My boobs have had the adventure of a lifetime: breast feeding. That’s what they are there for, right? Not just fabulous ornaments to entice our partners and add a nice silhouette to your fashion ensemble. No, these boobs have been working hard-day in and out, all night and whenever little man had interest. My philosophy has been to follow his cues, feed him on demand and have no restriction to access… I have been a “D” machine (his loving little name for nursing).
And now I am weaning.
I have poured over the internet for the “best” ways to wean, read numerous articles from other moms and various “experts.” Guess what? THIS IS NOT A SCIENCE. Like all choices in parenting, there is no right answer, no proper way to transition from full-access to denial of le breast.
So, as usual the best method is to follow one’s own instinct and heart about the matter and see how it goes.
My original intention was to nurse Archer, on demand until two. He is nearly 21 months and I feel successful and proud of my efforts…..and SOOOO ready to stop.
Christmas nursing...eyes somehow always closed!
I don’t want to emotionally traumatize the little guy and am doing it slowly, as is comfortable. He eats, a lot, and has gradually decreased his interest but not completely. We started implementing distraction during the day and evening. “Look at this book” or “play with this toy” or “eat some yogurt”.. you get the picture. I’ve been nursing him when he wakes up, before he takes a nap (or really, more like trying to get him to take a nap) and before bed. Occasionally I have nursed in the middle of the night- he sleeps with me or his dad rather than in a crib-which has been very convenient until this moment of transition. I find it super helpful for other people to be involved in this process. John taking him to sleep with him, my older girls distracting him, grandparents and very soon some overnights away. I will say, that when its just me and little dude its a bit more challenging and there are little “D!” tantrums and tears. Hopefully this will subside-soon. I’m doing my very best to console him, distract him and let him know that today there will be “D” before nap time, and before bed. But the menu is changing and within weeks, “D” will no longer be served.
There is an emotional element of losing this aspect of our relationship-lil’ Archer and me. He not only obtains immune support and nourishment, he derives great pleasure and comfort from nursing. And here I go taking that away…. so the way I am attempting to transition this aspect is by showing him that we can cuddle almost anytime. Rather than nursing that extra bit in the middle of the night, last night for example, I placed the skin of my cheek on his face where my breast would be and held him. This seems to work fairly well. Its not necessary for the breast to be in his mouth to receive the skin contact and emotional connection (shocking, I know).
I’m not a big fan of conventional milk. I’m a primal/paleo lady and occasionally eat dairy in the form of goat cheese etc. but the idea of giving him milk in a sippy cup is not my ideal way to transition. Calcium and fats, vitamin D and protein are better taken in whole foods, herbs and sunshine, and good ol’ fashioned animal bits. Luckily, he has no taste for milk and absolutely loves all of the rest (except he does have a penchant for the sugary milk at the bottom of his dad’s cereal bowl–thanks, John! haha).
He nurses less when his belly is full…. so I keep him stocked up on proteins and fats, berries and fruits and lots and lots of H2O. He’s a big boy and requires a lot of food to fuel that growing little body!
So, as I head toward the end of this beautiful, primal, connected, patience-trying, at times exhausting experience I’m pretty proud of what I have accomplished. 21 months of being physically available and emotionally present. Giving my entire self to this little beautiful creature to ensure his health and happiness (and increased IQ). I struggled through the bullshit of everyone suggesting that I stop at various junctures of the process, add formula-blah blah blah. I pumped and nursed, pumped and stored, pumped and pumped and took fenugreek capsules, placenta capsules, drank lactogenic herbs, ate lactogenic foods, took supplements, nursed in public, made my own hooter hider (yay), connected with and received support from other nursing mom’s when I was unsure or worn down, defended my choice to nurse as long as I have, endured scrutiny (ridiculous, by the way) … I did it all!
And now I am almost done. So, thank you breasts for all your fabulous accomplishments! Here’s to hoping you are still ornamental!
Hello! Although I am not in the Apothecary everyday yet, I am getting geared up to open the doors! Still several things to do to get ready but I am available for Consultations, by appointment and if you are interested in coming up, call me and I will meet you there! (Learning to balance Motherhood and Business!)
The Apothecary currently holds 80+ tinctured herbal medicines, 50+ bulk organic herbs, several pre-made formulations for anxiety, memory, cold and flu etc, I also have Traditional Chinese patent formulas, neti pots, medicinal tea blends, lotions, salves, butters, Yang Tonic Capsules, Liver Support Capsules and so much more! It has been a delight getting the Apothecary set up and so much fun creating labels and my new logo!!!
I hope you will all come up to see it and me!
