Check out some of Dr. Michele Burklund's recent articles from Better Nutrition Magazine, Nourish & Heal, and Amazing Wellness.

3. surprising benefits of TURMERIC /// FRUCTOSE: friend or foe?
T H E S H O P P I N G M AG A Z I N E F O R N AT U R A L L I V I N G APRIL 2016 |betternutrition.com
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Natural
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for radiant
and clear skin
BY MICHELE BURKLUND, ND

5. APRIL 2016 • 53
Who doesn’t want gorgeous, glowing skin? Many
people associate a radiant complexion with good
overall health, and they’re right.
The skin is the largest organ in the body, covering
22 square feet, on average. In addition to providing the
body external protection, skin has a variety of functions,
including removing waste through the pores, supporting
vitamin D production, and giving the sense of touch.
The skin also acts as a mirror for overall health. Have you
ever noticed dark circles under your eyes when you don’t
get enough sleep, blemishes cropping up when you’re
stressed, or dull, dry skin when you aren’t eating right?
That’s the skin providing a physical manifestation of what’s
happening within your body. In fact, a study published
in Dermato-Endocrinology found a clear link between
nutrition and the skin’s condition, which demonstrates the
direct impact of supplementation and diet on the health
and appearance of the skin. Here’s your guide to get
glowing by nourishing the skin from the inside and out.
The Seed Rotation Diet
Think that your hormones might be out of harmony? A hormone imbalance can cause
a variety of symptoms, including dry or oily skin along with acne. Here’s a little-known
approach that can gently, but effectively, help balance hormones: Focus on seeds that
promote, support, and metabolize estrogen and progesterone during specific days of
your menstrual cycle.
On days 1–14 of the cycle (or from the new moon to the full moon), focus on
flax and pumpkin seeds for an optimal estrogen balance. Flax seeds pack a double
punch because they’re rich in omega-3 fatty acids that provide the building blocks for
hormones, and also contain lignans, which help the body bind excess estrogen. Pumpkin
seeds are high in zinc, which supports the pathways of progesterone production.
From day 15 until menstruation (or from the full moon to the new moon),
integrate ground sunflower and sesame seeds for optimal progesterone balance.
This wonderful combination contains lignans, zinc, essential fatty acids, and
selenium, which balances the hormones while supporting liver detoxification.
Take one or two tablespoons of ground seeds daily (grinding helps
increase their bioavailability), mix them into a salad, add seeds
to a smoothie, or sprinkle them over veggies.
Product Recommendations: From NOW Foods: Certified Organic Flax Seeds;
Raw Pumpkin Seeds; Organic Sesame Seeds; and Raw, Unsalted Sunflower Seeds

