Meet the Herbs in our Tinctures

Immune Warriors Liquid Tincture

The Resolute Warriors of this outstanding formula are; 

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Astragalus - Huang-Qi, in Chinese medicine Astragalus is an immune enhancer, modulator, stimulant, restorative & tonic. Antibacterial/Antiviral, Adaptogen, cardioportective, diuretic & enhances function of lungs/spleen & GI tract. Considered a primary herb in TCM it nourishes the bone marrow, improves & balances the immune system, builds & boosts vital force providing the Immune system with the energy needed to preform. Astragalus has been extensively researched  & demonstrates the ability to significantly improve quality of life. Most important for people with weakened Immune systems. One of the main herbs in Fu Zheng Therapy (Fu Zheng means to normalise & support the centre (root)). It is a great tonic herb for all ages including small children and the elderly. It can be used as a preventative medicine when children are at school or when weather changes.

Astragalus has been prescribed for centuries in TC< for general weakness, chronic illness and to increase vitality - considered a superior tonic to invigorate Qi. It's an important herb in the treatment of cancer including Chemo and other strong invasive chemical treatments.

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Bidens laveis/pilosa species

Burr Marigold aka Cobblers Peg. This weed grows commonly throughout the land, footpaths and gardens of Australia. In the kingdom of the Herbs this beauty is considered one of THE MOST powerful systematic antibacterial plants we have against antibiotic resistant bacterial infections like Staph, MRSA and malaria. It is considered a broad spectrum systemic herbal antibiotic, mucous membrane tonic & is astringent, making it powerfully anti-inflammatory & strongly antibacterial. Bidens is specific for troublesome diseases caused by resistant pathogens that cause recurrent infection including UTI, chronic diarrhoea, gastritis & ulcers anywhere in the GI tract, cold & flu, respiratory infections, sore throats & sinus. A strong and reliable immune modulator, blood tonic, antiseptic, neuroprotectant, hepatoprotective, vulnerary. styptic and one of the most potent PGE2 prostaglandin synthesis inhibitor making it perfect for treating mycoplasmas like Staph, tuberculosis, E coli, Leishmania, Enterococcus, Candida, Strep, Shingella, Salmonella, Herpes 1 & 2 and more. 

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Barberry - Berberis vulgaris 

Barberry is a localised non-systemic antibiotic strongly effective against gram negative & positive bacteria, (P acnes, MRSA, S. aureus, S. epidermidis,

S. mutant, S. progenies, S sanguinis, E. Coli, H. pylori, salmonella, shigella sap),  mycobacteria (tuberculosis) and Fungal infections (Candida spa). Berberiens are incredible active constituents - they stop microbes from building Biofilms by interfering with their communication, clocking their ability to adhere  to surfaces and preventing them from weaving their protective matrix. Let me explain. Biofilm formation is the process by which microorganisms (bacteria/fungi) adhere to a surface and begin encasing themselves in a protective self produced matrix drawing on our sugars and proteins. They then begin to multiply and form dense clusters called micro colonies, this is a survival strategy as Microbes living in a biofilm can be up to 1000 times more resistant to antibiotics than if they are free floating. Berberines work by disrupting the way microbes communicate (quorum communication), turning off adhesion & matrix-building genes and stopping the assembly of proteins and sugars they use to form glue and clump together. By disabling their defensive armour berberines make it easier for the boys natural immune system to kill pathogens and potentiate the effects of other herbs being used to trade the infection. 

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Japanese Knotweed - Polygonum cuspidatum

Synergist, Immune strengthener, Antimicrobial, Antiinflammatory, Antioxidant, Antifungal, CNS relaxant, brain & spinal cord protectant, analgesic, cardioprotective.  - the list really does go on. A broadly systemic plant, modulates and enhances immune function, protects against endotoxin damage. Polygonums constituents cross the blood-brain barrier protecting the brain from inflammatory damage, microbial endotoxins & bacterial infections. It enhances blood flow to the eyes, heart, skin & joints making it particularly useful in Lymes disease and its coinfections as it facilitates blood flow to areas that are difficult to reach to kill bacteria. Knotweed is a very strong inhibitor of cytokine cascades initiated by bacteria, it contains Resveratrol which is potent inhibitor at many junctions within the inflammatory response in the body blocking pathways that damaged and diseased cells use to travel, communicate and replicate. It is able to stimulate the formation of new blood  vessels in an area that has been damaged like a burn or a wound and block blood flow to malignant and benign tumour formation. The herb and its constituents enhance, protect, regenerate, calm and strengthen throughout the entire body making it an absolute Premier herb for use in a wide range of conditions. 

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Turmeric - Curcuma longa

If you grow it- you know it and I just love how he lays down and goes brown, telling me he is ready to be harvested. Turmeric is a King, in general and of adaptogens and my thinking is that everyone should be consuming it on a regular basis both as a food and a supplement. 

Curcumin exhibits a broad range of beneficial activities due to its ability to affect multiple intracellular targets. There is a sea of research on the use and efficiency of Curcumin for treating a wide range of cancers including skin cancer, melanoma, multiple myeloma, breast, cervical, oral, colon, pancreatic, liver , lymphoma, leukemia and for use during chemo. Its an antiviral inhibiting cell replication, cardio protective elevating HDL's while lowering LDL's, Modulates phase 1 & phase 2 liver detox, dertoxifys heavy metals, detoxifys endocrine disruptors, stimulates muscle regeneration and enhances the ability of the  adrenals to handle stress. In my practice Turmeric is a foundational agent and adaptogen companion for most remedies I prepare. I include it in all of my patients protocols including my own and highly recommend you get to know and use this medicine. 

