For many clients, finding the right practitioner is the very first step toward real healing. Not just someone with credentials — but someone who listens, understands the full picture, and offers both expertise and empathy. That’s where the “Why You?” Discovery Call comes in.

This free, 30-minute phone session with Charmaine D is designed to help you decide if you’ve found the right fit — and give you a chance to feel heard, ask questions, and understand the next steps.

What Makes the “Why You?” Call Different?

It’s not a full consultation. It’s not a sales pitch. It’s a conversation — guided by curiosity and care.

Charmaine D will ask key questions about your health, skin, or hormonal history, and begin to explore the root causes that may be contributing to your current symptoms. You’ll talk about what’s worked, what hasn’t, and what you’re really hoping to change. You won’t walk away with a full protocol — that comes later in your formal consults. But you *will* walk away with insight, clarity, and an understanding of how Charmaine works.

Who Is It For?

This call is ideal if you:

• Feel stuck with skin, fatigue, gut, hormonal, or immune symptoms no one has explained
• Have tried naturopathy before, but didn’t feel seen or supported
• Want someone to look at your entire health timeline, not just isolated symptoms
• Are curious about how a combined internal + external skin approach could help
• Need to know who you’re working with before making a commitment

Why “Why You?”

Because everyone’s health story is different.

This is your chance to speak to someone who gets complex cases. Who asks *why* your symptoms showed up, not just *what* they are. And who believes you’re more than just a diagnosis or a prescription.

From the call, you’ll know:

• If Charmaine’s approach feels right for you
• What kind of assessments or testing might be relevant- How she would work with your symptoms, goals, and health story
• Whether you’re comfortable and ready to begin

Bonus: Charmaine’s philosophy is to *do no harm* — so everything is approached gently,

holistically, and with long-term wellbeing in mind.

How to Book

This free 30-minute session is available by phone and can be booked online. You’ll receive a quick intake form before the call so Charmaine can understand a little about you in advance. There’s no pressure to continue. This is your space — and your time — to decide if you’ve found someone who truly understands your story

SQT Bio-Microneedling Treatment Review

My Journey to Enhanced Skin Rejuvenation by Kathleen

When I decided to undergo a course of Spongilla Spicules (SQT) Bio-Microneedling treatments at Charmaine’s Clinic, I acknowledged that it would be a transformative skincare experience. As someone always on the lookout for non-invasive advanced skincare treatments, I was drawn to how Charmaine would now be blending cutting-edge microneedling techniques with her profound understanding of skin health, both internally and externally.

Why Mitochondrial Health Matters

Consultations with Charmaine have given me a deeper understanding of how crucial mitochondria are for maintaining healthy skin. As the energy source of our cells, mitochondria fuel essential processes like cell turnover, collagen production, and repair. However, as we age, mitochondrial efficiency naturally declines, slowing down skin renewal and contributing to visible signs of aging. Environmental stressors and exposure to harmful chemicals, such as pollution and UV radiation, can further disrupt mitochondrial function. These stressors force mitochondria to work harder to keep up with the increased demand, leading to greater energy deple6on. As a result, skin cells receive less ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate)—the vital energy source—for essential functions like repair and regeneration, causing slower skin renewal and more visible signs of aging. Supporting and protecting these vital structures is therefore essential for optimal skin rejuvenation, and-aging, and cellular repair.

SQT Bio-Microneedling is known for its ability to s9mulate collagen production boost skin renewal, and improve texture, making it especially effective when the skin’s mitochondria are functioning op6mally. To support this, Charmaine recommended professional-grade skincare, including her Cell Defence range, all formulated without harmful chemicals. In her clinic, she exclusively uses and recommends clean beauty products that nourish and protect skin health throughout the treatment process. Along with using the right skincare, factors like hydra6on, quality sleep, regular exercise, and a nutrient-rich diet are essen9al for maintaining mitochondrial func9on. By focusing on these elements, I was able to enhance skin regenera9on and maximise the benefits of my treatments, suppor9ng my skin’s natural rejuvenation.

How a Tailored Skincare Journey Maximised My Results

At Charmaine’s Clinic, my skincare journey had been carefully guided with a regular course of Dermabrasion, Radio Frequency (RF) for skin tightening, Cell Defence Stem Cell Infusion for deep skin rejuvenation, and Facial Contouring to enhance defini6on. Charmaine had been deeply invested in my skin health, always enquiring about my overall well-being to ensure I achieved the best possible results. My homecare rou9ne had included a range of Cell Defence facial products and inner health supplements tailored to my skin’s needs and based on Charmaine’s expert recommendations. She had also incorporated occasional Vitamin A treatments to support skin renewal and radiance. Thanks to this personalised and results-driven approach, my skin was in op6mal condi6on for SQT treatments, allowing me to experience their full benefits.

The Perfect Synergy: Cell Defence Stem Cells and SQT Bio-Microneedling

I am a huge fan of the Cell Defence stem cell products, which have shown to enhance the results of SQT Bio-Microneedling treatments. As Charmaine explained, SQT involves spicules—microscopic needle-like structures—that create microchannels in the skin, significantly improving the absorption of ac9ve ingredients.

This makes Cell Defence stem cells an ideal post treatment serum choice, as their bioactive compounds—rich in peptides, antioxidants, and essential nutrients—penetrate more effectively. The molecular structure of plant stem cells is particularly beneficial, as their small size and biocompatibility allow them to integrate effortlessly with the skin.

Beyond enhancing collagen produc9on and accelerating skin renewal, these bio-actives also support mitochondrial function by fuelling ATP production—the vital energy source of skin cells. Mitochondria rely on key nutrients to generate ATP, which powers cellular repair, renewal, and collagen synthesis. The antioxidants and peptides in Cell Defence stem cell formulations help protect mitochondria from oxidative stress, which assists in ensuring that skin cells remain energised and function optimally.

When combined with SQT Bio-Microneedling, Cell Defence stem cell formulations work at a cellular level—enhancing absorption, boosting skin energy, accelerating rejuvenation,and promoting long-term skin vitality.

My Pre-Treatment Prep

In the week leading up to my treatment, I focused on preparing both my skin and lifestyle for the best possible results. I marked the treatment week in my diary, prioritising recovery and planning my outdoor tasks for early mornings and late evenings to avoid sun exposure. I also prepared a plant-based, antioxidant-rich menu to nourish my body and made a conscious effort to break the habit of unconsciously touching my face. As part of the SQT treatment requirements, I also made sure to exclude active ingredients from my skincare routine during this week.

My SQT Bio-Microneedling Experience: What to Expect

I approached the treatment with some apprehension, unsure of what to expect, especially with the spicules (microscopic needle-like structures) beneath my skin. Charmaine eased my concerns by showing me a video of someone undergoing the treatment, reassuring me that any discomfort would be mild. During the session, I felt heat, slight tightness, and a tingling sensation from the spicules. Charmaine was gentle—massaging in small circles and keeping the treatment only moderately uncomfortable. The final hydra6ng mask leS my skin feeling calm and hydrated. When I leS, my face was a slightly reddened, and I felt pleased with the process.

How My Skin Bounced Back: A New, Refreshing Sensation

The first three days after my treatment were focused on avoiding sun exposure while following a mild skincare regimen. By day three, I noticed the beginning of skin shedding. On the fourth day I began to generously apply the Cell Defence Anti-Glycageing and Lilac Plant Stem Cell Serums in the morning. I immediately noticed how quickly they absorbed into my skin—almost like a sponge soaking up the serum’s potent ingredients. I also commenced cleaning my skin with Cell Defence Wild Chamomile Gentle Cleansing Milk and applying Cell Defence Rich Argan Oil Nourishing Moisturiser and Cell Defence Fenugreek and Hops Eye Moisturiser morning and evening. After four days I could feel some of the benefits of the enhanced absorption—my skin felt more revitalised, smoother, and firmer. I believe that stem cell application in combination with microneedling was a crucial step in improving the penetration of my skincare products. It’s exciting to think that such non-invasive treatments could encourage collagen production and promote skin renewal. After a week I added a nightly application of Cell Defence An6-Pigmenta6on Stem Cells and after 2 weeks Charmaine gave me a specialised facial treatment. I was pleased with my results. My skin felt soft and smooth to the touch, with a plumpness and elasticity that gave it a healthy, refreshed look. The tone had evened out, and areas of pigmentation had noticeably faded, leaving my complexion looking brighter and more refined.

I was especially elated when, one day, I gently pressed on my skin and felt it bounce back— something I hadn’t experienced in a long time! The newfound resilience of my skin was an incredibly satisfying sign that the treatments were truly working.

The Synergy of Internal Care and External Treatments

Looking after my skin from within has been just as important as the external treatments. In consultation with Charmaine, a qualified Naturopath, I learned how hydration, proper nutrition, sleep and exercise all worked together to enhance the effectiveness of my treatment. Charmaine introduced me to a carefully selected course of anti-aging herbal tablets and powders tailored to my individual needs. These supported not only my skin but were instrumental in boosting mitochondrial function, helping to optimise energy production and overall vitality at the cellular level. Charmaine also emphasised that a balanced sleep pattern played a key role in skin health, and provided me with herbal supplements to ensure restful sleep. What’s truly exciting is how this holistic approach—combining internal care with external treatments—has been a rewarding wellness journey for my skin.

Building on SQT Treatments: The Next Step in Skin Rejuvenation with RF

After having three SQT treatments spaced three weeks apart, my skin has continued to gradually improve and I’m excited to take the next step in my skincare journey. Charmaine has been brilliant in guiding me through this process, and after a considerable break, we’ll follow up with a course of Radio Frequency (RF) treatments. RF will help stimulate collagen production and skin tightening, complementing the results of the SQT treatments. What truly set this experience apart is the holistic approach Charmaine offered. Working with Charmaine, who understands the intricate connections between internal health and skin vitality, has made all the difference. It’s been empowering to collaborate with someone who takes a comprehensive approach, which is a stark contrast to working with someone who may not fully understand how internal factors influence skin health.

The Power of Self-Heal (Prunella vulgaris) for Breast Health and Beyond

As a dedicated naturopath, I understand intimately the challenges that come with breast health issues. Having personally experienced the loss of my mother to breast cancer and witnessing friends and family endure the strenuous journey of rehabilitation post-diagnosis, I have made it my mission to explore holistic remedies that can support well-being. One such remedy that stands out is self-heal (Prunella vulgaris, PVL). This remarkable herb provides a wealth of benefits specifically for breast health, and I want to share its power with you.

A Brief History of Self-Heal

Self-heal, or heal-all, has been utilised in herbal medicine for centuries, particularly in  Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). This perennial herb is a member of the mint family, growing throughout Europe in woods, pastures, and clearings. Early settlers in North America referred to it as “Heart of the Earth,” recognising its significant healing abilities. Other common names include carpenter’s herb and hook-heal, which reflect its impressive capacity to heal wounds inflicted by sharp-edged tools.  The historical significance of self-heal is profound. Renowned herbalist Gerard once stated, “The decoction of Prunell made with wine and water doth join together and make whole and sound all wounds, both inward and outward.” This acknowledgment highlights the herb’s application in healing physical wounds, as well as the emotional and psychological scars often associated with serious health challenges, including breast cancer. Understanding self-heal as a remedy for deep, emotional wounds is pertinent, as many individuals face profound feelings of grief, despair, and anxiety during and after their journey through breast health issues.

The Mechanism of Action for Breast Health

1. Connection to the Liver Meridian : In TCM, self-heal is closely associated with the liver meridian, making it pivotal for hormonal regulation and detoxification. A healthy liver is essential for breast health, as it metabolises hormones like oestrogen that affect breast tissue. By supporting liver function, self-heal helps mitigate concerns such as breast hyperplasia and mastitis.

2.  Regulating Hormones : One of self-heal’s standout qualities is its ability to behave like an oestrogen modulator in the body. This quality can be especially beneficial for women like myself who have fibrocystic breast tissue. By managing hormonal fluctuations, self-heal has the potential to alleviate discomfort and promote better breast health.

3.  Anti-Inflammatory Properties : With its rich array of anti-inflammatory compounds, self-heal effectively reduces swelling and pain associated with breast conditions. Given my experiences and the struggles of those I’ve cared for, this property is particularly compelling, as inflammation can lead to more severe health issues.

4.  Detoxification : Supporting detoxification helps rid the body of harmful substances that can accumulate in breast tissue. This action is crucial for preventing conditions such as breast cancer, and self-heal enhances lymphatic function, thereby facilitating drainage and reducing the risk of breast-related issues. Particularly, enhancing lymphatic circulation can prevent stagnation in lymph nodes, which is crucial for reducing the risk of cancer spread and improving overall health. Additionally, self-heal’s potential for heavy metal detoxification can further contribute to a healthier body post-therapy, ensuring that harmful toxins are efficiently eliminated.

The Emotional Healing Properties of Self-Heal

Self-heal is reputed to address deep wounds, including those of emotional origin. Many individuals dealing with breast health concerns face significant emotional challenges, from coping with a diagnosis to managing anxiety and grief. Just as self-heal can support physical healing, it also promotes emotional healing, facilitating a deeper inward process. I often incorporate self-heal into oil applications for massage and topical use, which can help alleviate physical discomfort while also providing a nurturing and soothing experience. This approach enhances emotional resilience and offers a practical method of applying the herb’s properties to support overall well-being.

Potential Benefits of Self-Heal After Endocrine Therapy

Self-heal may also serve as a supportive ally for individuals transitioning off endocrine therapy, particularly for those with oestrogen receptor-positive cancer. Here are a few potential benefits:

• Hormonal Balance : Self-heal is believed to have phyto-estrogenic properties, which can help modulate hormone levels as patients adjust after discontinuing endocrine therapy.

• Detoxification : The herb’s detoxifying effects may assist in ridding the body of residual effects of medications taken during therapy.

• Anti-Inflammatory Properties : Self-heal’s ability to reduce inflammation could help alleviate baseline inflammation that may have arisen during treatment.

• Emotional Support : The psychological impact of transitioning off endocrine therapy can be immense. Self -heal provides emotional support, potentially helping individuals cope with feelings of anxiety or uncertainty during this period.

• Lymphatic Support : By enhancing lymphatic circulation, self-heal can help prevent stagnation in lymph nodes. This is crucial for reducing the risk of cancer spread and improving overall health during recovery.

• Heavy Metal Detoxification : Self-heal’s properties may assist in detoxifying the body from harmful heavy metals, further supporting a healthier state post-therapy.

Clinical Evidence Supporting Self-Heal

Research highlights self-heal’s diverse pharmacological effects:

• Hypotensive Properties : Studies have shown that PVL can reduce systolic blood pressure, which is a significant consideration for overall cardiovascular health.

• Hypoglycaemic Benefits : Self-heal effectively lowers blood sugar levels, providing additional support for metabolic health, which is intricately linked to hormonal balance and breast health.

• Liver Protection : Numerous studies confirm self-heal’s protective qualities against liver damage, highlighting its role in preventing conditions that may indirectly affect breast health.

Broader Benefits of Self-Heal

Self-heal offers a comprehensive array of health benefits beyond breast and emotional health:

• Immune Support : Its immuno-modulatory effects strengthen the body’s defences against various diseases.

• Anti-Cancer Activity : The herb contains compounds that exhibit anti-tumour properties, making it a potential ally in cancer prevention strategies.
• Digestive Health : Self-heal aids in digestion, which is essential for nutrient absorption and overall well-being.

• Antioxidant Properties : Rich in flavonoids and phenolic compounds, self-heal combats oxidative stress, aligning with health goals of reducing inflammation and improving longevity.

Tailored Support with Charmaine D

As a naturopath, I am deeply committed to guiding my clients through their unique health journeys. For those grappling with breast health challenges or transitioning through recovery, integrating self-heal into your wellness routine can be immensely beneficial. During our consultations, we can explore how to effectively utilise self-heal alongside other holistic approaches to create a comprehensive health plan tailored to your needs. I understand firsthand the emotional and physical toll that breast health issues can take, and I am here to provide compassionate support and expert guidance. Whether you are dealing with hormonal imbalances, recovering from breast cancer, or looking to improve overall breast health, I can help you navigate the transition with confidence.

Conclusion: Harnessing the Power of Self-Heal

Self-heal (Prunella vulgaris) is not just a herb with extensive historical significance; it is a powerful ally in promoting breast health, emotional balance, and overall well-being. By understanding its benefits and integrating it into a holistic health plan, you can take proactive steps toward better health.

Summary of Benefits:

• Enhances Breast Health : Supports hormonal balance and reduces breast inflammation.

• Promotes Liver Health : Protects the liver and aids in detoxification. 
• Supports Cardiovascular Wellness : Offers hypotensive benefits, assisting in blood pressure regulation.

• Regulates Blood Sugar : Exhibits hypoglycaemic effects crucial for metabolic health.

• Boosts Immune Function : Strengthens the body’s defences against diseases.

• Exhibits Anti-Cancer Properties : Contains compounds that may prevent tumour growth.

• Improves Digestive Health : Aids digestion and enhances nutrient absorption.

• Rich in Antioxidants : Helps combat oxidative stress and supports longevity.

• Emotional Healing : Assists in processing grief, despair, and anxiety, offering emotional balance during challenging times.

• Lymphatic Support : Aids in preventing stagnation in lymph nodes, crucial for overall health.

• Heavy Metal Detoxification : Supports the elimination of harmful toxins from the body.

If you are ready to embrace a holistic approach to breast health and overall wellness, consider reaching out to me, Charmaine D. Together, we can explore the profound benefits of self-heal and other natural remedies that can support your journey to health. Let’s harness the healing power of nature and work towards a healthier, more empowered you. Reach out today to schedule your consultation, and take the first step towards reclaiming your well-being!

Unlocking the Power of Astragalus: A Super-Herb for Holistic Health and Radiant Skin

In the rich tapestry of herbal medicine, few herbs have received as much acclaim as Astragalus membranaceous (AM). An integral part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for over two thousand years, this remarkable herb is revered for its many health benefits. From immune support to anti-aging properties, Astragalus is a true superhero in the realm of herbal remedies.

As a skin aesthetician and naturopath with over 30 years of experience, my deep understanding of herbal medicine allows me to effectively incorporate Astragalus into my practice. This

powerful herb not only enhances my treatment offerings but also contributes significantly to the overall well-being of my clients. I guide them in harnessing the wide-ranging benefits of Astragalus for both health and skincare.

The Multifaceted Benefits of Astragalus

Immune System Support

Astragalus is best known for its ability to bolster the immune system. Its polyphenols, saponins, and polysaccharides contribute to its immune-regulating properties, which have been shown to significantly enhance the body’s defences:

Increased Immunity: Studies have demonstrated that Astragalus can elevate levels of macrophages, neutrophils, and lymphocytes within hours of administration, showcasing its

immediate impact on immune health. Protection Against Infections: By enhancing infection resistance, Astragalus can reduce the risk of common ailments such as colds and flu , making it a vital herb for winter wellness .

Antioxidant Powerhouse

Oxidative stress is a major contributor to various chronic health issues and accelerated ageing. The antioxidant profile of Astragalus, particularly its active compound astragaloside, helps combat oxidative stress by increasing levels of superoxide dismutase, a crucial antioxidant enzyme. This makes Astragalus effective in:

• Protecting cells and tissues from free radical damage.

• Contributing to overall health by mitigating risks associated with chronic stress and inflammation.

Anti-Aging Properties

Astragalus excels in combating the signs of ageing, both physiologically and in skincare:

• Telomerase Activation: Compounds found in Astragalus have been shown to enhance telomerase activity, potentially reversing some aspects of cellular ageing.

• Skin Vitality: When applied topically, Astragalus can infuse skin care with protective and rejuvenating benefits, imparting moisture and minimising the appearance of fine lines and uneven skin tone.

Support for Chronic Illnesses

Recent studies highlight Astragalus’s potential in managing chronic conditions, including:

• Neurodegenerative Diseases: Its neuroprotective effects may help reduce the risk and progression of cognitive decline.

• Diabetes Management: Astragalus can assist in modulating blood sugar levels for clients dealing with type 1 and type 2 diabetes .•
• Cancer Treatment Assistance: Research has indicated that Astragalus may complementconventional cancer treatments, improving efficacy and potentially diminishing side effects associated with cancer th

Integrating Astragalus into Daily Routines

One delicious way to enjoy the health benefits of Astragalus is by adding it to your winter wellness regimen, particularly through a homemade fire cider remedy or as a grounded herb in soups and teas.

Fire Cider for Immunity:

• Create a base of apple cider vinegar infused with ginger, garlic, horseradish, and spicypeppers.

• Add a few drops of Astragalus liquid extract into your fire cider mixture. This enhancesits immune-boosting properties and provides a warming sensation that fortifies the bodyagainst seasonal illnesses.

