Herbalism Uncensored

Uncovering addiction: the mind, body, spirit connection Episode 6

Uncovering addiction: the mind, body, spirit connection
In this episode of Herbalism Uncensored, Alicia and Lila engage in an in-depth discussion about the spiritual nature of addiction and its intertwined relationship with physical, mental, and emotional well-being. They reflect on insights from Dr. Shaw, a neurologist and addictionologist, and focus on the three-stage recovery process — emphasizing mind, body, and spirit. The discussion touches on how uncomfortable emotions can drive addictive behaviors and how holistic approaches, including herbal remedies and meditation, can support recovery. They also explore their personal experiences with addiction and process addictions, ultimately highlighting the importance of self-love, spiritual growth, and addressing deep-rooted fears for true healing. 00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer 01:46 Exploring Addiction and Recovery 03:10 The Human Condition and Spirituality 04:37 Coping Mechanisms and Physical Impact 06:10 Holistic Approaches to Healing 09:55 The Role of Nutrition in Recovery 14:56 Emotional and Psychological Healing 22:53 Personal Stories and Reflections 27:21 Struggles with Eating Disorders 28:08 Exploring Addictive Behaviors 29:22 Understanding Pitta Dosha 33:18 Ayurvedic Insights on Fear and Healing 39:16 Holistic Approaches to Health 44:39 The Role of Spirituality in Healing 48:11 Challenges of Holistic Healing 54:22 Final Thoughts and Resources

Finding Compassion- Fear at the root of addictions Episode 5

🎙️ Podcast Episode: The Root of Addiction with Dr. Kamal Shah
Episode Summary
Addiction isn’t just about substances—it’s deeply intertwined with fear and trauma. In this episode, we welcome Dr. Kamal Shah, an expert in addiction and trauma research, to explore the root causes of addiction and the path to lasting recovery.
From understanding addiction as a fear-based issue to exploring herbal, neurological, and community-based healing approaches, this conversation dives deep into holistic and medical interventions that support true healing.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✅ Why addiction is rooted in fear and trauma, not just substance use✅ How the brain’s fear response system fuels addictive behaviors✅ The three key stages of recovery and how to navigate them✅ Herbs, nutrients, and neurotransmitter support for calming the nervous system✅ The role of community and spirituality in long-term sobriety✅ Cutting-edge insights from Dr. Kamal Shah on trauma-informed recovery
🎤 Guest Spotlight: Dr. Kamal Shah
Dr. Kamal Shah is a leading researcher in addiction and trauma, with a rich and diverse background in neurology and addictionology. His work focuses on the neurological, psychological, and social factors influencing addiction. He has contributed significantly to understanding trauma’s impact on substance use and developing holistic recovery strategies.
📌 Episode Breakdown
🧩 Addiction as a Fear-Based Issue
🔹 Addiction isn’t just about substance dependence—it’s often a response to unresolved trauma and fear.🔹 The neurological link between fear, trauma, and addictive behaviors.🔹 The critical role of community and spirituality in overcoming addiction.
🩺 Stage 1: Physical Detox
🔹 Why separating from the substance is necessary for recovery.🔹 When to seek medical or therapeutic detox intervention.🔹 Mainstream medical detox protocols vs. herbal support approaches:
🌿 Herbal Detox Support:
Kava (Piper methysticum): Supports opioid withdrawal and cross-tapering.
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia): Used in benzodiazepine withdrawal.
Bupleurum (Bupleurum chinense): Supports liver function and detoxification.
Ginger: Enhances circulation and detox processes.
Root vegetables: Aid liver cleansing and nourishment.
🧠 Stage 2: Addressing Fear & Anxiety Post-Detox
🔹 How fear and anxiety contribute to relapse.🔹 The role of neurotransmitters like GABA and magnesium in calming the nervous system.
🌿 Herbal Supports for Anxiety Relief:
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis): Works on GABA receptors for relaxation.
Kava (Piper methysticum): Enhances dopamine and GABA_A activity.
St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum): Influences GABA transporter activity.
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): Modulates cortisol and stress response.
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia): Modulates the limbic system and reduces anxiety.
🔹 The importance of oxytocin and social bonds in stabilizing the fear response.
🧬 Stage 3: Neuroplasticity & Brain Recovery
🔹 How addiction rewires neural pathways in the brain.🔹 Strategies to rebuild and strengthen neural connections post-addiction.
🌿 Herbs that Support Neuroplasticity:
Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus): Stimulates nerve regeneration.
Bacopa (Bacopa monnieri): A brain tonic that enhances memory and cognitive function.
🌱 Lasting Recovery & Holistic Healing
🔹 Sustainable sobriety requires ongoing support, connection, and purpose.🔹 The importance of a spiritual component in healing.
📌 Summary & Takeaways:
✅ Addiction is a complex, fear-based issue, not just a chemical dependency.✅ The three recovery stages—detox, emotional healing, and brain recovery—each require unique approaches.✅ A combination of medical and herbal support can enhance long-term recovery.✅ Community and spirituality are vital for sustaining sobriety.
👉 Share this episode with someone who needs to hear this conversation.
📲 Follow us on Instagram @herbalismuncensored for short bites!
📝 Is stress affecting you more than you realize? Take our free Stress Quiz to find out:🔗 Click here to take the quiz
🌿 Learn more about our private practices:🔸 Alicia Peterson – Holistically Correct | holisticallycorrect.com🔸 Lila Swanberg – The Living Wellness Lounge | thelivingwellnesslounge.com
 

