-fat and anything hydrogenated = bad; omegas, coconut, avocados, olive oil, seeds and nuts = good). Incorporate vegetables of some form into every meal (yes – even breakfast! Try blending some spinach or kale into a fruit and yogurt smoothie – we bet you won’t even taste the greens!). Vegetables should make up at least half of each meal.

If you’ve got a sweet tooth that just can’t be tamed, get yourself a bag of xylitol. It looks, tastes, mixes and bakes just like regular sugar, is natural (unlike artificial sweeteners) and has an extremely low glycemic index (meaning it will not throw your metabolism out of balance the way refined sugar and corn syrup do). As an added bonus, xylitol is actually good for your teeth by promoting healthy bacterial balance. Xylitol can be found at most natural food stores and online.

Eat Breakfast

Food is fuel. Not only do you need to put the right kind in your body, you also need to add more when you run out.

When you wake up, you have already gone a long time without eating. Skipping breakfast is like running your car on fumes and causes your body (and your metabolism) to slow down in order to stretch the energy from your last meal. Eating breakfast fuels your body and kick-starts your metabolism for the day.

Supplements

To help you on your journey of maintaining metabolic health, EcoNugenics offers Integrative Metabolic Formula for comprehensive, natural metabolic support.*

Combined with a healthy diet and lifestyle, Integrative Metabolic Formula helps to maintain healthy glucose levels, decreased sugar cravings and decreased fat absorption.*

Click here to learn more!

Your Story

If you have success stories to share or any tips for gaining or maintaining a healthy metabolism, we’d love to hear them! Please comment below. Free gift for the first 10 comments!

PectaCear® and Detox Complete® support total-body detoxification of heavy metals and toxins, for optimal health and vitality. Take advantage of this seasonal sale to start your spring cleanse with these advanced formulas, designed by integrative detoxification expert Isaac Eliaz, MD, MS, LAc.

PectaClear contains our top selling product, PectaSol-C® Modified Citrus Pectin. This remarkable ingredient has been clinically shown to remove heavy metals and environmental toxins from the body safely and effectively, without depleting essential minerals. PectaSol-C also supports immunity and cellular health. The PectaClear formula takes these benefits one step further with the addition of modified alginates derived from kelp seaweed, to enhance detoxification.

Detox Complete helps to complete the process. A synergistic blend of herbs, extracts, antioxidants and nutrients that support deeper detoxification of organs and tissues, this formula promotes thorough toxin removal, safely and comfortably.

Both formulas on their own are excellent solutions for gentle, gradual removal of everyday toxins. When taken together, they form a synergistic detoxification system to gently and effectively remove heavy metals and environmental pollutants from deep within.

Results: Targeted whole body detoxification that is powerful yet gentle, so you can feel your best this season and throughout the year.

Spring is a time of rejuvenation. Take advantage of the transformation, growth and renewal that is springing up around us, and celebrate your health with delicious fresh foods, nurturing practices, and our unique detoxification formulas for lasting vitality.

And for more inspiration, click here to read some of our most popular articles about how to maximize your cleanse, for a truly uplifting experience. Enjoy!

We are not islands – stuck in one place with no contact from other beings. We are fluid like water, touching everyone in our lives and, through them, everyone in their lives. Just as we are affected by other people, our own health directly affects the health of our relationships.

For those of you who are unfamiliar, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a comprehensive medical system based on an energetic model of health in relationship to nature and the environment. TCM methods of healing include acupuncture, massage, herbs, breathing exercises and much more. For thousands of years, people have used TCM to successfully strengthen their physical, emotional and spiritual health.

Here are four ways that TCM can also improve your relationships.

1. Joy

You are an empathetic being and, when people are around you, they are affected by your mood, good or bad. As a result, the more joy you have to share, the more enjoyable you are to be around and, as a direct result, those around you become happier and more enjoyable to you. This creates a cycle of joy that encourages greater enjoyment of each other’s company.

It’s difficult to be good company when you’re not feeling well. TCM can help alleviate illness, pain and other afflictions, leaving room for more happiness. Many practices and herbal remedies in TCM also elevate serotonin levels, a chemical in our brains that helps regulate sleep, appetite and mood – adding a wonderful extra kick to the pleasure of feeling better physically.