I am located on the campus of the Church of the Transfiguration, off of Hwy 74 (if you are coming from Morrison/Kittredge you will see the Labyrinth that is also on the campus). Turn into the Church parking lot and park in front of the playground or church. I am located to the left of the church in the first cabin with red stairs and a room of windows. I will soon have a sign, but for now I have a little posting on the door and my card in the window. I am a short walk away from Downtown Evergreen and across the street from Dakind Soups and the Bradley gas station. If there is any confusion as to how to get there, call me! xoxo
Integrative Herbalism Apothecary and Clinic
Give me a call or shoot me an email for more information or to schedule a consultation of visit! 720-480-2689 Trysta@IntegrativeHerbalism.com
I am pleased and honored to be practicing herbal medicine and to now include placenta encapsulation as a service that I offer to new mothers! The process I utilize is a combination of new and old- Traditional Chinese Medicine combined with modern equipment and sterile technique to create a balanced and healing remedy. The process takes 2 days to complete and is well worth the time and investment!
Did you know that placenta is actually consumed by nearly all birth-giving animals–even herbivores? Evolutionarily speaking, it serves a purpose and more than simply safety of the nest, for even tree-dwelling animals desend to obtain it after it has fallen to the ground. There are many cultures around the globe that consume the placenta in varying forms (Quiche anyone?) The simplest way being encapsulated–especially for those of us who may find the thought a bit uncomfortable. Having a Placenta Encapsulation Specialist, like myself, clean, process and encapsulate the placenta is a great way to utilize this remedy while maintaining your cultural comfort
At one point, I found the thought of consuming my own placenta as intriguing and slightly revolting–I must admit. However, after experiencing baby blues and post partum depression with my first daughter, I became open to the thought and thoroughly interested in the benefits and process. When I became pregnant with my son I was also studying Herbal Medicine and particularly Traditional Chinese Herbology and was enraptured with the many benefits of a slew of fascinating herbs and minerals I had never thought of prior to my studies–placenta (Zi He Che) being one of them.
In essence, my practice and lifestyle are aligned with primal/paleo insight. Nature provides, heals and sustains us and the closer our medicines and foods are to their natural state the more benefits our cells and entire body will receive! Truly, you can’t get more primal/paleo of a medicine for a mama than her own placenta! (Love it!)
As an Herbal Clinician, I take pride in my remedies, focus a lot of energy into learning them as fully as I can, creating the strongest and most effective forms, and in most cases–taking them and experiencing their effects. So I had my own placenta encapsulated and took the 3,000 year old remedy myself-and with great results!
The act of placentophagy has many benefits to both the mother and the infant:
Enhanced Healing
Decreased Fatigue
Increased Iron Levels
Enhanced Lactation
Decrease in baby-blues and post partum depression
Increased Maternal Behavior and the ability to care for oneself and your lil’ one.
I truly believe that my placenta pills are the best and created with the utmost care and attention to quality, both of the process and the end product. I am more than honored to be able to provide this service to the mamas in the Denver-Metro area, Littleton, Englewood, Colorado Springs and Mountain towns.
Please contact me for more information about pricing, the logistics or any questions or concerns you may have! If you are interested in carrying pamphlets about this remedy in your office please let me know!
Last night, I came across an amazing and “old” video that has sparked me to share it with you all. The Kogi, an ancient tribe of Earth-centered caretakers of the planet came out of their isolated existence in the late 80′s to send us “younger brothers” a message about our destructive ways and to gently remind us to find our way back to nature, caring for her, rather than raping and destroying her. This video is called “From the Heart of the World” and is almost an hour in duration. Please find the time to listen to their message. This is the truth, it is time to truly change our ways and it has been since we began this pilaging from Mother Earth. The next movie, “Aluna” will be out in early 2012, as they have come forward with another message. Here is a LINK to the most recent site regarding “Aluna.”
The message from the Earth is loud and clear and what a gift these men and women are to this world- to carry on the traditional Earth-loving ways that we humans were intended to live.
If you have 30 minutes, take the time for yourself to do this guided meditation by Kelly Howell. Healing can really take place when we can let go of our egos and schemas and simply “be.” Do this meditation every day for a week and experience a centering transformation. Meditation can be challenging for many of us, so having a guide can really assist us in the transition.
THE PRACTICE OF HERBAL MEDICINE is a wonderful way to combine ancient wisdom with modern scientific validation of our botanical bounty. We are excited to offer a comprehensive cross-cultural program in herbal medicine. There is much to be learned from the Eastern and Western traditions. For the westerner, Chinese herbs cannot be fully utilized without an understanding of the principles of Chinese medicine.
Who is this for? The program is designed for anyone interested in entering the growing field of botanical medicine and who is serious about becoming a professional herbalist.