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Coconut Oil
Looking for the perfect moisturizer
that also has the potential to fight acne?
Coconut oil penetrates deep into the
skin while also providing antibacterial
actions to battle blemishes. In fact,
a recent study published in the Inter-
national Journal of Dermatology found
virgin coconut oil to be an effective
treatment for atopic dermatitis.
Coconut oil is unique compared
to other oils because it contains a
medium-chain fatty acid called lauric
Want to really kick up your skincare
regimen? Add 1–2 Tbs. of coconut
oil to your diet, and also apply it to
your face to maximize the benefits
of this unparalleled superfood.
acid, which—when converted into
monolaurin within the body—exhibits
antimicrobial, antibacterial, and antifungal
properties. A 2009 study published in
the Journal of Investigative Dermatology
concluded that lauric acid could be used
as an effective alternative to antibiotic
therapy for acne vulgaris.
Want to really kick up your skincare
regimen? Add 1–2 tablespoons of coconut
oil to your diet, and also apply it to your
face each evening to maximize the
benefits of this unparalleled superfood.
Raw, organic, virgin coconut oil is best.
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7. 56 • APRIL 2016
Gotu Kola
Want to look younger without resorting
to harsh chemicals or invasive tech-
niques? Gotu kola has been used for
more than 3,000 years in China, India,
and Africa as a panacea, but it never
quite gained notoriety in America. It’s
considered one of the best-kept secrets
in the beauty industry, a holy grail of
antiaging herbs that can help rebuild
collagen and decrease the appearance
of stretch marks.
Gotu kola contains a group of unique
active compound,s including pentacyclic
triterpenes, asiaticosides, madecassosides,
and asiatic acid that, together, promote
fibroblast proliferation and encourage
the synthesis of collagen. This helps to
improve the tensile strength of new skin
while also preventing the formation of
scar tissue. A 2013 study published in the
Advances in Dermatology and
Allergology Journal revealed that gotu
kola could be effectively used in the
treatmentof photoaging skin,cellulite,and
stretch marks. It can be applied topically,
infused in a tea, or taken internally as a
tincture or capsule.
Product Recommendation:
Eclectic Institute Fresh Freeze-Dried
Gotu Kola
Have you ever woken up with a blemish on a very stressful day? It’s
not a coincidence, but a sign that your body is reacting to the stress.
Like physical health, emotional well-being is essential and can affect
the body in much the same way.
A study published in the Archives of Dermatology evaluated the
relationship between acne and stress among university students.
The study found that acne considerably worsened during exam time,
verifying that emotional stress from external sources has a significant
effect on skin health. Find ways to decompress through activities such
as exercise, meditation, or yoga. Indulge with a cup of chamomile tea
and relax while its anti-inflammatory properties soothe your skin.
Rose Hip Seed Oil
Are you looking for a gentle and natural
approach to fighting wrinkles? Rose hip
seed oil is nature’s secret ingredient for
a youthful glow. This unique oil is rich
in vitamin A and retinoic acid, which
has been proven to regenerate new skin
cells, reduce fine wrinkles, and improve
pigmentation and the texture of skin.
Often regarded as the natural alternative
to Retin-A, rose hip seeds nourish the
skin with essential fatty acids, vitamins,
and minerals. This amazing oil acts on
the cell membranes and supports the
keratin migration cycle to enable a faster
rate of skin cell regeneration. Apply the
oil to your face before bed and wake up
feeling rejuvenated.
Product Recommendation:
Aubrey Rosa Mosqueta
Rose Hip Seed Oil
Chaste Tree Berry
Do you tend to break out right before
menstruation? Low progesterone
could be the culprit. Chaste tree berry
is a popular herb used for hormonal
imbalances and premenstrual acne.
This magnificent purple plant is native to
the Mediterranean, but is now found all
over the globe in temperate climates. It
was first cited more than 2,000 years
ago by the Greek physician
Dioscorides as a treatment
for the wives of soldiers
to remain chaste while their husbands
were at war (hence the name). It works
by normalizing progesterone levels in
the body through the endocrine system.
Also known as vitex, chaste tree
berry has been shown to benefit many
common conditions for women, including
PMS, irregular menstrual cycles, and
menopause symptoms. It can be taken in
a tincture or capsule, or even sprinkled
on food to add a hint of a peppery taste.
Product Recommendation:
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Burdock Root
Tired of battling problem skin? Burdock
root has long been used in traditional
medicine to treat many skin aliments,
including eczema, dryness, psoriasis, and
acne. This root supports the detoxification
process, increases circulation to the
epidermal tissues, and destroys harmful
bacteria and fungi.
Burdock root is highly regarded as
a “blood purifier” in Chinese medicine
for its ability to remove toxins from
the bloodstream while increasing the
output of urine. This versatile root can
be applied topically to problem areas,
taken in capsule or tincture form, and
infused in a tea. You can also juice the
fresh root with an apple.
Product Recommendation:
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Michele Burklund, ND, graduated from the prestigious Bastyr University in Seattle. “I have no doubt that the power of natural healing can enhance anyone’s life at whatever stage or age they
are,” says Burklund, who specializes in helping neurological patients. Visit healthyfashionista.com to learn more about Burklund and read her entertaining and informative blogs.
DIY Honey & Pumpkin Face Mask
Does your skin need a little pick-me-up?
Channel your inner alchemist by blending
honey and pumpkin together for a
refreshing mask. Pumpkins are loaded
with natural exfoliating acids, antioxi-
dants, vitamin C, and zinc, all of which
translate to smoother and brighter skin.
Honey contains antibacterial properties
that help fight acne along with soothing
and moisturizing skin and decreasing
inflammation. Simply mix ¼ cup of
pumpkin (canned, unsweetened) with ½
teaspoon of honey and a hint of coconut
milk. Apply this luscious mask for 20
minutes and rinse.
Product Recommendation:
MyChelle Dermaceuticals Incredible
Pumpkin Peel