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Licorice - Glycyrrhiza glabra

I do love Licorice so much as a pure hard extract to eat, in root form for my teas - especially when combined with ginger and, its another herb that finds its  way into most of my Liquid Herbal preparations. Licorice is antibacterial and antiviral however its real strength is in its synergistic action. Synergists work by bringing all the different active compounds from each of the Herbs in the mix together so that the total effect is significantly greater than the sum of they individual actions - Licorice is the harmony, the MC guiding all the participants and instructs "lets do this". Licorice enhances absorption & availability of the other herbs. In this particular formulae Liquorices effect of aligning Barberry with Astragalus enables Astragalus hear Barberry when he says he's deactivating genes and blocking pathways - allowing Astragalus a heads up to be more affective at targeting the specific pathogen that is about to be exposed. Imagine Licorice as the plasma for which the intricate communication and conversations of the herbs happen within, where they sync and come together in unison. 

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Meet the awesome Herbs in Cytokine Storm

​Baikal Skullcap - Scutellaria baicalensis

I cannot say enough about this herb - it truly is one of the my favourites. It is considered a broad spectrum Antiviral and antibacterial however its primary and very powerful action is of a synergist - similar to liquorice and if it's in the mix with liquorice it makes whatever you are taking extremely potent, effective and bioavailable. It's worth mentioning that it is extremely valuable in the treatment of Cancer in that it potentiates the effect of Cancer drugs while simultaneously able to protect the blood brain barrier. One of the herbs constituents is a strong P-glycoprotein inhibitor - Cancer cells use this protein to eject drugs that are trying to kill them- Baikal Skullcap disarms this function allowing the cancer treatment drugs to enter the cells and increase the effectiveness of the treatment.

It inhibits viral replication, suppresses viral gene expression, reduced viral RNA in infected cells, inhibits viral fusion with cells, protects cell membranes from virus infected cytokines, interferes with viral entry into cells, inhibits viral release from infected cells, inhibits cytokines cascade, stimulates; ate innate resistance to viral infection - it is a primary herb in the treatment of resistant viral infections active against a wide range of Viruses.

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Cordyceps - Cordyceps sinensis

I have so many medicine beings that I am close to. Cordyceps has been a stable adaptogen and friend in my practice and life forever. Cordyceps is one of the oldest living organisms on the planet - thriving in high altitude mountain areas of Nepal and Tibet. He is an extremely intellegent Mushroom wise, witty and loves to talk. He and I have written a book together entitled"Conversations with Mushrooms" available on Amazon where his role is that of narrator. I always come back to Cordyceps at different times in my life when I'm feeling exhausted, stressed and needing my connection to the Fungi Folk. The function of a true adaptogen is to recognise what the body needs and help it adapt/adjust. If the body is in deficiency - weak, in recovery, fatigued or in a state of constant low grade infection, illness and stress they work to strengthen, tonify, nourish, enhance the quality of blood, essence and Qi and provide energy and vitality to all systems of the body.

If the body is in excess, heat, damp or inflammation it works to cool, dry, calm and settle. It is considered one of the most valuable herbs in TCM equalling Ginseng as a restorative. It increases endurance, vigour and energy. To list some of the main actions of Cordyceps - Oxygen free radical scavenger, adaptogen, endocrine modulator, anti inflammatory, lung regenerative, protects kidneys, inhibits age related mental decline, protects the liver. It is extremely beneficial for people with Cancer and using Cancer medication chemo/radiation  - its nature is to strengthen life force energy, promote stamina and give of itself to help us find courage and will power to get stronger and rise. 

A secret I have learned along the way is some Herbs and especially medicinal Mushrooms of which Cordyceps is one, have so much energy that when we take them to heal - they give it freely to us,  the infinite divine life force flows through them and into our energy field and bodies.

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Japanese Knotweed - Polygonum cuspidatum

Synergist, Immune strengthener, Antimicrobial, Antiinflammatory, Antioxidant, Antifungal, CNS relaxant, brain & spinal cord protectant, analgesic, cardioprotective.  - the list really does go on. A broadly systemic plant, modulates and enhances immune function, protects against endotoxin damage. Polygonums constituents cross the blood-brain barrier protecting the brain from inflammatory damage, microbial endotoxins & bacterial infections. It enhances blood flow to the eyes, heart, skin & joints making it particularly useful in Lymes disease and its coinfections as it facilitates blood flow to areas that are difficult to reach to kill bacteria. Knotweed is a very strong inhibitor of cytokine cascades initiated by bacteria, it contains Resveratrol which is potent inhibitor at many junctions within the inflammatory response in the body blocking pathways that damaged and diseased cells use to travel, communicate and replicate. It is able to stimulate the formation of new blood  vessels in an area that has been damaged like a burn or a wound and block blood flow to malignant and benign tumour formation. The herb and its constituents enhance, protect, regenerate, calm and strengthen throughout the entire body making it an absolute Premier herb for use in a wide range of conditions. 

