The naturopathic approach to PCOS is quite different.  We look into your whole health history to find out what may have lead to this imbalance in the first place.

Approximately 5-10% of women ages 18-44 years old are affected by PCOS.  Because the criteria that are used to diagnose PCOS are still changing, the exact number is unknown and difficult to estimate.

What is PCOS?

PCOS involves an excess of androgens (what we know as male hormones: testosterone, DHEA), menstrual irregularity, and cystic ovaries.

What are the criteria to diagnose PCOS?

To be diagnosed with PCOS, a woman must present with two out of the three Rotterdam criteria:

• Oligo or anovulation (irregular menstrual cycles)
• Hyperandrogenism (clinical and/or biochemical)
• Polycystic Ovaries (on ultrasound)

What are the signs and symptoms of PCOS?

• Menstrual Irregularity:

• • Delayed onset of first menstrual cycle
  • Infrequent or absent menstrual cycles
  • Infertility (lack of ovulation)

• Hyperandrogenism:
  • Acne
  • Hirsutism (excess coarse male pattern body hair growth – common on the upper lip, chin, chest, and below the belly button)
  • Thinning hair
  • Skin tags, patches of skin that appear dark brown/black
  • Elevated testosterone and DHEA

• Metabolic Issues:
  • Weight gain (40-85% of women with PCOS are overweight or obese)
  • Sleep Apnea (short periods where breathing stops while sleeping)
  • Insulin resistance (blood sugar imbalance)

• Mood dysregulation:
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Eating disorders

Women with PCOS are at Increased Risk for:  

• Metabolic Syndrome
• Type II Diabetes
• Obesity
• Heart Disease and High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Mood disorders
• Endometrial hyperplasia and endometrial cancer

What causes PCOS?

Currently, the exact cause of PCOS is unknown; this is due to the fact that there are a number of factors that contribute to the development of PCOS.  Genetics do play a role, you have a greater chance of developing PCOS if your mother or sister have it. Excess inflammation, body weight and insulin/blood sugar imbalances also contribute to PCOS.

How is PCOS treated?

There are a number of medications often prescribed to treat the symptoms of PCOS.  These may include birth control pills to regulate your menstrual cycle, spironolactone for the excess hair growth, metformin for blood sugar balance, and/or clomid to induce ovulation.  These are all symptomatic treatments, that do not exactly get to the root cause of the issue.

Naturopathic Approach to PCOS

The naturopathic approach to PCOS is quite different.  We look into your whole health history to find out what may have lead to this imbalance in the first place. We will review what lifestyle factors and stresses may be obstacles to your healing. Lab work and imaging will also be reviewed to guide us in re-balancing the endocrine system.  Treatment will include education around lifestyle and dietary changes that can support your body.  And we may use tools including herbs, homeopathy, vitamins, and supplements to regulate your hormones, blood sugar, and mood naturally.

Below are just some of the many options and treatments that may be used in the natural treatment of PCOS.  Naturopathic treatment plans are always individualized and are unique to each patient. Reminder: we are treating the person not the disease.

Types of therapies may include:

• Diet and Lifestyle Support:

• • Dietary assessment and adjustment to focus on whole food diet with adequate protein, vegetables, and healthy fats to balance blood sugars, lower cholesterol and modulate weight.
  • Loss of 5% of body weight has been shown to decrease symptoms associated with PCOS.

• Herbal Support:

• • Liver supporting herbs such as milk thistle, white peony, or dandelion root may be used to aid the liver in metabolizing and regulating hormone balance.
  • Hormone modulators like chaste tree or saw palmetto may be used to decrease testosterone and balance female hormones.
  • Adaptogens like eleuthroccocus and licorice may be used to buffer your stress response and decrease the impact extra cortisol (the stress hormone) has on blood sugar.

• Vitamin, Mineral & Nutrient Support:

• • B vitamins are important in all biochemical reactions in the body, they are involved in hormonal metabolism and they feed the adrenal glands (the stress managing gland).
  • Mineral support including magnesium, zinc, chromium and other trace minerals. These minerals play a number of roles in the body, from blood sugar and hormone balance, to proper heart and brain function.
  • Omega 3 Essential Fatty Acids are anti-inflammatory and play an important role in hormone production and modulation of cholesterol.

Resources and References:

Epidemiology and pathogenesis of the polycystic ovary syndrome in adults

PCOS Awareness Association

NIH PCOS Overview

Disclaimer: This advice is for informational purposes only. It is not meant to replace a consultation with your health care provider.  Your naturopathic doctor will choose individualized therapies that are most appropriate for you and for your current needs.  

The supplement industry in the United States is one of the fastest growing in the world. This can make buying supplements more complicated than we would like.