9. natural secrets for a BETTER SMILE /// PROBIOTICS for weight loss & more
T H E S H O P P I N G M AG A Z I N E F O R N AT U R A L L I V I N G FEBRUARY 2016 |betternutrition.com
HEALING
BONE
BROTHS!
4 ways to
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10HEART
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MYTHSGET SMART
ABOUT YOUR
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10. two women’s
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CALLING
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recipes on
p. 54HERBS TO

12. • FEBRUARY 2016

13. A NATURAL POINT OF VIEW ON HEALING
Spice Up Your Love Life
The month of romance is the perfect time to focus on sexual health
and connect with your body on a deeper level ///BY MICHELE BURKLUND, ND
Physical touch and pleasure are some of
the best activities to improve the overall
health of your body and mind. And these
natural aphrodisiacs will enhance desire,
improve enjoyment, and boost sensation.
Try them alone or with your partner for
maximum results.
For Her
According to the Journal of the Ameri-
can Medical Association, 43 percent of
women aged 18–59 in the United States
report some form of sexual difficulty in
their lives. But even though these sta-
tistics might be alarming, nature offers
many remedies for these common issues.
These amazing plants will soon have you
embracing your inner Aphrodite, the
Goddess of Love.
Enhance desire with ashwagandha:
This wonderful plant is able to elevate
libidoonmanylevelsduetoitsadaptogenic
properties, which balance hormones
and nourish the reproductive system.
This powerful herb has been used for
centuries to promote sexual health, and
has been referenced in the ancient Indian
Hindu book, the Kama Sutra, for its ability
to increase sexual powers and libido.
The Journal of Research in Ayurveda
also found ashwagandha, in combination
with other Ayurvedic herbs, to be an effec-
tive treatment for menopausal symptoms
such as hot flashes, poor sleep, and erratic
mood. Along with its benefits for sexual
wellness, ashwagandha has long been
used for antiaging, stress relief, and brain
health. It can be taken in capsule form or
infused in a tea for an instant boost.
Get sensual with shatavari:Commonly
used in Ayurvedic medicine to enhance
desire and support fertility, this root is
an amazing restorative herb for women.
In fact, the name “shatavari” is derived
from an Indian word meaning “a woman
who has a hundred husbands,” due to
its nourishing activity on the female
organs. The Journal of Research in
Ayurveda also calls shatavari
a potential treatment for
PMS, hormone imbal-
ances, and PCOS. In
traditional medi-
cine, it is also said
to enhance feelings of spiritual love and
togetherness with one’s surroundings.
Foreplay with fenugreek: Fenugreek
was a well-known aphrodisiac in Rome,
Greece, and Egypt long before making
its way to America. This delightful plant
has a sweet yet nutty taste and
offers many benefits. It has been used
for centuries to decrease menopausal
symptoms because of its actions as a
phytoestrogen. In fact, a trial published
in the International Journal of Gynecology
and Obstetrics revealed that this spice
could be an effective alternative to con-
ventional hormone replacement therapy.
Use fenugreek when preparing your
favorite Indian dish, brew a fenugreek
tea, or take in capsule form.
For Him
In today’s medically advanced atmosphere,
there are many pharmaceutical options
for “improving” men’s sexual abilities and
health—most of which have undesirable
short- or long-term side effects.
It’s important to remember that for
many of these male sexual issues, natural
remedies already exist—ones with fewer
known side effects (if any). Check out
these potent herbs to stimulate blood
flow, increase libido, and improve stamina.
Get the blood flowing with yohimbe
root: Often called “the natural Viagra,”
this root is originally from Africa but has
made its way around the globe because
of its ability to stimulate blood flow. A
German study found that yohimbe is
superior to placebo for the treatment of
erectile dysfunction, and offers fewer
side effects than most oral drugs. The
active component, yohimbine, supports
the dilation of blood vessels by blocking
alpha-2 receptors while causing smooth
muscle relaxation in the penis, which
fenugreek