 

Istatis tinctoria 

A broad spectrum antiviral - directly virucidal, inhibits viral replication, inhibits virus attachment to cells, inhibits neuraminidase which is an enzyme that acts like a pair of scissors - when an influenza virus infects and replicates inside a host cell, the new virus particles try to exit however they get stuck to sugars - neuraminidase are the scissors - Istatis stops the action of the scissors. It's very effective for treating Influenza A & B, H1N1, Sars, Coxsakie, rubella, avian infections, bronchitis, respiratory infection, measles, mumps, Epstein virus, hepatitis, herpes, pneumonia, shingles and others. I have not mentioned COVID on purpose as personally I believe that whole thing was fake, our perception manipulated as a means to VAXX everyone. I view cases of COVID as a new variant  of  the ever evolving  highly mutable and intelligent strain of influenza and is treated that way. A highly respectable herb for serious long term  viral conditions causing entropy and a steady decline towards very serious health conditions.

 

Turmeric - Curcuma longa

Hello again Turmeric.  Turmeric is a King, in general and of adaptogens and my thinking is that everyone should be consuming it on a regular basis both as a food and a supplement. Turmeric is part of my Antiviral mix primarily due to its direct antiviral activity and its powerful anti inflammatory action able to decrease sometimes life threatening effects of a spiraling cytokine cytostorm,  which is what happens when the body's immune system  overreacts and releases too many inflammatory proteins causing widespread inflammation. 

Curcumin exhibits a broad range of beneficial activities due to its ability to affect multiple intracellular targets. There is a sea of research on the use and efficiency of Curcumin for treating a wide range of cancers including skin cancer, melanoma, multiple myeloma, breast, cervical, oral, colon, pancreatic, liver , lymphoma, leukemia and for use during chemo. Its an antiviral inhibiting cell replication, cardio protective elevating HDL's while lowering LDL's, Modulates phase 1 & phase 2 liver detox, dertoxifys heavy metals, detoxifys endocrine disruptors, stimulates muscle regeneration and enhances the ability of the  adrenals to handle stress. In my practice Turmeric is a foundational agent and adaptogen companion for most remedies I prepare. I include it in all of my patients protocols including my own and highly recommend you get to know and use this medicine. 

 

Ginger - Zingiber officinale

Ginger is a well loved synergist that potentiates, harmonises and improves the deep circulation and bioavailability of other herbs reinforcing the therapeutic activity of the formulation. Considered a stimulating diaphoretic and pyretic, useful for treating colds & flu like symptoms improving peripheral blood flow, stimulates yang Qi warming in states of weakness and chill while inducing sweating & reducing fever. Antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti parasitic, expectorant. Ginger is invigorating without stimulating which is important in the treatment of  viruses because stimulating an already weakened state only creates more fatigue and tiredness, Ginger awakens allowing a sense of fresh and alertness. 

The final herb in Cytostorm is 

Licorice - Glycyrrhiza glabra

As you know - I do love Licorice so much as a pure hard extract to eat, in root form for my teas - especially when combined with ginger and, its another herb that finds its  way into most of my Liquid Herbal preparations. Licorice is antibacterial and antiviral however its real strength is in its synergistic action. Synergists work by bringing all the different active compounds from each of the Herbs in the mix together so that the total effect is significantly greater than the sum of they individual actions - Licorice is the harmony, the MC guiding all the participants and instructs "lets do this". Licorice enhances absorption & availability of the other herbs. Treating viruses can be complex and sometimes ongoing, especially when there are co-infections with other bacteria or  another virus, and when its an RNA virus such as Influenza A,B,C, HIV, Hepatitis ,Dengue & Zika that are constantly evolving, mutating and figuring out ways to recognise medications that are trying to kill them. 

I would say thats a benefit of using herbs to treat viral infections is that, due to the ability of RNA viruses (and viruses in general) to quickly and constantly adapt share information and reconfigure themselves to resist medications/especially antibiotics which are increasingly becoming ineffective when treating serious viruses. Herbal tinctures use the whole plant in combination with other whole plants, working with the action of synergistic herbs is a extremely effective way to approach a virus- there are so many active ingredients in herbal tinctures that as apposed to one single ingredient in an antibiotic you are getting an army of active herbal constituents working in multifaceted ways to attack, kill and subdue the virus, support the immune system and other systems, adapting and working at restoring the depleted condition and recovering  vitality.

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Medicinal Magic Mushrooms Liquid Herbal Tincture

 

Cordyceps - Cordyceps sinensis

As I mentioned before - Cordyceps has been a stable adaptogen and friend in my practice and life forever, so there is no question that he is a leader in my Medicinal magic Mushroom Mix. Cordyceps is one of the oldest living organisms on the planet - thriving in high altitude mountain areas of Nepal and Tibet. He is an extremely intellegent Mushroom wise, witty and loves to talk. He and I have written a book together entitled"Conversations with Mushrooms" available on Amazon where his role is that of narrator. I always come back to Cordyceps at different times in my life when I'm feeling exhausted, stressed and needing my connection to the Fungi Folk. The function of a true adaptogen is to recognise what the body needs and help it adapt/adjust. If the body is in deficiency - weak, in recovery, fatigued or in a state of constant low grade infection, illness and stress they work to strengthen, tonify, nourish, enhance the quality of blood, essence and Qi and provide energy and vitality to all systems of the body.