Acupuncture is the main method of treatment in TCM. Thin needles are placed along the body’s “energy channels,” known as meridians, which connect all organs and systems of our body. When these channels are blocked, any number of symptoms may occur depending on the location of the energy blockage. These symptoms may include illness, pain, or even anxiety or depression. The practice of acupuncture opens these channels and allows your energy to flow as it should, which decreases your suffering and makes room for increased joy.

2. Calm

Stress is a killer of relationships. It can cause fights, suspicion, blame and a whole host of other unfortunate experiences. Relieving stress through acupuncture, herbs, breathing techniques and other means will help you approach problems from a calmer, more rational perspective, and can improve your relationships.

Massage (both receiving and giving) is a relaxing way to find a state of calm and euphoria, and also a compassionate way to connect with your partner, friend or loved one. Use your palms and forearms so as not to cramp your thumbs. Allow your weight to help you – lean in with your whole body and you’ll last longer. Take deep, rhythmic breaths, bringing yourself to a relaxed state that will translate directly into your partner’s experience. When receiving massage, breathe deeply and be sure to give feedback – both complimentary and critical – to improve your experience and strengthen his/her confidence.

HonoPure®, formulated by EcoNugenics for cellular and healthy mood support, may be a more accessible option for you. It is 98% pure honokiol, extracted from magnolia tree bark, which is a staple ingredient used in TCM for a variety of purposes. Learn more here.

3. Sex Drive

As discussed above, many TCM practices increase levels of serotonin, the chemical in our brain that helps regulate mood, appetite and sleep. Not only does the mood-regulating property of serotonin increase your happiness, it also increases your sex drive. There are a variety of TCM methods that can help in this way, including acupuncture and massage.

The herbal branch of TCM also includes a number of natural serotonin-boosters. Reishi mushrooms (Ganoderma lucidum), for example, are known to support healthy sexual function and libido.

Many mushroom formulas include Reishi mushrooms.

4. Focus

Decreasing stress and finding calm have a wonderful side effect –increased focus. Without complaints to serve as distractions, you will be able to give your relationships the full attention they deserve. Being the focus of positive attention makes anyone feel loved. Feeling loved makes it easier to reciprocate love. And so we strengthen another wonderful cycle.

You can directly support your ability to focus by way of meditation. TCM methods of meditation train you to focus, and include both still meditation, such as sitting and counting breaths, and movement meditation, such as Qi gong. Just like learning another language, it takes a lot of practice to meditate without trying. The more often you practice, the better you’ll get. Try meditating for 10-15 minutes once per day and gradually (if time and life permit) increase your practice time. You will find over time that focusing during meditation becomes easier; you will then find that the focus you have during meditation extends into your everyday life.

What’s Your Story?

What areas of your life would you like to improve through TCM? Let us know in the comments below!

One 2013 study, published in the British Journal of Health Psychology, examined the relationship between diet and mood in 281 young adults. Authors reported that participants who ate more fruits and vegetables felt calmer, happier and more energetic, calling for further studies to explore these connections.

A much larger study published late 2012 in the journal Social Indicators Research examined the diets of 80,000 people in Britain. Results showed that happiness and emotional well being were “dose dependent” on the amount of vegetables and fruits people ate, suggesting that emotional well being peaks with seven servings of fruit and/or vegetables a day. Measurable indicators included self-reported life satisfaction, mental well-being, happiness, nervousness and others.

Apparently, seven servings is the magic number to reach a greater plateau of mental and emotional wellness, according to the authors of this study. However, it’s likely that this level of wellness can be surpassed to bring even greater health and happiness, when good-mood-foods are combined with other measures such as regular exercise, mind-body practices and targeted natural supplements.

Good Mood Super-Foods

Here are some star player foods that go a long way to boost mental, emotional and overall physical health and wellness. These whole foods are rich in antioxidants, minerals and nutrients to support relaxation and boost mental clarity and happiness. They also support numerous other areas of health in the process.

Greens

Leafy greens, such as spinach, beet greens, collards, kale and others, are loaded with nutrients that the brain and body love. In particular, they contain high amounts of magnesium (particularly spinach), which is essential in promoting relaxation and helping the brain to increase GABA activity. GABA is a neurotransmitter involved in relaxation and stress relief, among other important functions. Greens also contain B vitamins and folate, which are essential in managing stress. Micro-algae, such as spirulina, are also considered “green foods” because of high chlorophyll content. Spirulina contains a good percentage of stress-busting vitamin B-12 as well as protein and minerals, and helps to balance blood sugar which is also essential in promoting a healthy mood.