14. • FEBRUARY 2016
brings more blood flow to the area. Avoid
this herb if you’re currently taking anti-
depressants or MAO inhibitors. Can be
taken in capsule or powder form.
Ignite your passion with passion-
flower: This absolutely stunning flower
acquired its name from its sex-enhancing
powers. Passionflower contains a well-
known chemical called chrysin, which
has shown the potential to increase
testosterone and boost sex drive. In fact,
a 2012 trial involving male rats published
in the Journal of Andrology revealed that
chrysin increased sperm motility, sperm
concentration, and serum testosterone
levels compared to the control group.
Researchers believe that chrysin’s ability
to increase testosterone levels is due to
its aromatase activity, which decreases
theconversionoftestosterone to estrogen.
It is commonly taken in a capsule form or
applied topically as a cream.
For Her Him
A holistic approach to sexual wellness
should bemultifaceted, combining physical
treatments with psychological methods.
Try lighting candles, emptying your
mind, and engaging with your love on
an intimate level. Sit facing your partner,
look into each other’s eyes, and sync your
breathing. Embrace these chilly nights as
Michele Burklund, ND, graduated from the prestigious Bastyr University in Seattle. “I have no doubt that the power of natural healing can enhance anyone’s life at whatever stage or age they
are,” says Burklund, who specializes in helping neurological patients. Visit healthyfashionista.com to learn more about Burklund and read her entertaining and informative blogs.
the perfect excuse
to cuddle up next
to your sweet-
heart. And the fol-
lowing pleasure-
promoting plants
can help rekindle
your passion and
make your love life
sizzle.
Damiana: This plant
has been documented
as far back as the Mayan
and Aztec civilizations as a
potent aphrodisiac for both men
and women. Damiana offers unique
benefits because it increases sexual de-
sire while also helping relax the nerves.
Traditional medicine has used this leaf
for a variety of conditions, including
easing anxiety, supporting mood, and
stimulating
digestion. A 2009 study published by the
Journal of Ethnopharmacology suggests
that the flavonoids present in damiana
could be responsible for its prosexual
effect. Try it in a tincture or capsule, or
brew the leaves in a tea.
Muira puama bark: Otherwise known
as “potency wood,” this formidable
bark has long been used by the native
people of the Amazon to promote energy,
mental clarity, and relaxation. It’s also
said to help both men and women
improve their sex lives.
A study of women who complained
of low sex drive found that 65 percent
of those who took muira puama in
combination with gingko biloba
reported significant improvement in the
frequency of sexual desire, intercourse,
fantasies, and total satisfaction with
their sex lives. Try it in a standardized
tincture or capsule, or infused into a tea.
Shilajit: Abundant in more than 85
minerals, this plant-based resin is found
deep in the Himalayan Mountains and
treasured by locals for its healing powers.
Shilajit is known to rejuvenate both spiri-
tual and sexual energy as well as for its
use as a “Qi tonic” in Chinese medicine,
due to its ability to enhance vitality.
A recent double blind, placebo
controlled study of males between the
ages of 45- and 55-years-old reported
that subjects taking shilajit saw signifi-
cantly increased free and total testos-
terone levels compared to those given a
placebo. A chemical constituent called
fulvic acid in this unique resin has also
been extensively studied for its antiaging
and restorative properties. Shilajit isn’t as
well known as other natural aphrodisiacs,
but this won’t last. It’s commonly taken in
capsule form.