If the body is in excess, heat, damp or inflammation it works to cool, dry, calm and settle. It is considered one of the most valuable herbs in TCM equalling Ginseng as a restorative. It increases endurance, vigour and energy. To list some of the main actions of Cordyceps - Oxygen free radical scavenger, adaptogen, endocrine modulator, anti inflammatory, lung regenerative, protects kidneys, inhibits age related mental decline, protects the liver. It is extremely beneficial for people with Cancer and using Cancer medication chemo/radiation  - its nature is to strengthen life force energy, promote stamina and give of itself to help us find courage and will power to get stronger and rise. 

A secret I have learned along the way is some Herbs and especially medicinal Mushrooms of which Cordyceps is one, have so much energy that when we take them to heal - they give it freely to us,  the infinite divine life force flows through them and into our energy field and bodies.​

 

Maitake - Grifola frondosa

Just another Master Mushroom Medicine hanging out with the Elm and Oak trees. Native to China, Japan and North America, Maitake is a common food and medicine for these cultures. The scientific name for the Maitake mushroom - Grifola frondosa derives from the Japanese word "maitake," which translates to "dancing mushroom,"

Maitake contains a significant and complex chemical makeup of natural bioactive substances in particular Beta Glucans. To understand the immuno-supportive properties of the Maitake mushroom, we must first discuss the benefits of beta-glucans. Beta-glucans are polysaccharides that occur naturally in the fungal cell walls of Maitake. Beta-glucans increase host immune defense by activating a part of the immune system that enhances macrophages. These are a type of white blood cell that detect and deconstruct harmful microorganisms and can remove dead cells. As a result, beta-glucans help to activate and potentiate the immune system to prevent infection.  

Aside from its benefits for the immune system Maitake is used to help support Blood Sugar Regulation, as a dense nutrient for cancer patients, weight management due to its high nutrition content it acts as a near complete food source and why I guide a lot of people towards is - its a natural and very potent prebiotoc, extremely beneficial for compromised metabolism and digestion, bloating, menopausal weight gain and all condition where the microbiome needs to be reestablished. ​

 

Ganoderma  - Ganoderma lucidium

Reishi /Lingzhi translated from Chinese is "Divine Mushroom" - is in my opinion is one of the most powerful tonic medicines we have on the Planet. 

In TCM, it is classified as an adaptogen that enters the Heart, Liver, and Lung meridians to tonify & nourish the blood, used for chronic fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.calm the spirit (Shen), often prescribed for insomnia, heart palpitations, anxiety, and poor memory., and resolve phlegm, relieves coughing and wheezing: Traditionally used to transform phlegm and stop asthma in chronic respiratory conditions.

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Ganoderma has been regarded as a medicinal mushroom for over two millennia, its benefits have been noted in one of the oldest pharmacological Traditional Chinese medicine texts, the "Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing" from the Eastern Han dynasty, and the compendium of Materica medica classified G. lucidum as a top-grade, non-toxic remedy, containing over 400 bioactive compounds including properties for enhancing energy, memory, and overall vitality, attributing it to longevity and anti-aging effects. 

It contains a rich array of minerals including potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, manganese, phosphorus, sulphur, sodium and copper. Vitamins B1, B2, B3, B9, D, C and E. and is considered worldwide as the mushroom of immortality”, promoting longevity and vitality.

One of the most well-documented properties of G. lucidum is its ability to modulate the immune system. This dual action allows it to enhance a weakened immune response or suppress an overactive one, making it invaluable for various conditions, from infections to autoimmune diseases and cancer - this is the function and beauty of a true adaptogen.

Chronic inflammation is a hallmark of many modern diseases, including cardiovascular disorders, diabetes, cancer, neurodegenerative conditions and the activation and proliferation of Viruses. Ganoderma contains triterpenoids, potent bioactive compounds that inhibit key inflammatory pathways, making it a valuable anti-inflammatory agent, our bodies own Natural Killer cells and cytotoxic T-cells, which are crucial for targeting virus-infected and cancerous cells, are also stimulated by G. lucidum. 

Its anti-inflammatory properties also extend to the nervous system, by modulating neuroinflammatory pathways, G. lucidum may protect against conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and multiple sclerosis, where chronic inflammation contributes to disease progression.

Additionally, it is a powerful protector for the Liver - enhancing its detoxification capacity by increasing the activity of enzymes, which neutralize harmful metabolites and protecting liver cells from oxidative damage.

Lingzhi like Turmeric is another tonic everyone will benefit from. 

• Enhance immune system health 

• Relieve fatigue 

• Relieve feelings of weakness 

• Relieve sleeplessness and disturbed sleep 

• Relieve symptoms of mild anxiety 

• Relieve restlessness 

• Reduce mental fatigue 

• Nourish the blood to relieve irritability​​​

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Shiitake Lentinula

Shiitake mushrooms are most known for boosting immune function, lowering cholesterol levels, and providing cancer chemotherapy support. These benefits are largely driven by a key active polysaccharide called lentinan, and a cholesterol-lowering compound known as eritadenine. 

