Herbalism Uncensored

Yoga Uncensored: Finding YOUR Better with Andrew Dugas

Find Andrew's subscriptions site here: Yoga Better
Follow Yoga Better Studio on Instagram here: @YogaBetterStudio for updates on his upcoming book!
Welcome to this episode of Herbalism Uncensored featuring Andrew Royal Dugas, co-founder of Yoga Better Studio. In this episode, we dive deep into the philosophy of individualized progress, the importance of honesty, and the role of invention in yoga. Andrew shares his journey from traditional to innovative practices, emphasizing the need to feel our bodies, measure personal progress, and stay optimistic in our health journeys.
Andrew also speaks about his forthcoming book, There is No Pose: The Yoga Better Movement Manual which aims to document his extensive knowledge in yoga and human movement.
Join us as we discuss the non specifics of right and wrong in practice, the power of gratitude and optimism, and the wisdom of recognizing our own ignorance.
00:00 Introduction to Herbalism Uncensored
02:10 Meet Our Special Guest: Andrew Royal Dugas
04:05 The Philosophy of Yoga Better
07:24 The Importance of Honesty in Yoga Practice
08:13 Personal Stories and Experiences
10:42 Redefining Traditional Yoga
13:15 The Evolution of Yoga Practices
16:49 Understanding Anatomy and Avoiding Injuries
27:39 The Concept of Betterment in Health
32:54 Setting Goals and Measuring Progress
45:03 The Importance of Joy in Achieving Goals
46:35 Measuring Progress with Quantifiable Goals
48:37 The Challenge of Asking for What You Want
50:20 The Power of Vulnerability and Honesty
53:46 Embracing Discomfort for Growth
01:27:15 The Role of Optimism and Gratitude in Health
01:31:21 Final Thoughts and Where to Find More
 
🌿 Learn More About Our Work
Lila's Clinic  The Virtual Natural Healing Clinic  Rooted in wisdom. Driven by results.  🌐 Website: TVNHC.com  ✉️ Email: hello@tvnhc.com
Alicia's Clinic  Holistically Correct  A holistic approach that harmonizes ancient wisdom with contemporary lifestyles  🌐 Website: holisticallycorrect.com  ✉️ Email: holisticsolutions108@gmail.com
📬 Contact the Show  Have questions, guest suggestions, or feedback? We’d love to hear from you.  📧 Email us at: herbalismuncensored@gmail.com

Mythbusters Episode: WTF is Ayurveda?

Ayurveda: ancient science or Instagram trend? Medical system or just another wellness diet?
In this bold and brutally honest episode of Herbalism Uncensored, we’re pulling back the curtain on the world’s oldest continuously practiced medical system — and calling out the half-truths, wellness-washing, and misunderstandings that dominate the modern conversation.
From spa culture to dosha quizzes, garlic myths to rigid food rules, we bust through the fluff and explain what Ayurveda actually is — and how it’s been misrepresented in the West. This is not a soft, surface-level wellness trend. It’s a sophisticated, results-driven system of whole-person healing that includes surgery, psychology, pharmacology, and subtle energetics — all rooted in over 5,000 years of lived clinical experience.
We cover:
Why “Vata-Pitta-Kapha” is just the beginning — and not the whole story
How modern interpretations have turned Ayurveda into a luxury product for the privileged
Why Ayurveda can treat symptoms (yes, even migraines and insomnia) — and how
The truth behind toxic-sounding ingredients like mercury and lead (and why they might not be so scary)
What makes Ayurveda scientific, even if it doesn’t speak the language of clinical trials
And why your grapefruit after lunch won’t land you in Ayurveda jail
Whether you're a practitioner, a curious client, or someone who’s been turned off by the rules and rigidity, this episode offers a deeper, more accurate view — and invites you to see Ayurveda as it was meant to be: accessible, powerful, and deeply human.
Learn More About Our Work
Alicia’s ClinicHolistically CorrectHerbalism & holistic care that actually works.🌐 holisticallycorrect.com✉️ holisticsolutions108@gmail.com
Lila’s ClinicThe Virtual Natural Healing ClinicRooted in Wisdom. Driven by Results.🌐 TVNHC.com✉️ hello@tvnhc.com
 Herbs & Concepts Mentioned
Bhasmas (yes, we talk mercury and pearl powder)
Shirodhara & abhyanga
Garlic (spoiler: it’s not banned)
Doshas vs. imbalances (vikruti vs. prakruti)
Agni, gunas, srotas, and malas
Rasa Shastra
Apana vayu (always downward, folks)
 
