Natural Remedies for Adrenal Fatigue

We are all aware of adrenaline, the fight or flight hormone that kicks in whenever we find ourselves facing a threat. But did you know adrenalin is only one of the many hormones produced by the adrenal glands?

About the Adrenal Glands

The adrenal glands (also known as the suprarenal glands) sit atop the kidneys. These pyramid-shaped glands have two parts: the outer adrenal cortex and the inner medulla.

The adrenal cortex creates 3 types of hormones:

  • Mineralocorticoids: hormones triggered by the kidneys. These hormones regulate the balance of salt to water within the body and help to maintain blood pressure.
  • Glucocorticoids: hormones triggered by the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland. These hormones increase blood glucose levels, regulate the conversion of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates into energy, help to regulate blood pressure, and regulate immune response and inflammatory reactions.
  • Gonadocorticoids: sex hormones. Small amounts of sex hormones are released by the adrenal cortex. After middle age, the adrenals become the primary source of sex hormones.
Related: Holistic Guide to Healing the Endocrine System and Balancing Our Hormones

We would die quickly without the hormones produced by the adrenal cortex.

The adrenal medulla creates two hormones:

  • Epinephrine (also known as adrenaline): Epinephrine is the fight or flight hormone. It increases your heart rate, raises your blood sugar, and rushes blood to the muscles and the brain.
  • Norepinephrine(also known as noradrenaline): Norepinephrine works with epinephrine.

All in all, the adrenals produce nearly 50 hormones.

Major Illnesses Associated with Adrenal Glands

  • Congenital adrenal hyperplasia: a genetic disorder that disrupts hormone levels from the adrenals.
  • Addison’s disease: a rare disorder that disrupts production of the hormones cortisol and aldosterone.
  • Cushing’s syndrome: an uncommon disorder where the adrenals overproduce cortisol.
  • Adrenal cancer: an aggressive rare cancer that causes excess production of hormones.
Related: Best Supplements To Kill Lyme and Everything Else You Ever Wanted To Know About Lyme Disease

Adrenal Fatigue

Adrenal fatigue is caused by lack of or poor quality sleep, relentless stress, EMF exposure, heavy metal toxicity, thyroid problems, caffeine, nicotine or other stimulant use, or a chronic or acute infection, especially respiratory infections (influenza, bronchitis, or pneumonia). With most adrenal problems there are many of the aforementioned causes at play, but Candida almost always plays a huge part.

Adrenal fatigue is experienced in two ways: either the sufferer struggles with fatigue throughout the day, using stimulants such as caffeine to make it to an early bedtime, or the sufferer’s day is exactly the same except he gets a second wind around 9-10 at night and buzzes until the wee hours when he can finally go to sleep. Adrenal fatigue can become so severe, it can become difficult to be out of bed for more than a few hours at a time. In addition to loss of energy, adrenal fatigue is also associated with the following:

  • Hypothyroidism
  • Lowered libido
  • Immunity reduction
  • Low blood pressure

The following herbs are used to treat adrenal fatigue:

  • Licorice: Sometimes used alone, sometimes in conjunction with Panax ginseng and Bupleurum falcatum–especially used for people who have damaged adrenal output by long-term steroid use. Warning: licorice can raise blood pressure.
  • Rhodiola: Adaptogen–helps the body adapt to stress.
  • Shisandra: Also an adaptogen–helps the body adapt to stress.
  • Holy Basil: Also an adaptogenic–helps the body adapt to stress.
  • Ashwagandha root: Increases in T3 and T4, supports thyroid and adrenals, balances hormones.
  • Astragalus: Improves immune system, adrenal function, and reduces stress.
  • Ginseng Root: Revitalizes the adrenals and balances hormones.

*Check out the “Recommended Supplements” below for some formulas with these ingredients.

The following vitamins and supplements are helpful in treating adrenal fatigue:

Related: Sugar Leads to Depression – World’s First Trial Proves Gut and Brain are Linked (Protocol Included)

Natural Protocol for Adrenal Fatigue

Candida is the number one cause of poor health in our country and an overabundance of Candida will eventually cause adrenal fatigue (along with many other problems). If you’re experiencing adrenal fatigue, cut out stimulants completely. No more coffee. Read this article to learn how to clean the intestines. Most people with endocrine problems have an excess of Candida.

Fungal Supplement Stack – Knock Out Yeast, Candida, Mold, Fungus

The first three should be plenty for most people, but for really prominent fungal issues or for impatient people with a bigger budget I’d recommend all of these:

I recommend taking the SF722, Berberine, MycoCeutics, and Microdefense with meals, and the Abzorb and Syntol separately, on an empty stomach (like in the morning and before bed). The Abzorb and the Syntol are a bit redundant, but I find good results using both if the budget can afford it. If money is really tight, just get the SF722 and put your money into your diet.

It is also time to un-stress. Get outside and get grounded. Learn how to breathe! And take up yoga or meditation. In fact, doing yoga barefoot outside can facilitate all of those at once!