The primary medicinal properties of the shiitake mushroom include:

• Immune System Support: Shiitake contains beta-glucans (like lentinan) that enhance the activity of natural killer (NK) cells and T-cells, which help the body fight off infections and viruses. 

• Cardiovascular Health: The compound eritadenine and certain plant sterols help inhibit the enzymes involved in producing cholesterol, making shiitake known for lowering LDL ("bad") cholesterol.

• Antioxidant Properties: They are rich in ergothioneine and selenium, which help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation throughout the body. 

• Shiitake mushrooms have one of the highest amounts of natural copper, a mineral that supports healthy blood vessels, bones, and the immune system,  as well as containing Vitamin D, Selenium, Thiamine, Riboflavin, Niacin B^, Folate, Potassium, Manganese, Magnesium, Iron and Phosphorus.     I also recommend Shiitake for people working with Cancer 

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    How Shiitake Impacts Cancer

• Immune System Activation: Shiitake contains a powerful sugar molecule called lentinan (a beta-glucan). Lentinan stimulates the body's natural defenses, raising the activity of natural killer (NK) cells and T cells that actively target and destroy tumor cells. 

• Triggering Cancer Cell Death: Specific proteins and compounds in shiitake (such as latcripin-7A) have been shown to cause apoptosis (programmed cell death) and slow down the growth and spread of breast, gastric, and colorectal cancer cells.

• Improving Quality of Life: Small-scale clinical trials indicate that cancer patients taking oral shiitake extracts alongside standard treatments report reduced side effects from chemotherapy (like nausea and fatigue) and experience improved physical energy and emotional well-being.

• Adjuvant Clinical Use: Purified lentinan extracts are officially approved to be administered via injection or IV alongside traditional chemotherapy to enhance patient survival outcomes.​​   

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TurkeyTail -  Trametes Versicolor 

You always find your herbs and mushrooms that stand out and for me Turkey Tail is one such Mushie that I just adore. I love finding them on walks and because my forte' is the Immune System I just know that when I prescribe it to someone in this blend or on its own I feel so assured that they are going to really feel themselves shift from their state of weakness and begin to improve as their Immune System comes back online and their overall health and vitality strengthen.​Turkey Tail, also know as a deeply regenerative adaptogen is perhaps the most highly regarded medicinal mushroom when it comes to immunomodulating potential. Immunomodulation relates to the immune system and refers to its regulation. It is thought to be able to balance the immune system by elevating it in cases of a weakened immune response, or on the other hand, dampen an over-active immune response. 

The beta-d-glucans and triterpenes found in Turkey Tail provide its immunomodulating potential, activating and inhibiting certain types of immune cells. Particularly the compounds polysaccharide peptide (PSP) and polysaccharide krestin (PSK) have been widely studied for their immune support capacity. What’s incredible about PSK and PSP is their ability to regenerate white blood cells, and stimulate the creation of macrophages and natural killer (NK) cells, which are all essential for enabling the immune system to ward off pathogens and fight infection when they strike. 

​In nature Turkey Tail is the composter of the forrest, breaking down the fallen wood, transforming what was, allowing new growth to emerge - she works like this for us too, she composts the dead and dying and allows regeneration, new growth and strength to return. 

Turkey Tail is also well noted for its anti-viral and anti-bacterial capacity.

Rich in antioxidants, essential in helping to reduce the degradation of our cells caused by oxidative stress and is a well-known source of prebiotics largely due to its unique PSP and PSK polysaccharopeptides.

Its the Mushroom Medicine of choice for supporting the Immune system for people with long-term chronic illness, degenerative and weakened conditions, Cancer and Chemo treatment and and situations where the immune system is severely compromised and struggling. 

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Spirit of the River​​​​​​

For Exhaustion and Fatigue

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Korean Ginseng - Panax Notoginseng and in Chinese -  Ren Shen, (Shen meaning Spirit!) Go into any herbal dispensary in China and you will most likely see a beautiful specimen on display on or behind the counter. It is truly a King of Tonic Herbs. I love Ginseng and approach it with the reverence and honour a medicine like this deserves. I find it disrespectful and impertinent these days it's been diminished to energy drinks and lollies that foolishly - perhaps on purpose undermine its essence and sacredness. Traditionally and still with herbalists who know this herb is only prescribed under very specific and restricted conditions - it is not for everyone and depending on the situation must be paired with the right herbs so that it dose not cause more harm than good. It is rare to prescribe Ginseng alone and if you don't need it you should not take it. I was taught by Chinese herbalists that anyone under the age of 35yrs should not take Ginseng as it disrupts the Jing Qi - which is our essence Qi/ the original Qi that supports all our organ systems; if younger people take Ginseng it can lead to premature adrenal exhaustion, nervous and endocrine conditions.  Its primary action is that of treating patterns of Qi deficiency, supporting the 5 visceral organs, calms the nerves, tranquillises the mind, clears the eyes, generates fluids and benefits the heart. For extreme stress, fatigue and exhaustion

Ginseng gently rebuilds our foundation, a deep recharge when someones system deeply needs rebuilding, not simply energising but helping the whole body to remember what it feels like when everything is feeling genuinely vital again flowing from a restored and strong base. 