💌 Stay Connected
📥 Join Our Mailing ListGet clinical insights, herbal tips, and episode extras straight to your inbox.👉 Sign up here
📬 Contact the ShowGot a myth you want us to bust next? Questions you want answered?📧 Email: herbalismuncensored@gmail.com

Hot Summer Hacks to Cool Your Coconuts (BONUS episode!)

In this episode, Alicia and Lila share practical tips and insights on staying cool and balanced during the hot summer months. They discuss the physical and emotional effects of heat, offering life hacks such as cooling diets, hydration strategies, and calming practices. The hosts highlight the importance of awareness and mindful living, recommending seasonal changes in routine, diet, and activities to align with the body's needs. The episode also touches on the impact of emotions and stress, advocating for holistic approaches to maintain dynamic balance. Tune in for an enlightening conversation filled with actionable advice for a healthier and happier summer.
 
00:00 Introduction to the Episode
02:06 Heatwave Struggles and Life Hacks
03:58 Understanding Pitta Dosha and Summer Ailments
07:37 Diet Tips for Staying Cool
12:12 Cooling Foods and Drinks
22:24 Lifestyle Shifts for Summer
23:07 Embracing Coolness: Cold Plunges and Moonlight
25:24 Cooling Yoga Practices for Summer
27:57 Holistic Cooling Techniques
30:19 Cooling Oils and Essential Practices
35:37 Mindfulness and Emotional Balance
37:02 The Power of Awareness and Discernment
42:02 Personal Stories and Practical Tips
48:19 Concluding Thoughts and Listener Engagement
 
🌿 Learn More About Our Work
Lila's Clinic The Virtual Natural Healing Clinic Rooted in wisdom. Driven by results. 🌐 Website: TVNHC.com ✉️ Email: hello@tvnhc.com
 
Alicia's Clinic Holistically Correct A holistic approach that harmonizes ancient wisdom with contemporary lifestyles 🌐 Website: holisticallycorrect.com ✉️ Email: holisticsolutions108@gmail.com
 
💌 Stay Connected
📥 Join Our Mailing List Get exclusive episode extras, herbal resources, and clinic updates straight to your inbox. 👉 Sign up here
 
📬 Contact the Show Have questions, guest suggestions, or feedback? We’d love to hear from you. 📧 Email us at: herbalismuncensored@gmail.com

The Vagina Dialogues Part 1: Clinical Insights About Your Yoni

🎙️ Episode Title: The Vagina Dialogue: Clinical Insights for Your YoniHosts:Lila Swanberg & Alicia Peterson
 
💬 Episode Summary
Let’s talk about vaginas. In this NSFW (Not Safe For Work) episode of Herbalism Uncensored, Lila and Alisha dive into a conversation that’s long overdue—sexual health, vaginal wellness, and why your yoni deserves as much attention as your face.
From menstrual cycles and libido to lubrication and pain, this candid discussion explores how vaginal health is deeply connected to overall well-being, identity, and pleasure. You’ll hear personal stories, clinical insights, some laughs, and a whole lot of truth-telling.
Whether you’re struggling with dryness, pain, irregular periods, or just want to feel more connected to your body—this episode is your invitation to reclaim your pleasure and tune into the wisdom of your womb space.
 
🧠 What We Talk About:
Why sexual health is a clinical vital sign
How libido reflects stress, safety, and hormone balance
What’s normal vs what we’ve normalized (spoiler: most women are silently suffering)
Real stories: from vaginal shame to empowerment
Personal care routines for your vagina (yes, like moisturizing!)
Bartholinitis, vulvodynia, and other common but rarely-discussed conditions
Herbal allies for libido, lubrication, cycle support, and healing
The difference between using herbs to empower vs. bypass deeper issues
How to describe your vaginal health in ways that help your practitioner help you
 
🧪 Herbs Mentioned:
Kapikacchu (Mucuna) – aphrodisiac, nourishing
Ashoka – supportive for excessive bleeding and uterine tone
 
❤️ Your Body, Your Birthright
We believe health, happiness, and good sex are your birthright. Painful periods, low libido, and chronic infections are common—but they’re not normal. There’s another way. Let’s talk about it.
 
