Author: Carolyn Smith-Kizer

  • Fermentation and Herbs for Gut Health: The Wise Woman’s Microbiome Guide

    Your Gut Is the Garden: What the MAHA Movement Gets Right About Fermentation and Herbs Something is shifting in American health culture, and fermentation and herbs for gut health are at the center of it. A documentary called MAHA Uncensored has been circulating, featuring naturopathic oncologists, functional practice physicians, and integrative practitioners making the case…

  • Spring Tonics: Traditional Cleansing Herbs for Inflammation for Women’s Health

    As the world awakens from winter’s slumber, traditional herbalists have long recognized spring as the ideal season for gentle cleansing and renewal. For centuries, women across cultures have turned to spring tonics—natural plant remedies that support the body’s natural detoxification processes and help reduce inflammation that may have accumulated during the more sedentary winter months….

  • The Microbiome Connection: Anti-Inflammatory Herbs for Gut Health

    As an herbalist with an anthropological perspective on herbal traditions, I’ve spent decades observing how our relationship with plants affects our wellbeing. My journey—including my own experience as a cancer survivor—has taught me that sustainable wellness comes not from quick fixes, but from understanding the profound connection between our bodies, our microbiome, and the plant…

  • Fermentation and Herbs: Traditional Preservation with Modern Benefits

    As an herbalist with over two decades of experience, I’ve witnessed the remarkable resurgence of interest in traditional fermentation techniques. My journey began with a simple jar of homemade sauerkraut. Little did I know that this humble food would spark a lifelong fascination with the intersection of herbal wisdom and fermentation practices. Across ancient civilizations,…

  • Spring Tonics for Inflammation: Herbs for a Fresh Start

    For ages, cultures around the globe have observed spring tonics rituals, recognizing how seasonal shifts influence our bodies. As a clinical herbalist, I’ve spent years studying these traditional spring practices, and I’m excited to share insights into the world of spring tonics and how they can support wellness. Key Takeaways: Spring Tonics for Inflammation Understanding Spring…

  • The Oral Microbiome & Anti-Inflammatory Support

    The mouth, often considered a separate entity, is in reality a crucial gateway to overall wellness. The oral microbiome, a complex and dynamic community of microorganisms, plays a significant role in the balance of our entire system. As a clinical herbalist, I view oral ecology as an integral part of a holistic approach to well-being….

  • 6 Powerful Herbs for Reducing Inflammation

    In a world where stress and inflammation are all too common, turning to nature’s remedies can offer a beacon of hope. From the soothing properties of turmeric to the versatile benefits of ginger root, these herbs are nature’s gift to combat inflammation and boost overall well-being. Say goodbye to harsh chemicals and hello to the…

  • Winter Wellness to Spring Renewal: An Anthropological Perspective on Seasonal Herbs

    The transition from winter wellness to spring renewal represents a threshold that traditional cultures have long recognized as crucial for gathering and preserving plant knowledge. This seasonal shift, marked by changes in daylight, temperature, and plant emergence patterns, holds profound significance in traditional ecological systems – from the Sami people of Northern Europe to indigenous…

  • Nourish to Flourish: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Wellness

    For centuries, traditional cultures have recognized the profound connection between what we eat and how we feel. As someone who has spent over two decades exploring this connection, I’ve witnessed firsthand how mindful food choices can support our body’s natural balance. This wisdom becomes increasingly relevant as we navigate our modern environment. Key Takeaways: Ancient…