What do I get when done? Upon successful completion of the program you will become a “Certified MasterHerbalist”. You will have a good understanding of herbal medicine from the western and eastern traditions. You will be able to function as a professional clinical herbalist or to enter the herbal industry in other areas.
What is the time frame?This certificate program meets approximately every third weekend, all day Saturday and Sunday for 17 months. (23 weekends total)
CURRICULUM
Hours
Anatomy and Physiology
Introduction to Herbal Medicine
Western Materia MedicaChinese Medical Theory & Terminology Chinese Materia Medica
Therapeutics and Formulations: East and West
483232
32
32
80
Primary Instructors: Luke Terry,MTOM, Dipl.Ac., L.Ac., Private practice, Chinese Herbalist, freelance writer, nutritionist, & practitioner of functional medicine, qigong, and functional fitness training.
Rachel Lord, RN, MH, CMT. School founder. Private herbal practice for many years. Former Intensive Care RN, Board Certified Reflexologist and Certified Massage Therapist.
Herbal Preparations and Dispensary
Preparation for Student Clinic
Student Clinic
Field Walks and WildcraftingBusiness and Ethics
1632
32
16
16
In-Class Hours: 368
Externship: Outside Materia Medica: TOTAL HOURS: 450
4042
Tuition and Fees
Deposit : $100Tuition: $265 (payable at beginning of each weekend: 23 total) Materials Fee: (payable at beginning of WesternMateria Medica Class)
I am so-pleased to announce that in addition to holding a Bachelor of Science in Integrative Therapeutic Practices, I have completed my East/West Botanical Education at Just For Health School and now hold the title of Certified Master Herbalist in East/West Herbology! For those of you who have helped me along the way, thank-you so very much.
I have had the great pleasure of studying under many very wonderful teachers: Rachel Lord, the founder of JFH school and CMT/MH who studied with Peter Holmes, Laura Golub-Matthews with whom I studied Western Herbs and Reproductive Herbal Medicine and Mayan Uterine Abdominal Massage techniques as well as apprenticed/interned at Holistic Pathways–who studied with the late/great Michael Moore at SWSBM, I was blessed to be introduced to Sacred Plant Medicine and wild plant identification with Joan Zinn of Medicine Hill Herbs, and have had the privilege of studying TCM and Chinese Herbology with Luke Terry LAc extraordinaire and President of Just for Health School. I also learned so much from many of my fellow classmates and friends–thank-you to you all.
BIG NEWS!
Now I can finally announce that beginning February 24th, I will be practicing Herbal Medicine at Just For Health School! I am very excited about this opportunity to not only continue learning and growing my practice, but to also work with new herbies and be surrounded by so many wonderful and talented healers.
Come and see me!
I will be available for consultations Tuesdays, Thursdays and every other Monday and Saturday alternating. Please Call/Email me to set up an appointment. I will also continue to offer a variety of Organic Herbal Medicines, Neti Pots and Products both online at www.IntegrativeHerbalism.com and now at the School!
Consultations are $65 for the Initial 1.5 hour visit and first followup (1 hr) , additional followups are $35. (Please don’t hesitate to contact me if money is an issue, there is always a way to work things out!)
My office is located at
JUST FOR HEALTH ENTERPRISES, INC.
Old Hampden Holistic Center
3501 S. Corona St., Suite #1
Englewood, Co. 80113
Please tell your friends, family and anyone you know who may be interested in seeing a Certified Herbalist (who also has an extensive education in Western science)!
Much love and gratitude,
Trysta Major B.S. ITP, CMH
(If you would like to find out more about Herbal Education at JFH, contact me or go to www.Justforhealth.net )
There are many powerful-herbal remedies that are useful this time of year. Echinacea is well known, elderberry and flower, eupatorium, thyme, peppermint, ginger…. warming and yet heat clearing and so beneficial during respiratory challenges. One herb in particular; however, truly is the warrior of them all.
Ligusticum porteri-Osha root.
This powerful root grows between 7 and 10,000 feet in elevation and is in the same family as water hemlock (tells you something of its potency). Utilized for thousands of years by local indegenous peoples specifically for the lungs and illnesses related to the lungs. Apache warriors used this herb to ehance their stamina and Arapahoe runners to increase lung capacity. It has also been used to “ward off” rattlesnakes… Topically, it is said to be drawing and anti-microbial.
The Aztecs called this medicine Chuchupate, meaning “Bear Medicine” because of its use by the local bear population. It is said that after hybernation and upon wakening, bears search this plant out and eat it up! It has also been a bargaining tool during bear-courtship Bear catnip anyone? It has also been called Singer’s root by the Dine, as it is used commonly by singers during drum circles and various ceremonies to sooth and moisten the throat.