• Consume a tablespoon daily as a tonic throughout colder months for optimal immunesupport Read the Fire Cider blog here: https://charmainednaturopath.com.au/the-amazing-natural-no-chemical-bespoke-fire-cider-oxymel/

Adding to Soups:

• Toss dried Astragalus root into your soups and stews. This not only enhances flavour but also infuses your meal with a host of health benefits.

• Allow it to simmer to extract its nutrients, then strain before serving to ensure the essence of the herb is enjoyed without texture troubles.

Topical Use of Astragalus in Skincare

Astragalus is not just for internal health; it’s also an exceptional ingredient in skincare formulations

• Antioxidant Protection: Include Astragalus root extract in moisturisers or serums to create a protective shield against environmental stressors. This will help combat signs of ageing and enhance the skin’s resilience.
• Wound Healing and Skin Restoration: Utilise formulations that combine Astragalus with soothing botanicals to aid in skin repair for conditions like acne, irritation, or signs of ageing.
• Hydration Enhancement: Look for products that promote deep hydration and utilise Astragalus extract to maintain a youthful, luminous complexion. This ensures your skin remains plump and well-nourished, combating dryness and signs of ageing.

Conclusion: Unlocking the Potential of Astragalus

The diverse benefits and applications of Astragalus membranaceous position it as a cornerstone in both dietary and skincare practices. Whether you’re looking to enhance your immune system, manage chronic health conditions, or achieve healthier, more radiant skin, incorporating this herb into your routine can yield transformative results. With my extensive experience as a skin aesthetician and naturopath, I am here to educateclients on the multifaceted advantages of Astragalus. I guide them in utilising this remarkable herb for holistic wellness and skin health, ensuring they understand its crucial role in not onlycombating illnesses but also enhancing their overall vitality and glow.

Final Thoughts

For optimal health benefits, consider incorporating Astragalus into your diet and skincare  regimens as a proactive step toward well-being. Experiment with fire cider remedies and nourishing soups, while appreciating the role of Astragalus in your skincare routines for lasting beauty and resilience. With continued research supporting its use across various health domains, Astragalus is well-positioned to become a staple in natural health practices. If you’re curious to delve deeper, explore my blog on Fire Cider for Immunity, where you’ll find recipes and tips for harnessing the power of Astragalus and other curative herbs for enhanced health, especially during winter months. Embrace the wisdom of Astragalus and let it be part of your journey toward a healthier lifestyle and vibrant skin!

In today’s fast-paced world, many are turning to natural remedies that promote holistic health, and one such remarkable herb is Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna). Renowned for its numerous health benefits, Arjuna is a cornerstone of Ayurvedic medicine and is increasingly recognised for its vital role in addressing various health concerns. 

What is Arjuna?

Arjuna is celebrated not just for its majestic presence in the sub-Himalayan regions of India but primarily for the incredible therapeutic properties of its bark. Used in traditional Indian medicine for centuries, Arjuna has a wide array of applications that support heart health, improve skin vitality, and enhance overall well-being.

Why You Should Consider Arjuna

Cardiovascular Support

• If you’re looking to improve your heart health, Arjuna is your natural powerhouse:

Improving Heart Function: Arjuna strengthens the heart muscles and enhancescirculation, which is vital for overall cardiovascular health.

• Maintaining Healthy Cholesterol Levels: This herb helps balance good (HDL) and bad (LDL) cholesterol, making it an excellent choice for those at risk of heart disease.

• Regulating Blood Pressure: Arjuna has been shown to help maintain healthy blood  pressure levels, making it beneficial if you’re managing hypertension.

These heart health benefits are particularly appealing if you have a family history of cardio related issues or are looking for natural ways to support your cardiovascular system.

Skin Health and Vitality

As a skin therapist, I can personally attest to how Arjuna can transform your skincare routine:

• Antioxidant Power: Arjuna is rich in antioxidants that combat free radicals, protecting your skin from oxidative stress and premature aging.

• Clarity and Radiance: Its detoxifying and anti-inflammatory effects can reduce conditions like acne and rosacea, helping you achieve smoother, more radiant skin.

• Astringent Qualities: The astringent nature of Arjuna can help tighten skin, minimise the appearance of pores, and enhance overall skin texture. If you’re dealing with skin imperfections or are simply looking to boost your skincare regimen, incorporating Arjuna can be a game changer.

Detoxification and Liver Support

Arjuna shines when it comes to liver health:

• Detoxifying Benefits: It aids in detoxification processes, making it ideal for those exposed to environmental toxins or who consume alcohol regularly.

• Metabolic Support: A healthy liver is essential for effective metabolism, which in turn impacts your skin health and energy levels. If you’re interested in detoxifying your body or enhancing your health after indulgence, Arjuna can support your efforts.

Holistic Stress Management

In a world where stress is ever-present, Arjuna offers a natural way to find balance:

• Emotional Support: Traditionally, Arjuna has been used to support emotional wellness, helping individuals cope with grief and anxiety. Its calming properties can bolster mental resilience.

• Adaptogenic Qualities: This herb may help your body adapt to stressors, promoting balance and calmness. If you’re seeking natural alternatives for managing stress, Arjuna is a noteworthy consideration.

Weight Management and Blood Sugar Level Control

Arjuna is also gaining attention for its potential in regulating blood sugar:

• Balancing Glucose Levels: This is particularly beneficial for anyone at risk of diabetes or looking to manage their weight effectively.

• Supporting Healthy Metabolism: Because it can enhance metabolic function, including Arjuna in your diet could help with weight management.

Tailored Recommendations for You

I believe in personalized wellness plans that incorporate the benefits of Arjuna to suit your unique health journey. By understanding how this herb can work for you, I can help you:

• Receive Individualized Guidance: Together, we can explore how integrating Arjuna into your routine can benefit your specific health needs.

• Experience Comprehensive Therapies: Offering a blend of naturopathic interventions and skin care treatments that include Arjuna will support your holistic approach to well-being.

Conclusion: Discover the Benefits for Yourself!

If you’re excited about the numerous benefits that Arjuna offers, consider exploring its potential for your health and wellness. Whether you’re interested in natural remedies for cardiovascular health, skin revitalization, or holistic stress management, Arjuna deserves your attention.

Ready to Learn More?

Don’t hesitate to reach out if you want to discover how Arjuna can specifically benefit you. Whether you’re looking for targeted support for a health issue, natural skincare solutions, or simply want to enhance your overall vitality, I’m here to help you explore the incredible potential of Arjuna and other herbal remedies. By embracing Arjuna, you’re taking a step towards not just physical well-being, but emotional and spiritual health as well. Let’s work together to tap into the wisdom of nature and unlock your fullest potential!

Decoding the Mystery of Annular Dermatoses (Ring-Like-Rash): A Naturopath’s Perspective

In the tapestry of life, our health journey is often woven with intricate threads of experiences, challenges, and transformations. For many, the journey to wellness can feel daunting, especially when symptoms like cystic breakouts, emotional fluctuations, and digestive issues take center stage. If you’re nodding along, perhaps you’re ready to explore the path towards rejuvenation and vitality.

Allow me to introduce you to a narrative inspired by real-life experiences, that of a brave soul seeking balance in her life – a story that could reflect your own journey. This isn’t just about skin deep issues; it encompasses a holistic approach to well-being, emphasising the interconnectedness of our hormonal, digestive, and emotional health.

Imagine a life filled with frustrating skin breakouts that seem to laugh in the mirror, cystic formations nestled around delicate facial features – the lymphatic pathways crying for attention. Our protagonist, let’s call her Sarah, found herself trapped in this cycle, feeling overwhelmed by a cascade of hormonal imbalances and the emotional rollercoaster that came with them. Having spent years on oral contraceptives, Sarah began to notice the toll this lifestyle had taken on her body. Not only did her skin suffer, but her mood was like a pendulum, swinging from highs to lows, leaving her grappling with severe PMS and emotional instability. The body’s multiple systems – the liver, lymphatic pathways, and endocrine functions – were quite clearly out of sync, and Sarah yearned for relief and a way forward.

Enter Charmaine D, a compassionate and knowledgeable naturopath, dedicated to unraveling the complexities of her client’s health. As Sarah sought help, Charmaine took a deep dive into her history, identifying potential connections between her symptoms and underlying imbalances that needed addressing. It was no ordinary consultation; this was the beginning of a transformative journey.

Charmaine understood that Sarah’s symptoms were not isolated events but rather a reflection of a whole constellation of factors – hormonal fluctuations, digestive dilemmas, and emotional upheaval. With a holistic mindset, she crafted a tailored herbal mixture to encourage balance and nourishment within Sarah’s body.

To set the course of Sarah’s healing, Charmaine curated an enchanting blend of herbs’

Globe Artichoke: this wise olf herb steps up as a liver supporter, helping to detoxify and promote better digestion. Sarah’s sticky stool dilemma? Consider it tackled. Globe artichoke works diligently to stimulate bile production, paving the way for smoother digestive health.St Mary’s Thistle: Often overshadowed by its relatives, this powerhouse of a herb protects liver cells and helps restore balance. It’s especially crucial for someone like Sarah, who has a history of liver dysfunction.

Wild Yam: A soothing presence in the mix, wild yam’s ability to help regulate hormones proved vital for Sarah’s well being and overall hormonal harmony.

Saffron: The golden spice often knits its way into conversations about mood and joy. Saffron came into play to help smooth out Sarah’s emotional turbulence and provide a little sunshine on cloudy days.

Withania: As an adaptogen, this herbal ally supports the body under stress. Given Sarah’s adrenal fatigue, it was essential for her recovery.

St John’s Wart: With a history of lifting spirits, this herb helped stabilize Sarah’s emotional state,allowing her to reclaim her joy and inner balance.

Oat Seed: This gentle herb nourishes the nervous system and provides calming support during  Sarah’s emotional storms.

Together, these herbal allies were set to work, weaving their healing magic throughout Sarah’s body.

But Charmaine didn’t stop at herbs. She introduced an alkaline diet – an essential pillar of Sarah’s wellness journey. This dietary shift wasn’t just another fad; it was a powerful strategy for enhancing gut health and promoting radiant skin. Picture a vibrant plate filled with whole fruits and vegetables, colourful and brimming with nutrients, ready to nourish every cell. “Your gut is your second brain,” she reminded Sarah, emphasising that what we fuel our bodies with is paramount to feeling good inside and out. The journey to better health isn’t just about  remedies; it’s about cultivating a lifestyle that nurtures and supports harmony within.

As Sarah and Charmaine explored her health history, they suspected a genetic twist in her narrative: the MTHFR gene mutation potential impacted her nutrient absorption. With keen awareness, Charmaine introduced Sarah to a mild multivitamin, a gentle formulation with all the activated B vitamins. This thoughtful addition was aimed at ensuring Sarah’s body could effectively utilise the nutrients she needed, enhancing her overall health journey.

As Sarah continued on this path, things started changing. She learned to listen to her body. Benefiting from the herbal support and dietary adjustments. Slowly but surely, those cystic breakouts began to fade, and her emotional landscape stabilised. She found hope and healing through the guidance of Charmaine D, a naturopath who truly understood the power of a holistic approach.

If Sarah’s story resonates with you, if you find yourself battling hormonal imbalances, emotional fluctuations, or frustrating skin issues, I invite you to embark on your own journey towards wellness. With compassion, expertise, and a tailored approach, I, Charmaine D, am here to help  you uncover the roots of your health challenges and guide you towards balance and vitality.

Your story is waiting to be written – let’s begin together.

In humility

Charmaine D

As a naturopath, I want to emphasise the significant health benefits of nasal breathing. The human nose is uniquely structured for the processes of breathing and smelling, unlike the mouth, which is primarily for eating and speaking. Unfortunately, many individuals unconsciously adopt mouth breathing habits, particularly those with nasal obstructions or stress-related breathing styles. This has led to the alarming statistic that 30-50% of adults might be chronic mouth breathers, especially during sleep.

Importance of Nitric Oxide (NO)

Nasal breathing is vital for the enhanced production of nitric oxide (NO), a naturally occurring gas that plays numerous roles in our body. While often viewed as a pollutant, nitric oxide was recognised for its importance in cardiovascular health, earning three scientists a Nobel Prize for its discovery as a signalling molecule.

Key Functions of Nitric Oxide:

1. Bronchodilation and Vasodilation: NO helps relax blood vessels and air passages in the lungs.

2. Antimicrobial Properties: It has strong antifungal, antiviral, and antibacterial characteristics, providing a defence against pathogens.

3. Pulmonary Oxygen Uptake: Inhaled NO improves oxygen absorption in the lungs, benefiting overall oxygen circulation throughout the body.

4. With age, our production of nitric oxide declines, which can contribute to various age-related conditions. Increasing NO levels through nasal breathing not only supports cardiovascular health but may also contribute to anti-aging by helping maintain vascular health and preventing chronic diseases.

Advantages of Nasal Breathing

1. Enhanced Lung Function: Nasal breathing filters and humidifies incoming air, reducing irritants that could damage lung tissue. The resistance offered by nasal passages optimizes lung elastic capacity, improving overall pulmonary function and increasing oxygen uptake compared to mouth breathing.

2. Stimulation of the Diaphragm: Breathing through the nose engages the diaphragm more effectively than chest breathing. This activation encourages deeper, more efficient breaths and expands lung capacity. Utilising the diaphragm not only aids in proper breathing mechanics but also promotes better oxygenation of tissues, supporting metabolic functions.

3. Improved Nitric Oxide Levels: As mentioned, nasal breathing increases nitric oxide levels significantly compared to mouth breathing, enhancing the immune response and promoting a healthier internal environment. Techniques such as humming or breath-holding further boost NO production, providing therapeutic benefits, especially for sinus health.

4. Stronger Immune Defence: The nose acts as a barrier against airborne pathogens, and with increased nitric oxide production during nasal breathing, the body maintains a more effective frontline defence against infections.

5. Mental and Physical Health Benefits: Proper breathing regulates carbon dioxide levels, essential for oxygen delivery to tissues. This balance is crucial for mental clarity and focus, as well as physical stamina.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

In conclusion, as a naturopath, I encourage everyone to consider the profound implications of nasal breathing on their overall health. It’s crucial to understand that the ways we breathe significantly impact our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Promoting nasal breathing habits can yield myriad health benefits, mitigate chronic health issues, and foster a healthier future. Through conscious effort and breath retraining methods such as the Buteyko or Papworth techniques, individuals can relearn effective breathing practices and enhance their quality of life.

Sanskrit Proverb: “For breath is life, and if you breathe well you will live long on earth.” Hence, let us prioritize our breath for a healthier and more vibrant life.

By making nasal breathing a priority, we can harness the powers of nitric oxide, improve our diaphragm function, and promote overall health and vitality. Thank you for taking the time to explore these important concepts with me.

In humility

Charmaine D

The Unsung Hero of Health: Unveiling the Benefits of Nitric Oxide

In recent years, nitric oxide (NO) has gained recognition for its crucial role in various physiological processes. While often associated with athletic performance and cardiovascular health, its benefits extend far beyond. In this blog, we’ll delve into what nitric oxide is, how it functions within the body, and the numerous health advantages it provides. As Charmaine D, a naturopath and experienced herbalist, I understand the importance of maintaining healthy nitric oxide production and have various natural strategies and medicinal herbal solutions to support your overall wellness journey

In recent years, nitric oxide (NO) has gained recognition for its crucial role in various physiological processes. While often associated with athletic performance and cardiovascular health, its benefits extend far beyond. In this blog, we’ll delve into what nitric oxide is, how it functions within the body, and the numerous health advantages it provides. As Charmaine D, a naturopath and experienced herbalist, I understand the importance of maintaining healthy nitric oxide production and have various natural strategies and medicinal herbal solutions to support your overall wellness journey.

What is Nitric Oxide?

Nitric oxide is a colourless gas that acts as a signaling molecule in the body. It is synthesised from the amino acid arginine by an enzyme known as nitric oxide synthase (NOS). Once produced, NO has a wide array of effects, particularly in the cardiovascular system, where it regulates blood flow, blood pressure, and overall vascular health.

The Health Benefits of Nitric Oxide

1. Cardiovascular Health

• One of the most well-known functions of nitric oxide is its ability to dilate blood vessels. This vasodilation improves blood flow and helps lower blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

• By enhancing circulation, NO aids in delivering oxygen and nutrients to tissues while facilitating the removal of waste products.

2. Improved Exercise Performance

• Athletes and fitness enthusiasts often seek out ways to enhance their performance, and nitric oxide is a key player in this realm. Increased levels of NO promote better blood flow to the muscles, improving oxygen delivery and nutrient supply.

• This can lead to increased stamina, improved recovery times, and enhanced overall athletic performance.

3. Enhanced Immune Function

• Nitric oxide plays a role in the immune system by helping to combat pathogens. It possesses antimicrobial properties, aiding in the body’s defence against infections and promoting the overall health of the immune system.

• By regulating immune responses, NO helps to maintain a balanced defensive strategy against various invaders.

4. Neuroprotection

• Research has shown that nitric oxide can have neuroprotective effects. It supports nerve cell communication and can help protect against neurodegenerative diseases by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain.• Furthermore, NO is involved in learning and memory processes, showcasing its vital role in cognitive function.

5. Hormonal Regulation

• Nitric oxide plays a role in the regulation of various hormones and can influence reproductive health. It assists in vasodilation in the genital area, contributing to sexual function in both men and women.

• Additionally, NO is involved in the release of insulin in the pancreas, impacting blood sugar levels and overall metabolic health.

6. Skin Health and Wound Healing

• Nitric oxide is instrumental in promoting blood flow to the skin, which is essential for delivering nutrients and oxygen necessary for skin health and healing.

• Its vasodilatory effects can also aid in wound healing by enhancing the regenerative processes within tissues.

How to Boost Nitric Oxide Levels Naturally

To reap the health benefits of nitric oxide, consider implementing the following strategies into your lifestyle:

• Diet: Foods rich in nitrates, such as leafy greens (like spinach and arugula), beets, and garlic, can help increase NO levels. These foods undergo conversion in the body, contributing to enhanced nitric oxide production.

• Exercise: Regular physical activity promotes the synthesis of nitric oxide and improves vascular function. Aerobic exercises, such as running or cycling, are particularly effective.

• Breathing Techniques: Practicing diaphragmatic or nasal breathing can boost nitric oxide levels, as the nasal passages are a significant source of nitric oxide in the body.

• Herbal Remedies: As a herbalist, I offer liquid medicinal herbs that can support nitric oxide production. Herbs such as ginseng, ginkgo biloba, and beetroot extract are known for their beneficial effects on circulation and NO synthesis.

• Antioxidants: Nutrients such as NAD (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) are vital for cellular energy metabolism and can also support the pathways involved in nitric oxide production, offering an additional layer of health benefits.

Conclusion

Nitric oxide may often be overlooked, but its myriad benefits for health and well-being are undeniable. By understanding its role in cardiovascular health, exercise performance, immune function, and more, we can make informed choices to naturally enhance our nitric oxide levels.

As Charmaine D, I am here to assist you on this journey, offering personalised herbal solutions and guidance tailored to your individual needs. Embracing a lifestyle that includes a healthy diet, regular exercise, mindful breathing, and the integration of medicinal herbs and antioxidants can lead to improved nitric oxide production and, ultimately, a healthier, more vibrant life. Let’s take conscious steps together to harness the power of nitric oxide and unlock your full health potential!

The Nitric Oxide Advantage: Why Nasal Breathing is Your Secret Weapon!

Nasal breathing is vital for the enhanced production of nitric oxide (NO), a naturally occurring gas that plays numerous roles in our body. While often viewed as a pollutant, nitric oxide was recognized for its importance in cardiovascular health, earning three scientists a Nobel Prize for its discovery as a signalling molecule.

Uncover the Benefits of Radio Frequency (RF) Skin Tightening

Your Journey to Beautiful Skin Starts Here

Why Choose RF Treatments?

Understanding the Power of Blood Tests: Insights from a Naturopathic Perspective

By Charmaine D, Naturopath

As a naturopath, one of the most powerful tools in my practice is the insight gleaned from blood tests. While traditional medicine often relies on strict reference ranges to determine health, I believe that blood work tells a much deeper story—one that reveals the intricate balance of our body’s systems and highlights the subtle imbalances that can lead to health issues. It’s not just about whether your results fall within the “normal” range, but rather about understanding the nuances behind the numbers and how they correlate with your symptoms and overall health.

The Case Study: Decoding the Signals

Let me share a recent case that illustrates this point beautifully. My client presented with a variety of complex symptoms: a rash around her mouth, eyes, and neck, a history of high uric acid, low bicarbonate, and significant nutritional deficiencies, and an abnormal blood profile. At first glance, these symptoms might seem distinct, but by delving into her blood test results, I was able to connect the dots and gain profound insights into her overall health.

Key Blood Test Findings:

1. Histamine Involvement and Skin Reactions : The presence of a rash suggested an underlying histamine response. High levels of histamine often correlate with digestive issues, particularly low stomach acid, which can lead to improper breakdown of food, potential overgrowth of yeast (like candida), and inflammation.

