My Top Seven Herbals/Supplements

Posted May 24, 2013 / 11:30 a.m.


1)  Oregano Oil -- This herbal comes in a softgel, and while it's a bit pricey, it's totally worth it.  Oregano oil has the powerful benefit of antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties. Take one softgel daily with a meal for immune system support. I use this instead of vitamin C because even buffered vitamin C supplements irritate my sensitive stomach. Oregano oil is essential during cold and flu season and when seasonal allergies strike.  I use wild Mediterranean handpicked P73, which are guaranteed non-GMO.

2)  Tea Tree Oil -- Always have this inexpensive essential oil on hand for its antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties.  I use it specifically for sore throats, including strep throat.  My children used to get strep throat frequently and had to be on antibiotics to cure it. Since discovering I could use tea tree oil instead, they have not needed antibiotics. 

In a small cup of warm water, add several drops of tea tree oil (at least 7).  Gargle with every last bit of water in the cup...it will be very bitter toward the bottom of the cup. The tea tree oil kills bacteria in the mouth. Be sure to change out your toothbrush every time you brush (you'll want at least two to swap out) until your symptoms are gone. If you don't, you are reintroducing the bacteria into your mouth each time you brush, and your condition won't be resolved. No need to throw away your toothbrush though. Our dentist recommends putting your toothbrush in the dishwasher for disinfecting; then reuse it.

Do the gargling regimen three times daily (preferably in the morning, midday, and before bedtime). This treatment addresses the bacteria in the mouth and throat area. Don't forget to take higher amounts of oregano oil, vitamin C, and a good multivitamin to boost your immune system and treat your whole body while you're feeling under the weather. If you normally take one gelcap of oregano oil a day, increase it to two gelcaps.  When sick, children can take as much as 250 mg of vitamin C every three hours.  Adults can take even more. Return to your regular regimen of supplements following a bout of sickness for illness prevention.

3)  Mullein -- This is a very inexpensive herbal (around $10 for 100 capsules) that's been used since ancient times. Used primarily for ear and lung health, this herbal should be taken with food to avoid upset stomach. It relieves ear pain almost instantly for those suffering from ear infections or fluid in the ears from allergies.

4)  GDU Anti-Inflammatory -- This product from danielchapterone is very effective for relieving pain and inflammation.  Take on an empty stomach (at least thirty minutes prior to eating) and feel relief from back pain, knee pain and inflammation. Ingredients include turmeric root, black cohosh and feverfew. GDU is a great alternative for people whose sensitive stomachs can't handle ibuprofen, for those who must avoid blood-thinning products like aspirin or for people who prefer natural pain relievers.

5)  MicroCal --  In my opinion, the best calcium supplement for the money. Also a danielchapterone product, I have been taking this for many years. My children, who don't get enough calcium in their diet, also take MicroCal. Dosing is extremely important in calcium intake; your body can only absorb around 400 mg of calcium at a time, so doubling up is a waste of your money. If you require higher doses of calcium, you should take one capsule with breakfast and another capsule with dinner. Product labels will say you can and should take more at one time (you'll go through the bottle faster, so they make more money), but check with any dietician and they will tell you otherwise.

6)  Biotin -- Take this inexpensive, water-soluble vitamin to promote hair growth. Many men AND women suffer from hair loss and receding hair lines (from medications, hormones, stress, pregnancy and genetic disposition). I lose a lot of hair and tried this supplement at the advice of my stepmother who is a knowledgeable and experienced nurse.  It works! I noticed hair growth right away along my temples where it had gotten thin. 

7)  Fish Oil -- Everyone, children and adults alike, should take fish oil daily. It is good for your heart and brain and can help regulate cholesterol. My naturopath recommends Nordic Naturals as one of the purest brands on the market (fish oils like other supplements and herbals are not created equal).  http://www.nordicnaturals.com/ You get what you pay for.  

You may be thinking, how can I afford all these supplements? Look for deals.  I purchase my danielchapterone products at http://www.foxfireherbals.com/store/catalog/index.php?cPath=21_25.  Foxfire Herbals, located in Louisburg, Kansas, promptly ships danielchapterone products to your door with free shipping on orders over $50.

Don't overlook clearance racks at your local health food store.  Harvest Moon Natural Foods, http://www.harvestmoonnaturalfoods.com/retailer/store_templates/shell_id_1.asp?storeID=9BF9A924857740958EDA1E8B0535F46C, the health food store I frequent in Olathe, Kansas, has a clearance section (always check expiration dates). I've been able to pick up some Nordic Natural fish oil supplements and good multivitamins at a significantly reduced rate.

Above all, YOU ARE WORTH IT!  Invest in yourself! I'm thankful I did, because at age 36, I have more energy and am in better physical shape than I was ten years ago.   

I must give credit to my mother, Sharon Wooderson, for educating me about many herbals and supplements. Other information I have picked up along the way from naturopaths, health food store employees, and personal experience.