Here are the top ten tips to for buying high quality supplements that help you out:

1. Make sure the front and back labels match. Seems incredibly simple, and yet can be easily overlooked. You will come across supplements on occasion where the information on the front says something quite different from what is on the back. Don’t get caught with something you didn’t intend to buy!
2. Keep the ‘other ingredients’ listed on the label to a minimum. Limit the amount of artificial flavors, artificial colorings, preservatives, and additives in your supplement to ensure you’re getting the maximum benefit of the herb.
3. Check for allergens. Read all the ingredients to be sure something wasn’t added that your body might not agree with. Better supplement labels will provide specific allergens that are absent from the item. For example, “This product contains no soy, no dairy, no gluten.”
4. Note the expiration date on the container to be sure you’re not being sold an ineffective supplement. The lot number and manufacturing or expiration date should be clearly visible on the container. If a supplement is lacking this information, you’ll want to steer clear. Without it, there’s no way to ensure quality control.
5. Read the directions and dosage. Find out how much you’re getting per serving to determine the best deal on the shelf. Believe it or not, it is not required for directions to be on supplements. So it’s better to stick to the ones with them, as they ensure better safety than those that don’t.
6. Be sure the manufacturer’s aren’t padding the label with ‘fluff’ you don’t need: ingredients that serve no therapeutic purpose, proprietary blends that disguise the exact quantity of the supplements used, and using differing units of measurement to make the supplement seem stronger than they are.
7. Understand the herb you’re seeking, to know its proper usage and how it is best utilized for a supplement. Supplements can come as teas, tinctures, or capsules. some use just the root or leaves, while others use the whole plant. Know the best form for your herb before you buy.
8. Figure out if any of the information on the supplement label is misleading or even false. Any supplement that claims to cure an ailment is unacceptable. 20% of supplements were providing false claims about their products in 2012. Don’t get suckered in by a catchy phrase if you know it’s not true.
9. Know what the FDA accepts regarding herbal supplement labels. The following are three basic types of claims that are legally permitted on a supplement bottle:With these ten tips, you’ll ensure you enjoy a more effective supplement experience.

1. 1. Nutrient content claims to characterize the level of vitamins and minerals in the product (eg, “a good source of Vitamin C,” or “high in antioxidants”)
   2. Structure/function claims to describe the basic benefits of the product on a particular structure or function in the body (eg, “helps support healthy joints,” “maintain strong bones”)
   3. FDA-approved health claims or qualified health claims that describe the relationship between a substance and reduced risk of a disease (such as calcium and vitamin D in relation to osteoporosis).
      Source: Council for Responsible Nutrition (“Roadmap for Retailers: Safely Navigating What You Say About Dietary Supplements

     10. ”Ask your naturopathic doctor! An ND will be able to guide you in the best direction for all your herbal supplement needs.

If you prefer the guidance of a medical practitioner, contact our office at (804) 977-2634 to learn how we use supplements to support you on your journey to good health.

About the Author:

Richmond Native and Naturopathic Dr. Leah Hollon is the Co-Owner of Richmond Natural Medicine. She received her B.S. and MPH from Virginia Commonwealth University. She is a graduate of National College of Natural Medicine where she received her Naturopathic Medical Degree. Her areas of focus include Autoimmune, Hormones, MTHFR Gene Mutation and Naturopathic Cancer Support. Please check our Book An Appointment for more information about booking an appointment.

Sneezing, itchy, watery eyes, nasal congestion and sore throat – all signs and symptoms of having allergies – can make it difficult to enjoy the lovely Fall season. 

Allergies are essentially a reactive and unbalanced immune system which, sensing an “invader,” goes to town trying to destroy it.

The reason we end up with allergy symptoms like running nose and itchy, watery eyes, is usually due to high levels of histamine in the body. (Histamine is released from immune cells who are trying to protect the body from foreign invaders). One thing we can do is “stabilize” these immune cells so they are not so quick to release said histamine. In addition, we can work to balance the immune system as a whole, so the body is less reactive and more able to tolerate exposures without having a negative response.

For those of you suffering with seasonal allergies, here are some tips you can incorporate into your routine to help offer allergy relief.

External Environment:

Keep your living and sleeping space as “allergy-friendly” as possible. Look at your bedroom as an “oasis” from allergens, noise, distractions, electronics, etc. – consider it a peaceful room for relaxation and recovery, so you can do just that while you’re sleeping.  Use an air filter in your home, especially the bedroom. Electrostatic filters can be used in heating/cooling systems to remove dust from the air and stand-alone filters with a HEPA filter are also a great option. Make sure to clean ducts and replace filters regularly.  Use a HEPA vacuum cleaner to better trap and remove dust and other particles.

Reduce wall hangings, rugs and clutter as all will increase the amount of dust and allergen build-up. Wood or tile floors seem to work better.  Change pillowcases and bed sheets frequently to cut down on dust mites.  Shower and change your clothes after you get home for the day to remove pollen and other allergens from your skin and hair.