2. Nutritional Status : My client had low total protein and globulin levels, borderline low ferritin, extremely low vitamin D, and elevated cholesterol. These findings indicated malabsorption, potential deficiencies in protein, and impaired immunity caused by inflammation or dietary imbalances.

3. Blood Sugar Regulation : Elevated random glucose levels and fasting glucose suggested possible insulin resistance. Poor glucose control can create a domino effect affecting energy metabolism and overall health.

4. Bicarbonate and Acid-Base Balance : The low bicarbonate level hinted at metabolic acidosis, which can influence how the body processes nutrients and waste products, thereby impacting digestive health and energy levels.

5. Eosinophil Count : The borderline high eosinophils were telling of potential allergic responses or underlying inflammation, adding another layer to her symptom picture.

Connecting the Dots

These lab results reflect more than mere numbers; they are clues that can guide us toward effective treatments. Here’s how I synthesised this data to formulate a comprehensive approach:

• Dietary Adjustments : By recommending an anti-inflammatory, nutrient-dense diet rich in whole foods, I aimed to support her digestive health and stabilise blood sugar levels. Reducing high-histamine foods and potential allergens could also lower the histamine response associated with her rash.

• Support for Digestive Health : Given the suspicion of low stomach acid, I suggested digestive enzymes and possibly hydrochloric acid supplements to enhance digestion, thus improving nutrient absorption and supporting gut flora balance.

• Nutritional Support : With her vitamin D and protein levels being concerning, I emphasised the importance of supplementation and dietary sources to boost her immune function and overall health.

• Holistic Lifestyle Recommendations : Stress management techniques were also pivotal, as chronic stress can exacerbate inflammation and metabolic dysfunction.

The Bigger Picture

This case is a testament to how comprehensive blood analysis can illuminate the underlying issues a client may face. Instead of merely pointing to a single abnormality, I was able to view the interconnectedness of her symptoms and lab findings, creating a holistic treatment plan tailored to her needs.

Why This Matters

For my followers and prospective clients, understanding blood test results through a naturopathic lens opens up a world of possibilities for addressing health concerns. Each set of results is a narrative waiting to be read—one that can guide us toward wellness by addressing the root causes rather than merely masking symptoms. Blood testing is not just a tool for diagnosis; it is a vital step in crafting personalised health strategies that lead to lasting improvements. If you’re curious about what your blood tests reveal about your health or are experiencing symptoms that remain unexplained, I invite you to book an appointment. Together, we can uncover the key insights your blood work has to offer and chart a course toward optimal health.

Join me in exploring the fascinating world of blood analysis and its profound impact on holistic health. I look forward to seeing you soon and guiding you on your personal health journey!

In Humility

Charmaine D, Naturopath

Your histamine reactions are often triggered by foods and alcohol, and while tackling these two factors is essential in lowering our histamine levels, did you know that your home and the products you use could be contributing to your histamine activations? This blog will discuss some of the common at-home triggers we find for histamine activation and some simple solutions and tricks to help us on our journey towards lowering our histamine levels.

Histamines are the chemicals that your immune system makes to help rid your body of potential danger (allergens). The word ‘allergies’ covers everything from eczema to hay fever to food or drug allergies. These allergens tend to cause symptoms all over the body. Common allergens include but are not limited to; food, drugs, insect bites, mould, pet hair, pollen and other environmental triggers. Histamines are part of our body’s defence, causing you to itch, sneeze, or tear up in order to expel the allergens from your system. They are there to protect us.

However, when our bodies are overloaded with histamines, that’s when things start to go wrong. When our body sees the trigger (pollen, pet hair etc) as a more serious threat than it is in reality, our immune system reacts accordingly, releasing higher levels of histamine to try and eliminate these dangers.

Histamines are stored in our mast cells, and the body sends a signal to these mast cells to release histamines. Mast cells are a type of white blood cell that contains compounds that play a role in immunity. Histamine is one of these compounds, as well as leukotrienes (which also plays a role in allergies), ATP (our primary energy source), inflammatory cytokines and certain enzymes. It is the mast cells’ job to carry these compounds around the bloodstream, releasing its different contents when triggered. If mast cells release these contents all at once, the person will have anaphylaxis which can be life-threatening. Mast cells are found in your skin, blood, gut, lungs, nose and mouth. After the histamines are released from the mast cells, they cause blood flow to the area in which the histamines travelled to, causing inflammation.

Histamines, therefore, are an essential and natural part of our body’s defence system, so how come there are those of us who are intolerant? First of all, histamine intolerance does not mean we have a sensitivity to histamines, but rather we produce too much of it. Our bodily systems believe us to be nearly constantly under threat, meaning we can have a constant and high release of histamines all the time. Although the symptoms vary depending on the individual, some of the common reactions to high histamine levels are; itchy skin, dry or irritated eyes, hay fever-like symptoms, runny nose, bloating, abdominal discomfort, fatigue, headaches, irregular menstrual cycle, hives, anxiety, acne, eczema, dermatitis and psoriasis.

Food and alcohol are some of the most common histamine triggers, and also the most discussed. But did you know your environment could be adding to your histamine overload, causing headaches, running nose, itchy eyes and fatigue? In previous blogs we have discussed the internal triggers and solutions to battling histamine intolerance, in this blog we will look at some histamine activation at home and in your environment.

Fragrances, chemicals such as triclosan, chlorine and ammonia, mould, plants in your garden, pesticides, phthalates, non-stick pans are all factors in your home that could be contributing to your histamine load. What products are we using that contain these substances, how do we know what to look for and what are some substitutes for things like perfume, candles, toilet cleaner and surface spray? The answers to this question can be found through Naturopath Charmaine D’s Histamine Activation Teaching and Learning Guide. By working alongside Charmaine, not only will you have a professional on your side, guiding you through your histamine intolerance, but you will be provided with a take-home guide to forever return to, to help educate you in all things histamine activation.

In addition to the triggers at home, you will also learn about things at work that may trigger you and how to navigate that, as well as in social settings. She also takes a look at the connections between exercise and histamine activation and heavy metal toxicity/burden and its relationship with histamine activation.

In conclusion, there is more than just food and supplements that can help your histamine activation. If you have started this journey and feel as if you have hit your head on the ceiling and are still feeling symptoms of fatigue, headaches or itchiness, then you may need to look towards your home and environment and start making some environmental changes. Minimising external triggers in conjunction with internal triggers ensures you are holistically approaching this issue and guarantees are a better outcome. For more information on histamine activation, environmental triggers or anything relating to histamines, contact Naturopath Charmaine D. Charmaine can help educate and support you on your histamine reducing journey.

Step into the magical world of Aloe Vera, the synergistic goddess of ingredients in skincare! Imagine yourself transported back in time to ancient Egypt, where the legendary Queen Cleopatra valued this wonder plant as a staple in her beauty routine. Known for her timeless beauty, Cleopatra used Aloe Vera daily to maintain the elasticity and radiance of her skin.

The gel from the Aloe plant has natural moisturising and healing properties, making it an ideal ingredient for skincare. But did you know that the history of Aloe Vera goes even further back? The ancient Egyptians recognised the benefits of Aloe Vera for healthy skin, believing in its magical properties to promote youthful and glowing skin. Aloe Vera was used for medical treatments, beauty care, and even embalming in the ancient Nile Valley civilization of Kemet.

Contrary to popular belief, Aloe Vera is not a cactus, but a succulent plant belonging to the lily family. Its leaves are composed of three layers, each with its own unique properties that contribute to the plant’s healing and moisturising capabilities. The inner clear gel contains 99% water and essential nutrients, while the middle layer of latex holds anthraquinones and glycosides. The outer rind acts as a protective barrier and synthesises carbohydrates and proteins.

As a naturopath specialising in skincare, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of Aloe Vera for both internal and external use. Whether you incorporate it into your daily beauty routine like Cleopatra or reap its medicinal benefits, Aloe Vera continues to stand the test of time as a versatile and effective ingredient in skin and health care.

Aloe Vera is brimming with an array of rich beneficial components, including mucopolysaccharides; antioxidants such as beta-carotene (Vitamin A), Vitamin C, and Vitamin E; essential amino acids; fatty acids; enzymes; minerals; sugars; lignin; saponins; and more. These active constituents work synergistically to nourish, heal, and rejuvenate the skin, making Aloe Vera a versatile and potent ingredient in skincare formulations. The healing properties of Aloe Vera are attributed to its ability to interact with growth factor receptors on fibroblasts, stimulating collagen synthesis and enhancing wound healing.

Moreover, Aloe Vera’s anti-inflammatory, moisturising, and anti-aging effects have been extensively studied, showcasing its ability to enhance skin elasticity, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and soothe irritation. The plant’s moisturising properties help bind moisture to the skin, while its amino acids and zinc contribute to skin softness and pore tightening.

In the realm of internal medicinal herbal formulations, Aloe Vera shines as a natural ally in promoting digestive health, liver function, and blood sugar balance. By incorporating Aloe Vera tinctures into herbal remedies, we can harness its detoxifying properties to support optimal liver function and promote overall liver health. As such, Aloe Vera’s healing properties extend to supporting liver health, making it a valuable and versatile addition to medicinal herbal formulations.

Aloe Vera’s anti-inflammatory properties can aid in soothing gastrointestinal discomfort, promoting healthy digestion, and supporting optimal gut function. Aloe vera tinctures, when taken orally, may alleviate indigestion, gastritis, and other digestive issues, offering a gentle and natural approach to digestive wellness. In this context, the natural compounds found in Aloe Vera can work synergistically to promote digestive health.

In the Cell Defence skincare range, developed by me, Aloe Vera is incorporated into various products such as cleansers, serums, and moisturisers to provide deep hydration, support skin regeneration, protect against free radicals, promote collagen production, and much more. This range leverages the synergistic benefits of Aloe Vera in combination with other carefully selected ingredients, to work together harmoniously in skincare formulations. In addition to its already impressive array of beneficial components Aloe Vera notably contains Lignin, a remarkable substance that enhances the absorption of other ingredients into the skin, thereby amplifying their effectiveness. This special component sets Aloe Vera apart, making it an exceptional ingredient in skincare formulations.

With its anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties, Aloe Vera is particularly effective in cleansing oily and acne-prone skin, making it an ideal ingredient for those with sensitive skin. In serums, Aloe Vera helps in addressing various skin concerns such as acne, dark spots, and fine lines and wrinkles while also promoting the healing and soothing of sensitive skin. The moisturisers in the Cell Defence range, enriched with Aloe Vera, offer intense hydration and promote anti-aging by stimulating collagen production and enhancing skin elasticity. From assisting in wound healing to protecting against infection and inflammation, the versatile properties of Aloe Vera make it a beloved botanical powerhouse with a long history of skincare and healing benefits.

Aloe Vera in serums can penetrate deep into the skin, delivering nourishing and regenerative benefits. It can help in reducing hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and acne scars, while also promoting cell turnover and collagen production for firmer and more radiant skin.

In moisturisers, Aloe Vera acts as a humectant, attracting and locking in moisture to keep the skin hydrated and supple. Its soothing properties can help in calming redness and irritation, making it suitable for those with sensitive skin or conditions like eczema or psoriasis. The hydrating effects of Aloe Vera provide a protective barrier on the skin, preventing moisture loss and maintaining a healthy skin barrier function.

Free radicals can accelerate skin aging, leading to wrinkles and dull-looking skin, but Aloe Vera’s antioxidative properties help combat these effects. By neutralising the free radicals, Aloe Vera helps to minimise oxidative stress on the skin and prevent premature aging. The plant’s natural anti-inflammatory properties also aid in calming irritation, redness, and swelling, making it a gentle yet effective ingredient for soothing various skin concerns.

Ultimately, at Cell Defence we believe in harnessing the power of nature to create skincare products that are not only effective but also safe and nurturing for your skin. Our range of skincare products incorporates the healing properties of Aloe Vera along with other carefully selected ingredients to provide holistic benefits for your skin. Whether you seek to moisturise and soothe dry skin, combat signs of aging, or address specific skin concerns, Aloe Vera stands as a natural ally in skincare.

When it comes to internal medicinal herbal formulations, Aloe Vera continues to shine as a natural ally in promoting overall wellness. In addition to its skincare benefits, Aloe Vera supports digestive health, liver function, and blood sugar balance when taken internally. Aloe Vera tinctures can aid in soothing gastrointestinal discomfort, promoting healthy digestion, and supporting optimal gut function. The plant’s detoxifying properties make it a valuable addition to internal herbal remedies to promote overall wellness.

Aloe Vera’s remarkable properties extend beyond skincare and internal wellness to include alkalising benefits for the body. Despite being an acidic fruit, Aloe Vera has an alkalising effect on the body when consumed. This alkalising effect can help balance the body’s pH levels, which is crucial for maintaining overall health. By supporting a more alkaline environment in the body, Aloe Vera can aid in neutralising acidity, reducing inflammation, and promoting optimal cellular function. Incorporating Aloe Vera into your diet or wellness routine can play a role in supporting a healthy alkaline balance within the body, contributing to improved vitality and well-being.

Embrace the wisdom of nature and explore the transformative potential of Aloe Vera in both skincare and internal medicinal herbal formulations on your path towards holistic health and well-being. From Cleopatra’s beauty secrets to modern-day skincare innovations, Aloe Vera continues to captivate us with its magical properties and versatile benefits. Discover the ancient healing powers of Aloe Vera and unlock the radiant glow of your skin with the botanical wonders of nature.

There are six main pathways for Phase 2 Detoxification, one of which is glucuronidation. This detoxification pathway will be discussed in-depth in this blog.

 So what does glucuronidation do? A derivative of glucose, glucuronic acid has the ability to render a toxic substance less toxic, as well as making it water soluble so that the body is able to eliminate it. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3797149/)

Primarily, this elimination happens in the liver, however, glucuronidation enzymes are also found in parts of the body that need particular protection from toxicity such as, the brain, gut, kidneys, pancreas, placenta, prostate, and breasts. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20668491/)

 The types of substances removed are sex and thyroid hormones, 70% of pharmaceuticals, anything bound to bile including fat-soluble vitamins and fat-soluble toxins. Chemicals and solvents such as PAHs, BPA, HACs and some fungal and mycotoxins are among those eliminated. (https://www.drlaurendeville.com/treating-chemical-sensitivity/)

 As mentioned above, the majority of the glucuronidation enzymes are found in the liver. Once the toxins have become water soluble, the liver dumps them into the small intestine. The gut flora then produces an enzyme called beta-glucuronidase which can separate the bond between the glucuronic acid and the toxin, leaving the toxin with the potential to recirculate. (https://hindawi.com/journals/jnme/2015/760689/)  Gut flora should live in the colon, not the small intestine, however, in the cases of SIBO, bacteria can overgrow in the small intestine rendering a decrease in effectiveness of the glucuronidation pathway and increasing the toxicity.

 Because of this, there is a connection between elevated beta-glucuronidase and cancers, especially colon cancer. Additionally, there is a connection with breast and prostate cancer as glucuronidation is necessary for eliminating sex hormones. (https://europepmc.org/article/med/18772850)

 As well as cancer there is a connection between obesity and beta-glucuronidase activity. This is most likely due to the relationship between obesity, insulin resistance, and dysbiosis (overgrowth of bad gut flora).

 Luckily, good flora such as L. casei and B. breve have been shown to lower the activity of beta-glucuronidase activity as does prebiotics and food good for the gut flora. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17327863/)

In short, a healthy gut equals a less toxic body.

 There are certain medications that decrease the glucuronidation enzyme activity. Some of these are common medications such as NSAIDs, sedatives and anxiety medications. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20668491/)  This is another reason why treating the reason, not the symptoms is the best approach.

Smoking can also decrease the enzyme activity (just in case you needed another reason to quit!) (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25799848/)

 An overall healthy diet can ensure your gut remains balanced. There are also specific foods which are especially supportive for the glucuronidation pathway. The main one being cruciferous vegetables (any vegetable that flowers outward) such as, cauliflower, broccoli, bok choy, brussel sprouts etc. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12151360/) The compound sulforaphane is predominantly found in high levels in these types of vegetables which helps to stimulate glucuronidation enzymes as well as detoxification in general. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25944116/)

 An additional bonus is that cruciferous vegetables are also high in sulfur, meaning they support the sulfation and glutathione transferase pathways as well.

 Another type of vegetable that can upregulate the glucuronidation enzymes are the apiaceous family vegetables. This includes parsnips, celery and parsley. (https://aacrjournals.org/cancerpreventionresearch/article/2/4/345/47749/Cruciferous-Vegetable-Feeding-Alters-UGT1A1)

 A generalised opinion is the more plant-based your diet is, the lower beta-glucuronidase activity there will be. This is due to the fact that fiber tends to keep your gut healthier as fruits and vegetables naturally produce a beta-glucuronidase inhibitor and your gut flora is directly related to what you eat. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2346674/)

 Beverages can also hold benefits. Green tea, rooibos, honeybush tea and coffee may also support glucuronidation. (https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/jf0344643)  It is important to keep in mind, however, that caffeine can inhibit the elimination of sex hormones, so moderation is key. Alternatively, choose an organic decaf version of coffee or green tea.

 Extracts from some of the beneficial foods mentioned above can be taken in supplement form to increase the concentration that you consume. D-glucarate, which inhibits activity of beta-glucuronidase, is an extremely beneficial supplement to take to support this pathway. This supplement is also referred to clients in need of aid in metabolism of sex hormones. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12197785/#:~:text=Oral%20supplementation%20of%20calcium%2DD,in%20Phase%20II%20liver%20detoxification.)

Through the support of Naturopath Charmaine D, the obstacles to your health can be identified and removed. She can also provide your body with the building blocks needed to heal itself. By supporting the liver’s pathways for detoxification, you are taking a huge step in the right direction for your obstacles to a cure removal. And finally, by supporting the glucuronidation pathway, you will be incidentally supporting all the other detoxification pathways as a healthy microbiome and healthy diet are beneficial for all of them.

It may seem overwhelming initially when faced with a diet and lifestyle change, especially when many of the food choices you naturally make fall under a more acidic or high histamine category. But with a little persistence and support from Charmaine, soon you will be an expert in the right foods for your body.

 The general rule of thumb is fresh fruits and vegetables as well as nuts and seeds are considered highly alkaline (with a few exceptions such as starchy vegetables). This is a good place to start. The more manmade a food product is, the more likely it is acidic. At the beginning, it helps to focus on foods that can be grown, whole foods, as opposed to foods made in a factory. However, when you are also trying to avoid histamine-heavy foods, not all fresh produce should be eaten.

As we are trying to maintain a balance pH level between alkaline and acidic, it is not possible to eat only alkaline food. A balance is what’s important between the two to keep our body at a neutral level.

Here, we have compiled an extensive list of foods that are both alkaline and low in histamines, to support you and your lifestyle change to promote the best outcome for your health.

Foods to include (alkaline AND low in histamines):

• Quinoa
• Chestnuts
• Pinenuts
• Pumpkin Seeds
• Macadamias
• Olive oil
• Wild caught fish
• Oats (gluten free)
• Chicken (freshly cooked, not leftovers)
• Grass Fed beef
• Lentils
• Black beans
• Butter beans
• Potato
• Chickpeas
• Kidney beans
• Brown rice
• Eggs
• Ricotta cheese
• Peppermint tea
• Flaxseeds
• Coconut Milk
• Coconut Water
• Coconut oil
• Coconut yoghurt

Foods to avoid (acidic and/or high in histamines):

At the beginning, it will also feel challenging to find recipes that match all your requirements. Low histamine blogs are available but not in large numbers and therefore you quickly exhaust low histamine meal options. Instead, one of my clients alters other recipes to suit her needs. For example, if a recipe calls for spinach, she will replace it with kale.

 In addition to the information provided, it is important to note that maintaining a healthy acid/alkaline balance can have numerous benefits for overall health. An alkaline diet is believed to help reduce inflammation, improve digestion, boost energy levels, and support immune function. By focusing on alkaline foods that are also low in histamines, individuals may experience relief from symptoms associated with histamine intolerance, such as allergies, headaches, and digestive issues.

When shopping for alkaline ingredients, it is recommended to choose organic produce whenever possible, as they tend to have a higher nutrient content and are free from pesticides and chemicals that can contribute to acidity in the body. Incorporating alkaline foods into your diet can be as simple as starting your day with a green smoothie, enjoying a colourful salad for lunch, and ending the day with a nourishing and delicious dinner.

It is also important to listen to your body and make adjustments as needed. Keeping a food journal can help you identify any triggers or patterns related to your symptoms. Remember to stay hydrated, get plenty of rest, and engage in regular physical activity to support your overall well-being.