📌 Takeaways & Questions to Ask Yourself:
Can you describe your discharge?
Do you feel juicy or dry?
Do you know what’s normal for your libido and cycle?
Are you tending to your vagina like you would any other vital part of your body?
 
📣 Resources & Next Steps
✨ Want support for your yoni?Check out Our Clinics 
Alicia Peterson – holisticallycorrect.com
Lila Swanberg – thelivingwellnesslounge.com
🎧 Subscribe to Herbalism Uncensored and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.📬 Join our newsletter for more real talk and herbal wisdom.
 
⚠️ Listener Note:
This episode contains open conversations about sexual health, menstruation, and anatomy. If you’re not in the mood or the setting to tune in—save it for later. But we hope you’ll come back when you're ready. Your vagina will thank you.

What’s in Your Herbal Medicine Cabinet? Episode 10

Whether your're an herb enthusiast or just herb-curious, this episode is a must-listen!
Join Alicia and Lila as they delve into the contents of their unique herbal medicine cabinets in this week's episode. Unlike the conventional medicine cabinets filled with common pharmaceuticals, their cabinets hold a diverse array of herbs and natural remedies. From neem for infections to Triphala and Sitopoladi for digestion and colds, they share their personal favorites, usage tips, and the benefits of each. They discuss the importance of understanding herb properties, proper usage, and the significant advantages these natural remedies offer over traditional medications. Tune in for an insightful and practical guide on enhancing your health with herbs.To learn more about Alicia and Lila's Private Practices visit: Holisticallycorrect.comAnd Thelivingwellnesslounge.com
 
00:00 Introduction: What's in Our Medicine Cabinets?
01:52 Childhood Medicine Cabinets vs. Now
04:42 Favorite Remedies and Their Uses
06:53 Neem: The All-Purpose Antimicrobial
10:26 Triphala: The Ayurvedic Swiss Army Knife
15:31 Licorice Root: The Natural Steroid
18:27 Sitopoladi Powder: Ayurvedic Cough Syrup
21:41 Yin Qiao San: Traditional Chinese Cold Remedy
23:41 Hingvastak: Digestive Aid
27:47 Valerian: The Stinky Sleep Aid
29:53 Embracing Herbal Remedies
30:49 Shankapushpi: The Gentle Sleep Aid
33:04 Berberine: Nature's Antibiotic
37:10 Haritaki: The Gentle Laxative
39:59 Nexrutine: Natural Pain Relief
42:47 Yarrow: First Aid Essential
47:04 Freeze-Dried Nettles: Allergy Relief
52:58 Bacopa: Brain Booster
55:56 Final Thoughts on Herbal Medicine