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Rhodioal Rosea - Traditionally this herb was used to increase stamina for long journeys, fight off fatigue and strengthen endurance for long voyages and during harsh winter conditions of Northern Europe. Knowing these things helps to really feel the essence of these herbs - people relied on them for their lives, to survive winters and long stretches where conditions were stressful and exhausting, it was especially useful for providing resistance to altitude sickness while also improving, breathing, sleep and fatigue associated with altitude.  Rhodiola is an amazing key Tonic herb to help the body deal with stress, burnout and fatigue. It increases physical endurance, shortens recovery time after illness and periods of immobility, it increases memory and learning capacity, sexual performance and is a protector of the heart from stress and stress induced arrhythmias. It normalises thyroid function and improves adrenal gland reserves without causing hypertrophy.

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Ashwangandha - Withania somnifera

 Withania flows with the Spirit of the Rivers herbs because of here adaptogenic qualities and her essence of "strong as a horse/restful sleep. (Ayurvedic traditions). Considerd an adaptogenic herb able to help the body in multifaceted ways she is a powerful protector of blood cells and our blood/life force Qi. I use the adaptogens in my tinctures for debilitating and exhausted conditions because of their extensive actions /active ingredients and ability. An adaptogen has “non-specific” activity and acts by increasing resistance of the organism to a broad spectrum of adverse biological, chemical, and physical factors. Adaptogens act by regulating and normalizing organ and system function in the body. They work primarily by affecting the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis and the autonomic nervous system. Thus, adaptogens modulate our response to stress (physical, environmental, or emotional) and help regulate the interconnected endocrine, immune, and nervous systems. Some of the benefits of taking Withania include

• Increased strength and stamina

• Improves memory

• Aphrodisiac

• Provides deep and restful sleep

• Antioxidant properties

• Immune system enhancement

• Enhances T4 and T3 levels

• Anti-inflammatory

• Anti-anxiety

• Anti-depressant

• Improves semen quality

• Improves generalized weakness

• Reduces muscle and joint pain

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Eleuthrococcos senticosus

An incredible being from the Taiga region of Russia the KING of adaptogens.

Protector from the ill effects of any type of stress including that resulting from workload, heat, cold excessive exercise, hypokenesis (abnormally diminished movement) and radiation. Eleuthera decreases adrenal hypertrophy  - a common manifestation of prolonged stress and spares the loss of vitamin C from the adrenal glands. 

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Cordyceps Sinesis Please scroll up to read about Cordyceps in Cytokine Storm

Licorice - Please scroll up to read about Licorice in Cytokine Storm

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Jaguar Medicine

For Anxiety & Stress

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Skullcap - Scutellaria lateriflora

Skullcap is a key nervous system tonic, helping to restore frayed nerves, reduce nervous excitability and relieve tension. It is most effective in chronic states, for example in prolonged states of stress or nervous system dysregulation rather than acute inflammatory conditions. It can be applied to help in sympathetic overdrive, and in cases where cortisol levels have been heightened for an extended period.

​In TCM, skullcap regulates Heart qi, and in particular where constrained qi arises from deficiency rather than excess, supporting its use in more chronic conditions

Skullcap is a nervous system tonic and trophorestorative as it helps to support depleted, overstimulated or exhausted nervous systems. It is indicated in long term nervous system stress, overwork, burn out or emotional strain by helping to restore calm and resilience.

This herb also offers nervine and antispasmodic activity, so can be applied to relax tension in cases where it is being held in the muscles, such as tension headaches, tightened shoulders, neck or lower back, palpitations, menstrual cramps, tremors, muscle spasms and leg cramps or neuralgia.

It is effective in cases of insomnia, especially when the mind is still active and ruminative thoughts are a constant feature preventing restful sleep, a common occurrence in nervous depletion. It is indicated for people who often feel ‘tired and wired’ and find it difficult to switch off.

It has traditionally been used to support the nervous system with withdrawal from alcohol, sedatives or other stronger drugs as it helps to reduce tremors, agitation and nervous irritability.

 

​St. Johns Wort - Hypericum perforatum

St John’s wort is one of the classic tonic medicines used to help recovery from illness, injury, exhaustion and fatigue. The herb and flowers of St John’s wort are used to treat nervous tension, anxiety, restlessness, depression, insomnia, low energy and when the body is fighting a chronic viral infection - it is particularly useful for  strains of Herpes Simplex Virus,  coldsores, vaginal herpes and shingles.

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The plant also has a traditional use as a restorative treatment for melancholic conditions, depression and the convalescence following concussion and other trauma. This combination of restorative and relaxant effect is not contradictory and underlies the plant’s recommendation for the treatment of a number of such conditions where tension and exhaustion combine. Its most useful modern application is towards a programme of recovery from chronic fatigue conditions.

One particular example is menopause, and St. John’s wort has a specific application for the various symptoms of that change. Most of the symptoms of menopausal syndrome, the hot flushes, night sweats, depression, fatigue, irritability, lack of concentration, fluid retention and so on, were recognised as symptoms of debility long before a hormonal factor was implicated. The modern natural therapist still finds advantage in treating menopausal problems primarily as symptoms of depletion, requiring restorative and convalescent measures. St. John’s wort seems to have an ideal balance of qualities for this task: it is even felt by many of those who use it that it has a hormonal influence as well.

 

​​Ashwagandah - Withania somnifera

The Sanskrit name for this plant, ‘Ashwagandha’, means ‘essence of a horse’, bringing stamina, strength and grace. A well balanced primary adaptogen well suited for most people.

