Preventative Natural Medicine for RIGHT NOW: Supplements & Practices

3/21/2020

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In the previous blog post, we contemplated humanity's bigger picture lessons from the coronavirus, as humanity truly created this tragedy. We need to upgrade our collective relationship to nature and our collective holistic health—and fast.

But what can we do, right now—as individuals?

...Other than the essential hand washing, cleaning, and social distancing?

We can care for our health—like the world depends on it.

We are connected. Our health is connected. Never before in our lifetime has this been so apparent.

It's a critical time to for every member of society to cultivate a strong immune system to the best of our ability and practice physical distancing so as to not completely overwhelm our hospitals and precious healthcare professionals. Governor Newsom stated that, without the current social distancing protocol, up to 56% of California’s population, roughly 25.5 million residents could be infected with the novel coronavirus over an eight-week period. According to current statistics, about 20% of infected people are predicted to need hospitalization, and that equals 20,000 more patients than our system can currently handle in California. I suspect that it's not a matter of IF we will get exposed to this virus, but only WHEN. So let's be as ready, strong, and healthy as possible.

Preventative healthcare is also critical because hospitalization for an uninsured person can cost up to $35,000, according to a recent article in Time magazine.

We are in this together.

Even if you think you have a strong immune system, please think of the others who don't.

I consulted in depth with 5 amazing natural health experts (noted below) who have been closely following emerging information about the novel coronavirus and COVID-19.

Here, we offer a list of the natural supplements, teas, nutrition, and lifestyle practices that we ourselves are turning to for preventative healthcare.

It is essential to consider our well-known natural and alternative options, as Western medicine does not have much to offer in the way of preventative medical support for this unique and swiftly adapting virus—other than hand washing, cleaning, and distancing. Of course, Western medicine is essential once symptoms have become critical.

We are not making medical claims here. To reiterate, we are simply sharing what we are choosing to do.

The items and practices noted have been highlighted for their nourishing, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, protective, immunomodulatory, and/or general immune enhancing properties, including the upregulation of the endocannabinoid system.

Yes, there is a lot here. It is truly holistic in that all the items touch on different angles of preventative care—or several. We are not saying that one must get every item, but rather move intuitively and select a personalized list based on your unique needs. Consider the areas of general nourishment, cellular strength, antivirals, anti-inflammatories, and general immune support.

It is not possible to do a neat & tidy "prioritized" list, as we are all unique. Also, we don't want to risk people not knowing about potential alternatives—or useful items that might already be in their own pantry. Thus, it is a formidable list.

Select research links are below. This article is not meant to be completely exhaustive or academically perfect. Explanations around mechanisms of action are not generally provided here for each item. We need to get this info out ASAP for critical timing reasons. More, select offerings here come through traditional knowledge and intuitive ways of knowing.

This is NOT meant to be taken as medical advice or treatment protocols. If you feel sick, call your doctor or local hospital.

The public is being advised to CALL a medical professional to assess your need for care BEFORE going to the hospital.

BIG THANKS to the generous group of health and healing professionals that shared their wisdom for this article. Please reach out to them directly for information about their services and support, if contact info is noted:

Advanced herbalist, Alexandra Hudson
www.alchemistress.world

Devon Donkin, BSN, Registered Nurse

Ayurvedic practitioner, Janice Craig
www.janicecraig.com

Master Kambo practitioner, Steve Alexander Dumain
www.KamboRemedy.com
facebook.com/KamboRemedy/
IG @KamboRemedy

Raina Antle
Community peer based Lyme support coach
raina_antle@yahoo.com

Proceed with Grace.

There is no true health or healing without love.

In my understanding from 30 years of ceremony, lifelong plant medicine studies, and immersive ongoing healer's training in the Bwiti tradition, I offer this...

Just as important as taking the medicinal items and practices on this list is HOW we receive them: honor the spirit & intelligence in every medicine, ask for very specific help, listen closely for subtle guidance, and remain respectful to nature by taking only what we need.

CAUTION:

With all forms of medicine, especially when it comes to natural options, the ideal protocol can be as unique as the individual. People can respond very differently to these items, especially in the case of older people, those with autoimmune diseases, diabetes, other medical conditions, pregnant women, nursing mothers, or those taking pharmaceutical medications. This list takes into account the potential cytokine storm resulting from a hyper-reactive immune response that can occur with COVID-19, however each person will have different needs and there is still a lot to learn about this novel virus.