15. Passionflower (shown
here) gets its name from
its sex-enhancing
prowess.
passionflower
damiana

16. 10 surprising WEIGHT-LOSS MYTHS /// MEDICINAL MUSHROOMS: feel amazing from the inside out
T H E S H O P P I N G M AG A Z I N E F O R N AT U R A L L I V I N G JANUARY 2016 |betternutrition.com
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17. 24 • JANUARY 2016
secondOPINION/A NATURAL POINT OF VIEW ON HEALING
Fantastic Fungi
Feel amazing from the inside out with
medicinal mushrooms ///BY MICHELE BURKLUND, ND
Medicinal mushrooms have a profound
healing power, and were used thousands
of years ago by the Greeks, Egyptians,
and Chinese as a means to promote
longevity. These beneficial fungi offer
a vast range of potentially therapeutic
uses including enhancing immunity,
improving cardiovascular health,
promoting detoxification, boosting
mood, improving digestion, stimulating
memory, and nourishing the body.
What makes these “magic” mushrooms
so unique? For one thing, fungi and
humans are actually more closely
related biologically than fungi and
plants. Perhaps that’s why they make
us feel so good! Here’s a quick guide
to a few of our favorites:
Chaga (Inonotus obliquus): Often
referred to as the “king of medicinal
mushrooms,” chaga is hailed as a super-
food because of its powerful ability to
support the immune system with ben-
eficial constituents such as beta glucans,
melanin, betulinic acid, and superoxide
dismutase. Chaga’s micronutrients have
also been proven to exhibit antiaging
properties that offer cellular protection
against DNA damage. This mushroom is
found growing in forests in the northern
hemisphere on birch trees. Infuse it into a
tea with cinnamon and vanilla, or take it
as a tincture or in capsule form.
Use it for: Fighting colds and flu;
supporting the immune system;
managing stress; nourishing skin
and hair; rejuvenating the body
Looking for enhanced immune
support? Combine chaga with turkey
tail mushroom for a powerful synergistic
response.
Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis): For
thousands of years cordyceps has been
used in Tibetan, Chinese, and Ayurvedic
medicine to promote
vitality. This hardy
mushroom is found in the
mountainous regions of the
Himalayas, where it thrives in
a low-oxygen environment. Its
ability to flourish in even the harshest
conditions provides cordyceps with
unique properties to support endurance
training and enhance oxygen capacity.
A pilot study published in the Journal of
AlternativeandComplementaryMedicine
found that cordyceps enhances exercise
and contributes to overall wellness in
healthy people between the ages of 50
and 75. Mix these tasty mushrooms into
chicken soup, use them as a garnish for
salads, or take in capsule form.
Use it for: Enhancing athletic perfor-
mance and endurance; supporting the
body’s ability to uptake oxygen; boosting
energy and vitality; supporting the liver
and kidneys; promoting healthy sexual
function.
Shiitake (Lentinus edodes): Rich in
nutrients, protein, flavor, and medicinal
properties, this mushroom has been a
prized food in Asia for many years. It has
been studied for its ability to lower
cholesterol, support immune function,
fight viruses, and promote a healthy
cardiovascularsystem.Shiitakemushrooms
are also part of a proprietary Japanese
mushroom extract called AHCC—or
active hexose correlated compound—
which has been shown to enhance
immunity and increase the activity of
natural killer cells. Found in most grocery
stores across North America, these tasty
mushrooms can be a delicious addition to
a vegetable stir-fry or sautéed with garlic
to enhance their rich, smoky flavor.
Use it for: Supporting cardiovascular
health; promotingoverallimmunefunction;
enhancing healthy liver function.
Turkey Tail (Trametes versicolor): This
is one of the most common mushrooms
found in North America, and also the
most studied for its impressive immune-
stimulating properties. You won’t be
able to miss these beauties where they
sprout from dead trees. Their rich hues
did you
know...
Turkey Tail (shown here)
boosted immune
function in women
with breast cancer,
according to a
recent study.

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secondOPINION
of brown, orange, maroon, green, and
blue all resemble a turkey’s feathers. A
molecule called PSK is unique to this
mushroom and provides muchofits potent
immune-stimulating properties. A recent
study conducted by Bastyr University
and the University of Minnesota along
with the NIH found that turkey tail
dramatically boosted the overall immune
function of women with stages I–III
breast cancer. Make a delicious turkey
tail tea, or take it as a capsule or tincture.
Use it for: Optimizing immune function;
fighting viral infections; reducing
inflammation in the body
Want a comprehensive immune-
building approach? Try Stamets 7
by Host Defense Mushrooms, which
combines seven medicinal mushrooms
for maintaining peak health.
Michele Burklund, ND, graduated from the prestigious Bastyr University in Seattle. “I have no doubt that the power of natural healing can enhance anyone’s life at whatever stage or age they
are,” says Burklund, who specializes in helping neurological patients. Visit healthyfashionista.com to learn more about Burklund and read her entertaining and informative blogs.
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Lion’s Mane(Hericium erinaceus): This
mushroom is best known for its neuropro-
tective effects, which can support memory,
improve cognition, and balance mood.
In fact, a 2009 double-blind, placebo-
controlled study published in the Journal
of Phytotherapy Research found that
subjects taking this mushroom performed
significantly better than those given the
placebo in cognitive function tests. It can
be easily identified by its Latin name,
which means “hedgehog” due to its white
color and cascading teeth-like spines.
Use it for: Nerve regeneration; mood
support and balancing; improving
memory; enhancing concentration
Want a super brain boost? Combine
brain-supporting herbs such as gotu
kola, bacopa, and rosemary with lion’s
mane mushrooms.
Mushroom
Wisdom
Super Lion’s Mane