Adapting to Stress Naturally: Insights from Clinical Herbalists Episode 4

Understanding Stress & Strategies for Natural Healing
Download your free Stress Quiz Here and discover if Stress is playing a bigger role in your life than you thought! 
https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/829732/146889041721165745/share
 
In this episode of 'Herbalism Uncensored,' clinical herbalists Alicia and Lila delve into the complexities of stress, exploring the different types of stress and their impact on the body. They discuss
the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, t
he importance of rest
practical methods for managing stress
breath-work & meditation
demand-free time
the practice of Abhyangha.
They explore the possibility of turning Ashwagandha into a drinking game cue, just for fun.  The episode also introduces adaptogens like Shatavari and Rhodiola, which help the body adapt to stress and improve overall health.
This comprehensive discussion aims to equip listeners with actionable steps to achieve better balance and well-being.
 
00:00 Welcome to Herbalism Uncensored
01:32 Understanding Stress: The Basics
03:47 The Nervous System Explained
05:22 Modern Living and Chronic Stress
09:42 The Vicious Cycle of Stress and Digestion
12:25 Personal Stories of Burnout and Recovery
20:17 The Importance of Rest and Recovery
27:49 Stress Management Hacks
28:40 Embracing Demand-Free Time
30:35 The Importance of Meditation
32:23 Incorporating Mindfulness into Daily Life
36:37 The Practice of Abhyangha
42:31 Understanding Adaptogens
51:14 Concluding Thoughts on Stress Management
 
 
You can visit The work of Alicia and Lila at their respective clinics below: holisticallycorrect.com thelivingwellnesslounge.com

