The 7 Supplements That TOTALLY Changed My Life

Shellie R. Warren PCC

Oct 14, 2018 09:55 AM +0000

My appreciation for living holistically? My mother plays a big role in that. While growing up, if I had a cold, I was given Vitamin C much more than Children's Tylenol and when my period rolled around, I drank peppermint tea more than I took Advil. But once I got "grown" (translation—college-age), I decided to ditch a lot of the herbal and supplement treatments I was used to in exchange for the more traditional/medicinal route. Hmph. It's amazing what hindsight-wisdom will teach you. Not only do a lot of antibiotics, prescriptions, and over-the-counter medications come with some unexpected side effects, oftentimes they only address the symptoms of an ailment, not the source or true cause.

By the time I reached my mid-30s, I returned back to holistic health and boy, am I glad that I did! There are seven supplements in particular that I want to shout out, simply because at this stage of my life, they have been total blessings and game-changers when it comes to improving the quality of my health.

Although a lot of people only see turmeric as a seasoning, it's something that I take in capsule form daily. Not only is it packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, it also fights against depression and age-related illnesses. As a side note, if you're someone who has arthritis, it's got a pretty good reputation for relieving pressure in one's joints. Also, any time I feel a cold coming on, taking a couple of turmeric capsules usually stops the virus in its tracks.
Shop turmeric supplements here.
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I don't recall ever having a UTI before, but I have had a few yeast infections in my day. Cranberries are a great remedy for both. In fact, they fall on the list of being one of the world's healthiest foods because they contain properties that prevent bacteria from sticking to your urinary tract and vaginal walls. Cranberries also contain fiber to help keep you regular and antioxidants to keep your immune system in good shape. Just make sure to not go the cranberry cocktail route (the sugar in it will do you absolutely no good). Instead, look for cranberry juice that has as little sugar as possible (the kind that is super bitter) or, do what I do and take them in capsule form.
Shop cranberry supplements here.
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Word on the street is if you want to get bigger breasts without buying them, fenugreek might just help you out. That's because it's an herb that contains a form of estrogen that has the ability to boost size and increase firmness. That's not why I take it, though. I dig it because it makes my menstrual cramps so much more bearable and it keeps my appetite and cholesterol in check. (Sidenote: If you're a new breastfeeding mom who wants more milk to come in, fenugreek can help to make that happen too!)
Shop fenugreek supplements here.
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Maca is a plant that's in the vegetable family of broccoli and cabbage. It will give you more energy, stabilize your moods, and fight off free radicals in your system. As a bonus, if you want to take your sexual appetite up a notch, this herb will help you to reach your goal. Also, if you want to improve your chances of getting pregnant, it can help to make that happen too.
Shop Maca Root supplements here.
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A lot of us get sick more than we should simply because our liver (the organ that flushes out our toxins) is totally worn out. An herb that will give it some TLC is milk thistle. Not only does it contain an antioxidant that helps to prevent liver damage, it also can help to keep your blood sugar in balance while keeping your skin healthy and glowing.
Shop milk thistle supplements here.
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I found out about this one late in the game (meaning, this year) but better late than never, right? Anyway, when you get a chance, do your own research on this potent herb that's basically goldenseal on steroids. Berberine is actually so potent that many health professionals say that it's as effective as a lot of antibiotics (so you may want to speak with your doctor before taking this one). I adore it because it knocks out all sorts of viruses, bacteria, and fungi. Some like it because it is a pretty effective weight loss supplement. Plus, there is countless info about it being an herb that kills cancer cells.
Shop berberine supplements here.
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EVERY. SINGLE. WOMAN. NEEDS. THIS. And yes, I am yelling it! Evening primrose oil treats skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema. It reduces wrinkles. It helps to prevent hair loss. Beauty-wise, the list goes on and on. But the main reason why it's on my list of favorite herbs to take is because it is super-loving to our reproductive system. Your PMS symptoms will be noticeably different after taking the oil for a month, and if you are perimenopausal or in menopause, hot flashes and insomnia will be less of an issue. If your budget can only afford one of these herbs, make sure it's this one.
Shop evening primrose oil here.
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Welp. That's my brief rundown on herbs that I totally dig. Just so no traditional doctor comes looking for me, I need to put on record that you should consult your physician before taking these (especially if you're trying to treat a specific condition). And, dosage-wise, take what's recommended on the label unless otherwise instructed.

Other than that, you know what they say—an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. I can personally vouch for these seven herbs being just that. I don't leave my house without (taking) 'em!

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