To speed up the process with a supplement regimen or for those with very serious adrenal problems, we recommend Shillington’s Male Energy and Shillington’s Female Energy for adrenals. Unfortunately, we don’t have the recipe for the female formula, but here’s the male formula below. Also, these are amazing formulas for libido, energy, weight loss, balancing hormones, and more.

Also check out Detox Cheap and Easy Without Fasting – Recipes Included for more on diet. I recommend the cranberry lemonade recipe in that article to help detox. Also, keeping the kidneys healthy is imparative for good adrneal health.

Shillington’s Male Energy Formula Recipe:

  • 2 parts American White Ginseng
  • 2 parts Korean Ginseng
  • 2 parts Chinese Ginseng
  • 3 parts Yohimbe Bark
  • 3 parts Damiana Turneria Aphrodisiaca
  • 3 parts Siberian Ginseng
  • 2 parts Sarsaparilla Root
  • 1 part Saw Palmetto Berry
  • 1 part Oat Seed (Green Immature)
  • 1 part Kola Nut
  • 1 part Ginger Root

For information on Shillington’s female formulas, check out Natural Remedies for PMS Moodswings, Bloating, Cramps, etc.

Parts are by volume. Blend all ingredients together and make into a tincture using a 50 – 50 Blend of Alcohol and distilled water. For more, see How to Make a Tincture.

Recommended Supplements:
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What Makes Blueberries So Healthy?

Blueberries are perennial flowering plants of the Ericaceous family known as Vaccinium Cyanococcus. The flower itself is typically bell shaped and can be white, pale pink, or red. The fruit is a deep velvety purple with a fleshy characteristic.

Blueberries are sweet and juicy and can be used in a wide variety of recipes from jams, sauces, and smoothies to cakes, baked goods, and other pastries. Aside from the tasty recipes that can come together using blueberries, they are medicinal in terms having antibacterial and antiviral qualities. This succulent fruit packs quite the nutritional punch with its panel of plant nutrients.

Potent Concentrations of Antioxidants

Did you know that blueberries contain high concentrations of antioxidants, which help your body fight free radicals that kill your cells and accelerate aging? In fact, consumption of this natural medicine may even help protect your heart and brain health. Blueberries possess the highest antioxidant capacity, bar none, when compared to other fruit, veggies, and spices according to the world’s healthiest foods website. Eat them raw and optimize your health by giving the body the nutrients it needs to combat free radicals that damage our cellular structures right down to the DNA.

In fact, according to Prevent Disease.com, 300 grams of blueberries puts up a strong fight against DNA damage to blood cells resulting from oxidative stress. Consuming blueberries on a regular basis may just help one bypass the rising risk of cardiovascular and other degenerative diseases.

Loaded With Phytochemical Anthocyanin

The phytochemical, anthocyanin, is present in substantial levels in blueberries and is responsible for its healing qualities involving inflammation reduction, blood pressure reduction, and the overall rise of health and longevity when consumed often. Due to the antioxidant properties of Anthocyanins, good vision can be maintained and even reserved by preventing or slowing down visual loss and other age related eye problems.

Rich in Other Vitamins and Antioxidants, Too

Anthocyanin is just one of the potent antioxidants found in blueberries. You will be surprised to learn that consuming blueberries will raise your levels of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, copper, phosphorous, selenium, zinc, and iron. These antioxidants make the blueberry the go to for a quick nutritious snack promoting health and wellbeing. The copper, for example, helps build immunity by fighting bacteria and it’s required for the production of red blood cells; the zinc and iron will raise hemoglobin and oxygen in the blood to strengthen immunity.

Excellent Nutrients for Brain Health

With all the antioxidants present in blueberries, neurological disorders can be prevented and healed as the degeneration neurons and brain cells are restored to health along with the central nervous system. Adequate intake of antioxidants such as those found in blueberries can benefit Alzheimer’s sufferers because they heal deteriorating brain cells and tissues. This can work toward keeping the memory focused and sharp.

Effective Nourishment for Heart Health

There are several factors that make blueberries terrific for heart health including the high fiber content along with the high level of antioxidants found in the fruit. These factors help blueberries dissolve bad cholesterol and strengthen cardiac muscles.

Works Toward Healthy Digestion

The fiber content in blueberries, if consumed by the handful, will help keep constipation at bay, while the vitamins, minerals, and acids help correct digestive difficulties. One such vitamin is the B-complex group with folates, pantothenic acid, niacin pyridoxine, riboflavin, and folic acid. Together these allow the body to metabolize carbs, protein, and fats, ultimately promoting healthy digestion.

Low in Calories

Stay trim snacking on blueberries, as they are quite low in calories. Just under a half a cup of blueberries is only 57 calories. This is a much more health conscious choice then a processed food snack or baked good which does not offer much in terms of nutrients.

Still Potent When Frozen

Studies have shown that there isn’t any damage to the antioxidant content when blueberries are frozen. When frozen for 36 months, researchers learned that the overall power of the antioxidant was not lost; this is fantastic news for those who may have difficulty getting their hands on fresh blueberries and typically buy them frozen.

Use certified organic ingredients to maximize flavors and nutrition while minimizing your risk of exposure to pesticides, chemicals, and preservatives. In the case of blueberries, it’s best to use the organic varieties as the conventional are high in pesticides according to the EWG’s Dirty Dozen list.