Ayurvedic Spring Rituals to Shed the Sludge & Feel Alive

Shedding the Sludge: Ayurvedic Rituals for Spring Vitality
Hosts: Alicia Peterson (Holistically Correct) & Lila Swanberg (The Living Wellness Lounge)Episode Type: Seasonal Wellness, AyurvedaResources & Links: Scroll to the bottom.
Episode Summary
Spring is nature’s invitation to renew, reset, and lighten up. In this episode, Alicia and Lila explore how Ayurveda approaches the seasonal transition from winter to spring — a time marked by heaviness, stagnation, and excess moisture in the body and mind.
You’ll learn how to support your body’s natural cleansing processes by adjusting your daily routine, diet, and movement practices to align with spring’s unique energy. This episode breaks down practical steps for reducing seasonal sluggishness, boosting circulation and digestion, and regaining a sense of clarity and vitality.
Perfect for anyone feeling stuck, foggy, congested, or simply ready for a shift.
What We Cover
1. Rising with the Season
Why waking earlier helps prevent heaviness and fatigue
The importance of morning routine and how timing impacts energy for the whole day
2. Refreshing the Body
Gentle self-massage techniques to stimulate lymphatic flow and reduce stagnation
Natural exfoliation practices to slough off winter buildup and support healthy skin
3. Igniting Digestion
Simple ways to wake up digestion each morning and reduce seasonal congestion
Dietary guidance for the spring season: what to eat more of and what to avoid
4. Moving and Breathing with Intention
How to choose movement and breathwork practices that clear mental and physical fog
Specific types of yoga and breath techniques that help release heaviness
5. Herbal Allies for the Season
How to support respiratory and liver health with spring-focused herbs
A discussion on warming spices and bitter herbs to help the body naturally detoxify
6. Seasonal Do’s and Don’ts
Key recommendations for food, lifestyle, and daily rhythm during spring
Common habits that can worsen symptoms of heaviness and stagnation — and what to do instead
Listener Challenge
Try adding one new seasonal ritual into your routine this week. Whether it's adjusting your breakfast, incorporating movement, or trying a morning routine shift — notice how even small changes can create momentum.
We’d love to hear how it goes — reach out and share your reflections with us directly.
Kapha-Reducing Food Guidance
Favor:Barley, millet, quinoa, mung beans, red lentils, leafy greens, radishes, asparagus, apples, pomegranate, lemon, ginger, turmeric, cumin, black pepper
Minimize:Dairy, fried foods, red meat, heavy oils, wheat, bananas, avocados, ice cream, sugar, leftovers, cold or processed foods
About the Hosts
Alicia Peterson – Holistically Correctwww.holisticallycorrect.com
Lila Swanberg – The Living Wellness Loungewww.thelivingwellnesslounge.com
 

Ashwagandha Myths Busted: What Influencers Get Wrong Episode 8

Debunking Ashwagandha Myths: Truths and Misconceptions | Herbalism Uncensored In this episode of Herbalism Uncensored, clinical herbalists Alicia and Lila dive deep into the world of Ashwagandha. They address the most common myths surrounding this trendy adaptogen, from the need to cycle on and off to misconceptions about its effects on the immune system, sleep, energy, and more. They emphasize the importance of using whole, powdered root over extracts and highlight the role of traditional practices in understanding this powerful herb. Whether you're new to Ashwagandha or looking to clear up the misinformation, this episode provides a comprehensive and honest look at how to use it effectively for natural healing.
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview
01:18 Welcome to the Ashwagandha Episode
01:47 Ashwagandha Myths and Misconceptions
02:56 Understanding Ashwagandha's True Nature
10:12 Debunking the Dark Side of Ashwagandha
16:48 Ashwagandha and Nightshade Sensitivity
19:53 Ashwagandha for Sleep and Stamina
23:22 Understanding Ashwagandha's Energy Benefits
23:54 Myth 6: Forms of Ashwagandha
24:42 Gummies and Traditional Methods
25:30 Spiritual Practice and Medicine
26:45 Importance of Using the Root
28:38 Myth 7: Ashwagandha and the Immune System
29:19 Complexity of the Immune System
30:40 Ashwagandha's Normalizing Effect
32:18 Research and Traditional Knowledge
36:49 Myth 8: Ashwagandha and Blood Thinners
39:15 Perception and Drug Interactions
43:01 Final Thoughts on Ashwagandha

To Tincture Or Not To Tincture? Episode 7

Podcast Episode: The Art of Tinctures – Pros, Cons, and Techniques
Episode SummaryIn this episode, we dive deep into the world of tinctures—a beloved yet often misunderstood form of herbal medicine. We explore why tinctures have gained popularity, break down their strengths and limitations, and examine the art and science of extracting plant constituents. From folk methods to standardized lab practices, we discuss when tinctures truly shine and when other herbal preparations might be a better fit. Whether you’re new to tinctures or have years of experience, this episode offers grounded insight and practical tools to help you work more effectively with plant medicine.
 
Learning About the Hosts and Their Practices
Alicia Peterson – Holistically Correcthttps://www.holisticallycorrect.com/
Lila Swanberg – The Living Wellness Loungehttps://thelivingwellnesslounge.com/

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.
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🌿 Learn more about our private practices:🔸 Alicia Peterson – Holistically Correct | holisticallycorrect.com🔸 Lila Swanberg – The Living Wellness Lounge | thelivingwellnesslounge.com