5 Reasons You're Not Seeing Results With Your Herbs & Supplements; Episode 3

Why You’re Not Getting the Results You Expect from Herbs
Episode Summary
Are you taking herbs but not seeing the results you expected? You’re not alone. Many people try herbal and natural remedies but get frustrated when they don’t work the way they hoped. In this episode, I break down the five biggest reasons why herbs might not be working for you—and what you can do to fix it. From unrealistic expectations to improper dosing and choosing the wrong preparation, we’ll explore the key mistakes that keep people from getting the full benefits of herbal medicine.
If you’re serious about using herbs effectively for long-term health, this episode is for you.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✅ Why herbs don’t work like pharmaceuticals—and why that’s a good thing✅ How to avoid common mistakes when choosing and using herbs✅ The real reason your dose might be too low to see results✅ Why tinctures aren’t always the “most potent” form of herbal medicine✅ When it’s time to stop self-treating and seek expert guidance
Key Topics Covered:
1. Misunderstanding Expectations
Many people expect herbs to work like pharmaceuticals—fast and dramatically.
Herbal medicine works by supporting the body’s natural healing process, which takes time.
Knowing what to expect can help you stay consistent and see long-term results.
2. Using the Wrong Herb
Herbal medicine isn’t one-size-fits-all—what works for one person might not work for another.
Complex issues often require formulas, not just single herbs.
The wrong herb (or the wrong combination) can actually make symptoms worse.
3. Incorrect Dosage
Most supplement labels list minimal or maintenance doses, not therapeutic levels.
Some herbs require higher doses to be effective, but this varies widely.
Weak doses = slow or no results.
4. Wrong Preparation Method
Not all herbal forms work the same: tinctures, teas, extracts, and whole herbs have different uses.
Common misconceptions:
Tinctures aren’t necessarily the strongest form of herbal medicine.
Not all herbs work well as tea (e.g., turmeric, ashwagandha).
Labels on herbal extracts can be misleading—how much are you really getting?
The part of the plant matters! Examples:
Ashwagandha leaves (vs. root)
Goldenseal aerial parts (vs. root)
Dandelion roots vs. leaves – totally different actions!
5. Self-Treatment of Complex Issues
Trying to self-diagnose and treat complex health issues can backfire.
Some conditions require expert guidance for effective, sustainable results.
Misusing herbs can delay healing—or even make things worse.
Final Thoughts & Takeaways:
Herbal medicine works, but it requires the right approach.
Be patient, be informed, and be strategic with your herbal choices.
If you’re dealing with a stubborn or complex issue, don’t go it alone—working with a trained herbalist can make all the difference.
Resources & Next Steps:
📩 Want more herbal wisdom? Visit our WebsitesAlicia- Holistically Correct
https://holisticallycorrect.com/
Lila- The Living Wellness Lounge https://thelivingwellnesslounge.com/
🌿 Join Us for Our Upcoming Herb Clinic! 🌿
Are you struggling with chronic pain, persistent symptoms, or just feeling out of balance? Herbal medicine offers powerful, time-tested solutions to support your body’s natural healing process.
At our upcoming Herb Clinic, you’ll get the chance to:✅ Experience a personalized approach to herbal healing✅ Learn how herbs can support your unique constitution✅ Receive custom recommendations tailored to your health goals✅ Gain insight into root causes beyond just symptom relief
📍 Location: Virtual via Zoom 📅 Date & Time: February  15th & 16th 💚 Spots are limited—Reserve yours now!
Whether you’re new to herbal medicine or looking to deepen your understanding, this clinic is a safe, supportive space to explore functional herbalism in a way that truly works for you.
✨ Your health journey doesn’t have to feel like guesswork—let’s explore real solutions together! ✨
🔗 https://thelivingwellnesslounge.com/herb-clinic/

What is an Herbalist, anyway? Episode 2

Join Alicia and Lila, two clinical herbalists, in the premiere episode of Herbalism Uncensored as they delve into the art and science of herbalism. They discuss the misconceptions people have about herbalists, the difference between grandma herbalism and clinical herbalism, and the historical suppression of the practice in favor of pharmaceutical medicine. Through engaging conversations, learn what it truly means to be a herbalist, the importance of professional guidance, and how ancient wisdom meets modern discovery to offer holistic and effective health solutions. Don't miss the hosts' personal journeys and insights into re-empowering people to take charge of their health through natural healing.
 
00:00 Introduction to Herbalism Uncensored
01:00 Defining an Herbalist
01:48 Common Misconceptions About Herbalists
04:30 Clinical Herbalism Explained
09:00 The Decline of Herbalism in America
15:20 The Resurgence of Herbalism
17:58 Grandma Herbalism
24:53 Exploring Wise Woman Herbalism
29:06 The Role of Clinical Herbalists
35:12 Personal Journeys into Herbalism
43:45 The Importance of Professional Guidance
48:57 Invitation to Connect and Learn More

We’re In A Rut In The Natural Healing World: Episode 1

Episode Description:
 
In this debut episode of Herbalism Uncensored, we’re tackling the tough questions: Why are so many people stuck in a rut when it comes to natural healing? Join us as we explore the challenges facing herbalism today—from ineffective practices and misinformation to the commercialization of wellness. We’ll share our insights as Clinical Herbalists, bust myths, and offer actionable steps to help you break through the noise and find real results. Whether you’re a practitioner or passionate about natural health, this is the conversation you’ve been waiting for.
 
You can find Alicia & Lila and their respective practices here: 
www.holisticallycorrect.com
www.thelivingwellnesslounge.com