Please be empowered and do your due diligence; research potential interactions with your current medications or medical conditions (always)!

Consult with a naturopath, functional medicine doctor, or other trusted healthcare professional (who is educated about these options) when needed for special individual considerations.

To better understand the medical details of this unique virus from the perspective of a master herbalist, read this article and this addendum article by Stephen Harrod Buhner.

A NOTE ON INTUITIVE USAGE:

More is not always better. This is a difficult concept for many Americans. Too much of any of these can aggravate or shock the system rather than support. Also, it is generally wise practice to utilizing items in 2-4 week cycles, rather than continuous daily use.

Likewise, faster is not always better. It is important not to make too many sudden changes at once, to avoid an overwhelming cleansing reaction. Go slow. It's better to start with just a few items to study your responses carefully.

Listen deeply to your own intuition. This is a lost art in today's passive consumer model. Pay attention to your body's reactions.

Exercise, sunlight, nutrition, and gut health are also vital to good immunity. If you are eating fast food / junk food, candy, soda, smoking, and completely sedentary, then these suggestions won't be as helpful. Nourish yourself with love.

SACRED & SUSTAINABLE COMMERCE:

Purchase links are provided for those who cannot leave their homes or who are in high risk categories—and also to highlight brands we trust. Many artisan items are also available through reviewed independent sellers on Etsy.com. Amazon and Whole Foods are using this opportunity to demand that distributors give them privileges of stocking items first. We don't want Amazon or Whole Foods to put our favorite local stores out of business—nor do we want these huge corporations to have noxious amounts of political power. Please try to purchase these items via your local health food stores, independent healthcare practitioners, or reputable sellers on Etsy first to ensure a healthy and diverse economy.

If items are temporarily out of stock, just keep checking back, check with local stores, and consult with local natural health professionals for additional resources. Many items can be ordered in advance with a short wait time.

Last, these statements have not all been evaluated by the FDA. To add to that: It's hard to find corporations willing to spend millions for clinical trials on natural substances that can't be patented.

*These are generally best taken on a light stomach.

Superfood Algae:
Chlorella powder
Spirulina powder
Irish Moss *follow instructions for pre-soaking.
Blend between 1 teaspoon up to 1-2 tablespoons each (start low, increase incrementally) each in coconut water, juice, or smoothies. Many studies show that these and other algae superfoods have antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. They provide bioavailable protein, superlative nutrition, help replenish RNA/DNA. Chlorella is especially rich in nucleic acid which is necessary for cellular membrane strength, which can be a factor in resistance to viral infection. Nucleic acid generally decreases with age. The "Chlorella Growth Factor" strengthens immunity by improving the activity of T- and B- cells, which defends against viruses and other invading microorganisms.

Olive leaf extract
3-4 caps twice daily. Here is an alternate brand.

DoTerra's DDR Prime capsules
1-2 caps daily.

DoTerra's Rosemary essential oil
*If different brand, check for safety regarding internal use!
2-4 capsules (1-3 drops each capsule) 2 times a day in cycles of 7-10 days or as directed by your natural healthcare professional.

Camu Camu natural vitamin C powder
2-4 or more tablespoons throughout the day blended in smoothies, juices, or rose hip & hibiscus tea. Natural, whole food forms of vitamin C are preferable, and camu camu berries offer one of the most potent sources.

Vitamin C capsules, Vitamin C powder, & Liposomal Vitamin C
2000 - 5000 mg + daily for general health and extra protection. At first onset of symptoms, 2000 mg or more every 2 hours of the day when awake. Having multiple forms of vitamin C readily available is helpful. Liposomal vitamin C in particular is showing to have greater bioavailability (absorption, concentration, circulation, and time into the bloodstream and tissues). That said, we feel that it is important to regard supplements as an addition to natural whole food sources—and not a replacement for them. Here is an article that illuminates the difference between various forms of vitamin C.

High quality natural multivitamin
*Compressed tablet forms of vitamins can be hard on the digestive systems of many people and can be more difficult to assimilate. We have found the best results with capsule or liquid delivery form. This company in particular has served well.

Rhodiola

Zinc
Take as directed. Here is an alternate brand.