19. T H E S H O P P I N G M AG A Z I N E F O R N AT U R A L L I V I N G OCTOBER 2015 |betternutrition.com
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10AMAZING
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20. BY MICHELE BURKLUND, ND
Avoid seasonal
maladies, keep
your skin glowing,
combat stress, and
more with these
potent botanicals
I
t’s the time of year when
leaves transform into
vibrant hues, sweaters come
outofstorage,and theair becomes
refreshingly crisp. Unfortunately,
it’s also a time of increased cold and
flu symptoms, dry and painful skin
conditions, and altered moods due
to shorter days and a lack of sun.
Go into this season prepared with
a cupboard stocked with healing
remedies for common ailments. Here
are some beneficial and easy herbs
to support your mind and body
through the fall and winter months.
For Fall winter health
TOP 10 HERBS
36 • OCTOBER 2015

21. 1Fight Fatigue with Eleuthero
Also known as Siberian ginseng, eleuthero
has been used for centuries in Russia and China
due to its ability to improve cognition, enhance
energy, and support stress. Eleuthero is part
of a unique group of plants called adaptogens
that have been proven to augment resistance
to stress both physically and mentally—in other
words, they help you “adapt more easily.” In the
fall and winter months, our energy levels can
wane as the days grow shorter, but this plant
might be just what’s needed to remain alert until
bedtime. One study published in the International
Journal of Phytotherapy and Phytopharmacology
found that a group of females taking a standardized
extract exhibited improved attention and accuracy
during stressful cognitive tasks. Eleuthero is most often
taken in capsule or solid extract form.
3Feel Better Faster with Elderberry
Scared thatyoumightcatchthatbuggoingaround?Elderberry
acts as a triple threat against those untimely colds, providing
antiviral and antibacterial qualities while also bolstering the
immune system. This flowering shrub is abundant in the United
States and Canada, and has been used for centuries in traditional
medicine to treat colds. A promising preliminary study published
in the Journal of Internal Medical Research revealed that patients
with influenza-like symptoms who were given elderberry syrup
showed symptom relief four days earlier than those who received
a placebo. Unlike many cold and flu treatments, elderberry syrup
has a sweet flavor that can be taken alone or added to various
drinks and recipes.
2Keep Your Skin Radiant
with Sea Buckthorn
The biting winter air can strip your skin
of much-needed moisture, causing a dull,
dry appearance and sensitive, chapped
areas. Sea buckthorn, a plant that grows
across the mountainous regions of Asia
and Europe, can efficiently counteract
these symptoms. The medicinal properties
are found in the seed and fruit oil, which
contain a unique profile of fatty acids
including 3, 6, 7, and 9, and are loaded
with vitamins, antioxidants, and
flavonoids. Treasured for being
the richest plant-based source
of omega-7 palmitoleic acid
available, sea buckthorn has
been studied more than 200
times and is commonly used in
modern cosmetics and skin products.
Apply it topically or add to a smoothie for
a radiant glow during the winter months.
OCTOBER 2015 • 37