In conclusion, maintaining a healthy acid/alkaline balance while lowering histamines is a journey towards optimising your health and well-being. By incorporating alkaline and low-histamine foods into your diet, you can support your body’s natural healing processes and potentially alleviate symptoms associated with histamine intolerance.

As a naturopathic practitioner, I recommend approaching dietary changes with awareness, patience, and a focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods. Remember to listen to your body, stay hydrated, and seek support from healthcare professionals when needed. Together, we can work towards creating a balanced and sustainable lifestyle that promotes long-term health and vitality. Here’s to your journey towards wellness and vitality. Charmaine D, Naturopath.

BREAKFAST

Smoothie Bowl

Ingredients

• ¾ cup frozen blueberries
• 2x stems of chopped broccolini
• 1 tbsp coconut yoghurt
• Drizzle of honey
• Pinch of turmeric
• ¼ cup of water

Instructions

1. Add all ingredients into a blender and blend until creamy
2. Serve in a bowl topped with granola, pumpkin seeds, chia seeds and a dollop of coconut yoghurt

Cinnamon Apple Porridge

Ingredients

• ½ apple diced small
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• Dash of water
•  Oats (quantity varies on how hungry you are)
• Water
• Honey

Instructions

1. Put the diced apple, cinnamon and dash of water in a pan on low to medium heat until the apple is cooked through and it’s gone almost syrupy
2. Meanwhile, cook the oats in a saucepan, filling it up with water so there is more water than oats, stirring constantly until the right consistency.
3. Put the porridge in a bowl, topped with the apple cinnamon mixture and drizzle it with pumpkin seeds and a drizzle of honey

LUNCH/DINNER

Green Minestrone

 Ingredients

• 1tbs extra virgin olive oil
• 1x leak finely sliced
• 1x onion finely sliced
• 4x cloves of garlic, minced
• 2x sticks of celery, diced
• 400g tin cannellini beans
• 1L vegetable stock
• 75g dried pasta
• 1tbs fresh parsley chopped
• 1tbs fresh dill chopped
• 1x bunch asparagus sliced
• 1x bunch broccolini sliced

Garnish

• Lemon Zest
• Drizzle of olive oil
• Chopped herbs
• Pesto (see below)

Pesto

• 30g fresh basil leaves
• 1tbs extra virgin olive oil
• 1tbs water
• 1tsp nutritional yeast
• 1tsp lemon
• 1 small garlic clove
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Add the oil to a large pan on medium heat. Add celery, leeks and onions and saute for 10-15 minutes until soft, adding the garlic in the last couple of minutes.
2. Add the beans and season with salt and pepper. Mix well
3. Pour in the stock and bring to a simmer. Simmer for 5 minutes and then add the pasta. Mix well, cover and leave to cook for around 10 minutes.
4. Add the asparagus, broccolini, parsley and dill and stir. Cook until veg is slightly tender.
5. Serve in bowls with garnish and topped with pesto.

Roasted Red Capsicum Ricotta Pasta (tomato-based sauce alternative)

Ingredients

• 4 oz spaghetti (dry weight)

For the ricotta and red pepper sauce

• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 2 small red bell peppers cut into large chunks
• ½ white onion finely diced
• 1 garlic clove finely diced
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• large handful fresh basil leaves
• ½ cup ricotta cheese
• pink himalayan salt to taste
• black pepper optional, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 200C / 390F and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Add the peppers to the tray. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle over the thyme. Roast for approximately 30 minutes until they are tender.
3. While the peppers are roasting, fry the onion and garlic for 3-4 minutes until softened.
4. Cook the spaghetti according to packet instructions. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water.
5. While the pasta is cooking, add the roasted peppers, onion, garlic, basil (leave a few leaves aside for garnish), ricotta cheese and a pinch of salt and black pepper (if using) to a food processor. Blend until it becomes a creamy sauce. If it is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water and blend again.
6. Drain your spaghetti, and return it to the pan. Stir through the sauce, and re-heat slightly if necessary. Add a grind of black pepper to preference. Serve immediately.\

Kale & Quinoa Salad with Lemon Dijon Dressing

IngredientsSalad:

• 1 bunch curly kale
• ¾ cup uncooked quinoa
• ¼ cup pumpkin seeds
• ¼ cup sliced almonds

Chickpeas:

• 1 can Chickpeas
• 2 teaspoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt

Dressing:

• ⅓ cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic about 2 cloves
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons dijon mustard
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt or to taste
• Black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Drain and rinse the chickpeas and to a bowl.
3. Add in the olive oil, garlic powder and salt and toss to combine
4. Transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 40 minutes or until crispy.
5. As the chickpeas cook, prepare the quinoa following your packet’s instructions
6. While the quinoa is cooking, de-stem the kale, wash, and chop finely. Add to a large bowl along with the chickpeas, quinoa, pumpkin seeds and sliced almonds.
7. To make the dressing, simply whisk all ingredients together in a small bowl or add to a salad dressing shaker and shake to combine.
8. Toss the dressing with the salad. Top with additional salt and pepper if desired and enjoy!

Grilled Chicken and Asparagus Pesto Pasta

INGREDIENTS

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 pound asparagus woody ends cut off
• Olive oil kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
• 12 ounces rotini pasta gluten free if needed
• 1/3 cup pesto
• 1/2 of a lemon juiced
• 3 tablespoons shredded Pecorino Romano or parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts
• Fresh chopped basil and more Pecorino Romano for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and put into a large serving bowl.
2. While the pasta cooks, preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
3. Season the chicken with Italian seasoning, salt and pepper. On a baking sheet lined with foil lay the asparagus out in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil, salt and pepper and toss to coat.
4. Grill the chicken for approximately 4-6 minutes then flip over and grill another 4-6 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°-165° F. Let it rest for 5 minutes before cutting it.
5. While the chicken cooks place the prepared asparagus onto the grill grates horizontally. Grill for 2 minutes then roll or flip them over with tongs and grill another 1-2 minutes. Cut into approximately 2 inch pieces.
6. Add the chopped chicken and asparagus to the bowl with the pasta. Add in the pesto, lemon juice and shredded romano or parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper and toss everything together until coated. Taste for seasoning. Garnish with toasted pine nuts and chopped fresh basil if desired. Serve warm or cold.

Easy Creamy Broccoli Pasta

INGREDIENTS

• 12 ounces Linguine – or Spaghetti
• ½ pound Broccoli – cut into florets
• 1 TBS Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• ½ Cup Dried Breadcrumbs
• 1 whole Lemon – zest and juice, divided
• 2 TBS Fresh Parsley – chopped, plus more for serving
• 1 1/3 Cups Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese
• 2 TBS Pine Nuts – toasted
• ¼ Cup Freshly Grated Parmesan – plus more for serving
• Kosher Salt and Fresh Ground Pepper
• Optional for serving: Crushed Red Pepper Flakes, Lemon Wedges

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Make ricotta mixture: In the bowl of a food processor, add the ricotta, lemon juice 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/8 teaspoon pepper and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (if using).  Process the mixture until the ricotta is incredibly smooth, stopping and scraping down the sides as needed, about 40 seconds.  Alternately, you can mix the ingredients together in a medium bowl until thoroughly combined.  Set aside.
2. Boil pasta, then add broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Boil the pasta to al dente according to package directions. During the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, remove and reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water and then add the broccoli to the water and continue until pasta is al dente and broccoli is tender-crisp.
3. While the pasta is cooking, toast breadcrumbs: Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil in a large, straight-sided skillet over medium to medium-heat. Add in the breadcrumbs and season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring often, until the breadcrumbs are golden brown. Transfer to a small bowl and add in the lemon zest and parsley. Mix well and set aside.
4. Drain the pasta and broccoli and return both right back to the pot.  Set the pot over low heat.  Add the ricotta mixture and enough of the pasta water to create a sauce .
5. To serve:  Divide the pasta among serving plates. Top with the breadcrumbs, pine nuts and parmesan. Serve with lemon wedges.  Enjoy!

Is Apricot High in Histamine?
If you suffer from histamine intolerance, you have probably spent time wondering whether apricots would trigger your symptoms. Often the information we find online can be contradictory and we end up needing to figure it out for ourselves by trial and error. This blog is going to look in-depth at the relationship between apricots and histamine levels, the nutritional profile of apricots and some tips on managing histamine intolerance.

Let’s first have a refresher on what histamines are and the role they play inthe body.

Histamines are the chemicals that your immune system makes to help rid your body of potential danger (allergens). The word ‘allergies’ covers everything from eczema to hay fever to food or drug allergies. These allergens tend to cause symptoms all over the body. Common allergens include but are not limited to; food, drugs, insect bites, mould, pet hair, pollen and other environmental triggers. Histamines are part of our body’s defence, causing you to itch, sneeze, or tear up in order to expel the allergens from your system. They are there to protect us. However, when our bodies are overloaded with histamines, that’s when things start to go wrong. When our body sees the trigger (pollen, pet hair etc) as a more serious threat than it is in reality, our immune system reacts accordingly, releasing higher levels of histamine to try and eliminate these dangers.

Histamines are stored in our mast cells, and the body sends a signal to these mast cells to release histamines. Mast cells are a type of white blood cell that contains compounds that play a role in immunity. Histamine is one of these compounds, as well as leukotrienes (which also plays a role in allergies), ATP (our primary energy source), inflammatory cytokines and certain enzymes. It is the mast cells’ job to carry these compounds around the bloodstream, releasing its different contents when triggered. If mast cells release these contents all at once, the person will have anaphylaxis which can be lifethreatening. Mast cells are found in your skin, blood, gut, lungs, nose and mouth. After the histamines are released from the mast cells, they cause blood flow to the area in which the histamines travelled to, causing inflammation.

Histamines, therefore, are an essential and natural part of our body’s defence system, so how come there are those of us who are intolerant? First of all, histamine intolerance does not mean we have a sensitivity to histamines, but rather we produce too much of it. Our bodily systems believe us to be nearly constantly under threat, meaning we can have a constant and high release of histamines all the time. Although the symptoms vary depending on the individual, some of the common reactions to high histamine levels are; itchy skin, dry or irritated eyes, hay fever-like symptoms, runny nose, bloating, abdominal discomfort, fatigue, headaches, irregular menstrual cycle, hives, anxiety, acne, eczema, dermatitis and psoriasis. If you suffer from histamine intolerance, it is essential you change your diet to limit high-histamine foods and ensure your histamine levels stay at a healthy, balanced place. As food is something we have the biggest control over, it can be easy to make changes. However, knowing what foods will cause you harm and what foods will help you is no easy task. There are some very clear, obvious foods you should avoid, but there are some that sit somewhere in the middle and could even effect people differently. One of these foods is apricots.

Apricots offer a range of essential nutrients that can contribute to our overall well-being and are highly regarded for their high vitamin and mineral ontent. Vitamins A and C are both particularly high in apricots and are important for our body due to their antioxidant properties. Vitamin A helps our eyes stay healthy as well as plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the skin. Vitamin A also supports the immune system and helps the development and growth of cells. Vitamine C is a powerful antioxidant that protects the body from oxidative stress. Vitamin C takes part in collagen synthesis, which is important for the health of the connective tissues of skin,
bones and blood vessels. Cleverly, Vitamin C can also improve the absorption of iron plant-based foods. Apricots also contain the minerals iron and potassium which plays a role in maintaining a healthy immune system and regulating blood pressure respectively. Another positive benefit of apricots are their fibre content. Fibre promotes
healthy digestion and maintains a balanced blood sugar level. It is a type of carbohydrate that the body cannot digest as it passes through the digestive system promoting regular bowel movements as well as reduces the risk of constipation, haemorrhoids and diverticular disease.

In addition to the already accumulative benefits of apricots, they also contain a variety of antioxidants, including beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin. Beta-carotene is a precursor to Vitamin A and is the reason apricots have such a bright orange colour. This antioxidant protects the cells from free radicals as well as promoting healthy skin and eye health.

Lutein and Zeacanthin are both beneficial for eye health by filtering harmful blue light, reducing the risk of degeneration and improving sight. It is clear that apricots are a small, delicious and nutritional powerhouse packed with vitamins, minerals, fibre, and antioxidants which contribute to our overall well being. Let’s now look more closely at the relationship between apricots and histamines. Apricots are typically considered low in histamines, although they do contain some, the levels are generally quite low and do not pose any significant risk for people living with histamine intolerance.

What apricots do have that is important for us to know, is an enzyme called diamine oxidase (DAO). DAO is an extraordinary enzyme that actually breaks down histamine
in the body, therefore playing a vital role in histamine metabolism, aiding in its breakdown and preventing a build-up. For those with histamine intolerance, consuming foods with DAO such as apricots can actually alleviate the histamine symptoms you are experiencing. Please note that histamine intolerance is a complex condition and may differ from person to person so listening to your own body after consuming apricots or any other foods is important to ensure the foods you are consuming are right for you and your individual needs. 

In addition to apricots, there are other dietary changes you can make to support your well being and manage symptoms. Limit foods known to be high in histamines such as aged cheeses, fermented foods, cured meats and alcohol. Increase your consumption of fresh, unprocessed foods into your diet, with a focus on anti-inflammatory foods
such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and healthy fats. By reducing inflammation in the body you are supporting your overall histamine metabolism. Some other fresh fruits to pair with apricots that are low in histamine and can support your overall health are blueberries, watermelon, mangoes and pineapple. As aged foods contain high levels of histamines, it is important to note that dried apricot, tinned apricots or any other apricot products will not provide you with the same DAO enzyme benefits. It is only for fresh apricots that your histamine levels will benefit from.

Another factor that we can look at on our journey towards lower histamine levels is stress. Stress is believed to impair the activity of the DAO enzyme. Meaning high levels of stress lead to a slower working DAO enzyme, leading to a histamine build up, exacerbating symptoms of histamine intolerance. This makes combating stress even more important as higher cortisol levels not only releases histamines but also prevents the enzyme from breaking it down. Taking small steps towards a reduced stress lifestyle will positively impact your histamine levels, histamine symptoms and your overall well being.

It is clear from our look into apricots and stress that the DAO enzyme is a critical factor in the balance of histamines in our body. Let’s support this enzyme to do what it does best by consuming apricots and other fresh produce, as well as reducing our stress and moving towards a healthier, happier you.

For more information or to find someone who is able to support you on your journey towards living a histamine balanced life, contact Naturopath Charmaine D. Charmaine will be able to create a bespoke plan of action for you and your health, and walk alongside you with support, research, supplements and lifestyle plans.

Have you ever woken up feeling under the weather or noticed sudden changes in your body like a skin breakout or digestive issues? These unexpected health symptoms may actually be signs of what Nature Cure refers to as healing crises – a term that holds a unique and profound meaning in the realm of holistic medicine. Quote from Nature Cure Chapter XX Crises by Henry Lindlahr: “Healing Crises are simply different forms of elimination by means of which Nature endeavors to remove the latent, chronic disease encumbrance from the system.” – Henry Lindlahr

In conventional medicine, the word “crisis” typically denotes a decisive change in a disease process, leading to either recovery or further deterioration. However, within the Nature Cure philosophy, healing crises represent a transformative phase in the body’s innate healing process. It signifies a moment when the body’s vital force is actively working to eliminate toxins, cleanse the system, and restore balance naturally.

At times, the body may face acute challenges due to the accumulation of toxic matter or the invasion of disease-causing agents, putting health and vitality at risk. In such cases, these are termed as disease crises, where the disease conditions seem to overpower the body’s healing forces. On the other hand, healing crises occur when the body’s innate healing mechanisms gain dominance and initiate acute inflammatory processes to overcome imbalances and restore health.

In today’s fast-paced world, where stress, environmental toxins, and unhealthy lifestyle habits have become rampant, our bodies often require a reset to optimise health and well-being. This is where the principles of Nature Cure can offer profound insights on how to work with the body’s natural healing abilities and navigate through healing crises effectively. 

As a naturopath, I believe in the importance of individualised and holistic approaches to health. Each person’s journey towards wellness is unique, and bespoke protocols  tailored to their specific needs are crucial for optimal healing outcomes. Integrating herbal tinctures into these protocols can play a vital role in supporting the body’s detoxification and healing processes, enhancing overall well-being.

If you find yourself experiencing a healing crisis or struggling with everyday ailments, consider booking a 40-minute everyday ailment consult with me. Together, we can explore your health concerns, develop a personalised protocol, and incorporate herbal remedies to assist you on your healing journey. Remember, while I cannot claim to cure, I can offer guidance, support, and tools to empower you towards better health.

Let’s embark on this healing journey together and embrace the transformative power of nature cure principles in nurturing your body, mind, and spirit. Your well-being is worth investing in, and I am here to support you every step of the way.

In a world where self-care and holistic health practices are becoming increasingly essential, understanding and embracing healing crises can pave the way for a more vibrant and resilient life. Let’s work together to harness the wisdom of Nature Cure, unlock your body’s innate healing potential, and embark on a transformative journey towards lasting wellness.

Remember, every individual is unique, and your path to healing is as individual as you are. By honouring your body’s natural rhythms and supporting its healing mechanisms, we can cultivate a state of balance, vitality, and vitality.

Reach out today to start your journey towards optimal health and well-being. Together, we can navigate through healing crises, empower your body to heal itself, and embrace the transformative power of Nature Cure. 

With warmth and wellness, Charmaine D, Naturopath

Albizia lebbeck

 Looking for natural support for allergies, skin conditions, and hay fever? Look no further than Albizia lebbeck! 🌿

Albizia lebbeck has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to assist with allergies, eczema, hives, and more. Its anti-allergy properties can help stabilize mast cells and reduce the release of histamine, providing support for symptoms like sneezing, watery eyes, and itchy skin. Recent studies have suggested it may be helpful for asthma and bronchitis too!

But that’s not all – Albizia lebbeck also has properties that may assist with inflammation and pain, potentially offering support for arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. And if you’re looking to support brain function and memory, Albizia lebbeck has been shown to positively impact neurotransmitters like GABA, serotonin, and dopamine.

Ready to try Albizia lebbeck for yourself? You can enjoy it as a tea, tincture, or in herbal combinations with other beneficial herbs. Just remember, it’s not recommended during pregnancy or lactation, so it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider before use. 🌼

Book a consultation with Charmaine D today and take the first step towards a healthier, happier you. Discover how Albizia Lebbeck and other natural remedies can make a difference in your life. 

Albizia julibrissin

The bark and blooms of the beloved Albizia julibrissin tree, found in many backyard gardens, hold a long-standing legacy in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Its reputation for uplifting mood is so profound that it is affectionately referred to as the “tree of joy” in Chinese culture.

Step into the world of the Mimosa tree, known as the Tree of Happiness in Traditional Chinese Medicine. With its vibrant bark and flowers in shades of red, fuchsia, and pink/white, this majestic plant offers a myriad of gifts to those seeking emotional and mental support.

From antioxidant properties to promoting a healthy response to stress, Mimosa is hailed as an adaptogen that calms the spirit and regulates the body’s natural balance. Its oneirogenic effects enhance dream-like states of consciousness, offering a unique healing experience.

In the realm of herbal medicine, Mimosa has been used to address long term depression, unrelenting grief, broken heartedness, and anxiety. Its gentle nature and versatility make it suitable for a wide range of individuals, from the young to the old.

Within the realm of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Mimosa bark and flowers are revered for their ability to nourish the heart and calm the spirit. In a world filled with stress and turmoil, Albizia serves as a beacon of hope, offering relief from chest distension, palpitations, and insomnia caused by emotional unrest.

As we delve deeper into the healing properties of Mimosa, we uncover its ability to alleviate pain and swelling, support women’s health, and address respiratory and skin issues. With a holistic approach to wellness, Mimosa embodies the essence of balance and harmony.

Let us embrace the essence of the Mimosa tree, a symbol of collective happiness and a reminder of the beauty and power of nature’s remedies. As we seek to regain our zest for life, let Mimosa be our guide towards a path of emotional and mental well-being.

 Mimosa has a special affinity for addressing grief, broken heartedness, and deep emotional pain

Personal testimonial from Charmaine D, a naturopath, who found solace and acceptance in a time of deep grief with the help of Mimosa after the passing of her niece.

Let this “Tree of Happiness” guide you towards emotional and mental well-being. Book now & discover the power of nature’s remedies and start your journey to a healthier, happier you today!

Aloe vera

As a naturopath promoting medicinal herbal tinctures at my herbal remedy bar, I am excited to share the holistic benefits of Aloe vera. With a rich historical background dating back over 4000 years, Aloe vera, deriving its name from the Arabic word “Allaeh” meaning “shining bitter substances” and the Latin word “Vera” meaning “true,” has been cherished for its healing properties in ancient civilizations.

Aloe vera, with more than 75 compounds including essential vitamins, enzymes, minerals, and anthraquinones, is a versatile plant that offers a multitude of health benefits. Research has shown potential pharmacological actions of Aloe vera, such as immune stimulation, anti-inflammatory effects, and antimicrobial properties.