If you have pets, consider whether or not you are reacting to their dander and act accordingly. If you know you are reactive but are committed to your pets – try to at least keep them out of your bedroom and off the bed. (Again, think of the bedroom as a sanctuary and aim to get 8 hours of quality sleep in that environment to allow your immune system time to recover).

Keep humidity levels around 50% to reduce the growth of dust mites and mold. A dehumidifier and/or humidifier may be necessary, depending where you live.

Internal Environment:

Avoid food sensitivities in order to reduce inflammation and allow your system to calm. Some common aggravating foods when it comes to allergic rhinitis include dairy, wheat, chocolate, egg, soy, citrus, peanut, pork, trans-fats and chemical additives. Aim to eat whole, fresh foods like organic produce and high quality protein and fats. Make sure you stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water as well.

Bioflavonoids, such as quercitin, are the compounds that give fruits and vegetables their rich colors. They act as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds in the body, helping to both mitigate damage from chronic inflammation but also preventing further inflammation. Quercitin also works as a stabilizer of cells that release histamine (i.e. it can reduce histamine release in the body), so it is particularly helpful with allergic conditions. Quercitin-rich foods include: onions, apples, citrus fruit, green tea, parsley, sage, grapes, dark berries (blueberry, blackberry) and dark cherries. You can also supplement with quercitin – usually 1500mg/day for adults is adequate.

Omega 3 fats help reduce inflammation and soothe mucous membranes – this includes fish, nuts (walnuts, almonds), seeds (flax, pumpkin) and olive oil. You can also supplement with EFAs in the form of Cod Liver Oil or Fish Oil. Make sure to get high-quality oils!

Fermented foods supply important beneficial bacteria which can help improve gut health and therefore reduce inflammation and calm the immune system. Foods to consider would be sauerkraut, kimchi, kefir and pickled veggies. It’s important to note that through the process of fermentation, these foods will also be naturally high in histamine, so some folks may find they cannot tolerate them. In that case, I would recommend supplementing with a probiotic for a period of time to balance gut flora.

Herbs are a wonderful addition to any allergy regime, as they often have a multitude of positive effects, such as toning and balancing the immune system, reducing inflammation and improving resistance. Some common herbs used for allergies include nettles, eyebright, khella, thyme, butterbur, feverfew, ginkgo, curcumin and yarrow.  Your Naturopathic Doctor or herbalist can custom-blend a formula for you, depending on your particular symptoms, triggers, etc.

Supplements such as Vitamin C and Vitamin E and minerals like calcium and magnesium can also be helpful during allergy season. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and improves immune function.

Moderate exercise helps improve peripheral blood flow and lowers inflammation.  30 minutes, most days of the week is recommended. Plan to head outside at times/days when airborne allergen counts, like pollen, are on the lower end.

Additional support can often be found through homeopathic medicines and acupuncture, so consider these therapies as well.

A Note On Prevention:

Prevention is one of the foundational principles of Naturopathic Medicine. Consider taking local honey and/or a good amount of the herb nettles (as a tea or freeze-dried in capsules) during problem months, or for at least 1 month prior to allergy season to prevent or reduce onset of allergic symptoms.

Fall is a beautiful time of year and we happy to support you to ensure you are able to enjoy it.  To book an appointment with one of practitioners, contact our office at (804) 977-2634.

One of the greatest contributors of dis-ease and illness in today’s culture is a misalignment of ones circadian rhythm, resulting in inappropriate hormonal secretions, particularly human growth hormone, cortisol and melatonin, and significant imbalances in nocturnal sleep patterns.

Every single organism on the planet, from the most advanced homo sapiens right down to the simplest algae, has an intricate system of internal clockwork that establishes our hourly, daily, monthly and seasonal rhythms. This is called our Circadian Rhythm and without it we would quite literally be an out of control hormonal mess. Without this rhythmic control, hormones would run unregulated, our growth and development would be entirely askew, and our sleep patterns would be impossible to entrain.

Disruption of circadian rhythm:

I’m sure you’ve noticed that when you fly into another time zone (say from New York to California, or from Oklahoma to Australia), it takes several days to get into the sleep/wake cycle of your new destination. This is because our bodies have a strongly engrained rhythm (a 24 hour cycle) that will function inherently for several days before adjusting to this new rhythm. This circadian rhythm knows when to go to sleep at night, when to wake up in the morning, when to expect food, and most importantly when to perform essential endocrine functions. These endocrine functions include secreting Growth Hormone for our development and releasing melatonin and cortisol for sustainable sleep and regulated energy during the day. However, once we disrupt our circadian rhythm over and over again with lack of sleep, shift/night work, inconsistent eating times or high stress lifestyles (taxing on your cortisol production) and most detrimentally disconnecting from the outside world, all kinds of dis-eases arise.