Blueberry Banana Smoothie/ Frozen Ice

This recipe uses 1.5 cups of frozen blueberries, 1 frozen banana, ½ cup of Strauss Organic vanilla yogurt, 2 cups water and 1 cup of crushed ice. Combine ingredients in your blender to desired consistency, then enjoy a frozen treat that is packed with antioxidants and nutrients. This same recipe can be used to make blueberry banana frozen ice by pouring into ice cube tray and freezing.

Blueberry Banana Muffins

This recipe calls for 1 ¾ cups of flour. I like to use a combination of almond, amaranth, and quinoa flour in equal portions. This is then combined with ¼ cup of whole oats, 1 teaspoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, ½ cup coconut oil, 3 ripe bananas, 1/3 cup of coconut sugar, 2 large eggs, 1/3 cup of almond milk, a dash of vanilla extract ad 1 ½ cup of frozen blueberries.  Combine ingredients, bake for 30 minutes on 375.

Blueberry Flaxseed Pancakes

For this dish, combine 2 well beaten eggs with 1 cup of buttermilk, 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, 1 stick of melted butter, 1 cup of your choice of gluten free flour such as brown rice flour and or quinoa and amaranth flour, ¼ cup of ground flax seeds, 3 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/3 cup of honey, 2 cups of blueberries, 3 mashed up bananas and a nice pinch of cinnamon.

Blueberry Parfait

Layer your favorite oatmeal and yogurt with fresh or frozen blueberries. Top with hemp, chia, or sunflower seeds, drizzle with honey and dig in!

Blueberry Jam

Boil 3 cups of blueberries with some maple syrup. Mash the blueberries and boil down to your favorite texture, about 15 minutes. Stir often so that it does not stick. Once you have achieved your desired consistency, remove from heat, let cool, and add ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract. This can be spread on muffins, toast, tarts, cookies, and more.

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Why Keep Apple Cider Vinegar in Your Pantry?

The thought of apple cider vinegar will make some people cringe as the sour flavor and pungent odor can be challenging. If you are able to get past these things, there are many uses for apple cider vinegar and it is known to have a plethora of medicinal benefits. Apple cider vinegar is basically fermented juice derived from crushed apples. It has some other nomenclature such as Malus Sylvestris, Vinigare de Manzana, and Vinaigre de Cidre.

Due to its tremendous health benefits, I use apple cider vinegar every day in my tea elixir and always in my water, but I have found it to have a wide variety of uses ranging from fighting against warts, to marinating meat! Proper apple cider vinegar will include some strand like material that drops to the bottom of the container. This substance is called the “mother” which holds the raw enzymes and gut friendly bacteria that encourage healing, wellbeing and even aids in weight loss due to its metabolizing effects! Let’s look at some more of the reasons why you should keep apple cider vinegar in your pantry.

Apple Cider Vinegar Contains B vitamins– B1, B2, B6, Biotin, Folic Acid and Niacin

Many of the B vitamins are found in apple cider vinegar. B vitamins are responsible for metabolizing fats and carbohydrates into the  energy we need. B vitamins are also important for the nervous system and muscle functions. B Vitamins in appropriate amounts has been shown to alleviate stress, treat anxiety and depression, help memory, relieve PMS, and reduce heart disease risk!

Apple cider vinegar also contains folic acid, a member of the B family of vitamins, that has been touted for reducing the risk of birth defects. Some research has shown that if taken enough, it can reduce the threat of certain types of cancer as well.

Niacin, another B vitamin found in apple cider vinegar, is an aid to boost the HDL cholesterol while decreasing the LDL cholesterol in the bloodstream. This effect makes it beneficial to the body because the more HDL in the body the more bad cholesterol it picks up and sends back to the liver for discarding. This equates to a healthier you!

Apple Cider Vinegar Contains Vitamin C                                                            Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant in the body protecting your skin cells from free radical damage due to exposure to air pollution, ultraviolet light from the sun, first and second hand cigarette smoke, and more. Vitamin C is the principal water-soluble antioxidant in the body, which deactivates free radicals and prevents damage in the environments both inside and outside the cells. Free radical damage to cellular structures and other molecules can result in excruciating inflammation. Vitamin C, strives to prevent the free radical damage that triggers the onset of inflammation and swelling, therefore it may be associated with relief from inflammatory conditions such as asthma, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis.  Regular consumption of vitamin C delays the development of hardening of the arteries and also boosts the production of two of the skin’s most important proteins, collagen and elastin.

Apple Cider Vinegar is Rich in potassium

Potassium is a mineral that is crucial for the heart, kidneys, and other organs to work properly.  It helps cell growth and muscle building. Research has shown that a low level of potassium intake is linked with a risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, arthritis, cancer, digestive disorders and infertility. The good news is that potassium can be derived naturally from our diet when we include apple cider vinegar! Potassium can also be found in foods such as radishes, bananas, avocados, nuts, and leafy green veggies, milk and potatoes, among others.