In my practice, I have explored the potential benefits of Aloe vera in promoting overall wellness. Aloe vera tinctures have been traditionally used to support digestive health, skin conditions, and as a tonic for the urinary and reproductive tracts. Aloe vera’s ability to stimulate cell growth, cleanse the body, and provide relief in liver infections and stomach/intestinal problems aligns with the principles of natural healing I advocate for as a naturopath.

Through careful consideration and consultation with a healthcare provider, incorporating Aloe vera herbal tinctures into your wellness routine can offer a natural and holistic approach to supporting your health. Embracing the ancient wisdom of Aloe vera allows us to harness the healing power of nature and strive towards optimal well-being.

Andrographis Paniculata

Embark on a journey of natural healing and vitality as we explore the transformative potential of Andrographis paniculata (A. paniculata) at our herbal remedy bar. As a dedicated naturopath, I am thrilled to enlighten you on the intricate workings of this ancient herb, blending centuries-old wisdom with cutting-edge research to deliver real and impactful benefits to your health and well-being.

Drawing from the rich tapestry of the past and the dynamic landscape of the present, A. paniculata emerges as a powerhouse in herbal remedies, offering a holistic approach to wellness. With a storied history in traditional medicine and a spotlight on its modern-day applications, this herb unveils a treasure trove of health benefits that resonate with the demands of contemporary living.

In your everyday consultations, my goal is to provide personalised care and tailored herbal prescriptions that align with your unique health needs. By delving into the evidence-backed properties of A. paniculata, we can devise herbal remedies that address a myriad of common ailments, from digestive discomfort to respiratory issues and beyond. Its antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory actions offer a holistic solution to support your well-being on a profound level.

Let our consultations be a beacon of hope and support towards healing as we navigate through your health challenges together. Whether you are seeking relief from gut issues, respiratory ailments, or immune support, A. paniculata stands ready to empower your journey towards optimal wellness. By incorporating this remarkable herb into your herbal prescriptions, we can harness its innate healing power to nurture your health and vitality from within.

Join me in unlocking the transformative potential of Andrographis paniculata, and let nature’s wisdom guide you towards a path of holistic healing and vitality. Your well-being is my utmost priority, and together, we can embark on a journey of discovery and restoration that leads to radiant health and resilience.

Let the healing journey begin.

Aniseed

Unlocking the Ancient Wisdom of Aniseed at Charmaine D’s Herbal Remedy Bar

Step into the realm of natural healing at Charmaine D’s Herbal Remedy Bar, where ancient alchemy meets modern wellness. Dive into the intriguing world of the versatile herb aniseed, known as Pimpinella anisum, and discover its rich history intertwined with potent healing properties and mystical qualities.

Aniseed has captivated civilizations for centuries with its medicinal benefits and magical associations. In addition to addressing common health concerns, aniseed holds an enchanting lore that adds an extra layer of fascination to its therapeutic allure. Did you know that anise is one of the herbs believed to avert the Evil Eye, a superstition that has woven itself into ancient traditions and folklore?

At Charmaine D’s Herbal Remedy Bar, we incorporate aniseed in our healing protocols to promote holistic well-being and honour the mystical roots of this herb. Let’s explore how aniseed’s ancient alchemy augments its healing potential:

Digestive Health: Aniseed tinctures, cherished for their carminative and digestive properties, offer relief from bloating, gas, and indigestion. By infusing a few drops of aniseed tincture into your water or herbal tea, you can invoke its magical essence to support healthy digestion and soothe post-meal discomfort.

Respiratory Support: With expectorant and antispasmodic virtues, aniseed tinctures act as a soothing remedy for asthma and persistent coughs. Harmonise your respiratory system by combining aniseed tincture with honey or warm water to quiet coughing fits and enhance breathing clarity, unveiling the herb’s mystical prowess.

Menstrual Discomfort: Embrace the antispasmodic and analgesic powers of aniseed tinctures to ease menstrual discomfort and cramps. Through a gentle abdomen massage using diluted aniseed tincture during menstruation, you invite relief and relaxation, conjuring the herb’s enchanting touch.

Overall Wellness: Embark on a well-being journey by incorporating aniseed tinctures into your daily routine. Start your day with a magical elixir of aniseed tincture in water or herbal tea to harmonise your body’s systems, infusing vitality, and balance into your wellness ritual.

Immerse yourself in the timeless charm and enigmatic allure of aniseed at Charmaine D’s Herbal Remedy Bar, where the ancient wisdom of this herb weaves seamlessly with modern healing practices. Experience the captivating blend of tradition and innovation as we unlock the potential of aniseed in our therapeutic remedies. Visit us to explore the mystical realms of aniseed and unlock its healing potential for your holistic wellness journey.

Charmaine D’s approach to PCOS and Hormonal Balance

Are you navigating the challenges of PCOS while longing to embark on a journey to parenthood? Charmaine D, your dedicated naturopath, is here to offer comprehensive support tailored to your unique needs. Let’s explore how naturopathic interventions can assist you on your fertility journey, addressing PCOS and hormonal imbalances with evidence-based approaches.

Firstly, let’s look into understanding your body and the hormonal harmony required for fertility. Low levels of hormones including oestrogen, LH and progesterone can disrupt your menstrual cycle and play pivotal roles in your fertility health.

Your menstrual cycle is as complex as a finely-tuned symphony, with LH acting as the conductor to signal the release of an egg during ovulation. However, irregularities in LH levels can disrupt this process, making it challenging to predict the optimal time for conception. Additionally, low oestrogen and progesterone levels can impact the quality of ovulation and your body’s readiness for pregnancy.

Another influencing factor over fertility is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). PCOS is a complex condition which can be influenced by genetic predispositions and hormonal imbalances. Symptoms for PCOS can include irregular menstrual cycles, difficulty ovulating, and infertility. Although everybody is different, it is common for PCOS to develop with the combination of genetic factors and environmental influences like stress.

Another symptom of PCOS can be insulin resistance. Insulin resistance further complicates the hormonal dynamics within your body, therefore, potentially impacting your ability to conceive. 

By understanding the underlying factors that are affecting you and your fertility, we are able to feel empowered and work together towards solutions. 

To be able to paint a complete picture of your unique situation, comprehensive testing is essential. This can provide us with the exact information on what your body is going through and will provide the information to craft a personalised approach to your fertility journey. We will assess markers including LH, oestrogen, progesterone, testosterone, insulin levels, and factors like IGF-1 and AMH. 

Botanical interventions play a pivotal role in addressing the hormonal imbalances associated with PCOS. Saw palmetto and nettle, known for their ability to modulate the 5-alpha reductase pathway, offer promising avenues for restoring hormonal equilibrium. By inhibiting the conversion of testosterone to its more potent form, these botanicals can alleviate symptoms of excess androgens and support fertility. Charmaine D, with her extensive herbal collection, will be able to assess and create a bespoke botanical plan for you and your unique needs.

In addition to botanical support, naturopathic treatments for PCOS and hormonal imbalances take a holistic approach and aim to address the underlying imbalances and promote overall well-being. Dietary modifications, nutritional supplementation, lifestyle adjustments, and mind-body therapies form integral components of this comprehensive approach.

Dietary Modifications: Embrace a balanced diet, rich in whole foods, fibre, and antioxidants to regulate blood sugar levels and support hormone metabolism. 

Nutritional Supplements: Supplements with key nutrients like vitamin D, magnesium, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids to support hormonal imbalance and reduce inflammation.

Lifestyle Adjustments: Incorporate regular exercise, stress management techniques, and adequate sleep to improve insulin sensitivity and promote overall health.

Herbal Medicine: Explore the therapeutic potential of herbs like chasteberry, cinnamon, spearmint, and berberine-containing herbs to regulate menstrual cycles and reduce androgen levels.

Mind-Body Therapies: Harness the healing power of acupuncture, meditation, and relaxation exercise to alleviate stress and promote hormonal balance. 

You are unique, which means your fertility journey is unique, and naturopathic support offers a compassionate, evidence-based, holistic approach to navigating the complexities of PCOS and hormonal imbalance. Together, let’s embark on a transformative journey towards hormonal harmony and the fulfilment of your fertility aspirations. If you are ready to take charge of your fertility and embrace holistic support, schedule a consultation with Charmaine D, qualified naturopath, today. For an ally in health and fertility, contact Charmaine D today. 

Welcome to a holistic approach to health and well-being that embraces all stages of your life, from birth through to the golden years. As a dedicated naturopath and health coach, my mission is to empower you to take control of your health, understand your body and support you on your journey towards optimal wellness. Let’s explore how I can do this.

Comprehensive health care for all ages

From the hormonal rollercoaster of puberty to the wisdom of old age, I am here to support you every step of the way. Whether you are a teenager struggling with acne, a young adult navigating fertility challenges, or a mature individual living with hormonal imbalances, I can offer a comprehensive range of services, tailored to meet your unique needs.

Embracing diversity and inclusivity

In my practice and throughout my years of experience, I have worked with individuals from all walks of life, creating a safe, inclusive space where every person feels heard and supported. I understand the nuances of sexuality and strive to provide guidance and acceptance for individuals exploring their identities or facing challenges that may be related to sexual health.

Pregnancy and postpartum support

Bringing new life into the world is a miraculous journey, and I am here to support you during this transformative period. Whether you seek guidance on prenatal nutrition, hormonal balance during pregnancy, lactation support, or navigating the emotional and physical changes of postpartum, I am here to provide compassionate care and expertise, every step of the way.

Holistic wellness approach

Health is not just the absence of disease but a state of harmony between mind, body and spirit. Through personalised nutrition plans, lifestyle modifications, and natural health techniques, I help you achieve balance and vitality at every stage of life. Together, we can optimise your sleep, manage stress, and cultivate healthy habits that support your well-being. This is done through the holistic lens, understanding the many connected, moving parts that create a balanced state. I first begin by diving into the ‘why you?’ of the problem, going back along your timeline to understand the factors that lead you to where you are today. It is through this journey that we will find the answers to your health.

Specialised expertise in hormonal health

Hormones play a vital role in our overall health, influencing everything from mood to metabolism. With my specialised knowledge and years of expertise in hormonal health, I address conditions such as endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), histamine issues, mast cell activation syndrome, autoimmune disorders, and genetic predispositions with a holistic approach that aims to restore balance and vitality for good.

Empowerment through education

Education is key to taking charge of your health journey. I don’t just treat the symptoms; I empower you with knowledge, understanding and support so you can make informed decisions about your health. Working alongside one another, we will develop a personalised treatment plan, explore natural remedies and work collaboratively to enhance your well-being.

different herbs available in liquid form, allowing me to create bespoke formulations tailored to address your unique health concerns.

Herbal formulations

Harnessing the therapeutic potential of botanical medicine, I craft personalised herbal formulations that target a wide range of health issues in a single formula. Whether you see relief from digestive disturbances, hormonal imbalances, immune system support, or stress management, I can create custom herbal blends to address your specific needs and promote healing from within. 

I also recognise that individual preferences vary, therefore, I also provide powdered forms of herbs in tablet and capsule formats for those with taste sensitivities or specific dietary requirements. This versatility ensures that you can comfortably incorporate the healing power of herbs into your wellness routine, making natural remedies accessible and convenient for all individuals.

Customised skin and body therapies

With over three decades of experience as a skin and body therapist, I bring a wealth of expertise in enhancing not just your internal health, but also your external radiance. My bespoke programs are meticulously crafted to address your unique skin and body needs, utilising specialised equipment and techniques honed over years of practice. Whether you are seeking rejuvenation, anti-aging solutions, acne management, or relaxation, my customised programs are designed to nurture your skin and body internally and externally.

Innovative plant stem cell skincare range

Combining my knowledge on natural remedies and skin therapies, I have developed a chemical-free skincare range infused with the power of plant stem cell ingredients. These advanced formulations harness the natural regenerative properties of plants to promote healthy, glowing skin without harsh chemicals or synthetic additives. 

At the intersection of naturopathy and skin and body therapies lies a harmonious blend of internal and external wellness. By incorporating my holistic approach to health with specialised skin and body treatments and plant stem cell skincare, you can achieve a holistic transformation that nurtures your entire being. Embark on a transformative journey that transcends conventional boundaries and embraces the connection between your inner vitality and external radiance. Through a fusion of naturopathy, skin and body therapies, and plant stem cell skincare, you can unlock the full spectrum of your well-being and radiate beauty and health from within. 

“Unlocking the Secrets of Plant Stem Cell Skincare: The Cell Defence Revolution”

Plant stem cells in skincare have begun to surge in popularity due to its overwhelmingly positive results, and Cell Defence is at the forefront of this new technology. Thoughtfully curated by Naturopath, Charmaine D, alongside the brains of a brilliant man, Cell Defence is a high performing, botanically based skin care program, formulated with an understanding and belief of the concepts that plant ingredients are safer, gentler and better for human health than synthetic chemicals. By using her knowledge as a naturopath and her 25 years of working in the skin industry, Charmaine D created a skincare range that utilisted the plants natural abilities to work synergistically alongside our own skin to create a harmony that chemical-based products can’t.

Plant stem cells are generated in the meristems of plants and are available first hand if the live plant is damaged. Amazingly, like human stem cells, plant stem cells have the ability to self-heal.  By using plant stem cells synergistically with many other ingredients, we can give your skin the 3 R’s; repair, rebalance and restore. Through modern stem cell science, infused with the ancient wisdom of phytotherapy, we are able to deliver the highest level of plant essences in a truly pure skin care experience.

One of the challenges within the cosmetic industry is how to deliver these plant cells into the skin for optimal benefits. Although one cannot claim that ‘transfollicular penetration’ is effective, Cell Defence has introduced a groundbreaking program which involves tapping the skin to enhance the absorption of these stem cells in the hair follicles and skin, promoting better penetration and efficacy.

The essential cells responsible for all epidermal cell renewal over your lifetime are the stem cells found deep within your hair follicles. These follicles may be large or small and are often known at the skin’s surface as ‘pores’. These pores are the mouth of the vital reservoirs of regenerative life for your skin and the opening to the larger and more complex pilosebaceous organ known simply as the follicle. Like a sponge, the face and scalp skin has more follicle penetrations (pores) than the entire body of skin; with an average of 800 follicles per cm2 (approximately 900,000 tiny follicle organs). Nestled deep in these crucibles, the stem cells are responsible for skin renewal, skin pigmentation, skin rejuvenation and wound healing. This is why penetrating these follicles is an effective approach to proper absorption of plant stem cell skincare.

Additionally, the molecular structure of the product is also of importance. The finer the molecular structure, the more success you will have with penetrating the skin. It is therefore important to note that if these plant stem cells were in a cream-based product, as opposed to Cell Defence’s serum-based formula, then their ability to penetrate would be drastically reduced.  The Cell Defence skincare range, plus the mode in which Charmaine D applies it – through oxygen-based tapping – allows for optimal transfollicular penetration, and therefore optimal benefits.

Many ancient practices recognised the benefits of plants in skincare. Plant stem cells, especially those derived from lilac, have recently gained more attention for their remarkable properties. These stem cells have the potential to regulate telomere length, promote skin cell renewal and enhance the skin’s defence mechanisms against sun and ageing damage. The challenge, however, is in delivering the benefits through topical administration due to the skin’s natural barrier functions. As the body’s largest organ, the skin acts as a shield against external factors. Traditionally, it was believed that percutaneous absorption occurred primarily through the stratum corneum, however, recent research is emphasising the importance of hair follicles as potential pathways for penetration.

The tapping technique introduced by Cell Defence takes into account the imperfections within the skin, including hair follicles, sweat glands and microlesions into the interfollicular layer. These imperfections can act as vertical pathways for percutaneous absorption, allowing for transfollicular delivery. Research is showing us that various body regions exhibit differences in hair follicle size and density, providing unique opportunities for follicular penetration. By utilising the tapping technique, we aim to leverage these variations, enhancing the absorption of plant stem cells into the skin.

Stem cells from both plants, animals or humans, play a crucial role in regeneration processes. While human stem cells are challenging and expensive to source, plant stem cells offer a rich source of antioxidants and amino acids, and are more easily available. Although unable to cure skin diseases, plant stem cells have demonstrated an ability to reduce inflammation, soothe irritation, prevent wrinkles, and protect the skin from environmental factors. Maintaining an overall high-level of skin health and vibrance. 

Cell Defence has an extensive range of plant stem cells available, such as lilac, argan, apple and gotu kola, all of which provide diverse benefits. These clinically tested stem cells have shown improvements in skin tone, hydration, and reduction in fine lines and wrinkles.

As we age, our skin cells age with us, leading to signs of ageing like dullness, fine lines, and wrinkles. Plant stem cells, with their ability to self-renew, and resist ageing processes, offer us a promising solution. They contain up to 1,000 times the antioxidants found in other botanical extracts, promoting collagen synthesis, cell renewal and reducing photoageing. 

The current research into plant-derived stem cell extracts indicates there is potential for a replacement of damaged skin cells, rather than just a repair. Ongoing research continues to explore the efficacy of many plant stem cell extracts and sparks our hope for the future of plant stem cell technology. 

Cell Defence’s tapping technique represents a significant step forward in the efficacy and healing potential of plant stem cells in skincare. By providing a holistic approach to skincare, addressing the challenges of penetration and harnessing the potential of these remarkable botanical extracts, Charmaine D hopes to assist people with their skin health and vibrancy.

As the skincare industry continues to evolve, staying informed about the latest advancements in plant-derived stem cell research is crucial for making optimal treatment choices. And this is a promise made by Charmaine D of Cell Defence that she will continue to search and learn in order to stay at the forefront of the plant stem cell skincare revolution. For more information, head over to celldefence.com.au or make a consultation with Naturopath Charmaine D to be guided through a bespoke skincare regime for you and how her tapping technique and optimise the potential of your skin health.

As the New Year approaches and detox programs gain popularity, it is crucial to approach this journey with due caution and comprehensive understanding.

As a naturopath in Australia, I have witnessed the risks associated with hasty detox efforts. This is particularly true for individuals managing histamine intolerance, skin conditions and autoimmune issues linked to Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) or mould toxicity.

Let’s now deepen our understanding by exploring the intricacies of detoxification. Moreover, let’s uncover why consulting a naturopath, like myself, is integral for a safe and effective cleanse.

1.         Mould Toxicity: Unveiling the Root Trigger

The primary root trigger I consistently observe in my clinic is Mould Toxicity. Mould not only poses a challenge for detoxification; it also intertwines with issues like Histamine Intolerance and MCAS. Lowering the toxic load and aiding the body in safely removing mould toxins are key components in addressing these complex conditions.

2.         The Three Phases of Detox: A Brief Overview

Understanding the three phases of detoxification is crucial for embarking on a safe and effective cleansing journey. These phases unfold in the liver, where toxins undergo processes to become water-soluble and safely exit the body. However, for those with MCAS and Mould Toxicity, navigating these phases requires precision to prevent exacerbating existing issues.

3.         Histamine Intolerance: Unravelling the Complexities

Histamine, a mediator in the neuro-immuno-endocrine system, plays a vital role in various physiological mechanisms. Histamine intolerance, distinct from allergy, involves an excessive accumulation of histamine due to an imbalance between intake and elimination. Recognising histamine intoxication symptoms and addressing underlying causes are pivotal in the treatment process.

4.         Causes of Histamine Intolerance: A Holistic View

Histamine intolerance often stems from underlying factors such as viruses, fungi, bacteria, parasites, an unbalanced microbiome, stagnant liver, low bile production and insufficient stomach acid. Addressing these root causes is essential for resolving histamine intolerance and preventing its recurrence.

5.      Five Steps to Address Histamine Intolerance

1. Avoid Excess Dietary Histamine: Temporarily eliminate high histamine foods and stabilise mast cells.
2. Rebalance Microbiome: Strategically address gut dysbiosis—an imbalance in the microbial community within the human body, particularly in the digestive system—prior to anti-microbial therapy to avoid excessive histamine release.
3. Target Underlying Infections: Utilise comprehensive testing to identify and clear underlying infections, including viruses, bacteria, parasites and fungi.
4. Assess Liver Function: Tailor liver optimisation strategies based on individual factors like toxin exposure and lifestyle.
5. Support Immune System: Strengthen the immune system through repletion of essential vitamins and minerals for lasting recovery.

6.         Detoxification Mistakes and Precision Detox

Detoxification mistakes can lead to severe consequences; especially for those with sensitivities. Precision detoxification is vital for individuals with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome and Histamine Intolerance.

Personalised approaches; avoiding common pitfalls such as detoxing metals before addressing mould toxins; and utilising the right strategies can make a significant difference in the healing journey.

7.         Conclusion

As the New Year beckons, the allure of detox programs intensifies. To safeguard your well-being, consider consulting with a naturopath, like myself, Charmaine D, WITH expertise in histamine intolerance, skin conditions and autoimmune issues.