22. 4Unwind With Lemon Balm
With the holidays fast approaching, you may feel more stress and anxiety as added
obligations and errands begin to pileup. Lemon balm is aplantthathas beendocumented
all the way back to the Middle Ages as a treatment for restlessness and insomnia. An
interesting study reported in The Journal of Biobehavioral Medicine observed that
subjects exposed to a stressor and also given a 600 mg dose of lemon balm rated their
calmness significantly higher than those in a placebo group. Another study from
England’s NorthumbriaUniversity revealed thata1,600 mg doseofencapsulated dried
leaf lemon balm resulted in reports of improved mood, memory, and serenity. As a
member of the mint family, this herb makes a flavorful tea or can be taken in capsule form.
5Halt Winter
Aches Pains
with Turmeric
Many people complain of
increased joint pain and
soreness during the colder
months (although there’s
little scientific explanation
for this). Curcumin is an
orange-hued compound
found in the spice turmeric,
one that is commonly used
in Ayurvedic medicine
for its powerful anti-
inflammatory actions.
A recent study in the
Journal of Alternative
Complementary Medicine
found that a daily dose
of 2 grams of curcumin
in people suffering from
osteoarthritis resulted in
reports of reduced pain
and increased mobility. In
addition to soothing sore
joints, curcumin is a potent
antioxidant, brain health
supporter, and strengthener
of the vascular system by
improving the lining of the
blood vessels.
A member of the ginger
family, turmeric tastes
great and can be infused
in tea, added to a recipe,
or taken in capsule form.
6Banish the Blues with Rhodiola
Also called “Arctic root” because of the
way it thrives in the cold, mountainous regions
of Northern Europe, rhodiola shows promise as
a mood-supporting agent. The Greek physician
Dioscorides documented rhodiola’s effectiveness
back in AD 77 as an aid for fatigue and anxiety.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a common
occurrence in the Northern Hemisphere during
the fall and winter months, but preliminary
research in animal trials has demonstrated that
rhodiola increases the “feel good” neurotrans-
mitter serotonin, banishing those blues as it
promotes the transport of important building
blocks such as 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP).
Rhodiola is also part of that exclusive group of
herbs known as adaptogens. It can be taken as
a capsule, tincture, or tea.
38 • OCTOBER 2015

23. 7Rejuvenate with AstragalusThis herb is
well known in Chinese medicine for its ability to
prevent colds and improve energy, but The Journal of
Immunology revealed that it might also be an effective
antiaging tool. Two constituents of astragalus—called
cycloastragenol and astragaloside—may play a role in
extending the lifespan of our DNA. How does astragalus
do it? A DNA molecule called a “telomere” protects the
chromosome material from breaking down—but as we
age, our telomeres can shorten. There are associations
between shortened telomeres and many age-related
diseases such as osteoporosis, dementia, and arthritis.
Astragalus shows promise as an effective antiaging tool
that can preserve the length of telomeres and perhaps
decrease the risk of age-related diseases. The root has a
mild yet sweet flavor, and can be infused into a tea, added
to a soup, or taken in capsule or tincture form.
8Detox with Dandelion
Want to get back on track after overin-
dulging? Dandelion is often considered a
weed, but this herb has been documented
as far back as the second century AD as a
powerful cleansing agent. Dandelion
is regarded as a liver and kidney tonic in
traditional medicine, and has often been
used to improve digestion. Encouraging
preliminary studies suggest that dandelion
root could even have liver-protective
properties. Add the leaves to your salad, or
brew the root and leaves into a tea.
COLDS FLU RX
Make your own cold-and-flu kit to knock out symptoms at the first sign of
illness, or to ward off viruses completely by bolstering your immune defenses
throughout the year. Here are five of our favorite immune health supplements,
a mix of potent proprietary ingredients, herbal mainstays, and one unique
beauty-boosting blend that doubles as an immune aid.
1. WELLMUNE WGP. According to recent research, the proprietary ingredient
Wellmune WGP (beta-glucan from baker’s yeast) has been shown in a
double-blind study to prevent colds and flu. Subjects were treated with
either 500 mg of Wellmune WGP or a placebo for 90 days. Wellmune
WGP is designed to be taken daily and has been shown to start working
in one to two days. Take 250–500 mg daily.
Editors’ Product Pick: IMMUNE HEALTH BASICS Wellmune WGP
2. EPICOR. A proprietary ingredient found in different products, EpiCor
is derived from nutrient-rich baker’s yeast prepared using a patented
fermentation process. EpiCor works by supporting the immune system
and enabling it to work more efficiently. In one 12-week study published
in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, EpiCor was
given to 116 people who hadn’t received any flu vaccination. Those
taking EpiCor had fewer episodes of colds and flu-like symptoms compared
to the placebo group.
Editors’ Product Pick: DOCTOR’S BEST EpiCor
3. ECHINACEA. This herb helps prevent and reduce symptoms of the
common cold. In an analysis of 14 studies, researchers concluded that
the herb reduced the odds of catching a common cold by 58 percent.
Among people who did catch a cold, echinacea shortened
its duration.
Editors’ Product Pick: DIAMOND HERPANACINE Herpanacine Skin (with echinacea)
4. AHCC. Active Hexose Correlated Compound (AHCC), a hybrid of
several mushrooms, is the top-selling immune-enhancing supplement
in Japan. As we age, our immune system weakens. This leaves the
older members of our population at increased risk for autoimmune
diseases, infections, and cancer. Strengthening the immune system is
of particular importance as we age. AHCC is one of the most reliable
and well-researched immune-supportive products available. Over 100
human clinical trials, animal, and in-vitro studies on AHCC have been
conducted throughout the world.
Editors’ Product Pick: QUALITY OF LIFE AHCC
5. VITAMIN C. With dozens of published studies, the evidence suggests
that vitamin C might help prevent colds in children and stressed adults.
It has been shown to reduce both symptoms and the length of infection,
especially among people exposed to bad weather. Infections deplete
the body’s vitamin C levels, so continue taking your supplements for
a couple of weeks to avoid a rebound deficiency after fighting a cold
or flu. Use 1–6 grams in divided doses daily, less for children. Take the
higher dosage if you have a cold or the flu.
Editors’ Product Pick: AMERICAN HEALTH Ester-C with Citrus Bioflavonoids
try it! ESTER-C GIVEAWAY
American Health is giving away 5 bottles of Ester-C with Citrus
Bioflavonoids! Be one of 5 winners by emailing your name and
address to betternutritionfreebie@gmail.com, with “Ester-C” as the
subject line. Five Better Nutrition readers will be chosen at random.
40 • OCTOBER 2015