Apple Cider Vinegar Contains Much Needed Calcium

Calcium is the most familiar mineral in the body but it can also be lost every day via urine and feces. The body replenishes the lost calcium easily from the diet so use lots of apple cider vinegar instead of dressing on your salad for a good source of this nutrient.  Calcium is needed to build and maintain strong bones; is essential for blood clotting, muscle contraction, and nerve impulse transmission.

Apple Cider Vinegar Contains an Essential Mineral– Magnesium

Magnesium is an essential nutrient that keeps the body healthy. It is accountable for about 300 biochemical reactions in the body if not more and it helps the body absorb phosphorous.  The benefits of magnesium are endless and include proper transmission of nerve impulses, regulation of body temperature, detoxification and energy production. Magnesium is also necessary for the healthy formation of bones and teeth. Magnesium intake relieves symptoms of PMS and aids in the assimilation of calcium by the body. Some other health benefits include protein synthesis, boosting the bioavailability of B6, and improving muscle functions. Magnesium also works to prevent a myriad of health ailments that we experience today as a society such as osteoporosis, insomnia, constipation, heart attacks, hypertension, migraines, kidney stones and gallstones. Getting some magnesium into your system will only benefit you by helping to lower the risks of these ailments.

Apple Cider Vinegar Contains Antiviral, Antibacterial, and Antifungal Properties

A key component of apple cider vinegar is malic acid, which gives it the power against viruses, bacteria, and fungi. I have even heard of it being used as a deodorant because of its proven effects in fighting bacteria and absorbing and neutralizing odors. The pungent odor dissipates once it dries.

Apple Cider Vinegar May Be Used to Trigger Weight Loss

Apple cider vinegar increases metabolism and stimulates fat burning when consumed every day before meals. It also makes you feel fuller and eat less. A study noted on Mercola.com involved 29 people who were given 2 tablespoons of vinegar before consuming a meal. These individuals were found to lose approximately 2- 4 pounds during a four-week period.

Apple Cider Vinegar Was Found to Be Effective in People With Diabetes or Those at Risk

In 2004, the American Diabetes Foundation published a study in their journal, Diabetes Care, that found taking vinegar before meals helped decrease insulin and glucose spikes that typically occur after meals. In fact, WebMD also published a study in 2007 involving several people with type 2 diabetes taking 2 tablespoons of ACV before bedtime. In the morning, their glucose levels had been lowered by 4-6%. The research definitely looks promising in this area, however many more studies would be necessary to accurately determine the full extent of insulin stabilization that may occur by adding apple cider vinegar to the diet.

Hair and Skin Care

Apple Cider Vinegar can be used as a rinse to soften and shine your hair due to its alkaline properties, making it feel smooth and silky. It will  substance will clear up and remove dirty residue and oils. Due to its alkalinity, it can also balance the pH in your hair. Just dilute 1 part aple cider vinegar to 3 parts water and rinse. This same dilution can be used for skincare. Apple cider vinegar can also be used as an astringent, firming up and toning the skin while reducing the presence of wrinkles.

Incorporate Apple Cider Vinegar into Your Diet with Recipes from Mimi’s Organic Corner

I love organic food and pursue an eco-friendly lifestyle. So I suggest using certified organic ingredients to maximize flavors and nutrition while minimizing your risk of exposure to pesticides, chemicals and preservatives. Always choose raw, organic, and unpasteurized apple cider vinegar.

Mimi’s favorite herbal infused tea– Steep mint leaves, lavender flowers, two sticks of cinnamon and a slice of raw ginger in water. Then add a tablespoon full of raw honey and a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar.

Apple Cider Tonic– Mix 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar in 2 cups of water everyday. Drink it before or during meals. To sweeten it up, use stevia, maple syrup, or molasses. A pinch of cinnamon may help you get it down.

Apple Cider Vinaigrette Salad Dressing– Mix apple cider vinegar, Italian herbs, your favorite oil—I suggest sesame, Hemp or avocado oil–add honey, crushed garlic, sea salt, black pepper and some feta cheese, then drizzle over your favorite green salad.

Apple Cider Vinegar Marinade– Drizzle apple cider vinegar over your favorite meats or poultry, then spice and cook as usual. Marinades will make your meats more tender.

Substitute Apple Cider Vinegar– Apple cider vinegar is a good substitute for lemon on your steamed vegetables or in other recipes that call for lemon. Mix it with crushed garlic, fresh ground pepper, salt, cumin, and oil.

Pickling– Pickled veggies are a fantastic side to serve with drinks or crudités. To prepare, combine apple cider vinegar, water, salt, and chili powder. Bring to a boil. Add cloves, garlic and your favorite veggies. Bring to a boil again. Then remove from heat and cool for a while before refrigerating. Serve cold.

Tomato Sauce– Prepare your sauce as usual and add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to give it a tangy flavor.

Further Reading:


How Candida Causes Junkfood Cravings

You make a resolution. You are going to eat healthy every day. No more junk food. And then it hits–those cravings. You have to have chocolate. You’ll die without chocolate!

There is no doubt that your blood sugar has a lot to do with sugar cravings, but blood sugar is not the only metabolic process driving you. If you are living with an overabundance of Candida in your system, it wants to be fed. And it’s preferred food is sugar.