(so I guess one chooses, rattlesnake, or bear? ha ha)
Osha can be used in many different forms. Chewing the dried root, as an infusion, fresh/dry root tincture and my favorite–in honey (MM). This strong root is useful during viral infections–specifically respiratory but also digestive as well. It is slightly numbing and particularly helpful when you have a sore throat. In a state where visitors have to adapt to altitude, this root can come in handy as support as well. I find that it gives me a zest of energy, most likely due to the increased qi from increased lung capacity.
Osha is described by Brigitte Mars as having the following energetic correspondences:
Flavor: Pungent, Bitter
Temp: warm
Moisture: dry (although I find it to be moisturizing)
Polarity: Yang
Planet: Sun/Mars/Jupiter
Element: Fire
Definitely the Warrior of Respiratory Herbs!
As far as safety or medication interactions, this herbs is generally considered safe. If pregnant, I would err on the safe side and either use miniscule doses or avoid the fresh root completely during the first trimester. (Although there have been no reports of any negative issues related to pregnancy). If you have blood or Yin deficiency (yin can mean many things, specifically lack of body-fluids such as during menopause), you may want to avoid this herb in tincture form; however, the honey seems to be well tolerated.
It is not often that I write poetry, as I once did on such a regular occasion; however, the autum truly inspires me. I have found that each year, this time of year, I am filled with a new energy–one which I witness many others experiencing as well. Our ancestral pasts were filled with a similar energy, although it was much more productive in a tangible sense. This is the time of year when we harvest, prepare for winter and celebrate the people and things we are thankful for. In our not-so ancient past, most of us were gathering wood, harvesting crops, nuts, berries and any other food stuffs we could in anticipation of the long, cold winter nights. We were celebrating abundance if there was and accepting the lack-of , if there wasn’t. We were gathering together to thank Mother-Earth for her blessings and ask for a return the next spring. Our men were hunting– a truly divine expression of manhood. We were preparing for detachment from the outside world.
I was talking with my husband the other day about how this time of year brings up some mixed emotions for me. As a wild-youth this was the time of year I would “reap what I sow,” I would continuously find myself in a state of detachment, trouble and ultimately a deep sadness. My husband relayed similar experiences to me, as we sat sipping coffee at our warm kitchen table. We witness it even with our own children–seeminly reacting to a shift in energies that until recently I had not given much thought. This awareness, for me, has brought about a shift within my own household–that of tolerance and acceptance. The truth is, if we harness this energy, these emotions, the sensations–a lot of change can occur for the better.
It is so important to accept the seasons. The seasons of our worldly location, the seasons of our bodies, the seasons of our lives. I pose this question to you:
What will you do, in your season, in this season, to make this transition something that invites a positive change? What is it in your life that you are harvesting for the winter?
With that, I would like to share my little piece–straight from my heart.
Reveling in the autumnal sensations
Brings abundance
A distinctly reflective joy
A uniquely inspiring relaxation
The crisp sensation of inhalation
The crunch of my feats as I meander
Gold and rusty reds reveal themselves
As the trees exhale in release
A tangible expression of the divine circle
The feminine simmering in quiet harmony now
Masculinity throughout the forest
Life transitioning into its roots
Brings internal awareness
A distinct shift
A uniquely somber invigoration
Revealing indeed.
Please leave comments, poems, anything you like. I invite you to share your abundance!
My recent adventure with nursing my newborn son has been a first class education for me–not only as a mother and woman, but also as an herbalist and health care provider. I entered into the world of my newborn with high hopes and sheer will to nourish him with what nature had intended–my breastmilk.
I have girlfriends for whom breast feeding came completely natural- by this I mean they had no issues, needed no instruction and really never experienced any pain. Good for them! I have also had girlfriends who struggled furiously at the beginning only to end up with severe mastitis and a lack of desire to continue. For me, this time around, I found it to be a mostly intuitive experience that needed some professional tweaking (so to speak).
Archer and I worked very hard in those first few weeks and yet he continued to remain the same weight. After many furious feeding marathons and quite a few visits to the pediatrician, I blended some herbs for a yummy lactogenic tea, I encapsulated some organic Fenugreek seed (Trigonella foenum-graecum) , I drank green leafy drinks daily and I visited a wonderful Lactation Consultant at Littleton Hospital–where I delivered– named Mary. She was so helpful!
I DEFINITELY recommend Fenugreek seed capsules, rather than tea or tincture, for every nursing mother simply for ease of use. I took 3 size O caps 3 times a day for more than a month and found my breast milk supply to increase and maintain after discontinuing to take it. I also keep some on hand for days that I feel I could use a bit of increase.