Human beings are the only species on the planet that intentionally disrupt their sleep and circadian rhythm patterns on a daily basis. In today’s society we are obliged to be up and available at all hours of the day or night, with businesses functioning in 24 hour shifts, air and train travel available at all hours, and shift workers on hand to keep this busy society running. With the direct correlation of essential hormone secretion to a set circadian rhythm, what does one lose physiologically once this disconnect from the natural world is thrust upon our rhythms? When we no longer perceive sunrise or sunset in our walled in environments or we push our chronobiological limits past their natural timers, we become acutely disjointed in the way our body perceives the world and pathologies arise in the arena of global health. When the circadian system is disrupted, it is observed that a variety of health pathologies emerge, including sleep disorders, depression, glucose dysregulation, metabolic imbalance and obesity. Keeping the rhythm in tune involves maintaining the delicate balance of signaling pathways, hormones and appropriate environmental cues.

Restoring your body’s natural circadian rhythm:

Balancing the outside environmental signals (sunrise, sunset, seasonal changes, moon cycles etc) with internal biological signals (rising melatonin at night, rising cortisol levels in the morning, etc) is imperative in order to regain control of the body’s natural circadian rhythm. This is not an overnight alignment, but a process of realigning the body to function with the natural rhythms of the world, and requires significant changes to ones lifestyle for optimal results.

It has long been determined that herbal therapies provide tremendous support to the body during stages of transition, and a key understanding to an herbal approach is the appropriate timing of dosing to suit the specific chronobiology of an individual. Herbs may be used to support ones natural circadian rhythm by helping to promote sustained sleep with a downstream effect of enhanced melatonin or growth hormone secretion.  They may also be useful in helping the body to adapt to stress, with a downstream effect of supporting the natural rhythm of cortisol secretion from the adrenals. The desired pharmacological effects of herbs may only be biologically appropriate at specific times of the day or night depending on how the circadian cycle presents in the individual.

Lifestyle suggestions:

1.    Dim/turn down your lights 30 minutes before bedtime so your body has a chance to perceive darkness and prepare for melatonin release.

2.   Turn off the TV, computer or stimulating lights 30 minutes before bed. We all know this is a major contributor to poor sleep – make sure to do this!

3.   If waking up in the morning while it’s still dark outside, keep a dim lamp or salt lamp by your bed, Turn this on right when you wake up to perceive a “sunrise” so your cortisol can have some hints to start rising.

4.   Eat at the same time every single morning. The body expects food at certain times, and keeping meal time consistent (especially breakfast) helps the circadian rhythm all around.

5.   Enjoy the seasons and be outside. Our bodies are intimately intwined with the changing seasons, and connecting to the gradual changes will help the body gradually change also.

References:

Anders, T. (1982) Biological rhythms in development. Psychosomatic Medicine, 44 (1), 61-71.

Morris, C., Aeschbach, D., & Scheer, F. (2012). Circadian system, sleep and endocrinology.    Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology, 349 (1), 91-104.

Kascoh, B. (2000) The pineal gland and biological rhythms: Endocrine physiology. New       York, New York: McGraw Hill.

If you are struggling to get quality, restful sleep, please contact our office at (804) 977-2634 to learn how the practitioners at Richmond Natural Medicine can support you.

Obsessive compulsive disorder encompasses far more than a desire to have things in a particular order, wash your hands or be tidy. The “D” (disorder) in “O-C-D” is what defines this as an often debilitating condition.

“I’m so OCD about that” is becoming an increasingly popular phrase in which individuals are referring to their quirks, pet peeves and preferences as “their OCD.” While more than likely an innocent misuse of the term, referring to your alphabetical DVD collection or the way you prefer your laundry be folded as “your OCD” grossly misrepresents the seriousness of true obsessive compulsive disorder.  Individuals with OCD experience recurrent thoughts and/or actions that they can’t let go of or stop; even if they’re aware they are excessive or irrational. These obsessions and compulsions cause significant distress and can take up a large portion of the sufferer’s day, interfering with common daily responsibilities and functioning.

Obsessions and compulsions can present themselves in a variety of ways (see below) and may even go undetected by family, friends, and medical personnel for years due to the secret nature and drastic attempts of the sufferer to hide them out of fear, shame or embarrassment.

Common Misperceptions:

1. Everyone with OCD frequently washes their hands and cleans their house

False.

While hand washing, bathing and other cleaning rituals are common among OCD sufferers, (generally performed in response to exaggerated contamination fears), these are only a handful of the many common compulsions associated with OCD.