Our bodies contain 10 times as many microbes as human cells. Many of these microbes are beneficial. We actually enjoy a symbiotic relationship with many of the bacteria (they help digest food, create serotonin, create B vitamins and more), but other microbes can cause disease, especially when they are out of balance.

In today’s bacteria phobic world, we use antibacterial soaps, we pasteurize milk and juice, and we kill as many bacteria as possible in an attempt to create an antiseptic environment with no regard to the healthy bacteria we destroy. In addition, we take antibiotics without considering the indiscriminate destruction of the healthy bacteria we need for optimum health.

Related: Best Supplements To Kill Candida and Everything Else You Ever Wanted To Know About Fungal Infections

Candida is opportunistic. Whenever it sees an opening, like when we consume refined foods, Candida increases its numbers. It flourishes. And when it does, it wreaks havoc on its host. It doesn’t just live inside of us, it feeds off of us. It changes from a one-celled yeast to grow filaments that bore through our tissues–not only in the gut but in other organs as well. Enzymes are released from these filaments that digest our tissues. Then the Candida soaks up nutrition from the cells it destroys as well as the food we eat.

The balance of Candida to beneficial flora is ever changing. Beneficial bacteria vie for dominance in the gut. As the balance shifts (like when we aren’t eating foods that feed it) and Candida die off, the dying Candida releases 79 different toxins into our system. These toxins make us feel ill. As it continues to attack us from the inside, we eat a little sugar (or a lot of sugar) and we feel better because we have just fed the Candida and ended the die-off process. Candida flourishes again (along with bad bacteria, which also likes sugar). You eat a little better, Candida dies off. You feel bad. You eat sugar. The cycle continues.

When the level of Candida rises to the point it causes ear infections, gum infections, sinus infections, vaginal infections, tooth infections, or skin infections, we may put two and two together and realize there is a cause and effect every time we eat sugar because we feel the negative results almost immediately. This is due to a low level of chronic infection that flares every time we feed the Candida.

Foods that feed Candida include concentrated sugars (corn syrup, sugar, agave, fruit juice, etc.). and other refined foods (sugars, flours, bread, pasta, white rice, etc.). Alcohol also indirectly promotes Candida growth. For those with particularly bad Candida, even a lack of sleep and other things that weaken the immune system actually can feed Candida (they feed off of our weakest cells, sleep deprivation depletes individual cell health).

You can rid your body of Candida naturally and get off the sugar roller coaster ride, but it will take time and discipline. You

There are a number of herbs and supplements that will boost your immune system, kill off the Candida, and increase your beneficial bacteria.

Once that’s over, you’ll have no excuses. If you eat that chocolate, it’s on you. Unless of course, it’s raw unsweetened chocolate. That’s good for you. It’s the milk and sugar they put in it that feed Candida.

Check out How To Heal Your Gut. If you’re consuming sweets and other refined foods over the holidays, be sure to have a good probiotic a couple of other items on hand to kill excess yeast.

Fungal Supplement Stack – Knock Out Yeast, Candida, Mold, Fungus

The first three should be plenty for most people, but for really prominent fungal issues or for impatient people with a bigger budget I’d recommend all of these:

I recommend taking the SF722, Berberine, MycoCeutics, and Microdefense with meals, and the Abzorb and Syntol separately, on an empty stomach (like in the morning and before bed). The Abzorb and the Syntol are a bit redundant, but I find good results using both if the budget can afford it. If money is really tight, just get the SF722 and put your money into your diet.

Further Reading:


Heal Cavities, Gum Disease, Naturally with Organic Oral Care – Toothpaste Recipes Included

Dentists will tell you that genetics and “proper” dental care and fluoride treatments will result in healthy teeth and gums. However, we know that indigenous tribes who ate healthy diets enjoyed remarkably good dental health. When indigenous tribes were introduced to the Western diet, disease, including oral disease, followed.

The truth is, the most important action you can take to maintain oral health is to eat a healthy diet.  Avoid all artificial additives (flavors, colors, preservatives), GMOs, pasteurized dairy, and refined sugars. Do not consume foods laden with herbicides and preservatives (especially the “dirty dozen”) or animal protein (meat or dairy) from factory raised animals or farm raised fish. The healthiest diet consists of whole unadulterated foods, 80% of which are raw, organic vegetables and fruits (and eat more vegetables than fruit).

It is possible, through a truly healthy diet and proper oral care, to whiten and re-mineralize your teeth, to re-build your enamel, and to heal your gums.

If you have dental problems, oil pulling is a good practice to incorporate into your daily routine. In the morning, before you eat or drink anything, take a spoonful of coconut oil or sesame oil and swish it through your mouth and teeth for 15-20 minutes. Keep squeezing it through your teeth with your tongue, swishing it back and forth. This is an ancient Ayurvedic practice (from Hindu traditional medicine) that is catching on in the West with wonderful reports of how it heals and aids teeth and gums. It is also claimed that this practice pulls toxins out of the body, healing all manner of illness.