Cruciferous Vegetables

Cruciferous vegetables, particularly broccoli, are some of the most nutrient dense vegetables. They contain a number of active compounds that promote many areas of health including mental and emotional well being. Cabbage contains tryptophan and selenium (along with numerous other phytonutrients), which help relax and support a healthy mood. Broccoli is high in vitamin C, which helps combat the effects of increased cortisol. Furthermore, these vegetables are excellent detoxifiers and contain an abundance of antioxidants to help promote long-term physical, mental and emotional wellness.

Avocados

These rich fruits are nutritional super-foods. Packed with healthy mood and brain-supporting fats, protein, vitamin B-6 and folate, avocados support numerous areas of health including a balanced mood. Avocados also contain tryptophan, which helps promote healthy relaxation.

HonoPure® for Healthy Mood Support

Another excellent way to support relaxation and a healthy mood is with EcoNugenics HonoPure 98% purified Honokiol extract. Honokiol is an ingredient isolated from magnolia bark, an ancient staple of traditional Chinese herbalism which was commonly used to address anxiety. HonoPure works to support a healthy mood in part by helping to regulate GABA production. It’s also a powerful antioxidant which crosses the blood brain barrier to support cognitive function in numerous ways. HonoPure 98% pure Honokiol is an excellent natural solution to support restful sleep and a healthy mood. At higher doses, it’s a powerful cellular health agent, helping to promote optimal cell function throughout the body.

Learn more about HonoPure here.

The Path of Life

Physical health and mental/emotional health are intimately connected. As your body becomes stronger and healthier — with the right foods, lifestyle habits and targeted natural supplements — happiness, relaxation, brain function and vitality will increase as well. Overall, these self-care practices help nourish the positive outlook and energy you need to optimize health and wellness for life.

It’s no coincidence that Valentine’s Day and National Heart Month both fall in February. While for centuries the heart has been associated with love, we don’t always love our hearts. We may lead stressful lives, eat the wrong kinds of food (and too much of it), smoke or neglect to exercise. While the heart is an amazing organ, beating continuously our entire lives, it has limits. Fortunately, simple things, like stress relief, exercise and diet can make a big difference in heart health. And new research shows how

Take Action

Of all the factors that influence health, diet may have the greatest impact. Perhaps the most important way any of us can love our hearts is by making good food choices. Fruits, vegetables, whole gains—the heart loves them. What the heart does not love are foods with refined sugars, trans-fats and highly processed ingredients full of toxins.

On the other side of the ledger, unless we’re a triathlete, we could all benefit from more physical activity. Exercise is like a magic bullet for heart health. In addition to conditioning the cardiovascular system and burning calories, activity also reduces levels of cortisol, the hormone associated with stress. Remember, exercise does not have to be painful. Brisk walking, 30 minutes a day, can do wonders.

Healthy stress relief is critical. The complex relationship between mental/emotional health and physical resilience—particularly in areas of heart health, immunity and cellular health—is well documented. Stress affects our hearts in a big way. So take time to slow down, breathe deeply and practice mind-body relaxation methods such as mindful meditation, yoga, Qi Gong or other proven de-stressing exercises.

New Research on PectaSol-C

Another way we can help our hearts is by supplementing wisely. One of EcoNugenics top recommendations for heart health is PectaSol-C Modified Citrus Pectin (MCP).

PectaSol-C directly supports heart health by controlling a protein called Galectin-3. In fact, recent research published by the American Heart Association, showed that PectaSol-C’s ability to bind to Galectin-3 promoted cardiovascular health significantly.

Today, the relationship between Galectin-3 and the cardiovascular system has become so well established that the Food and Drug Administration has approved a Galectin-3 test to help maintain heart health. This test is now widely available.

Winter Heart Health

There’s another reason why February is a good time to support a healthy heart—winter appears to be more stressful on the cardiovascular system. Scientists aren’t entirely sure how the winter affects our hearts—it may have something to do with immunity, the holidays or even seasonal mood swings.  Regardless, with so many simple ways to support cardiovascular health, this season presents a perfect opportunity to love your heart.