Examples of other common obsessions include:

• Fear of losing control
• Fear of harming someone
• Fear that something will happen
• Fear of forgetting or losing something
• Preoccupation with minute details and exactness

Compulsions that may be performed in response to these obsessions include:

• Repeatedly checking that nothing awful has happened
• Repeatedly checking that you didn’t harm someone or act “out of character”
• Continuously asking for reassurance
• Hoarding to be sure you do not dispose of something you might need at a later date
• Repeating activities to make sure you didn’t make a mistake such as recounting or rewriting
• Repeating certain tasks until they are done a “safe” number of times or until they “feel right”

2. If I don’t have clearly observable compulsions I don’t have OCD

False.

In addition to observable compulsions such as those listed above, a common yet less discussed form of compulsion is a mental compulsion. Some patients struggle with “Pure O” OCD, where they experience continuous doubting or “what-if’s”. They may also experience unwanted thoughts, impulses or mental images that are frequently violent, sexual, blasphemous or unethical in nature. These are particularly terrifying and distressing as they directly oppose the person’s morals or values, leaving them feeling confused and guilty. The individual may ruminate on these thoughts trying to make sense of them. They may continuously replay positive thoughts in their mind designed to counteract the negative ones, silently repeat ritualistic sayings or prayers to ensure they don’t act upon these thoughts or impulses, and often will avoid situations that may trigger these thoughts. For example, a person with OCD afraid of harming someone may avoid the use of knives in the kitchen. Someone who fears molesting a child may avoid situations where children are likely to be present.

3. OCD will go away as I get older without receiving treatment

False.

In general, OCD begins in childhood and worsens with age. Obsessions cause anxiety levels to rise. Acting on compulsions serves to decrease this level of anxiety, bringing temporary relief and reinforcing the compulsion. The problem is that this decline in anxiety is short-lived and once the obsession resurfaces, maybe seconds or days later, the compulsion must be carried out once more to decrease the anxiety. Over time this obsession and compulsion cycle becomes a deeply ingrained part of the daily routine, making it more difficult to identify and break.

4. I’ve tried medication and therapy without much improvement. I can’t be helped

False.

Roughly 40-60% of individuals do not respond to pharmacological management of OCD (often treated with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors [SSRIs]). According to Stanford University School of Medicine, of those who do respond to treatment, only about half report a significant reduction of their symptoms.

“Exposure and Response Prevention” (ERP), a type of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, has high potential to be a helpful treatment option, however several factors influence how successful the therapy actually is. ERP requires that individuals confront their worst fears and endure the associated anxiety. Since this is often too difficult, many people discontinue treatment.

OCD is a complex condition and one that often takes a multi-disciplinary approach to deal with but there is hope, there is help, there are other ways to live.  If you or someone you love is seeking naturopathic support for OCD, please contact our office at (804) 977-2634.

by Lindsay Kluge, Clinical Herbalist & Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist

Herbal medicine is an incredibly complex discipline, often requiring years of academic and clinical training.  Here is what to consider when choosing the right herbal practitioner for you and your needs.

Over the past several years, I have talked to hundreds of people who are interested in taking herbal medicines and even working with an herbalist, however, they have a strong hesitation for three big reasons:

1. There just aren’t many herbalists (if any at all) in their area;
2. There are absolutely no regulations about who can call themselves herbalists. The general public has no idea who to trust and who is reputable because there is no licensing, no national testing, and no uniform academic training. This is obviously a valid concern. I wouldn’t want to go and see a medical practitioner that has had minimal training and clinical experience, and;
3. Their doctors discourage using herbal medicines and put fear into patients about seeing alternative practitioners because the doctors are not trained (and have not studied the “evidence”) in herbal medicines themselves. It is simply not included in most medical programs.

This is the dilemma with practicing as an herbalist in America, and the major obstacle of choosing an herbal practitioner. Herbal Medicine is an incredibly complex discipline, often requiring years of academic and clinical training.

After a few years in the field, here is my honest answer about choosing an herbal practitioner that’s right for you and determining their level of skill:

1. Herbal medicine is inherently a folk traditional profession. It is grounded in grass-roots practice on a community level, with an emphasis on using what is local, using simple remedies and treating the whole person (not just symptoms). This is what ANY budding herbalist is taught, and what any program will teach us. This is herbal medicine on a small, community-scale and excellent for those who rarely travel, live in outlying rural areas and have access to surrounding botanicals. Herbalists in these communities are quite often second, third, fourth (and beyond) generation herbalists who have learned from their families and passed the tradition along, using their knowledge of what has worked in the past with success.