We’ve been raised to believe that eating candy creates cavities. While it is true that refined sugar will feed the bacteria in your mouth, the greater risk is the fact that the body leeches minerals such as calcium out of our bones and teeth and draws it into the bloodstream to stabilize the pH in our blood, a pH the sugar has altered.

If you are not healthy, you need to brush gently. Hard brushing will tear up your gums and strip the enamel from your teeth. If you are in good health, a more rigorous brushing will stimulate blood flow and re-mineralization.  Regardless of your health, a good, soft toothbrush is a must. Proper technique is important as well. Use a circular motion to brush teeth and gums, and don’t forget to brush the roof of your mouth and your tongue.

But what will you use on your toothbrush? Commercial toothpaste is toxic.  Fluoride is not the only ingredient to avoid. Many commercial toothpastes include saccharine or aspartame, artificial dyes, sodium lauryl sufate, and/or triclosan.

You can avoid most of these ingredients by using a ridiculously expensive natural toothpaste. But many still contain sodium laureth sulfate or other questionable ingredients such as glycerin, which prevents re-mineralization.

As I read the label on my all natural, fluoride free, SLS-free toothpaste, I saw that it did not have any of the other horrific ingredients in commercial toothpastes. It says: no sodium laurel/ laureth sulfates, no preservatives, no artificial colors, no artificial sweeteners, no saccharin, no propylene glycol.  Though the tube told me a lot about what it didn’t have, I had to go online to find the actual ingredients.  And I sure did want to know what the ingredients were because I had never noticed this warning: “Keep out of the reach of children under 6 years of age. If you accidently swallow more than used for brushing, seek professional assistance or contact Poison Control Center immediately.”  I am happy to say that I called and confirmed that the government requires toothpaste companies to place this warning on toothpaste tubes since it is not made for consumption, regardless of whether there are poisonous materials contained.

The only one ingredient that concerned me was carrageenan, which is known to promote inflammation.  The bottom line is the price. Six to seven dollars for toothpaste is just too much.

I decided it was time to make my own toothpaste.

The age-old simple homemade tooth powder is an equal amount of baking soda to salt. While this scrapes plaque off the teeth, it isn’t very tasty, and kids hate it.  I wanted something better.

Most of the online recipes start with a base of coconut oil and baking soda.  Baking soda whitens the teeth and is alkaline, a good thing, while coconut oil serves as an anti-bacterial agent (remember we use it for oil pulling) and it binds the ingredients together and makes the toothpaste creamy.

The basic recipe for homemade toothpaste is equal parts of coconut oil and baking soda. Make sure both are organic . From here, you can add other ingredients and adjust ratios if necessary.

Simple Natural Toothpaste Recipe:

  • Equal parts of coconut oil and baking soda
  • Add essential oil to taste
  • Add stevia (if desired) to taste

For 6 tablespoons of oil to 6 tablespoons of baking soda, add 10-15 drops of essential oil. Try peppermint, eucalyptus, cinnamon, clove, lemon, orange, rosemary or any others or any combination that sound good to you. Each essential oil provides more than taste; each adds its own benefit.  Add drops of one, or experiment with combinations. Be sure to buy your essential oils from a reputable source and be sure you are getting the right genus species. Many oils come from different species and contain different properties.

  • Peppermint— a powerful anti-oxidant
  • Eucalyptus—antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory
  • Cinnamon—antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant
  • Clove—antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal and an amazing antioxidant, the highest antioxidant essential oil. It is approved by the Dental Association for use as a dental anesthetic.   It’s great for killing Candida.
  • Lemon—antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant
  • Orange—antiseptic and antioxidant
  • Rosemary—antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral
  • Neem oil and tea tree oil could also be used for antibacterial qualities. Try 6-8 drops but know that neither one is a flavor enhancer.  They may help tighten up gum tissue, however.
  • Your basic recipe can be changed in a variety of ways. Coconut oil is solid at room temperature, sesame oil is not. You can replace as much coconut oil with sesame oil as desired to reach the consistency you prefer. But realize this will also change the taste and the color.

Your dry ingredients can also be altered. Try adding trace minerals, calcium magnesium powder, bentonite clay, and/or diatomaceous earth to the mix, removing an equal amount of baking soda and adjusting for consistency.

Trace minerals, calcium magnesium powder, and diatomaceous earth will all aid in re-mineralization, while bentonite clay will aid in drawing out impurities as it, like the aforementioned dry ingredients, adds grit.

Hydrogen peroxide is added to many home toothpastes, especially those formulated for whitening. But hydrogen peroxide is one of those ingredients you are not supposed to swallow and it can irritate the gums. It is not a good idea for kids or for anyone with sensitive, damaged, or diseased gums.

Dr. Shillington’s Tooth and Gum Formula

There is a third step in dental care for anyone who is struggling with gingivitis or wants to use a preventative treatment. Dr. Shillington’s Tooth and Gum Formula can be used as a mouthwash (one dropperful to a cup of water), on your toothbrush (8-12 drops on your toothbrush after brushing your teeth), or with a water pick (2-4 dropperful, but rinse out after use so the tee tree oil does not shorten the life of the rubber seals). After each of these methods, do not rinse; allow the ingredients to continue working.