Navigating the detox maze requires precision; a meticulously tailored approach ensures that your journey is both effective and safe.

8.         Cautionary Measures

Embarking on a detox journey?

First and foremost, guarantee its safety and effectiveness by consulting with a naturopath.

Additionally, recognise that addressing mould toxicity and histamine intolerance requires a precisely designed strategy to prevent potential setbacks.

✅ NOURISH… ❌ DON’T DETOX!

In a world saturated with detox fads, it is crucial to appreciate and be reminded of the body’s remarkable, natural detoxification capabilities.  Join us on a journey to unravel the truth and discover the art of nourishing the body from within. 

1. Understanding the Intricacies of Natural Detox  

Existing within us is a system comprising the gut, liver and kidneys; a complex system that works tirelessly to naturally detoxify. The liver, kidneys and gut are instrumental in eliminating toxins, displaying the remarkable efficiency of our internal detox mechanisms. 

In the realm of wellness, certain fasting practices can be beneficial. Nevertheless, it is essential to embark on them at optimal times to make the most of their benefits. A fasting protocol that is making you feel significantly worse, indicates that there could be an underlying problem.  This signals the need for an evaluation to ensure your body can handle detoxification at that point in time.  

The liver plays a crucial role in overseeing three essential phases of detoxification; particularly significant for individuals contending with challenges such as mould detoxification. Errors frequently occur when these phases lack sufficient support; particularly when addressing sensitivities.  

Rather than delving into common detox pitfalls, let’s pause for a moment and redirect our focus to exploring the three essential phases of toxin detoxification.  

It is crucial to grasp that Phases 1 and 2 unfold within the liver, while in Phase 3, toxins migrate from the liver before being expelled from the body. 

In Phase 1, the liver renders toxins more water-soluble, making them ready for elimination. However, this process generates damaging free radicals, paving the way for Phase 2 to intervene.  

Phase 2 involves making these intermediate toxins less harmful through conjugation, a process that “packages up” toxins for safe removal. 

Phase 3 marks the exit of packaged toxins from the liver. The toxins can either enter the bloodstream or exit through the gallbladder with bile, eventually being expelled from the body.  

When these three phases encounter impediments, often exacerbated by mould and other toxins, a downward spiral ensues, impacting overall health. 

2. Embracing the Merit of a Naturopath’s Proficiency 

As a naturopath treating patients with diverse underlying conditions, my approach involves tailoring treatments to individual needs. Rather than applying blanket protocols, I address biochemical and physiological impediments such as viral infections, gastrointestinal dysbiosis, food allergies and vitamin deficiencies. 

3. The Pitfalls of Do It Yourself (DIY) Treatment Plans 

Crafting a personalised treatment plan is crucial, as a one-size-fits-all approach seldom works for complex cases. Online information overload may lead well-informed individuals to concoct DIY plans, relying on research-backed interventions. However, not all interventions suitable on paper translate effectively to individual cases. 

4. Functional Medicine for Detox Support  

Seeking a practitioner trained in Functional Medicine is paramount for effective detox support. The treatment plan should adapt to evolving patient needs, akin to peeling back layers of an onion. Health is not universally restored through extreme measures like water fasts; instead, it requires a nuanced, personalised approach. 

5. Nourishing vs. Detoxing 

Amidst the clamour of detox trends, the emphasis should shift towards nourishment. Extreme detox measures can disrupt the delicate balance, especially for those with overburdened detoxification organs. While intermittent fasting can be beneficial, prolonged water and juice fasts may not suit everyone. 

6. Understanding Toxin Load 

The body detoxifies through five crucial organs—liver, kidneys, intestines, skin and lungs. 

A high toxin load, prevalent in today’s lifestyle, poses health risks. Chemical toxins from various sources, including mould, can overwhelm detox pathways, contributing to symptoms like fatigue, brain fog and sensitivities. 

7. Detoxification Challenges with Mould Exposure 

Mould toxins, or mycotoxins, can impede detox pathways, triggering conditions like Mast Cell Activation Syndrome. Modern living exposes individuals to high levels of mould, intensifying detox challenges. Understanding these complexities is vital for effective detox support. 

8. Healthy Habits for Detox Support 

Incorporating lifestyle and dietary habits that promote overall well-being is essential. A balanced diet, hydration and adequate sleep serve as allies in supporting the body’s natural detox processes. 

9. Cautionary Notes 

Aggressive detox methods pose risks and may harm rather than help. Approach detox with caution, seeking professional advice for a personalised care plan. 

10. Conclusion 

Our bodies are marvels of natural detoxification.  

Let’s shift our focus from quick fixes to a holistic approach that prioritises nourishment. 

Embrace a lifestyle aligned with your body’s rhythm for well-being and harmony. 

Remember, the journey to optimal health is a marathon, not a sprint.  

Consult with Charmaine D for personalised guidance, ensuring your well-being journey is as unique as you are. 

“Caution: Support, not Detox. Book a Consult with Charmaine D to ensure safe and effective well-being strategies.” 

Naturopath and skin expert, Charmaine D, has formulated a skincare line called Cell Defence. Cell Defence is a high performing, botanically based skincare program formulated with an understanding and belief of the concept that plant ingredients are far safer, gentler and better for human health than synthetic chemicals. It was this belief that initiated the formulation of Cell Defence and for it to be crafted from the infusion of all things pure in plant chemistry. A chemical free product prepared in line with the Do No Harm guidelines of a Naturopath. Treat the cause don’t band-aid the issue. The major differentiation of this skincare line is its combination of pure, active ingredients which are jam-packed into every formulation. Each preparation is synergistically combined to work together in harmony with your own skin. When purchasing a skincare product individuals need to be confident in the knowledge that the product’s ingredients will work harmoniously with their skin’s requirements. With this in mind, Cell Defence is backed by a Naturopath that has had her own skincare clinic for over 25 years.

Although always beneficial, how we apply the products onto our skin may have the ability to increase the benefits. For example, after cleansing your face with the Hibiscus Flower Foaming Cleansing Gel, and toning your face with the Skin Saviour Toner, applying the next product; Lilac Rebalancing Plant Stem Cell Serum through gentle tapping may increase the product’s benefits, and may ensure the skin absorbs it more thoroughly, allowing for penetration at a cellular level.

Tapping is more commonly associated with EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) tapping, and used for emotional release and energy rebalancing. Under the belief that energy and emotions can become trapped and stagnant in the face. This treatment has been used on people suffering with anxiety and is similarly associated with acupressure and massage.

Therefore, tapping of a plant-based, healing product into the skin on our face may not only provide benefits from the botanically-based skincare, but also provide a relaxing routine, and potential emotional release.

Performing any routine mindfully, ensuring all action is rooted in grace and self-care, can significantly increase it’s benefits, from eating mindfully, to moving our body mindfully. It is therefore plausible that applying our skincare mindfully and with grace can transform the usually rushed, mundane chore, to a time of self-care and meditation.

Though EFT has trigger points and correct methods, tapping product into your skin does not need to be so strict. For a brief introduction to tapping, see the video of a Cell Defence customer tapping her serum into her skin. With no right or wrong way, just ensure to tap gently. This customer is a long-term client of Naturopath, Charmaine D, and has been suffering from histamine and hormone-induced acne. By utilising these botanically-based, gentle skincare products, she has found an increase in skin health and moisture-retention, as well as scar reducing and soothing. She also states the process of tapping her products every morning and evening has created a mindful ritual that resets her headspace. She also states that the tapping may be helping her circulation and prevent stagnation to her lymphatic system (see lymphatic blog).

For acne healing and lowering histamines it is recommended by Charmaine D to use the Lilac Rebalancing Serum for the full face. For a boost under the eyes, it is recommended to use the Saffron Eye Firming Serum. All of the Cell Defence serums benefit from being tapped into the skin gently and with care.

For more information on the skincare program or Charmaine D’s naturopathic and skincare expertise, book a consultation online to begin your journey to healing and oneness.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW OUR INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEO

CLIENT STORY:

Here you can see two photos of me, taken a year or so apart. The first photo was before I even knew what  a lymphatic treatment was, while the second photo was a few months into my treatment.

My whole life I have been called “baby face”. I have always been self-conscious about the roundness of my face, desperate for the cheekbones and contouring I saw on so many women around me. It didn’t matter how much I exercised, what weight I was or what food I consumed, my face stayed round. The best way to describe how it looked and felt is swollen, my face was swollen. I didn’t understand why and I definitely didn’t know there was anything I could do about it. Until I met naturopath Charmaine D. I went to Charmaine for hormonal support transitioning off the pill, but where I’ve ended up is far beyond what I could’ve imagined.

Charmaine noticed instantly that my face was rounder than what my body’s build allowed and suggested we begin lymphatic treatment. For this treatment to start, I needed to really understand what it was I was dealing with and why.

What is the lymphatic system? The lymphatic system is a drainage network that removes cellular debris, large proteins, foreign bodies, bacteria, viruses, toxins and excess fluid from our organs and vessels. Our lymph nodes act as ‘purification centres’ and is where the lymph fluid moves through. Its primary function is to protect our body from illness and accumulated waste. The lymphatic system circulates lymph throughout the body, approximately 1.5 to 2 litres. When activated efficiently, this can increase to 10-30 litres per day. As the lymphatic system is not connected to the heart, it cannot rely on the heart pumping to circulate, but rather other methods such as muscle contraction. There are many reasons why the lymph vessels or lymph nodes become clogged or stagnant such as stress, illness, emotional shock, dehydration and lack of physical activity. When this stagnation occurs, it can result in fluid retention and swelling.

This fluid retention and swelling is what was wrong with my face. Due to constant illness as a child, my immune system and lymphatic system could never rest and recover, always being in the fight or flight mode, trying to protect me. This caused many issues, mainly fatigue and lymphostasis. In order for my lymphatic system above my heart to work properly, that stagnant fluid needed to be drained and my lymph nodes needed to relax.

This was done both externally and internally with herbs and lymphatic pumping. Charmaine D used botanical herbs that internally aid the drainage of the lymph nodes. This ensured that from the inside out, my lymphatic system was getting the support and drainage it needed. Externally, Charmaine was using a mechanical lymphatic drainage pumping machine, engineered in South Australia. It works similarly to Chinese cupping in that it mechanically massages the lymph nodes to stimulate the deep and superficial lymphatic vessels, which in turn promotes drainage and aids in stagnation. Unlike Chinese cupping, it does not cause bruising, but rather utilises strong puffs of air to stimulate that lymphatic massage.

Charmaine D performed this drainage treatment on half of my face for the first time and asked me to cup both sides to feel the difference, and after only one treatment there was a drastic difference. Fast forward two years later and with a few months of internal herbal treatment, as well as consistent lymphatic drainage pumping, my face is now the shape and size it should be, with no swelling. More than how it looks, however, I also have more energy, am less likely to feel fatigued, and don’t get sick as often.

Through Charmaine’s extensive knowledge on skin and naturopathy, she was able to heal me from the inside, as well as the outside, in a way that utilises natural products and doesn’t cause more harm in the process. For anyone who is concerned about their lymphatic system, for the face or entire body, I highly recommend reaching out to Charmaine D for a consultation.

Discover How Charmaine D’s Expertise Can Relieve Your Hay Fever Symptoms

The change of the season may bring joy to some with the blooming flowers, lush greenery and sunny days, however, for those who suffer from seasonal hay fever, this change in season can bring much discomfort. Seasonal hay fever is an allergic reaction to pollen, grasses, trees and weeds which can cause sneezing, and itchy eyes. Your immune system, which is designed to protect your body from harmful things such as bacteria, viruses and foreign substances, mistakenly identifies pollen as a harmful invader and may work over-time or exaggeratedly and react to substances that are not actually harmful. The severity of these symptoms vary depending on the person, and they often worsen during peak pollen seasons.

There are many allergens that stimulate the body’s exaggerated immune response such as dust, foods, insect bites, molt, pet hair and pollen. These allergens can cause a range of allergies such seasonal hay fever, dermatitis, eczema or food and drug allergies.

The most common triggers for Spring hay fever in Australia are:

• Grass pollen (ryegrass, bermuda grass and kikuyu grass)
• Tree pollen (wattle trees, birch trees, oak trees and pine trees)
• Weed pollen (ragweed, plantain and pellitory)

There are two types of ‘immediate sensitivity’ antibodies which mount to an immune response immediately after being exposed to an allergen. These antibodies can be tested with skin pricks and blood tests to determine each specific allergen your body reacts to.

Most medications to treat hay fever are focused only on symptomatic relief, including antihistamines, steroids and decongestants. Although effective at treating symptoms, these medications may bot directly target the root cause of immune system hypersensitivity.

The naturopathic approach, taken by myself Charmaine D, however, focuses on getting to the root cause. This process begins by eliminating the triggers. This is important in order to figure out what else is causing the hypersensitivity reactions while also addressing the root cause. Diet is the next step for focus. This is because the foods we consume have a direct impact on our overall health. Our gut, and the foods we put into our gut, can determine how our body reacts to allergens and other threats. By focusing on a clean, nutrition-dense diet, provided by Charmaine D, we can ensure you are setting your body up for the highest levels of success. Naturopathic supplements and botanical prescriptions are developed for every individual and their situation by Charmaine D, and can also help to lower levels of your histamines and improve your symptoms.

Majority of allergies always involve the gut. This is because 80% of our immune system is located in our gut, and produces an antibody called IgA. In an ideal scenario, our gut should be producing large quantities of IgA as it is the first line of defense against any foreign substance. The flora balance and lining of our gut must be healthy in order to produce the amount of IgA required so the rest of our bodily systems never have to deal with the substances.

Another bodily system in charge of producing IgA are our adrenals. With high levels of the hormone cortisol (during times of stress caused by many simple and complicating situations), the adrenals will decrease production of IgA antibodies.

The liver would be assessed next as people who suffer from allergies and hay fever usually have a high toxic body burden. Toxins are also foreign substances, however, unlike allergens, they are actually harmful to our body. In order for our body to process these harmful toxins, our liver needs to work hard to alter the state of these toxins. If, however, the toxins are too much and the liver can’t alter them at the rate in which they come in, then the toxins build up in our system and can increase the body’s sensitivity and reactivity to harmless substances.

Additionally, those who suffer from Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) may have exacerbated hay fever symptoms. This is due to the fact that mast cells (a type of immune cell), in MCAS sufferers, is hyperactive and releases excessive amounts of chemical mediators, including histamines. Histamines are the key played in allergic reactions and is responsible for many of the common hay fever symptoms, such as sneezing, itching and congestion. When people with MCAS are exposed to allergens, their already overactive mast cells can intensify the allergic response which leads to a more severe and prolonged reaction. Charmaine D can teach you so much about this in your consults with her.

Not only to individuals with MCAS release higher amounts of histamine and other inflammatory compounds, they also usually have a lower allergy threshold, meaning, even minimal exposure can lead to symptoms. In addition to the high histamines and low allergy threshold, individuals usually have profound sensitivity to a wide range of environmental triggers, making them more susceptible to allergens. It is also important to note that although hay fever is seasonal, individuals with MCAS may suffer year-round.

It is slightly more challenging for those with MCAS to manage their hay fever symptoms, but not impossible! It is highly recommended you book a consult with Charmaine D naturopath, who can work closely with you to create a personalised treatment and strategic program.

Interestingly, and worth noting, is the phenomenon known as cross-reactivity. This is when some environmental allergies can be linked to food allergies. This means, that proteins in certain foods resemble proteins in pollen or other allergenic substances, leading to allergic reactions when consuming these foods. Some common environmental allergies that can trigger food allergist or cross-react with specific foods in Australia include:

• Birch Pollen Allergy:
  • Cross-reactive foods: apples, pears, cherries, plums, peaches, apricots, carrots, celery, almonds, hazelnuts and kiwi
• Grass Pollen Allergy:
  • Cross-reactive foods: tomatoes, potatoes, melons and oranges
• Ragweed Pollen Allergy:
  • Cross-reactive foods: melons, zucchinis, cucumbers and sunflower seeds
• Latex Allergy:
  • Cross-reactive foods: bananas, avocados, chestnuts and kiwi
• Mugwort Pollen Allergy:
  • Cross-reactive foods: celery, carrots and coriander
• Dust Mite Allergy:
  • Cross-reactive foods: shrimp, crab and lobster

Not all people with an environmental allergy will experience cross-reactivity with related foods and the severity of reactions can range. However, if it’s something you are concerned about, ask Charmaine D naturopath for further information.

There are some easy-to-implement natural ways to address hay fever and help with your body’s reaction:

• Local honey: eating local honey may help desensitise your body to the specific pollen in your area.
• Saline nasal rinse: using a nasal rinse can help to flush out the pollen and irritants from your nasal passages and eases symptoms such as congestion.
• Steam inhalation: inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water can also provide relief from nasal congestion. Adding a few drops of eucalyptus or peppermint essential oil can enhance the effectiveness.
• Quercetin-rich foods: quercetin is a natural compound in foods like onions, apples and citrus and acts as a natural antihistamine. Charmaine D can assist you with a great quercetin supplement and food guide.
• Probiotics: probiotic-rich foods or supplements can help you to maintain a healthy gut microbiome. Charmaine D has sourced these for you.
• Allergen-reducing practices: keep your windows closed when at home during high pollen seasons, use air purifiers and wash your bedding regularly.
• Herbal teas: herbal teas such as chamomile and nettle tea are known to be anti-inflammatory and can help soothe hay fever symptoms. Charmaine D can expand on this.
• Stress management: engaging in stress-reducing activities such as yoga, meditation or deep breathing exercises can help lower cortisol levels, helping lower your hay fever symptoms. Charmaine D can work hand in hand to develop your personalised de-stress program.

There are many natural remedies and simple life-style changes you can make to help with hay fever and symptoms. Consulting with Charmaine D naturopath can help you make sense about the specifics for you and why it is you are suffering. Having bespoke support may benefit you in understanding more about your body and the hay fever you suffer from.

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in the rush of daily life. From work demands to social obligations, we often find ourselves juggling numerous responsibilities, leaving little time for self-care and reflection. This constant busyness can take a toll on our physical and mental well-being. That’s where the practice of mindful living comes in—a timeless art that can help us find balance and regain a sense of peace amid life’s chaos.

What Is Mindful Living?

Mindful living is the practice of being fully present in the moment, intentionally paying attention to your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. It’s about embracing each moment, whether it’s pleasant, challenging, or mundane, with awareness and acceptance. By doing so, you can cultivate a deeper connection with yourself and the world around you.

Why Is Mindful Living Important?

1. Stress Reduction: Mindful living is a powerful tool for managing stress. By focusing on the present moment, you can reduce anxiety about the future and rumination about the past.
2. Improved Mental Health: Studies have shown that mindfulness can help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, promoting overall mental well-being.
3. Enhanced Emotional Regulation: Mindfulness allows you to observe your emotions without reacting impulsively, helping you respond to challenging situations with greater emotional intelligence.
4. Increased Resilience: The practice of mindfulness can enhance your ability to bounce back from adversity and cope with life’s inevitable ups and downs.
5. Greater Connection: Being fully present in your interactions with others can lead to more meaningful and fulfilling relationships.

How to Cultivate Mindful Living

1. Meditation: Regular meditation practice is at the heart of mindful living. Set aside a few minutes each day to sit in silence, focusing on your breath or a specific meditation technique.
2. Mindful Breathing: Pay attention to your breath throughout the day. Taking a few deep, intentional breaths can help you stay centred in the present moment.
3. Mindful Eating: Slow down and savor each bite of your meals. Notice the flavors, textures, and sensations in your mouth.
4. Nature Walks: Spend time in nature, whether it’s a walk in the park, a hike in the woods, or simply sitting in your backyard. Nature can be a powerful source of mindfulness.
5. Digital Detox: Limit your screen time and practice being present with your surroundings rather than constantly checking your devices.
6. Yoga and Body Scan: Engage in yoga or a body scan practice to connect with the sensations in your body and release tension.
7. Gratitude Journal: Keep a gratitude journal to reflect on the positive aspects of your life. This practice can foster a sense of appreciation and contentment.

The Journey to Mindful Living

Cultivating mindful living is a journey, not a destination. It’s about embracing imperfection, acknowledging that your mind may wander, and gently bringing your attention back to the present moment. As you continue to practice, you’ll find that mindful living becomes a natural part of your daily life, helping you navigate the challenges and joys with greater ease and resilience.

In a world that often values constant productivity and busyness, mindful living offers a refreshing perspective – a reminder that life’s richness lies in the simple act of being present. So, take a deep breath, feel the ground beneath your feet, and savour this moment. The art of mindful living is your gateway to a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Guest blog written by current client, Georgia

For the first 28 years of my life, I had only ever heard of histamines when talking about hayfever medication. So when I went to a naturopath to discover the underlying causes of my dry skin and acne, I was shocked to hear that my many ailments were all caused by high levels of histamines. “But I don’t suffer from hayfever,” I thought. How could this be accurate?