2. Several community herbal medicine schools have popped up throughout the country which provides people with local programs to study herbal medicine. These can range from weekend workshops to even a year-long (or more). Unfortunately, none of these are accredited and do not provide a recognized degree for these students to utilize. These community schools range quite a bit in their academic training, from shamanistic to very clinical and, quite often, are led by highly skilled and highly trained herbalists. Students coming out of these programs are often well trained on the therapeutic potential of plants and are an excellent resource for the general public in choosing between several herbal remedies. Some excellent schools include: Sacred Plant Traditions in Charlottesville, VA; The Blue Ridge School of Herbal Medicine in Weaverville, NC; The North East School of Botanical Medicine in Ithica, NY; The California School of Herbal Studies in Forestville, CA; and the North American Institute for Medical Herbalism in Portland, OR.

3. With today’s demand for highly clinical and scientifically validated medical information, herbal medicine programs are few and far between. The Maryland University of Integrative Health offers a 3 year, accredited Masters level degree program for Herbal Medicine that is heavily based in physiology, pathophysiology and also the traditional and scientific study of herbal medicine. From my experience, this is the most clinical program I have found that bridges the gap between modern western medicine and traditional herbal medicine. Herbalists who graduate from this program are often the best option for more complex medical issues and source their herbs from wider (sometimes global) sources including Ayurvedic, Western and occasionally even Chinese medicines. They are often able to communicate more effectively with your doctors and medical providers which can ease the tension between modern medicine and “alternative” medicine when we all speak the same language.

*Note, all of the above programs are specific to Western Herbal medicine, not Traditional Chinese Medicine.

As you can see, there is a huge range of options when choosing an herbalist, and no one training is better or worse than another. I have friends who have studied in some community herbal medicine schools that are amazing and highly skilled herbalists who I would not hesitate to see myself or refer a patient to see. I also know herbalists who have incredible academic training in even the most complex pathophysiologies and cancers who mainly utilize herbal medicines and nutritional therapies, sometimes in conjunction with modern medicines and pharmaceuticals.

In order to license any profession, there must be an overseeing, governing body of people who decide what is important to study and what is not in order to make the academic training uniform. The very unique thing about herbal medicine is that there are thousands of years and hundreds of beneficial ways to practice, each with their distinctive positive qualities. With universal licensing, some of these fields would be excluded, which in my opinion, would be a detriment to the field of herbal medicine.

The most important thing to consider when choosing an herbalist is that you feel comfortable with their level of training and ask them plenty of questions. Check out where they have studied and even get a second opinion. Herbs are also drugs and certainly have strong effects within the body.

It’s incredibly important to trust your herbalist, and also do some research yourself to ask informed questions. For further clarification, check out some Frequently Asked Questions about herbal medicine.

Trouble Sleeping? RNM’s sleep expert, Lindsay Kluge, can help you explore your sleep habits and improve your sleep quality.

Here at RNM, it’s not uncommon for most people to mention sleep troubles as part of their overall health picture. Sometime’s a bad night’s sleep is just an occasional thing, and other times it’s a chronic, on-going issue that may (probably) be contributing to their larger health concerns. Although each practitioner here has a slightly different approach to working with sleep imbalances, there are some foundational lifestyle factors that we all look into and address when sleep becomes an issue.

Here are five questions we may ask you (and how we go about addressing each one) in order to achieve a better night’s sleep:

1. What is your sleep routine?

Winding down at night is one of the most important factors to establish and support your circadian rhythm. Taking about 45 minutes to relax, calm down, and dim the lights can be hugely beneficial to get your hormones balanced for a more restful night’s sleep.

2. What is your morning routine?

Just like your nighttime routine contributes to helping you fall asleep, your circadian rhythm also needs support first thing in the morning. If you wake to an alarm before the sun comes up, your body needs that perception of light to trigger your hormones to actually get you out of bed. Try using a natural sun light alarm clock, or turn on a dim light first thing in the morning to nudge your body into daytime, slowly (like sunrise).

3. How is your energy in the morning and throughout the day?

If you’re severely lacking energy for an hour (or more) in the morning, there may be inadequate cortisol output in the morning when cortisol should be at it’s highest point. Cortisol also maintains our energy throughout the day, so if you lack energy all day, or at certain points during the day, it may be an indicator that your circadian rhythm is imbalanced due to hormone insufficiency.

4. Do you take naps in the afternoon?

Taking a 10 minutes cat nap is all fine and well, however if you feel the urge (or the necessity) to take a 1-2 hour nap every day, this can also confuse your circadian rhythm and make it more difficult for you to fall asleep, and stay asleep through the night. Again, this points to a potential cortisol imbalance.

5. What is your eating schedule?

Just as sunlight/darkness are triggers to maintain your circadian rhythm, food is another excellent way for your body to predict routine and energy every single day. Eating breakfast at the same time (or at least within the same hour) every morning is helpful for your body to sustain energy throughout the rest of the day, and help your cortisol levels peak at their most beneficial time.

It is always more complex than just taking a pill to solve a sleep problem. Lifestyle, stress, daily routines, and even some foods or drugs may be contributing to sleep troubles. Start to develop a sense of your own sleep habits and ask yourself some of these questions to see where you could use the most support or make changes.