*For more in-depth information on Chinese herbal antiviral protocols, visit Stephen Buhner's article.

Astragalus tincture
As directed or add 2-3 dropper full to tea or warm water 1-2 x's a day.

Chinese Skullcap Root
As directed or add 2-3 dropper full to tea or warm water 1-2 x's a day.

Licorice root tincture
As directed or add 2-3 dropper full to tea or warm water 1-2 x's a day.

Cat's claw tincture
As directed or add 2-3 dropper full to tea or warm water 1-2 x's a day.

Sangre de Grado
3-8 drops in water, daily.

Turmeric extract

Colloidal Silver

Biodynamic hemp CBD from White Fox

Elder bark & leaf decoction
Elder bark & leaf are significantly stronger than elder berries for immune support. There has been some concern about elder and elder berries potentially causing cytokine storm (CRS); this has been contested in some research, however this is a unique virus and people may want to do independent research, consult a qualified herbalist about individual conditions, or stop usage at first onset of symptoms if there are any concerns.

Probiotics for good digestion and gut health, so we have the inner power to actually assimilate other supplements. Most probiotics are poor quality and create an imbalance via an over-abundance of some strains, due to corporate interest in cutting costs. The one linked here is one of the good brands that I know of, with a diverse blend of strains.

Organic Boswellia Extract (supplement quality frankincense resin)
1/2 teaspoon a day. For best potency, freshness, & affordability: pack capsules by hand or take as tea with warm (not hot) water and honey. At first onset of symptoms, 3-4 grams daily (approx. 3-4 teaspoons) throughout the day, or intuitively. Boswellia extract is an ancient Ayurvedic medicine. Currently, the immunomodulatory drug hydroxychloroquine / chloroquine is now on a medical intervention flow chart for the critical phase when lungs fill with mucous, yet we are also seeing overdoses from that drug when people are trying to self treat. Boswellia is a gentler natural substance showing similar immunomodulatory / anti-inflammatory properties that address cytokine regulation in research (more links in references below). *What we do not have is an exact dosage or conversion chart for these two medicines or clinical tests specifically for COVID-19, so this information is given with heavy disclaimers as an experimental approach for preventative care. PLEASE NOTE: Pre-made capsules Boswellia are generally stale and they are packed with fillers—in my experience.

Oregano essential oil
***The powerful anti-infectious function of oregano oil is most appropriate for early onset of concerning symptoms—not general preventative health for well people. 2-4 capsules (4-6 drops each capsule) 2-3 times a day for 7-10 days or as directed by your natural healthcare professional. Practice extra caution with pregnant or nursing mothers. Supplement with quality probiotics between use.

***Goldenseal root caps or powder
The powerful anti-infectious function of Goldenseal is most appropriate for early onset of concerning symptoms—not general preventative health for well people. For best potency, freshness, & affordability: pack capsules by hand or take as tea with warm water. At first onset of symptoms, 2-4 capsules (or 1-2 grams) 2-3 times a day for 7-10 days or as directed by your natural healthcare professional. Practice extra caution with potential medication interactions, select medical conditions, pregnancy, and nursing. Goldenseal is endangered (and very strong); use sparingly. Do not take for cycles more than 2 weeks.

Cordyceps extract powder + Chaga extract powder
Blend 1 teaspoon each in teas, coffee, or plain warm water. Add nut milk and local honey or your preferred low glycemic natural sweetener to taste, if desired.

Ginger powder + turmeric powder = Ayurvedic "Golden Milk"
Blend 1 teaspoon each in warm water. Add nut milk and local honey or your preferred low glycemic natural sweetener to taste, if desired. Add nut milk, cinnamon, clove, & black pepper if possible; these all enhance the medicinal properties.

Rose hips + Hibiscus
1/8 - 1/4 cup, steep at least 20 minutes—or even better, make a stronger herbal infusion by steeping overnight—in a french press. These are powerful natural sources of vitamin c.

Cat's claw + Pau d'Arco (inner bark for both)
1/8 - 1/4 cup, steep at least 20 minutes—or even better, make a stronger herbal infusion by steeping overnight—in a french press.

*Choose all organic when possible.

Wash hands often with natural, non-irritating soap that features real essential oils such as those made by Dr. Bronners or DoTerra.

Warm water with a pinch of sea salt & lemon first thing every morning.