Dr. Shillington writes, “The Echinacea in the formula deadens pain, kills germs, kicks the immune system into action, and starts working against bacteria that is deep down in the gum pockets. Bayberry and Oak Bark will tighten up the gum tissue right before your eyes.  Peppermint is a very strong disinfectant, reduces inflammation, and also increases blood circulation to carry off toxins, bring in nutrition, and generally cleanse the mouth.  Clove Oil is a great pain reducer for toothache.”

You can make your own Tooth and Gum Formula with Dr. Shillington’s recipe or purchase the Tooth and Gum Formula through Green Lifestyle Market. If you purchase and don’t like it Green Lifestyle Market will refund.

Dr. Shillington’s Tooth and Gum Formula Recipe

(Use Organic or wild-crafted ingredients whenever possible). Or you can also purchase here.

A ‘part’ is a measurement by volume.  Blend all ingredients together and make into a tincture using a 50 – 50 Blend of Alcohol and distilled water. For more, see How to Make a Tincture.

A Dropperful is considered to be about 1/2 way up the dropper from a two-ounce bottle.

Be sure to shake well before each use.

Gum disease is not only avoidable, it is, contrary to conventional opinion, completely reversible. If you try one of the recipes above, or have your own recipe, we’d love to hear about it in the comments below. Be sure to see the “Further Reading” section below.

My Protocol (as of Feb 2016)

Typically, I floss and brush twice a day with just with about a half a dropper full of the Tooth and Gum formula with a tiny bit of Earthpaste. I also chew on garlic for about 30 seconds three times a day. I used to make my own toothpaste, typically just with salt and baking soda and a squirt of the Tooth and Gum, all thrown into the mouth together, but now I’m spoiled. I work at Green Lifestyle Market. I like the Earthpaste and it’s just sitting there, waiting for my employee discount. It works well. Last but not least, your mouth health emulates your gut health, so if there are serious problems in the mouth, it’s time to address the gut.

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Sources:

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What’s the Best Water for Detoxifying and For Drinking?

Earth is the water planet. Oceans, rivers, lakes, streams–water abounds. Unfortunately, most of it is polluted. Our industries use our waterways to dump their waste; industrial farming pollutants leach into waterways and ground water. Even jet fuel is found in our water–in well water and municipal water. Mercury pollutes our rivers, streams, and lakes. Fracking is dumping chemicals into groundwater.

We treat water to remove as many pollutants as possible, to make our dirty water drinkable. And yet, our treated water still contains toxic chemicals and toxic metals like lead and arsenic, antibiotics, and fluoride, along with other chemicals used to sanitize the water. In Louisiana, municipal water includes brain eating amebas.

Many have turned to other water sources as a safer alternative to water straight from the tap. But which water is the best? What are the choices?

  • Rain Water
  • Well water
  • Spring water
  • Reverse osmosis water
  • Filtered Water
  • Distilled water
Related: How To Heal Your Gut

Rain Water

The purity of rainwater is dependent on the environment. Have you ever heard of acid rain?

Once while walking along the beach, I turned my face up towards the newly falling snow. That blissful moment exploded as those “pristine” flakes melted and burned through my skin, leaving me bleeding.

If you do decide to collect and drink rainwater, get it tested, and depending on your area, you may need to get it tested regularly. And don’t forget to keep whatever collection bin you use very, very clean.

Related: Detox Cheap and Easy Without Fasting – Recipes Included

Well Water

There’s not much better than having your own well full of clean drinking water. Nature built a filtration system. The natural water cycle includes water soaking into the ground through dirt and rocks until it becomes groundwater. We retrieve it through wells or springs.

Unfortunately, well water may be contaminated. Chemicals are not always filtered out by the earth. Fracking, runoff, and other dumping contaminates groundwater.

It is also imperative to keep wells clean. Water can become contaminated from the well itself.

Spring Water

Spring water is groundwater that finds its way to the surface. Again, the cleanliness of the water is dependent on whether the groundwater is pure. Bottled spring water is regulated and tested. According to the International Bottled Water Association (IBWA), the FDA standards for bottled water are more stringent than the standards for tap water.

On the IBWA site, you can see a video of a water bottling business. Their spring water goes through several filtrations before being treated with UV rays and ozone, both of which kill bacteria.

Reverse Osmosis Water

Reverse osmosis is used to desalinate or clean water. Basically, pressure is used to force water through smaller and smaller filters, separating particulates from the water.

Shillington says, “Reverse Osmosis is questionable, and I’ve heard that it contributes to Candida.  Since this was from a verbal source, more investigation needs to be done on this one.  RO units have filters that need replacing ever so often, and they do not remove certain toxins from the water such as Fluoride.”

Recommended: Best Supplements To Kill Candida and Everything Else You Ever Wanted To Know About Fungal Infections

Filtered Water

Home water filtration may involve a whole house approach (which may include a reverse osmosis system) to an on-the-counter filtration machine, a single tap filter, or a water pitcher with a replaceable filter. (See the link below to discover which pitcher filtering system works the best.)