Fast forward twelve months and I am now a histamine expert, well, at least compared to before. I have learnt what histamines do in your body, why we need them, why some people suffer from intolerances and the triggers. I’ve learnt how it affects me physically and mentally, and I’ve been able to understand what it is my body needs to lower my histamine levels and maintain a healthy balance.

So what are histamines?

Histamines are chemicals that your immune system makes to help rid your body of potential danger (allergens). Histamines are part of your body’s defence, causing you to itch, sneeze or tear up, to expel the allergens from your system. They are these to protect us. So how then do they cause so many of us problems?

Usually it’s when they overreact to the danger, or allergen. Often, our body sees the triggers (such as pollen, pet hair, etc) as a more serious threat than it is in reality, and our immune system reacts accordingly, releasing higher levels of histamine to try to eliminate these dangers.

Histamines are stored in our mast cells, and the body sends a signal to these mast cells to release the histamines. Mast cells are found in your skin, blood, gut, lungs, nose and mouth. After the histamines are released from the mast cells, they cause blood flow to the area in which the histamines travelled to, causing inflammation. Histamines, therefore, are an essential and natural part of our body’s defence system.

So, how come there are those of us who are intolerant?

First of all, histamine intolerance does not mean we have a sensitivity to histamines, but rather we produce too much of it. Our bodily systems believe us to be nearly constantly under threat, meaning we can have a constant and high release of histamines all the time.

Although the symptoms vary depending on the individual, some of the common reactions to high histamine levels are:

• Itchy skin
• Dry or irritated eyes
• Hayfever-like symptoms
• Runny nose
• Bloating
• Abdominal discomfort
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Irregular menstrual cycle
• Hives
• Anxiety
• Acne, eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis

For my whole life I believed most of these symptoms to be normal and I would endure them daily. Specifically itchy skin, acne, fatigue, anxiety and irregular menstrual cycles.

Many things can trigger histamine releases. Aside from the common triggers such as pollen, pet hair and grasses, some others are:

• Non-natural fragrances found in perfumes, candles and cleaning products
• High-histamine foods (which I will go into further detail about below)
• Leftovers or old foods
• Alcohol
• COVID and other viruses
• Some medications

The two biggest triggers for me personally were foods and fragrances, two things I had a relatively high level of control over. So these were the two things I changed in my lifestyle straight away.

When researching and learning about histamine levels in foods, it seemed complex and not many websites seemed to agree. Some sites said raspberries were high, others said they were safe – it was very confusing! Because every body reacts differently to triggers, I decided to test it myself, to find out what my big triggers were and what my body was happy with.

Here is what I found:

*please keep in mind these were my specific findings*

High Histamine (high triggers)

• Tomato (including ketchup, tinned tomatoes etc)
• Avocado
• All dairy (except ricotta)
• Spinach
• Strawberries
• Alcohol
• Aged cheese
• Fermented foods (except miso paste)
• Leftovers (especially chicken)
• Preservatives
• Refined Sugar

The foods listed above were basically non-negotiable trigger foods that I had to eliminate straight away. Interestingly enough, my body reacted to each food differently. For example, when I ate tomato I had extreme hay-fever like symptoms, when I ate avocado I became extremely fatigued, when I ate spinach my anxiety was through the roof and when I ate dairy I broke out in pimples. This was a process of trial and error, but I found them to also be the most commonly high-triggers for others experiencing histamine intolerance as well.

Many website state foods such as miso paste, sourdough bread and raspberries to be high in histamines, but none of these were a trigger for me.

It’s also important to keep in mind that histamines grow in foods that have already been cooked. Hence why leftovers and aged foods have high levels of histamines. So even if you prepare a low-histamine meal, if left in the fridge over night and consumed in the few days to come, the histamine levels can rise nearly 20x.

Here are some dietary tips and tricks I found helped when substituting high- histamine foods:

Other foods that I found really calmed my gut and lowered my histamine levels are:

• Ginger
• Cabbage
• Cauliflower
• Herbs (especially basil and mint)
• Garlic
• Onions
• Broccoli and broccolini
• Bok choy/Pak choy
• Peaches
• Mango

Finding low-histamine recipes was also a challenge. Although there are a few blogs out there for people suffering from histamine intolerance, the recipes were limited. What I started to do was modify regular recipes and swap out high- histamine foods for neutral foods.

For example, if a chicken and veggie soup required spinach, I would substitute it for kale. If a pasta recipe had mushrooms and peas I would swap out the veggies for broccolini and capsicum. I stopped eating strawberries with my granola and started eating blueberries. I found an amazing recipe called ‘Green Sauce’ which is basically a herb sauce which I use for nearly EVERYTHING that requires a sauce.

We also stopped using nearly anything that came in a packet due to the high levels of preservatives and started to cook with only whole foods. Our recipes became more simple, but our bodies preferred them.

In relation to leftovers, this was something that I struggled with the most, as we cook extra food every evening to take to work for lunch the next day. For the first few months I had to avoid this and I ate lots of fresh salads, platter food (cucumber, crackers etc with homemade dips) and cooked my lunches on the day. This ensured my histamine levels throughout the day stayed low.

I didn’t drink alcohol anyway so I didn’t need to find a substitute, but if you suffer from histamine intolerance, alcohol, especially wine, are huge triggers and really need to be eliminated. The benefits of not drinking alcohol are immense, so all of your bodily-systems will thank you!

If you wear perfume, STOP. If you light candles at home, STOP. If you are using store-bought cleaning products, STOP. These fragrances and myriad of chemicals used in these products are so detrimental to your health in so many ways. Histamines just being one. I have friends who suffer from headaches all the time, and the moment they stopped using their candles around the house, those headaches went away. Pure essential oils in diffusers are a great alternative and not only smell great, but can also bring with them an array of health benefits. I have found Lavender, Frankincense and Peppermint to be three oils that actually helped with my high levels of histamine. In addition, when mixed with fractionated coconut oil, essential oils can make an effective perfume.

In regards to cleaning products, fabric softeners etc. Try and make your own. Vinegar, Bi-carb and Castille Soap are life changing and can clean nearly anything. I have some recipes below for you to try!

In addition to eliminating food and environmental triggers, creating a relationship with your local naturopath, like my current naturopath Charmaine D, and discussing a treatment plan can also be beneficial. There are many natural supplement and herbal solutions that can work as anti-histamines that actually retain low-levels of histamines, rather than just block histamines like regular over the counter anti-histamine medication.

The goal is to create a sustainable plan for the rest of your life. Often, we are battling histamine intolerances for our whole lives, but with strict action early on to reduce our histamine levels to a more maintainable amount, we are able to slowly but surely introduce histamines back into our life and diet without drastic damage. For example, I can now drink coffee with now histamine reaction. I can also have small amounts of tomato without being triggered. The most exciting thing is I can now eat leftover meals with no reaction!

Although at the beginning of your journey it may seem daunting and impossible, please know that with a few lifestyle and dietary alterations, you can live and eat in a varied and sustainable way. It took 2-3 months for me to really wrap my head around it all. And a little while longer to stop craving the foods I would eat all the time (bye bye smashed avo and tomato on toast). Once my palate became accustomed to the substituted foods, I stopped thinking about all the foods I couldn’t eat and started focusing on all the foods I COULD eat.

Another thing to remember is to practice mindfulness while you eat. Really focus on how your body and mood is reacting to the foods you ingest, and that will be the biggest factor in sticking to foods your body loves. When you are in-tune with how foods make you feel, you tend to naturally stay away from those that make you feel worse.

Good luck on this journey, and here’s to finally figuring out why we didn’t feel well for such a long portion of our lives!

To your health,
Georgia xx

RECIPES

Green Sauce

• 2 large handfuls of herbs (my favourites are basil and mint)
• 1 tbsp capers
• 2 garlic cloves
• Pinch of salt
• 1⁄4 – 1⁄2 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp honey

1. Add all ingredients of food processor.
2. Blench until smooth.
3.  If too thick, add more oil or a bit of water.

Laundry Liquid

• 1 cup Castille Soap
• 1⁄2 cup salt
• 1⁄2 cup Bi-carb
• 3.5L warm water

1. Add all ingredients into a bucket.
2. Mix well until combined.
3. Transfer with a funnel into glass jars.
4. Shake before each use.
5. Depending on the dirtiness of your clothes, use 1⁄4 – 1⁄2 cup of liquid per wash.
6. Add a couple of drops of your favourite essential oil to create your frangrance

Surface Spray

• 500ml glass spray bottle
• 2 tbsp onGuard cleaner concentrate (or cleaning vinegar)
• 10x drops lemon essential oil
• 10x drops grapefruit

1. Fill glass bottle with cool boiled water.
2. Simply add all the ingredients into the glass jar and shake.

Perfume

• 30-40x drops of your favourite essential oils (can be 2-3)
• Fractionated coconut oil
• Glass 10ml roller bottle

1. Add essential oil into the roller bottle.
2. Top up with fractionated coconut oil.
3. Apply to wrists and behind ears.

Reach out to naturopath, Charmaine, for personalised guidance on managing histamines. 

Dry July is not just about abstaining from alcohol: it’s a time to focus on nourishing and supporting our bodies, particularly our hardworking liver and kidneys.

This detoxifying month can benefit and heal our whole bodies if combined with herbal formulations, dietary adjustments and hydration. As a naturopath, I believe this holistic approach will ensure optimal health during this month and beyond.

Dry July originated in Australia in 2008 with the intention of promoting a month of sobriety while also raising funds for people affected by cancer. It does this by encouraging participants to seek sponsorship for their sobriety to raise money for cancer patients and their families. Some  Australia-specific charities that you can support through Dry July and beyond are:

• Dry July Foundation
• Cancer Council South Australia
• Cancer Council Victoria
• Cancer Council Queensland
• Cancer Connections

Alcohol, and particularly large quantities of alcohol, can put our body and many of its organs under a lot of stress. This stress can impact our health in countless ways and lead to health issues that are hard to treat later down the track. Abstaining from alcohol for large periods of time means our bodies can relax, heal and detoxify, by being given the time to stop working in overdrive.

Breaking the habit of drinking can be challenging, both physically and mentally, and as a naturopath, I understand the importance of addressing all aspects of addiction; the physical and the neurotransmitters, which play a significant role in addiction and cravings. Although addiction is a strong and scary word, and one that you may not relate to, the cravings associated with alcohol (and alcohol addiction) can be viewed through the same lens and will therefore be discussed below. Breaking the habit of drinking from a naturopathic perspective means N- Acetyl-Cysteine (NAC) and neurotransmitter support.

Understanding the mechanisms of addiction:

Alcohol creates complex interactions in the brain, particularly the dopamine reward pathway. Alcohol consumption triggers a release of dopamine which results in pleasurable sensations and reinforces the desire to drink. Breaking the habit of drinking requires addressing this neurochemical dependence.

N-Acetyl-Cysteine (NAC) and its role:

NAC is a natural amino acid derivative known for its powerful antioxidant properties. There have been recent studies that show NAC may help to reduce cravings, particularly for alcohol and other addictive substances. It has also been shown to replenish levels of glutathione, a crucial antioxidant that aids in detoxification and protects the brain from oxidative stress.

Neurotransmitter support:

Supporting neurotransmitter balance while recovering from alcohol addiction can help to stabilise mood, reduce cravings, and improve overall well-being. A naturopathic approach involves understanding each individual’s unique needs, taking into consideration genetic variations (such as the MTHFR snyp) and customising treatment plans to address the imbalances in neurotransmitter function.

By working with a naturopath you can find a comprehensive approach to breaking the habit of drinking by addressing emotional, physical, and genetic factors. They can tailor treatment plans to suit your unique, individual needs, taking into account your health history, detoxification capacity, genetic variations, and desired lifestyle changes. Working with a naturopath also ensures ongoing support, guidance, and adjustments as needed throughout the process.

So what are some things that can support us through quitting alcohol, be it for Dry July or for good?

Herbal Formulations

Herbal supplements play a key role in supporting the liver and kidneys when abstaining from alcohol. Some of the herbs that can make a powerful difference are:

• Milk Thistle: It is known for its hepatoprotective properties and aids in detoxification. It can help to regenerate liver cells and protect against damage from alcohol or other harmful substances.
• Globe Artichoke: Rich in antioxidants and supports the liver function by promoting bile production and enhancing digestion. It also contains detoxifying properties, helping to eliminate waste from the body.
• Pellitory of Wall: This herb diuretic properties, meaning it can promote healthy kidney function and help eliminate toxins through the urinary system. It can also reduce inflammation and promote the elimination of waste.
• Corn Silk: This is also a natural diuretic and aids in flushing the toxins from the kidneys. It supports urinary tract health and aids in reducing inflammation.

Acid-Alkaline Balancing Diet

Adopting a diet that helps to balance the acid-alkaline levels in your body will further aid in the detoxification when abstaining from alcohol. Incorporating more alkaline-forming foods such as leafy greens, fruits, vegetables and whole grains helps to reduce the acid buildup in the body meaning the load on the liver and kidneys is lessened, leaving them to function optimally. For more information on acid-alkaline diets, and how this can support you and your health, read this blog.

Hydration

To support our body’s natural detoxification processes, it is essential that we stay properly hydrated. Drinking an adequate amount of water daily will help to flush out toxins, keep kidneys hydrated, and support our overall organ function.

Self Care

Nurturing your overall health is so important during a period of change. And during a process of detoxification through Dry July is no exception. Reducing stress by engaging in activities such as yoga, meditation, or spending time in nature can support the body’s detoxification efforts. Adequate sleep is also crucial as it allows for proper restoration and rejuvenation.

If you wanted to try Dry July, have already started but feel it is too difficult, or would like to break the habit of drinking in general, know you have support in Charmaine. There are tools to be utilised that can help and make this complex process easier on you.

In conclusion, a naturopath can help you navigate the complex time of breaking the habit of drinking. Through the holistic lens of physical, emotional, and genetic influences, a naturopath can help cater treatments and support that best help you achieve whatever goal you may have. Personalised treatment plans, and continued support give you the best chance for long-lasting, sustainable change.

As a naturopath, I’m thrilled to introduce you to the remarkable benefits of chamomile, a versatile herb that holds immense healing power for your overall well-being.

In this blog, we’ll explore the incredible benefits of chamomile both externally for your skin health and internally as a Western herbal medicine. Get ready to uncover the secrets of this ancient herb and learn how to incorporate it into your daily routines for a healthier, more balanced life.

Chamomile for Skin Health

Your skin is a reflection of your inner health, and chamomile can work wonders to reveal your natural radiance. When used as an ingredient in skincare products, chamomile’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties come to the forefront. It soothes irritations, reduces redness, and promotes healing, making it ideal for conditions such as eczema, acne, dermatitis, and sunburn. Explore the world of chamomile-infused skincare and experience the calming and rejuvenating effects it brings to your skin.

Chamomile as a Western Herbal Medicine

Did you know that chamomile offers more than just skin benefits? As a naturopath, I am excited to share how chamomile can enhance your overall health and well-being. Let’s delve into its various applications:

• Digestive Health: Chamomile has long been known for its ability to support the digestive system. From indigestion and bloating to cramping and gastrointestinal discomfort, chamomile can provide relief. Enjoy a cup of chamomile tea or consider chamomile supplements to promote a healthy digestive system.
• Sleep and Relaxation: If you struggle with sleep issues or need some relaxation in your life, chamomile is your ally. Its mild sedative properties calm the mind, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep quality. Unwind before bedtime with a soothing cup of chamomile tea or incorporate chamomile essential oil into your nighttime routine for a restful sleep.
• Stress and Anxiety Management: In today’s fast-paced world, managing stress and anxiety is crucial. Chamomile comes to the rescue with its soothing and calming effects. Embrace the power of chamomile tea, tinctures, or aromatherapy with chamomile essential oil to find tranquility and emotional balance.
• Menstrual Health: Ladies, chamomile can be your best friend during those monthly cycles. It helps alleviate menstrual discomfort and eases cramps by relaxing the uterine muscles. Incorporate chamomile tea or supplements as a natural remedy for a smoother menstrual experience.

Incorporating Chamomile into Your Daily Routine

Ready to harness the full potential of chamomile in your life? Here are some practical ways to incorporate it into your daily routine:

• Start your morning with a warm cup of chamomile tea to kickstart the day with a calm and focused mindset.
• Explore chamomile-infused skincare products to nourish your skin and promote a healthy complexion.
• Consider adding chamomile supplements to your wellness regimen for targeted support in digestion, sleep, or stress management.
• Create a soothing chamomile bath by infusing chamomile flowers into your bathwater for a blissful and relaxing experience.
• Experiment with chamomile essential oil for aromatherapy, diffusing it to create a serene ambiance or adding it to your skincare routine for added benefits.

Chamomile is a true gift from nature, offering a myriad of benefits for your skin health and overall well-being. By incorporating chamomile into your daily routines, both internally and externally, you can experience the calming, healing, and rejuvenating effects it brings.

Remember, as a naturopath, I am here to guide you on your wellness journey and provide personalised recommendations. Embrace the power of chamomile and unlock the path to holistic wellbeing.

(Note: This blog provides general information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.)

Reach out to me for personalised guidance on incorporating Chamomile into your routine. As a naturopath, I’ll ensure that it aligns with your unique health needs and goals.

As your dedicated naturopath, I’m constantly exploring nature’s wonders to enhance your health and well-being. One extraordinary ingredient that holds immense potential is Indian Moringa. In this blog, I’ll guide you on how to effortlessly incorporate Indian Moringa into your daily eating routine to unlock its incredible benefits.

1. Start the Day with Supercharged Smoothies: Revitalise your mornings by adding a teaspoon of Indian Moringa powder to your favorite smoothies. This vibrant addition infuses your blend with a concentrated dose of essential nutrients and powerful antioxidants, helping you kick-start your day with vitality.
2. Sip on Nourishing Herbal Infusions: Delight in the healing properties of Indian Moringa through herbal infusions. Simply steep Indian Moringa leaves or powder in hot water to create a rejuvenating tea. Savor its goodness throughout the day and experience the overall well-being it brings.
3. Elevate Your Salads and Dressings: Transform your salads into nutrient-rich powerhouses by sprinkling Indian Moringa powder over fresh greens or incorporating it into homemade dressings. Not only does it add a delightful earthy flavor, but it also boosts the nutritional profile of your meals.
4. Nourish from Within with Soups and Stews: Harness the goodness of Indian Moringa by incorporating it into your beloved soups and stews. As the flavours meld together during cooking, the Indian Moringa powder imparts its potent health benefits, enriching every spoonful.
5. Recharge with Healthy Snacks: Satisfy your cravings with homemade energy balls or bars infused with Indian Moringa powder. These delectable treats provide a nutritious burst of energy, making them the perfect snack for your busy, on-the-go lifestyle.
6. Streamline with Capsule Supplements: For a convenient option, Indian Moringa is also available in capsule form. Seek out high-quality, organic capsules and consult with me to determine the optimal dosage that suits your unique needs.

Embrace the versatility of Indian Moringa and elevate your daily routine with its remarkable benefits. Whether it’s blended into smoothies, brewed as herbal tea, sprinkled over salads, added to soups, or infused into snacks, Indian Moringa nourishes your body from within. Remember to consult with me or another healthcare professional before incorporating Indian Moringa, especially if you have specific health concerns or take medications. Together, let’s harness the power of Indian Moringa and embark on a journey towards optimal health and vitality.

Discover the extraordinary powers of Indian Moringa, an ancient superfood celebrated for its remarkable benefits for both internal and external health. Packed with essential nutrients, antioxidants, and healing properties, Indian Moringa has become a staple in natural wellness practices.

Join us as we delve into the constituents that make Indian Moringa a true powerhouse and explore its transformative effects on skin health and overall well-being.

You can read the full blog post on the Cell Defence website:

Charmaine D is here for you and is committed to helping you move through your ailments and forward into the rest of your life. 

Book in and see how she can help you!

TEWL (Transepidermal Water Loss) refers to the process of water evaporation from the skin surface, and mast cells, as part of the immune system, can influence TEWL through their involvement in skin inflammation and the release of inflammatory mediators.

Here’s an expansion on the relationship between mast cells and TEWL in the skin…

You can read the full blog post on the Cell Defence website:

Charmaine D is here for you and is committed to helping you move through your ailments and forward into the rest of your life. 

Book in and see how she can help you!

Regarding the role of triglycerides coating the cell, they play an important role in various skin conditions. Triglycerides are a type of fat that is present in our cell membranes, including the cell walls. They provide structural integrity to the cell membranes and help maintain their fluidity and permeability.

In many skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis, the skin’s barrier function is compromised. This can lead to increased water loss, dryness, and susceptibility to irritants and allergens. Triglycerides help create a protective layer around the skin cells, preventing excessive moisture loss and maintaining proper hydration. This is especially important for individuals with dry or sensitive skin.