Stay hydrated—and add a dropper full liquid minerals to your water; this makes it taste delicious like spring water. This also help thin out mucous.

Cold pressed raw olive oil drizzled on your food

GARLIC - fresh or lightly heated in good oil

GINGER

Fresh fruits - with high in Vitamin C like oranges, kiwis, kumquats

Fresh veggies - especially dark greens

Fermented foods like kimchee, sour kraut, miso for probiotics

Organic whole foods as much as possible. Ayurvedic kitchari or congee stews are highly nutritious, easily digestible (for most), satisfying, and dirt cheap to make.

Oregano & thyme in soups / salads

Cinnamon, Clove, & Black Pepper

For friends with a sweet tooth: Look for or create desserts without white sugar, gluten, milk products, artificial ingredients, or corn syrup. We love creations by Bhu Keto, Evolved, & Hu Kitchen.

***Avoid dairy, sugar, excess meat and eggs, fast food / junk food, highly processed foods, gluten (for most people), and GMOs.

Wash hands often and especially after being outside with natural, non-irritating soap containing real, antiseptic essential oils such as those made by Dr. Bronners or DoTerra.

Shower after being outside.

Don't touch your face or eyes—or wash hands thoroughly first.

Sacred cleaning! Let’s stay clean and hygienic, but more Clorox is not what our earth (or body) needs. Make easy, cheap, aromatherapeutic, and more environmentally friendly household cleaning spray with 60-70%+ rubbing alcohol, water, & essential oils of your choice.

Neti Pot nasal wash once daily or after being outside. Viral particles can enter through the nose. Add tiny pinch of sea salt. This practice helps to clear nasal passages of viral particles. Learn how to do this easy, simple practice on YouTube.

Gargle with 3-4 drops On Guard or Zendocrine essential oil blends or other blends designated for internal use for 20 seconds twice a day or after being outside. Viral particles can enter through the mouth and throat. If essential oils are not available, use a 1/2 teaspoon salt or 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar.

Abhyanga Ayurvedic self massage with my favorite Youthing Strategies Ayurvedic oils. These oils are antibacterial for common skin pathogens, antiviral, antifungal, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. Add organic essential oils to your preferred intensity such as geranium, frankincense, and sandalwood for added antibacterial and medicinal effects.

Kambo medicine is a powerfully cleansing ancient Amazonian medicine with antiviral properties among many other health benefits, according to indigenous perspectives and emerging studies. Master kambo practitioner Steve Alexander Dumain is available for healing sessions in the Bay Area—and he can refer people to good practitioners in other areas. Advanced kambo practitioner Maria Teresa Chavez is available for healing sessions in the LA area. Both practitioners are following special distancing and sanitary safety protocol especially for coronavirus

Rape' (pronounced "happhay") is an ancient, traditional Amazonian tobacco snuff medicine with antiseptic and antiviral properties. Viral particles can enter through the nose and nasal passages. This sacred medicine should be used sparingly and with respect. Contact Kambo practitioner Steve Alexander Dumain for more information, instructions, and related application tools.

Essential oil diffusers (non-heating) using real, organic, food grade essential oils such as DoTerra's Purify blend, Breath blend, melaleuca, or lavender may help clear viral particles and mold spores.

CHILLAX. EXERCISE. GET FRESH AIR. MAKE ART. Stress can lower immunity!

Marin Yoga teacher Jill Townsend is offering by-donation online pilates & yoga classes DAILY. It's great to feel the communal energy via the group platform in while practicing social distancing: linktr.ee/Jilltownsendyoga

Take care to get good sleep. Put that phone and computer down a couple hours before bed. Blue light disrupts melatonin production.

In the case of heavy mucous, we can turn to traditional practices to help break up phlegm and get the lungs clear in the case of pneumonia. This article discusses processes like making chest packs and steaming, and gives a great overview of COVID-19 and how to work with the virus in a healthy way.

And yes, sensuality is medicine. Sustainable and healthy forms of sensual pleasure can swiftly drop stress hormones and seriously boost immunity. Take advantage of downtime to consult with embodiment and pleasure coaches such as Tara Somers, Mirima Elyse, and Jena La Flamme.

BE WELL, beloveds. One for all and all for one. I hope this brings you some support. Please share this community offering as inspired. Sharing buttons are below the references.

All my LOVE,
E. Bast

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