Carbon filters, used in most water pitchers and tap filters, do remove some toxic chemicals but it does not to a good job filtering out fluoride, most of the toxic metals, or all other contaminants.

Mike Adams recently tested 12 popular water filtration devices and Zero was the best by far. It’s always been the only one we’ve recommended. It even removes fluoride, though it is not certified to do so.

Distilled

The cleanest water is distilled. Yes, it is more acidic. Yes, it is devoid of minerals. Even so, given a choice of water available, it only makes since to start with distilled water for the cleanest, safest water possible. Dr. Ian Shillington advocates distilled water, suggesting that a level teaspoon of baking soda added to a gallon of distilled water makes it highly alkaline (8.0). Add minerals back in as well, and you have clean, alkalizing, mineral water. The reality is that “…if someone is eating right, and taking a good multi-vitamin/mineral like Total Nutrition, they don’t need to worry about the very small amount of minerals distilled water can leach from the body.” He also states, “It is true that “untreated” distilled water will leach some minerals from your body.  However, the majority of these minerals are inorganic minerals that you don’t want there anyway such as Calcium Carbonate which builds up to form bone spurs and Arthritic Calcium deposits.  Any of the “good” minerals leached can be quickly replaced with a small handful of raw nuts or seeds so this isn’t a major concern.”

If you purchase a water distiller, you won’t have to buy your water at the store in plastic jugs or bottles. At a dollar a gallon or more from the store, a water distiller will pay for itself. Be sure you choose a distiller that also includes a filter. Your water will be clean and pure.

The Best Drinking Water For Detoxifying

The best possible choice for water to drink on a regular bases for someone with a healthy immune system is a clean, safe, high quality spring water. The trouble is, as mentioned, it can be difficult to know how clean it is.

During a detox, when the idea is removing toxins, distilled water is by far the best choice. If you don’t have access to a trusted source for spring water, well water, or rainwater, then distilled is still your best bet for daily drinking. If you’re using water for enemas, distilled is the only water one should use. If the lack of minerals is still much of a concern to anyone using distilled water, a few trace mineral drops in the water can fix that. One of the best things anyone can do for themselves, whether they are detoxifying or not is to drink a lot of water every day. If you’re looking to detoxify, check out Inexpensive, Easy Detox – The One Gallon Challenge, and Total Body Cleanse if you’re looking for a very serious detox or need to target certain organs like kidneys.

Recommended Supplements:
Further Reading:
Sources:

 



How Candida Leads to Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, and Other Mental Disorders

If you are depressed while you suffer from regular yeast infections, or athlete’s foot or have taken antibiotics recently, there is a connection. Our brains are inextricably tied to our gastrointestinal tract and our mental well being is dependent on healthy intestines. Depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and a host of other mental illness from autism to ADHD can be caused by an imbalance of gut microbes like fungi, and “bad” bacteria.

Candida is the opportunistic flora that typically takes over our colon with conventional diets. Along with it comes other fungi, harmful bacteria, and parasites. An intestinal system infected with this kind of ecosystem cannot process and assimilate many of the vitamins we need, like B vitamins, which are imperative for brain function and found to be low (especially B6) in virtually anyone experiencing depression. Candida also breaks down the intestinal wall and leeches into the bloodstream, allowing other toxic byproducts to leak from the colon to the bloodstream.

Much of the body’s hormone production occurs in the intestinal tract. 90 to 95% of our serotonin, the key neurotransmitter responsible for regulating mood, is produced inside our intestines. When the candida population reaches a certain point, it suppresses the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin. A lack of serotonin leads to depression, anxiety, and other mental health problems.

Acetaldehyde, a byproduct of yeast (candida), also reacts with the dopamine neurotransmitter, which can cause mental problems such as anxiety, depression, poor concentration, and feeling spaced-out.

Candida impairs the liver’s ability to store vitamin B12. We don’t need much B12, but if we are low, depression and other more serious mental issues well develop quickly.

The byproducts of candida’s metabolism are toxic to us. Candida goes through the bloodstream and finds other areas of the body to make home in, invading everywhere it can and making detoxifying the blood every difficult for the body. The blood becomes sluggish with diminished regenerative capacities, and the body begins to age, ache, and develop allergies and then autoimmune issues, which all lead to and fuel depression.

It’s rare to find a person who suffers from depression and does not suffer from an overgrowth of candida. On the other hand, it’s rare to find a person in our modern culture that does not suffer from an overabundance of candida. That said, it’s very difficult to improve one’s mindset without a healthy mind. And you cannot have a healthy mind without a healthy colon.

Poor colon health does lead to poor brain health, as well as poor health within the rest of the body. For almost every major disease, both physical and mental, one of the most important things you can do, and the first thing that should be done, is to improve the health of the intestinal tract by killing excess candida and balancing the gut flora. A great way to do this is with thorough detoxification. Also see Natural Remedies for Depression and Leaky Gut & Candida. See the first source for more on detoxifying. We recommend a high-quality probiotic and SF722 along with a healthy, whole-food diet to kill Candida quickly.

Recommended Supplements:

Further Reading: