building a "capsule" Herb program

In the same way that we all naturally gravitate to certain styles, colors, combinations in fashion AND we have certain needs whether we are a dancer in a city, a farmer in the country, a grandmother or a lawyer, the same can be said of herbs as we bring them more into our daily lives. They can act as powerful supports for a calm mind and a strong body. Herbs can be good, reliable, supportive friends.

On your own or with the help of an herbalist or naturopath honestly answer these questions and then design your “capsule” for your particular goals, a particular season, or to create a change in your body or in your life.

• What needs strengthening or improvement in my mind or body?
• What am I looking for?
• How can I feel better? What herbs can support me in that?

EXAMPLES

• During the pandemic you can use a daily Immune Support Formula or a single herb like Astragalus, Reishi or Chaga.
• During fall season leading up to winter, and in the winter you might use Lung Tonic Formula or the single herb Cordyceps if you tend to get respiratory infections in the cold season.
• If you are working long hours at a job or working nights or caring for children or parents or going to grad school, use an Adrenal Support Formula or a single herb such as Ashwaganda or Eleuthero.
• If you have a history of digestive issues introduce Digestive Bitters or Digestive Fire, or Belly Soothe or single herb Chamomile or Meadowsweet or Peppermint etc,
• If you experience frequent menstrual discomfort choose formulas like Cycle Balance or Cramp Ease or singles like Vitex, or Dong Quai.

Then, decide how to incorporate using the herbs in your day.
EXAMPLE:

• I’m very busy but I can remember to take herbs before bed and first thing in the AM.
• I can carry my herbs with me in my bag in my water bottle during my day.
• I only can do the morning so I take my herbs then. Or I drink tea in the evening so I’ll do it then.

Be realistic  and have a plan, so you can be successful!
We do not have to be ill to incorporate herbs in our lives. They are like foods, especially tonifying strengthening  herbs, and help prevent us getting sick or just increase our longevity and well-being. Start with one herb or formula, incorporate it into your life and see how it goes. Then you can add to that but herbs like true change often takes time and too many can be confusing.
It always helps to read and research about anything you are introducing into your life including herbs. The more knowledge you have the better able you are to do good care. Be sure to check for contraindications like pregnancy or nursing or if you are taking any pharmaceutical medications.

Remember herbs can be taken as tea or tinctures, as infused oils, or essential oils. We have many options to bring plant medicine into our lives. Even just a lavender plant in your bedroom, or a rosemary in the kitchen or rose or sandalwood essential oil in water on a woodstove, a drop or two on a light bulb or 10-15 in a bath are wonderful herbal additions.

If you would like some help designing an herbal support program, you can request a consult here.