Each O capsule contains roughly 680 mg of material= 6120 mg (5000 mg is a teaspoon).
From what I can find in my plethora of resources, the mode of action is that it encourages lactation by stimulating breast tissue to grow. In addition, it slows the rate of break down in the liver of estrogen, allowing levels to be a bit higher to support lactation. It both promotes, and supports lactation.
Fenugreek has been used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic medicineto decrease Vata and Kapha and increase Pitta– warm the body. It is said to affect plasma, blood, marrow and nerve tissues and reproductive tissues (The Yoga of Herbs, Lad and Frawley). It is contraindicated in pregnancy–so don’t take it in anticipation of nursing, wait until post-partum!
Fenugreek is also used commonly to support stabilization of blood sugar and correct imbalances in cholesterol (LDL vs HDL).
Fenugreek is a nursing Mother’s best-friend. If you have a breast-pump available, add in several sessions of pumping in between feedings or when the little one is sleeping to multiply its effect as well as its nice to SEE that you are succeeding.
So with all of the minor changes, his latch improved, my confidence soared and my stress levels dropped dramatically. We were in the milk-making business! I now nurse him with ease and am so proud and happy that I did not give up. I perservered. I pumped, nursed and nursed some more and although it was truly challenging at times, it was all worth it. Fenugreek Seed was such a simple thing that I could do for myself, and you can too!
One side effect– you smell like maple syrup! So to all you nursing mamas out there, don’t give up! Feed the masses!
Any information contained in this website is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose and/or treat any illness. If you have any concerns about this information, please contact your provider and/or certified Herbalist.
During my pregnancy it was important to me to have all of the information about how to maintain health and prepare for laboring and birth. So, I did what I always do–read, read, read!
Here is a list of the books that I found most useful during my pregnancy(the ones with the hyperlinks should take you directly to amazon to purchase):
Also, The Continuum Conceptby Jean Liedloff gives perspective to a new/old approach to parenting: attachment parenting. This book changed the way I view providing emotionally to our babies through physical accessibility. Check it out.
The more information you have about healthy choices in your pregnancy, preventive wellness and natural remedies, the better off you will be! Take what knowledge you receive from anything you read and anyone you talk to (because Lord knows everyone is ready to give you advice) and follow your own heart. It is YOUR pregnancy, your body and your baby so don’t ‘hesistate to do what YOU believe!
Doctor, midwife, homebirth, hospital birth, natural, pain medication, water birth, bradley method, hypnobirthing, ultrasounds, testing, supplements, exercise. . . the world of pregnancy includes an abundance of choices–important choices which need consideration. For many of us, the choices aren’t as easy as they would seem to be. There are many things to consider from safety to studies, tradition to holism and all of them are not only affecting the mother but the lil babe as well.
For me, many of the choices I am making are not simply based upon what I desire–a completely natural and non-interventional pregnancy–but are also dictated by the results of tests that maybe could or could not predict a poor outcome if not watched carefully–an irritating complication with a great lesson to learn. I found that after my overly-medicalized pregnancy and delivery of my firstborn that for this pregnancy I wanted the complete opposite (not to mention the whole herbalist piece).
Having in mind a beautiful pregnancy and childbirth experience will help me to make it through the extra ultrasounds and baby aspirin and synthroid I must take everyday. I am a perfect example of integrating both allopathic and natural remedies. I take my pills, drink my organic prenatal herbal tea blend, take my Chinese herbal tincture and eat a beautiful array of vegetables and fruits everyday as well as many other natural and wonderful activities.
In the next several months, I will be researching and sharing information with you about the modern world of prenatal care: the tests, the concerns, the natural methods, the medical methods and so much more. Being a pregnant mama myself, I have embarked upon this incredible and at times frustrating journey of researching every little fact that I am given until I find my truth. For this reason I would love to share what I have found and will find in order to shed some light on what the test results mean in a literal sense, and what types of treatment and wellness programs we have as options. I will also share some amazing herbs and formulas for a variety of ailments that are completely safe and nourishing in pregnancy (something Doctors know little to nothing about)!
Please leave any comments or questions you have about pregnancy, whether you are currently pregnant, a mama or just interested in the entire beautiful process!
Much love,
Trysta Major
Also note that none of the information within this website is intended as medical advice or to diagnose and/or treat an illness.
Day 6 came and went. I felt great, once again. Woke and had my warm lemon-water and am tea. Since Day 6 incorporates some complex carbohydrates back into your diet, I definitely included some. I made some brown rice with salsa, garlic and onions to eat for breakfast. For lunch, I finished up the rice and cooked some cabbage, broccoli, mushrooms, squash with water, curry powder, turmeric and ginger. Yum.
My hubby and I snacked on some spicy edamame and a mixture of pineapples, blueberries and strawberries. For dinner I made whole wheat, organic spaghetti noodles. For the sauce I chopped up green and red onions, mushrooms, olives, carrots, garlic basil and grey salt. It was absolutely delicious!
As of Day 6, I am having no trouble at all with the diet change. Fat still sounds yummy, especially to add a bit of cheese to the sauce I made but its not an out of control urge. The teas are delicious, and so haven’t been hard to get down. Last night I had my 2 cups of pm tea shortly after a small snack of leftover dinner.
I have been sleeping great! Not groggy during the day, but energized and ready to take on anything. I hope you are having just as wonderful of an experience on this detox.
If you are on Day 6, I want to hear from you! Leave comments through the comments link at the bottom of this page or contact me directly through the contact tab at the top of the site. You can also email me at trysta@integrativeherbalism.com.
Day 5 came and went rather quickly.In the morning I drank my am tea and worked out for an hour. I felt really great all day and wasn’t really thinking about food. I had a banana for breakfast, some potatoes and onions for lunch and a plethora of fruits and vegetables throughout the day (predominately apples and oranges). I also had a bit of corn with hot sauce on it.
I really think this cleanse is great, overall. You start to realize just how much food your body actually needs and that the constant bombardment of fats and proteins and processed foods aren’t doing any service to your body (although your body still needs to intake amino acids and fatty acids to function, many of these can be found in fruits and vegetables).
My body has become accustomed to fruits and vegetables. At first, it seemed as though my intestines weren’t sure how to surrender and process foods without grease and fat. After the initial adjustment I have had regularity and comfort. My body has adjusted completely. I have also continued to take a b complex and fish oil supplement which is maintaining the healthy level of essential fatty acids and a healthy nervous system.
I must say that Day 5 is the perfect day to cleanse your mind. Last night I really took the time and allowed myself to be set free from the restraints and ideals that we are bombarded with on a daily basis. I went into a deep meditative state that brought a small sense of samadhi, or enlightenment, into my reality. If you are a person who seeks this state of being/nonbeing, I recommend incorporating it into your cleanse (particularly on day 5). Yoga is an amazing way to accomplish this, even if you aren’t sure about the whole idea of meditation.
If you find solace in religion, take some time to go there and re-acquaint yourself with what life is truly about. A whole body/mind cleanse.
If you are on Day 5, I would love to hear from you! Leave your comments through the comment link at the bottom of this post with what you are going through, eating and overall experiencing. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me privately through the contact tab at the top of the site.
I had A LOT of veggies yesterday. I started out my day with warm lemon-water and 2 cups am tea. I had strawberries for breakfast and then cooked some squash, onions, mushrooms and garlic in a pan with some water and herbal seasoning called Spike–that was delicous. I snacked on apple slices, broccoli, cauliflower and a few more pickled beets. For dinner I had grilled portobello mushrooms (almost 2) with organic balsalmic vinegar, grilled asparagus and some cauliflower that I boiled and blended to have a sort of mashed potato consistency with garlic and grey salt. In the evening, I drank only one cup of pm tea.
I noticed that I was great all day until around 5:00 and then became kind of tired. I felt a little more energized after my delicous dinner, but had the strange taste in my mouth that I have gotten on other cleanses before. I drank a lot of water and kept busy all day. My family and I spent the day at the Denver POWOW, which was very interesting and fun.
My new prayer feather and abolone shell.
I have recently, been asked several questions pertaining to the restrictions during this week. Gum? I say, yes in moderation if it helps you not eat something else. Of course, if you can do it without that is much better. Gum does contain chemicals that can be harmful to the body. A little peppermint gum however, may help a hungry tummy or veggie breath.
Sweetener in tea? Many people are not used to the earthy taste of organic herbal tea. I understand this completely but if you can refrain it is much better. If you must HAVE sweetener in order to inbibe your am and pm teas, I recommend it be organic Stevia extract. One person, who is also doing this cleanse, is attempting to make something out of fruit to add some sweetness.
The point of this detoxification is not to cause distress or discomfort. It can be altered for each person: it is not only one way. Any one of the components are helpful. I have to say that I feel great! I am a little more cranky today than yesterday; however, my body feels very alive and my mind very clear.
If you are on Day 3, I want to hear about it! Leave a comment in the comments link at the bottom of this posting and we can discuss. If you have any questions you can also contact me via the contact tab at the top of this site.
Hello! I am excited to announce Integrative Herbalism LLC is now an official business! Any and all herbal formulas found in my posts can be purchased! All herbs are Organic.