24. Michele Burklund, ND, is a practicing physician specializing in holistic health and preventive medicine. When she’s not blogging, she’s seeing patients, taking photographs, writing
books, traveling, and speaking around the globe. Visit healthyfashionista.com to learn more about Burklund and read her blogs.
10Warm up
with Ginger
Feel like hibernating all
winter long? Sometimes the
best medicine is simply a warm fire
with a great cup of ginger tea. Ginger
has been a popular remedy since ancient times for a diverse
rangeofailments includingmotionsickness,nausea,migraines,
indigestion, sore throats, and even arthritis. Ginger is a great
winter herb for its ability to promote circulation within the
body,whichcancreateawarmingsensation.Itisthoughtthat
an active compound in ginger called gingerol is responsible
for that “cozy” feeling by stimulating blood flow and relaxing
blood vessels. To get “toasty” fast, boil three cups of water,
add several slices of fresh ginger (around three ounces), and
a hint of honey. Steep for five minutes and enjoy this spicy
tea on a chilly day.
9Calm Your Stomach With Fennel Seeds
’Tis the season for holiday parties fueled by alcohol
and decadent foods—both major causes for an upset
stomach later in the evening. Fennel seeds are
classified as a carminative herb, which can
prevent unwanted gas and bloating. The
Journal of Alternative Therapies in Health
and Medicine revealed in a recent study that
fennel seed oil significantly decreases gas
and bloating compared to a placebo. These
tasty seeds are also a great source of
fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
such as quercetin and kaempferol. As a
bonus, they also act as a breath freshener.
Add 1 tsp. of fennel seeds to a cup of hot
water and let brew for five minutes,
or try them raw if you’re on the go.
Syntol AMD®
will enable you to end the
war with Candida yeast.* This professional
strength formula introduces probiotic spores
that aggressively crowd-out Candida yeast.* Additionally,
extremely potent yeast-digesting enzymes are able to neutralize
dead and dying yeast which enables users to avoid typical “die-off”
or detox symptoms.* Syntol is non-GMO, vegan and hypoallergenic.
END THE WAR TODAY!visit www.syntol.org or call (800) 490-1566 *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Blood Sample Before Syntol
Live images of blood plasma show
high concentrations of candida
yeast (dark blotches).* Participant
suffers from fatigue, poor memory,
vaginal itching, abdominal
discomfort and poor sleep.
Blood Sample After Syntol
Live blood shows normal Candida
levels.* Participant has indicated
energy levels are higher than
have been experienced in over 10
years.* Vision and digestion are
now normal, and all other issues
have subsided.*
M A N U F A C T U R E D B Y