The practitioners here at Richmond Natural Medicine can help you get to the bottom of solving almost any sleep imbalance.  If you are having trouble sleeping and are ready to make the changes for a better night’s sleep, contact our office at (804) 977-2634 or click here to schedule an appointment.

What is Functional Medicine and how does it differ from Naturopathic medicine? Below is a review of the similarities and differences between Functional Medicine and Naturopathic Medicine.

What is Functional Medicine?

Functional Medicine addresses the underlying causes of disease, using a systems-oriented approach and engaging both patient and practitioner in a therapeutic partnership. By shifting the traditional disease-centered focus of medical practice to a more patient-centered approach, Functional Medicine addresses the whole person, not just an isolated set of symptoms. ¹

The Seven basic principles are underlying Functional Medicine:

1. Science-based medicine that connects the emerging research base to clinical practice
2. Biochemical individuality based on genetic and environmental uniqueness
3. Patient-centered care rather than disease-focused treatment
4. Dynamic balance of internal and external factors that affect total functioning
5. Web-like interconnections among the body’s physiological processes also affect every aspect of functionality
6. Health as a positive vitality, not merely the absence of disease
7. Promotion of organ reserve as a means to enhance the health span

How was Functional Medicine developed?

Dr. Jeffery Bland and his wife established the Institute of Functional Medicine in 1991.  Dr. Bland is a nutritional biochemist and registered clinical laboratory director.  He is a former professor of biochemistry at the University of Puget Sound, and a former Director of Nutritional Research at the Linus Pauling Institute of Science and Medicine. He was the first member of the Board of Trustees of Bastyr University, the first federally accredited university in the United States offering graduate and undergraduate degrees in natural medicine, and contributed significantly to its founding and accreditation.  ²

Dr. Bland was involved with Bastyr University, one of the accredited Naturopathic Medical Schools in Seattle, Washington before the development of functional medicine.  It is also known that the Institute of Functional Medicine has many Naturopathic Doctors on their staff holding positions such as educators, curriculum creation, and even on the board of directors.³

What is Naturopathic Medicine?

Naturopathic medicine is a distinct system of primary health care that emphasizes prevention and the self-healing process through the use of natural therapies. Naturopathic doctors (NDs) blend centuries-old knowledge and a philosophy that nature is the most effective healer with current research on health and human systems.

Naturopathic diagnosis focuses on identifying the underlying causes of disease, while naturopathic therapies are supported by research drawn from peer-reviewed journals from many disciplines, including naturopathic medicine, conventional medicine, European complementary medicine, clinical nutrition, phytotherapy, pharmacognosy, homeopathy, psychology, and spirituality.

The therapeutic modalities used in naturopathic medicine (including physical manipulation, clinical nutrition, botanical medicine, homeopathy, and hydrotherapy) integrate conventional, scientific and empirical methodology with the ancient laws of nature. ⁴

The philosophy and the therapies of naturopathic medicine, which have their origins in Hippocrates and the traditional and indigenous medicines of the world, first became a distinct profession in Germany in the mid-1800s. In 1896, Dr. Benedict Lust, MD, brought naturopathy to America and established the first naturopathic college, the Yungborn Health Institute in New Jersey. Naturopathic medicine has since been present in the US for over a century. ⁶

The following principles are the foundation of naturopathic medical practice: 5

• The Healing Power of Nature (Vis Medicatrix Naturae): Naturopathic medicine recognizes an inherent self-healing process in people that is ordered and intelligent. Naturopathic physicians act to identify and remove obstacles to healing and recovery, and to facilitate and augment this inherent self-healing process.
• Identify and Treat the Causes (Tolle Causam): The naturopathic physician seeks to identify and remove the underlying causes of illness rather than to merely eliminate or suppress symptoms.
• First Do No Harm (Primum NonNocere): Naturopathic physicians follow three guidelines to avoid harming the patient:
  • Utilize methods and medicinal substances which minimize the risk of harmful side effects, using the least force necessary to diagnose and treat
  • Avoid when possible the harmful suppression of symptoms
  • Acknowledge, respect, and work with individuals’ self-healing process
• Doctor as Teacher (Docere): Naturopathic physicians educate their patients and encourage self-responsibility for health. They also recognize and employ the therapeutic potential of the doctor-patient relationship.
• Treat the Whole Person: Naturopathic physicians treat each patient by taking into account individual physical, mental, emotional, genetic, environmental, social, and other factors. Since total health also includes spiritual health, naturopathic physicians encourage individuals to pursue their personal spiritual development.
• Prevention: Naturopathic physicians emphasize the prevention of disease by assessing risk factors, heredity, and susceptibility to disease, and by making appropriate interventions in partnership with their patients to prevent illness. ⁵

What are the similarities? And differences?