I will keep updating as it progresses with additional information. For now simply contact me via the contact page located on this site, or email at Trysta@IntegrativeHerbalism.com. For those of you who know me personally, you may also call my cell-phone. At some point in the near future I will have a number for general use as well.
Having a baby is one of the most amazing experiences a woman can have in her lifetime. Those of us who choose to have children are often times not aware of the struggles and changes that we face after this monumentous occasion. I , for one, didn’t realize just how difficult breastfeeding was until I experienced it firsthand (some of you lucky ladies have no problems at all)–its not something women normally talk about, nor is there a warning label:
“Warning: nipples will crack and possibly bleed.”– there is no manual for such experiences in motherhood (and would we really follow it if there was?).
There are many transformations that occur in every level of our physiological makeup such as hormonal changes, organs moving about the now-vacant abdomen, an increase in the acuity of hearing: so many things (not to mention the strange goings-on when one sneezes). In addition to the biological changes there are many other issues to be dealt with:
Lack of sleep becomes the norm. At first, the newborn sleeps quite a bit of the time, but only for a few hour intervals between feedings. When my daughter slept 5 hours straight it felt like an entire night of sleep. Of course, I worried that she slept way too long and that something could be wrong.
The nature of your relationships change. It is no longer just you or just you and your partner–now there is someone even more important at the top of the food chain. Your parents become grandparents, and begin acting strangely– an odd thing happened to me after I gave birth, I became the vessel that brought forth, “the GRANDCHILD.” Everything in your life changes.
Sex becomes a bit more difficult to manage with the additional stress, decrease of time and the new little body in the bed/ on the breast, (not to mention the fear that one has of the vagina after all of its glory has been utilized).The truth is that once you are ready, it is important. (Practitioners generally advise 6 weeks).
Then there is the fear and worry. During pregnancy there are fears and worries, but less so to some degree, as the baby is nestled tightly in your very own body. After your newborn arrives in the external world, it seems that worry simply increases. Every moment between their breaths becomes a breathless moment, every frown a concern, every sneeze is momentous. . . you get the picture. It seems that we nearly drive ourselves mad with all the worry that we neglect nearly everything else! (at least with the first child).
Suffice it to say that EVERYTHING changes after you give birth.
The most important thing to remember (which is often and usually forgotten) is to take care of YOU. Without being healthy, you are unable to take as great of care of your precious infant as you would be if you were well.
When breastfeeding, it is necessary to eat at least 500 calories more than is normally required for your height/weight/activity level. My favorite nutritional pyramid is Dr. Andrew Weil’s anti-inflammatory food pyramid . This includes healthy sweets such as dark chocolate, supplements that are necessary for optimal health, perhaps an occasional glass of wine. It is really an excellent template for the types of foods that assist our bodies in their natural processes: especially when developing the immune system of an infant. (make sure you eat enough as those calories translate into better milk for the little one).
When encountering difficulties with breastfeeding there are soo many natural ways to deal. Some women choose to use lanolin in between feedings to soothe chapped nipples (make sure to wipe off before feeding) you can also apply an herbal salve, use vitamin E oil, aloe vera, cocoa butter, or almond oil (discontinue if you have any negative reaction). Your local food coop or natural grocer will have a variety of these available, as well as you can have your Herbalist customize a blend to create the perfect salve (email me for more information).
It is also important to allow those boobies to breathe! Allowing your nipples some sunshine and air (perhaps in a windowed area where no one will see, unless that is your cup of tea) can help prevent nipple yeast from occurring. One thing that I found useful was taking extra large tea bags to accommodate the increase in size, get them wet and place directly onto your nipples. The tannins in the tea (Camellia sinensis) are astringent and are highly anti-inflammatory. Also, make sure to wash your bra frequently and go without nipple shields as often as possible.
The pain occasionally associated with the “let down” of milk as well as engorgement can be addressed several different ways. For let-down aches, warm compresses work wonders as well as gently massaging the breasts. Engorgement pain can be quickly solved by breastfeeding, pumping, or if you are so inclined your partner can also assist you in this (intimacy achieved). Some women never experience discomfort with these; however, there are many that do.
Getting enough fluid during this time is essential and can have multiple benefits. One way to make sure you are hydrating enough is to have a cup of soothing herbal tea every time or every other time you breastfeed. Some great herbs to imbibe that also assist with lactation are chamomile (Matricaria recutica), catnip (Nepeta cataria) both of which are also great for calming baby’s nerves and stomach in general but especially in cases of colic, fennel seeds (Foeniculum vulgare), nettles (Urtica dioica), red raspberry leaf (Rubus idaeus) which is also the number one uterine tonic, red clover blossoms (Trifolium pratense), milk thistle (Silybum marianum): just to name a “few.” Once again you can find most of these herbs at your natural grocer; however I highly recommend purchasing your own individualized blend from an Herbalist.