​Useful for chronic insomnia, constant infections and immune weakness, long-term hot flushes in menopause , prolonged states of stress and all conditions emerging from a depleted state. It protects the nervous system, is an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, Antiparasitic, Cardioprotective and powerful Liver Protector. It's also very beneficial in various stages of cancer treatment, during and after Chemo and radiation. It's a potent restorative and protector of bone marrow, rebuilding reserves of while blood cells during Chemotherapy and radiation, helps with fatigue during times of complete exhaustion and during long term chronic weakness and illness. 

 

Lemon Balm -  Melissa officinalis

Lemon balm has an affinity for the nervous system, particularly where there is sympathetic excess. The SNS is a branch of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) that governs stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol, which, through periods of prolonged exposure to stress, lead to excessive sympathetic function. Lemon balm helps to modulate prolonged sympathetic stimulation. Lemon Balm - Miss Melissa I call her is a herb I have been in Dieta with for years and what she has taught me is by way of it has been a completely unexpected journey into he deep stillness inside, further inwards into silence than I ever imagined I could find and only here did she disclose her true self and the deep wisdom she houses. She did not speak to me for years - I even considered "giving up", thinking it wasn't going to happen for me - I knew I had to reset my nervous system, knew my life was spinning wheels and I was repeating loops of trauma that were keeping me in flight or flight - fight fight fight!!!! By not connecting with me, by dieing each time I tried to grow her - watching her wither and perish before my eyes I rrqaslised she was showing me how I was not truly listening, too distracted and not going deep enough into the stillness and silence, not far enough, seems I even had preconceived idea of "deep work" and how id done a lot, done enough... apparently not, apparently ant the edge of my deep work I had done - I needed to g further, further into forgiveness of self, further into integration of the wound not just seeing it but how it had shaped me, further into finding my own rhythm, my own nutrient dense soil so as to grow a nervous system that is strong in its sensitivity, and not be taken out so easily. Melissa is a delicate lemon scented being who offers an ethereal bridge so you may see the way your own nervous system is infinitely connected to everything, how to become aware of your connection points, to sever if necessary, and where to strengthen. When we think of caring for our  nervous system, it not just the network of fibres that connect and course through our bodies - its also how they extend out into the world and connect us to every other thing.

Turmeric - Curcuma longa

Turmeric finds its way into an anxiety and stress formula because of its powerful calmative action on the gastrointestinal tract promoting peristalsis and optimal digestive function - improving digestion by stimulating gastric secretions and increasing absorption, normalising cellular function which optimises the gut brain axis communication. If the stomach is stressed it sends signals to the brain via the vagus nerve that the body is stressed. Turmeric is perhaps THE BEST herb for recalibrating, protecting and reestablishing proper gut function. 

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Oats - Avena sativa

A classic nerving tonic that both builds energy and reduces stress, it ranks amongst the most important plant restoratives for mental breakdown and nervous system disorders. Useful for combating addictions including tobacco, cannabis and opium and raises mood. Its the best remedy for feeding the nervous system - helps restore vital energy and recovery from illness and or prolonged times of stress.

Oat (both oats and oat straw) is indicated in nervous exhaustion and weakness, depression, anxiety, insomnia, chronic fatigue, ME, cerebral deficiency such as memory and concentration loss and also in drug withdrawal. Oats are a nervous system trophorestorative, restoring, rejuvenating and strengthening nerve cells.

The medicine of oats is indicated in all manner of neurasthenias’ – such as in shingles and other forms of herpes (both internally and topically). Also in the neuralgias, neuritis and chronic states of anxiety and depression. 

 

Licorice - Glycyrrhiza glabra

In this remedy Licorice is the binding herb - bringing the remedy into energetic harmony. In its own right Licorice possesses a full spectrum of activities - antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antiallergenic, demulcent , liver protective and hormonal balancer. 

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Antarctica Essence by Australian Bush Flower Essences

Copied from Australian Bush Flower Essence Site

The Antarctic Essence allows you to be aware of what is really necessary in your life and in the situations that you are encountering. It enables you to feel tremendous calm, peace and stillness within yourself. This Essence releases those things that are not essential to you and that take you away from your inner peace and being at one with nature. The purity of Antarctica and the Antarctic Essence assists you to find your own pure essence – the very core of yourself – and to let go of whatever takes you from this timeless, clear-centred part of yourself. It allows you to go deeply into things and not get distracted; to see the core of things and what’s important. If you are too distracted it will help to pull you back into harmony. 
Another key aspect of the Antarctic Essence is that it will reveal to you aspects of yourself that are very deep and hidden – what is referred to sometimes as ‘old dark crystals’. This Essence will bring light to them and dissolve these old patterns and beliefs (which may have been formed in ancient times or may be early beliefs developed this lifetime). Their dissolution will support you to trust Spirit, to trust your path and show you the necessary new steps. 

Positive Outcome

• Allows you to feel tremendous calm, peace and stillness within yourself.

• Enables you to be aware of and enhances your vision of what is necessary and essential.

• Helps reveal and dissolve very deep and hidden aspects of yourself.

• Connects one to both the Wisdom of the Ancients and your ancient past.

• To trust Spirit and the unfolding of your life and its direction.