As you can tell, the two fields of medicine are similar in many ways including the incorporation of evidence-based medicine, patient centered care, a whole person approach, and treating the cause rather than just the symptoms.

What I believe has happened is that there has been an increase in demand for holistic, patient-centered care. This has lead MDs and DOs to further their education with functional medicine to broaden their scope of practice to incorporate nutrition and natural therapies as well as to perform functional testing.  All of which are part of the curriculum of accredited naturopathic medical programs.

The MDs and DOs obtain functional medical education after graduation to learn a more natural approach to medicine, whereas NDs are taught this natural approach throughout their medical training.

One of the major differences I have taken away from comparing the two fields of medicine is the naturopathic vitalistic principle, the healing power of nature.  This principle is what sets NDs apart.  NDs trust in and support the bodies’ innate ability to heal itself.  All naturopathic therapies work in concert with this vital force to enhance and support the healing capacity.  As naturopathic doctors, we simply facilitate this healing ability by removing obstacles to cure and giving the body what it needs.

Another difference lies within a similarity. While both fields aim to treat the cause, they have different ideas of the said cause.  From a functional medical standpoint, they are educated on eradication of the microbe leading to disease.  Whereas from a naturopathic standpoint, our education is based upon the evaluation of the terrain.  Terrain being the unique susceptibility of the individual based on lifestyle, environment, and constitutional aspects of the person.  This is the basis of why some people become ill while other do not have when exposed to the same microbe. ⁷

I hope this has been helpful in answering some of your questions regarding functional medicine and naturopathic medicine.  Overall, we do similar functional testing and have a similar approach to patients, with some differences in philosophy.  If you have more questions about what a naturopathic medical doctor can do for you, give us a call at (804) 977-2634.

Summer brings an abundance of new produce, all with amazingly bright colors and nutrients.

With more color comes more nutrients in our foods, and as a general rule of thumb if we can increase the amount of naturally occurring color in our diets, we often get an added boost of vitamins, minerals, nutrients and antioxidants. These include nutrients like lycopene, vitamin C, magnesium, potassium, riboflavin, folate, iron and of course fiber to name a few.

I know that juices and smoothies are really popular this time of year, and I would also encourage everyone to try eating their fruits and veggies in their whole form as well. Some of my favorite nutrient dense, colorful summer veggies include red and golden beets, purple and orange carrots, asparagus, red peppers, heirloom tomatoes, and rainbow chard. My favorite super fruits in summer are blueberries and blackberries which are mineral powerhouses, jam packed with antioxidants. With so much variety this time of year, I always recommend that folks do their very best to eat 5 different colors every single day.

Summer vegetables and their effects on organ systems:

Purple Fruits & Vegetables– Nourish the blood; Tones cardiovascular system; Contains anthocyanins to strengthen capillary tone; high in antioxidants.

Examples: eggplant, red onion, purple cabbage, beets, blueberries, blackberries

Red Vegetables – Contain lots of lycopene, lutein, zeaxanthin and are great for the heart and cardiovascular system.

Examples: Tomatoes, red bell peppers.

Orange Vegetables – Contain beta carotene which is important for the immune system and essential for cell-to-cell communication. Contain Vitamin C, Folate and Potassium.

Example: Carrots, golden beets

Green Vegetables – Especially the dark leafy & brassicas are important for multiple organ system detoxification; useful in hormonal imbalance; increases liver detoxification (gets rid of excess hormone supplies); LOADED with vitamins and minerals. Contains vitamin C, K, folate, iron, lutein and fiber.

Examples: kale, broccoli, bok choy, Chinese cabbage, spinach, swiss chard, beet greens, dandelion greens, mustard greens.

White/Green Vegetables – Extremely nutritive to immune and lymphatic system. Contain vitamin B-2 and allicin.

Examples: garlic, onions, leeks, chives, shallots

Challenge yourself this summer to get 5 different colors on your plate every single day! This can be colors from fruits, vegetables, eggs, whole grains, legumes, and of course wild foraged greens. You may be surprised at how lacking your color pallet used to be, but with this added awareness, you’re no doubt increasing your nutrient, vitamin and mineral intake with this simple tip!

About the Author:

Lindsay Kluge is a Clinical Herbalist & Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist and received her Masters of Science degree in Herbal Medicine from the Maryland University of Integrative Health in 2012. She has been with Richmond Natural Medicine since 2013, and specializes in therapeutic holistic nutrition, circadian rhythm balance and sleep physiology, digestion, and Ayurvedic nutrition. She offers individualized nutrition and herbal medicine consultations that include meal planning support, custom compounded herbal formulas, nutrition guidance and general wellness support.  Learn more about services that Lindsay offers at Richmond Natural Medicine by clicking HERE.