There are a few problems that can arise during breastfeeding such as nipple-yeast, mastitis and thrush for your baby. There are many ways to treat these all without antibiotics having to be part of the equation automatically. One of the best remedies for nipple yeast and thrush is black walnut tincture. Four times a day apply topically to the nipple with a clean q-tip/cotton swab and then with a new q-tip/cotton swab, swab your babies mouth. You can also apply plain, unsweetened yogurt or diluted apple cider vinegar topically. Internally you can take echinacea which is not harmful to the baby to boost your immune system ridding itself of the infection. There are many different remedies for candida in these cases; however these seem to be the simplest and most effective.
Every woman is very different: especially in motherhood. You should always remember to follow your own instincts and innate wisdom as well as your heart. Some wonderful books that you may find useful are listed below.
Any information contained in this website is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose and/or treat any illness. If you have any concerns about this information, please contact your provider and/or certified Herbalist!
This book is amazing, it really gives an anthropological look at the necessity of holding your baby, especially during the first year of life, in developing a healthy person.
Lots of information about what types of changes your newborn will go through during the first year, and what your practitioner is looking for developmentally.
If you find this information helpful, subscribe!
Also, please feel free to contact me at Trysta@integrativeherbalism or leave a comment if you have any questions about this topic! xo
Every person is more than simply the sum of their parts. We are complex beings, requiring not only physical health but also spiritual, emotional, psychological, nutritional and on and on. To only focus on one aspect is to forget the human experience–to forget the humanity.
Holism in every sense focuses on the entire person–entirely. Not only is it necessary to exercise regularly and eat a healthy diet, it is also important to maintain balanced relationships, to have an appropriate level of emotional attachment and reaction, to understand one’s own beliefs and perhaps have a connection to something besides oneself. All of these things integrate to assist in the process of being healthy and maintaining well being–perhaps once again finding equilibrium if we have lost it.
Integrative herbalism includes all of the aforementioned qualities as well as many more. Herbalism is generally described as either “Western,” or “Eastern,” or perhaps “Indigenous.” Integrating the many modalities allows one herb to have multiple dimensions to work with. One important component in understanding an herb would be the chemical constituents and another would be the energetic/vitalistic properties: both are equally as important and are integral actions/qualities of the herb necessary to assist the body.
Herbalism is also very nutritive in nature and includes a focus on the vitamins and minerals available in each herb. Food is one of the first lines of defense for a person and herbs are simply an extension.
Rather than dissecting the human body and attempting to go against our natural, physiological response, herbs work symbiotically in a synergistic manner with the biological processes. Human beings and animals have been utilizing herbs since the beginning of their co-existence: it just makes sense to continue with that knowledge.
Integrative, simply put, is not exclusive but rather, inclusive. It is not an attempt at turning one’s back on allopathic medicine altogether; there is a reason people live as long as they do in the West. The most important component of integrative healing is the empowerment one receives in the knowledge that the body can heal itself, and natural methods can assist this. It is also empowering to know and understand that there are many choices and approaches to well-being and that remedies such as antibiotics do not have to be the first line of defense: but they certainly can be if one so chooses.
Any information contained in this website is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose and/or treat any illness. If you have any concerns about this information, please contact your provider and/or certified Herbalist!
My boobs have had the adventure of a lifetime: breast feeding. That’s what they are there for, right? Not just fabulous ornaments to entice our partners and add a nice silhouette to your fashion ensemble. No, these boobs have been working hard-day in and out, all night and whenever little man had interest. My philosophy has been to follow his cues, feed him on demand and have no restriction to access… I have been a “D” machine (his loving little name for nursing).
![Reblog this post [with Zemanta]](http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=56367fb5-f262-4dec-8b84-d2d75660c9a6)
Loading ...![Reblog this post [with Zemanta]](http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=56103c89-a03c-4064-b656-beec059bdba3)
![Reblog this post [with Zemanta]](http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=8814e245-8f54-4750-8647-24ae34512335)
![Reblog this post [with Zemanta]](http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=1a74d25e-a588-424a-8582-bff650334b24)
![Reblog this post [with Zemanta]](http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=01dc6acb-8f5c-4f5e-950e-6407c977a5a0)
![Reblog this post [with Zemanta]](http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=912ac0cc-e028-4406-bf08-287a97d43fa8)
![Reblog this post [with Zemanta]](http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=49db6d20-4a5f-420e-ab7a-9c6bf5ffb6f4)
Recent Comments