• Assists you to find your own core, pure essence.

The Antarctic Essence can also help you to connect to the wisdom of the Ancients as well as your own ancient past and the communication of anything needed from that time. It enables you to find the patience to be very still. This will lead you to trust in the unfolding of your life and its direction with openness to these new revelations and a willingness to seek and follow them, even when dealing with major change. 
There’s a deep stillness that can come with trust in life, nature and God, which when achieved will help you find your own peace and stillness, and allow you to be able to stay in this state more readily. This Essence can help in the clarity of both your vision for what is necessary and essential in your life, as well as your communication of it.

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Herbal Throat Spray

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Marshmallow - Althea officinalis

Marshmallow is one of the best medicines for irritated and dry conditions of the airways. Specifically for dry, unproductive and tickly coughs. Marshmallow can help provide long-term relief in lung infections and inflammatory lung conditions by allowing time for the inflamed and infected mucosa to heal. 

It is one of the best demulcent and moistening agents in the materia medica for its protective effects on mucosal linings. The most common uses are for inflammation of the respiratory and digestive systems.

The primary compound in marshmallow is mucilage, which forms a slimy substance. This mucilage forms a protective layer over the mucosa — found throughout the body’s visceral organs including in the digestive, respiratory and urinary systems. These soothing, protective and coating effects are the dominant actions of marshmallow. Marshmallow is used for dry, irritable coughs and is particularly helpful in recovery from a chest infection or virus which has left irritation in the lungs. Its soothing actions may also be useful for laryngitis and other inflammations in the mouth or throat.

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Sage - Salvia officinalis

Like other members of the mint family such as thyme (Thymus vulgaris) and oregano (Oreganum vulgare)– Sage has an astringent and antibacterial effect on lung tissue. It also helps to dry out excess secretions in the respiratory system which can be helpful for a number of conditions. The antimicrobial and expectorant properties also indicate sage in the treatment of sore throats, laryngitis, colds, sinusitis, tonsillitis, coughs or chest infections.  An excellent anti-inflammatory and antibacterial agent, sage is used as a gargle or mouthwash for inflammation in the mouth or throat mucosa. It may be made into a strong infusion or tea and used to treat pharyngitis, tonsillitis, stomatitis, gingivitis and glossitis.

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Calendula - Calendula officinalis

Calendula is excellent for any conditions where the skin is inflamed, red, swollen, bruised or broken. It helps clear the site of infection and encourage wound healing.An excellent mouthwash for inflamed gums, mouth ulcers, and throat inflammations and as an infusion in hot water as an eyewash for tired eyes, and inflammatory eye conditions such as styes. Employed in this remedy for its fast action on inflamed mucosal skin, soothing, protecting, astringent and for its antimicrobial, anti fungal and antibacterial action. Calendula works fast at the site of motion and infection.

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Echinacea - Echinacea angustifolia 

Echinacea is used to fend off tendencies to cold, flu, tonsillitis, pharyngitis, laryngitis, general mucous and sinus congestion. The immune stimulating and antimicrobial properties of echinacea are focussed on throat surfaces and immediately underlying lymphatic tissues, which is where most upper respiratory battles are waged. 

The most effective way to take echinacea for these conditions is at the first onset of symptoms, and every two hours thereafter. It can also be applied to more chronic conditions including chronic respiratory tract infections or whooping cough. 

Echinacea works mainly in innate immunity (rather than the acquired immunity of antibody production) and is appropriate for any acute and chronic infections, whether due to bacterial, viral, protozoal or other organisms. It is likely to be particularly effective in infections on or near accessible surfaces, including the upper gut wall, though has also been used to modulate immune responses including in moderating allergies and hypersensitivity reactions. Its antifungal properties also indicate its use in the treatment of Candida and thrush. 

Echinacea works by stimulating macrophages, natural killer (NK) cells and T and B lymphocyte activity. As a result, it can be applied in cases of chronic low immunity and repeated infections as well to support convalescence and recovery from post viral fatigue. 

Echinacea can be used as a preventative for those who are prone to upper respiratory problems like frequent colds, sore throats, sinusitis, middle ear pain, or viral infections like flu symptoms. 

Echinacea is the herbal practitioner’s favourite for any infectious condition, where it is seen to support balanced immune responses, including moderating over-reactions .

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Myrrh - Commiphora myrrha 

Antimicrobial analgesic (pain relief) and anti-inflammatory. The warming, stimulating, antimicrobial and astringent properties of myrrh mean that it is used for a range of different respiratory conditions including: catarrh of the nasal passages, throat, pharynx and ears; sore throat, sinusitis, tonsillitis, cough, asthma, bronchitis, common cold.  IL-6 — a proinflammatory cytokine that is a key agent in viral respiratory infections — is inhibited by Myrrh, suggesting a mechanism for its immunomodulatory effects in respiratory infections.

 

Clove Bud Oil - Syzygium aromaticum 

As an essential oil in this blend Cloves are here for fast effective pain relief. Cloves are also used for conditions associated with congestion and stuck phlegm in the lungs due to their expectorant properties. Part of an approach to treat bronchitis, coughs, asthma and pleurisy. 

Cloves have an anti-spasmodic action on the lung tissue which may be the  contributing factor to its benefit for use in asthma.  

 

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