You can read the full blog post on the Cell Defence website:

Charmaine D is here for you and is committed to helping you move through your ailments and forward into the rest of your life. 

Book in and see how she can help you!

Drinking water is important because it helps make our proteins and enzymes more efficient. The health of our cell walls depends on essential fatty acids and phosphatidylcholine, which can only be obtained from our diet. Mitochondria, known as the “powerhouse” of the cell, convert food into energy that cells can use.

However, if the cell wall is compromised, the cell cannot absorb the necessary elements for energy production.

You can read the full blog post on the Cell Defence website:

Charmaine D is here for you and is committed to helping you move through your ailments and forward into the rest of your life. 

Book in and see how she can help you!

The skin has a natural barrier function that helps to retain moisture and protect against external irritants. This barrier is formed by various components, including the stratum corneum (the outermost layer of the epidermis), tight junctions between skin cells, and structures called desmosomes and hemidesmosomes that help to anchor cells together.

Several factors can disrupt this barrier and lead to increased trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL).

When the skin’s barrier is compromised, it loses its ability to retain moisturise effectively. This leads to increased TEWL, where water evaporates from the skin surface more rapidly. As a result, the skin becomes dehydrated, dry, and more prone to irritation and inflammation.

To prevent excessive TEWL and maintain skin hydration, it’s important to support the skin’s barrier function. This can be done by using gentle cleansers, avoiding over-exfoliation, protecting the skin from harsh environmental conditions, and using moisturisers that contain humectants, emollients, and occlusives to help lock in moisture and prevent water loss. Additionally, incorporating a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, adequate hydration, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, can also contribute to maintaining a healthy skin barrier.

You can read the full blog post on the Cell Defence website:

Charmaine D is here for you and is committed to helping you move through your ailments and forward into the rest of your life. 

Book in and see how she can help you!

Charmaine D’s main focus is always Natural Skin Hygiene, and as a naturopath works with the skin using the principles of corneotherapy.

What does this mean? To put it simply, it is the care of the Stratum Corneum, the outer layer of the skin and our first line of defence for the body, with topical therapies using products that mimic skin structure and function.

It is an innovative and progressive way of thinking, using the core principles of correction and restoration of the stratum corneum and barrier defence systems, while keeping the epidermis intact at all costs. It is otherwise known as the outside-in approach to skin repair.

Charmaine D takes your skin seriously and uses a naturopathic approach to treating your skin and your skin’s conditions. Through her use of corneotherapy she can facilitate your skincare needs.

The skin microbiome consists of both normal and indigenous microbes which are present on body surfaces that are covered by epithelial cells and are exposed to the external environment (gastrointestinal and respiratory tract, vagina, skin and so on). When exposed to an infection the skin is the first line of defence, both a physical and immunological barrier.

Along with the gut, the skin is one of the most immune-surveyed sites in the body.

Natural hygiene sees skin conditions as disrupting the skin’s protective barrier and begins an acute offset process, representing nature’s healing efforts to repair itself. The vitality of the skin’s microbiome and the inflammation cascade begins. For example, with skin eruptions can mean there is something hostile to life and health in the organism which nature (our natural hygiene) is trying to remove or overcome. Therefore, very acute disease is the result of a healing effort of nature.

Now let’s look at the application of cold water on the skin, the first and temporary effect when you practice contrast showers (hot/cold showering) which will be discussed further in part two.

The cold sends blood to the interior, but in order to compensate for the local depletion, our natural body response will be to send greater quantities of blood back to the surface. This results in increased warmth and better surface circulation.

When the body is submerged in cold water, there is an increase in white blood cells, which is what helps the body to fight off infections. This is a great example of nature cure and a naturopathic principle as it is done correctly and for the purpose of keeping the body’s immune system in a really strong, resilient place.

Studies have shown that people who took a cold shower for only 30 seconds for 30 days in a row were 30% less likely to have sick days from work or school compared to those who had warm showers.

To practice this correctly and safely, it is best to alternate between hot/cold water only once.

After your usual hot shower, turn the tap to full cold for the last 30 seconds. It is then important to come back to your natural warmth by drying off and quickly putting on your dressing gown and ugg boots.

Below I will discuss how this practice may be taken to extremes and how, if treated as such, may not be the right practice for you. Also, I will explain the healing crisis that can occur by the disruption of your skin’s microbiome due to extreme cold. A lack of protection may mean your body’s first line of defence, your skin, may lose its function, temporarily or permanently. Although not entirely against it, I wonder if perhaps we are taking the suggestion of thermogenesis too far? Especially when taking it to the extreme with ice plunges.

There are many great health reasons to start cold or ice plunging, especially for inflammatory conditions. However, I am concerned about the effects it may have on skin and how the skin reacts to being exposed to such cold conditions.

My goal is to weigh up both the risks and benefits with skin preservation always at the forefront of thought and always ensuring there will be no negative long term effects. The long term effects of new treatments is hard to understand as the treatments themselves haven’t been around long enough to analyse any effect long term. Therefore, I will continue to look at risks and benefits throughout my studies and research, but for now I want to show you what cold can do to the skin if not controlled.

On a positive note, for short periods of time, cold temperatures cause a change in the hormone secretion norepinephrine which regulates attention, improves focus and energy. But how long should one stay cold? And how quickly should they warm up? And is there any real proof about the long term exposure this could have?

It is claimed that cold water does not strip away the protective layer of oil on our skin, temporarily restricts blood flow to tighten pores, and in turn creates a more toned complexion. But I’m not convinced. Are these claims made by the same people who claim cutting out plants from our diet and replacing them with animal products (including organs) will lead to better health?

Here are some of what the skin goes through when over-exposed to cold temperatures.

Hypothermia, frostbite, vasoconstriction will occur to the blood capilleries, reduced blood flow to the skin in order to preserve body heat, thereby leaving the skin more vulnerable to the cold. If the skin is exposed to temperatures below 15 degrees celsius the skin’s metabolism will slow down by the vasoconstriction an oxygen surplus develops in the tissues causing it to go read and giving you that rosy-cheeked feeling of warmth and tingling. Further exposure to the cold will continue to reduce the skin’s temperature. As it falls below 0 degrees celsius, it freezes solid and a white, waxy pallor occurs in the tissue. Mast cells degranulate and chemical mediators of inflammation are released. Because the responsive tissues are frozen, there is no effect to combat this process. From here, a cascade of complicated shifts occur in intracellular fluids, changing the organelles and causing damage, leading to a stopping of blood circulation as the fluids freeze.

Circulation will return as the thawing of the skin occurs, but the lasting results will be vasodilation edema, burning tingling pain and blistering as the injured cells release the chemical mediators.

So ultimately, contrast showers have the ability to boost your immunity and keep your skin and hair healthy. It is another example of natural hygiene and one that can be so easily added to our daily life to keep our body in an alkaline state. For the majority of us, adding contrast showering, eating fruit until lunchtime to aid with digestion and practising sleep hygiene are the pillar stones in a healthy, resilient body and immune system.

A 30 second cold shower every day, that is all you need for the therapeutic benefits. You don’t need cryotherapy to achieve this and it will keep your skin safe and healthy.

Charmaine D is here for you and is committed to helping you move through your ailments and forward into the rest of your life. 

Book in and see how she can help you!

Naturopath Charmaine D has developed two things that will really assist you, your health and your immunity.

What even is immunity?

The dictionary states it is “the condition that permits either natural or acquired resistance to disease.”

Well then what’s a disease?

Again, the dictionary states a disease “is an illness in the human body caused by an infection or failure in one’s health rather than harm from an accident.”

Accidents may not be avoidable, but diseases could be.

How? By building your immunity. But building your immunity is no simple task. Why? Because one may not have the financial means to buy all the potions and magic pills. Because one may not have the financial means to buy the types of foods that boost immunity.

For the purpose of understanding, how about we look at immunity as being the ability for your body to fight infections before they make you sick. How can we do this affordably without depleting our finances?

The gut is one of the largest sites in our body of immunity activity, as well as the production of antimicrobial proteins. What goes into the gut (our diet) is the single most important factor in determining which microbes get to live in our intestines. Research shows that a predominantly plant-based, high-fiber diet, including whole grains, fruits, vegetables and legumes will support the growth and maintenance of beneficial microbes in our body. Some microbes are able to break down fibers into short chain fatty acids. These fatty acids stimulate immune cell activity. The fibers that do this are often referred to as prebiotics, as they feed the microbes. It can therefore be concluded that a prebiotic and probiotic containing diet will be beneficial.

Our gut is so central to our wellbeing and immunity, it makes sense that age-old wives tales of chicken soup as medicine could be legitimate. Although there is no research into chicken soup specifically and healing, when its ingredients are broken down it clearly shows its benefits. Firstly, chicken soup is light and very easy to digest when your appetite may be affected by illness. It also provides you with essential fluids and electrolytes which prevent dehydration, a common side-effect of sickness and fever. The specific ingredients used in a traditional chicken soup provide your body with a range of nutrients that support the immune system; protein and zinc from the chicken, vitamin A from carrots, vitamin C from onions and celery as well as antioxidants from the onions and herbs.

All-in-all, chicken soup is an incredibly simple way to help your body recover and increase immunity that doesn’t require lots of money or a doctor’s prescription.

For an immune-boosting chicken soup recipe by Charmaine D, click here.

The uniqueness of naturopathic medicine is that it focuses on treating now as well as preventing for later. So when you notice you are getting sick, herbal medicine and nutrients that are specifically catered for you and your situation by naturopaths work synergistically with the body to regain balance and kick infection.

Additionally, these herbal medicines and nutrients used by naturopaths also boost immune function which decreases the chance of reinfection later down the track.

These forms of nutritional support work differently to conventional antibiotics but have been shown to be just as effective, even against antibiotic resistant bacteria. When choosing between antibiotics and herbal remedies, it is important you do so with the support of your practitioner and/or doctor and take into account your sickness and severity of symptoms.

Naturopath Charmaine D has developed two things that will really assist you, your health and your immunity.

1. The Acid Alkaline Balancing program

You can find the Acid Alkaline Balancing program details here.

2. Fire Cider, a bespoke, simple tonic which will assist you in alkalising.

You can find the Fire Cider recipe here.

These two supports, and an acute consultation with Charmaine, can assist in fighting disease (or what Charmaine calls ‘acute infections’).

Let’s fight acute infections with an alkaline diet program and a simplified fire cider bespoke for you.

To briefly explain, an acidic diet has been proven to reduce the performance of the body’s immune system over time. Therefore, an alkalised diet (one full of fruit and vegetables) is the key to a strong and healthy immune system.

To understand the balance of acid and alkaline, we first must look at how it is measured. Acid and alkaline levels are measured by looking at the pH of a solution. pH stands for ‘potential hydrogen’ and is a measurement of the hydrogen-ion concentration. The lower the pH reading of a fluid, the more acidic it is. While the higher the pH reading, the more alkaline it is. The measurement range for pH levels is 0 to 14, with 7.0 being neutral.

Therefore, anything above 7.0 is considered alkalemia, and anything below 7.0 is considered acidemia.

Our body’s optimal pH level is 7.365, slightly alkaline. If the pH of the blood moves below 7.2 or above 7.6, our enzymes are unable to function properly and illness will usually occur. If too acidic, our body is less able to absorb minerals and nutrients, produces less energy in the cells, isn’t able to repair damaged cells and is less able to detoxify. Additionally, it creates an environment where tumour cells thrive, invading pathogens thrive and makes you more susceptible to fatigue and illness.

Research indicates that unless our body is working at its optimal, slightly alkaline level, it is unable to heal itself. This means that no matter the modality you have chosen to help heal any ailments or illnesses, be it vitamins, food supplements etc, if our pH is not balanced, we are unable to effectively assimilate these modalities. Our pH is the foundation for everything.

Diabetes, athlete’s foot, cancer, chronic fatigue, osteoporosis, autoimmune disease, adrenal/thyroid disorders, inflammatory bowel disease, depression, influenza, thrush, acne, headaches, obesity and fibromyalgia are just some of the many illnesses and ailments caused by over-acidity.

By restoring the acid/alkaline balance to a more alkaline environment, we can help restore our health. It should therefore be the first step in the treatment of acute or chronic illnesses.

As a general rule of thumb, we should aim to be eating approximately 80% alkaline foods, with a maximum of 20% acid foods.

Since COVID-19 became our new normal, healthcare experts have all been advocating for alkaline diets and alkaline water for the body to build up immunity and protection against the virus.

For more in-depth information about the acid/alkaline balance, read our Alkaline blog here.

Charmaine D also works proudly in conjunction with Panaxea International wherein she is mentored about specific supplements. Their knowledge has been crucial in formulating supplements that target particular anti- bodies and boost immunity. Rather than just buying a supplement bottle that states ‘immune boosting’, Charmaine, along with Panaxea’s expertise, can bring expert advice to you for what you specifically require and create a bespoke program that is going to work for you and your circumstances.

During the winter months, it is common to seek foods and vitamin supplements that are believed to boost immunity such as vitamin C, chicken soup and tea with honey. Although we showed the importance of diet on gut health and therefore immunity, it is not the be all and end all of our immunity. The immune system is extremely complex and influenced by multiple factors. A varied, nutrient-rich, balanced diet, paired with adequate sleep, exercise and minimal stress are all tools in immunity boosting.

Let’s break down and define some of the aspects of immunity:

The body’s first line of defence from pathogens trying to enter is our innate immunity, a protective barrier which includes; skin, mucus, stomach acid, enzymes in our sweat and tears and immune system cells.

The body’s system that has learnt to recognise a pathogen is the adaptive/acquired immunity. Our spleen, thymus, bone marrow and lymph nodes are the cells and organs that regulate this.

Antigens are substances that the body has deemed foreign and harmful. These substances trigger immune cell activity. Allergens are included in this and include grass pollen, dust, food components and pet hair.

Inflammation is a very important and very normal step of the innate immune response. When healthy cells and tissues are attacked by pathogens, the immune cell called mast cells counterattack this by releasing histamines, a protein which causes inflammation. This inflammation helps to flush out the pathogens by generating pain, swelling and a release of fluids. Histamines also send the signal to release more white blood cells to further fight off the pathogens.

Autoimmune disorders, such as lupus or type 1 diabetes, cause hypersensitivity wherein immune cells attack and destroy healthy cells.

Immunodeficiency disorders can completely disable the immune system and include AIDS, leukaemia and multiple myeloma.

Some other factors that can impact our immune system are:

• Ageing: our organs become less efficient with age, including immune-related organs like the thymus or bone marrow.
• Environmental toxins: smoke, pollution and excessive alcohol suppress and impair the normal activity of immune cells.
• Excess weight: Obesity is connected with chronic inflammation.
• Poor diet: malnutrition or a lack of nutrients impair production and activity of immune cells and antibodies.
• Chronic mental stress.
• Lack of sleep and rest.

For more in-depth information about all things health and nutrition, click here.

Another suggestion by Charmaine D which she has found to be protective for so many clients is Colostrum. Although not all Colostrum are made equal so she has sourced a great one.

In 2011 there was a study conducted to determine the effectiveness of Colostrum against influenza. This study examined the levels of immune cells in mice after being given Colostrum, versus a control group who were only given saline. Both groups of mice were exposed to the influenza virus. The mice who were treated with Colostrum prior, demonstrated significantly fewer and less severe influenza symptoms as well as high immune cellular activity. Charmaine only uses the highest grade Colostrum, which is proven to be safe and effective to boost immunity against viruses and bacteria.

To conclude, there are two methods to treating disease; combative and preventive. It is Charmaine D’s belief and philosophy that rather than finding cures through combative methods and ignorance to Nature’s laws, one must focus instead on building health utilising hygienic living and natural methods of treatment.

Charmaine D is here for you and is committed to helping you move through your ailments and forward into the rest of your life. 

Book in and see how she can help you!

Kale is a particularly nutritious and supportive food for eye health. Including it in your daily diet may actually keep the eye doctor away!

Let’s look at nutrients which help to nourish your eyes, both internally and externally. And check out the delicious kale recipes on our Recipes page to help you include kale into your day.

Lutein and Zeaxanthin

• Rich in carotenoids often referred to as the “eye vitamins”.
• Together they protect the retina from wear and tear, the macula from sun damage and slow down the onset of cataracts.
• Enhances vision.
• Is an antioxidant, filters blue light and protects against the environment.
• Can promote skin tone and skin-lightening and improve skin health.
• Overall skin tone and skin-lightening-improving effects with oral supplementation of lutein and zeaxanthin isomers: a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial – PubMed (nih.gov)

Foods containing Lutein and Zeaxanthin:

• Kale, spinach broccoli, basil, parsley, egg yolks, kiwi fruit, artichokes.
• Absorbed best when taken with food that has a high fat content.

Suggested Products for External Eye Skin Care:

• Cell Defence Saffron Eye Firming Plant Stem Cell Serum
• Cell Defence Fenugreek and Hops Eye Moisturiser

Caratenoid – Astaxanthin

• The extra oxygen atoms found in Astaxanthin give it a distinctive red colour.
• It is one of the most known powerful antioxidants which can help to clean up free radicals and assist in protecting the eyes from oxidative stress.
• Has been shown to have anti-wrinkle and antioxidant effects.
• Astaxanthin vs Zeaxanthin vs Lutein: What to Know | Care/of (takecareof.com)

Foods containing Astaxanthin:

• Marine foods, eg salmon, shrimp, crayfish, krill, trout and algae.

Suggested Products for External Eye Skin Care:

• Cell Defence Saffron Eye Firming Plant Stem Cell Serum

Magnesium

• Can help our bodies to make a hormone called prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) which is essential for the formation of tears.

Foods containing Magnesium:

• Pumpkin seeds, chia seeds, almonds, lima beans, lentils, spinach, leafy greens, avocados, artichokes, water, rolled oats cooked in unsalted water.
  

Vitamin B6

• Aids in the absorption of magnesium.
• Can help our bodies to make a hormone called prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) which is essential for the formation of tears.

Foods containing Vitamin B6:

• Chickpeas, fish, beef liver and other organ meats, potatoes, fruit, other than citrus
  

Potassium

• One of the principle components that contain tear film.

Foods containing Potassium:

• Banana, artichokes, potatoes, cooked spinach, zucchini, yoghurt.
  

Vitamin A and its precursor, beta-glucan

• Keeps the surface of your eyes and eyelids healthy.
• Provides great moisture retention, powerful hydration and assists in skin regeneration and repair.
• Pair with Zinc to help the liver deliver Vitamin A to the retina. The retina is then able to produce melanin that prevents ultraviolet rays from damaging eyes.

Foods containing Vitamin A and its precursor, beta-glucan:

• Most orange fruits and vegetables, eg carrots, sweet potatoes, apricots, almond milk, oysters, chickpeas, yoghurt.

Suggested Products for External Eye Skin Care:

• Cell Defence Saffron Eye Firming Plant Stem Cell Serum
• Cell Defence Fenugreek and Hops Eye Moisturiser

Vitamin C

Foods containing Vitamin C:

• Kiwi fruit, pineapple, orange and red fruits, and vegetables, e.g. oranges, red capsicum, strawberries

Suggested Products for External Eye Skin Care:

• Cell Defence Saffron Eye Firming Plant Stem Cell Serum
• Cell Defence Fenugreek and Hops Eye Moisturiser

Vitamin D

• Relieves inflammation and helps the macula heal.
• Helps to protect eyes from diseases.

Foods containing Vitamin D:

• Dairy milk, egg yolk, salmon, sardines, fortified yoghurts, orange juices, soy beverages.
• A very small amount of exposure to sunlight, e.g. 10 minutes
  

Vitamin E

• An antioxidant that helps to protect the eyes and eye skin against free radicals.

Foods containing Vitamin E:

• Almonds, wheat germ oil, sunflower seeds.

Suggested Products for External Eye Skin Care:

• Cell Defence Saffron Eye Firming Plant Stem Cell Serum
• Cell Defence Fenugreek and Hops Eye Moisturiser

Vitamin K

• Helps to maintain skin elasticity.
• Helps to keep capillaries in the skin in sound condition.
• Helps to inhibit elastin degradation.

Foods containing Vitamin K:

• Kale, seaweed (algae), kiwi fruit, blueberries, blueberry fruit extract, blackberries, artichokes, Blueberry fruit extract, seaweed (algae).

Suggested Products for External Eye Skin Care:

• Cell Defence Saffron Eye Firming Plant Stem Cell Serum

Omega-3 fatty acids

Foods containing Omega-3 fatty acids:

• Flaxseeds or flaxseed oil, salmon, tuna, chia seeds, walnuts
  

Phosphorus

• Useful for retinal haemorrhage.
• Dependent on Vitamin D in order to be absorbed into the body.

Foods containing Phosphorus:

• Artichoke, egg yolk.
  

Quercetin

• Protects the retina of the eye and has shown to improve the quality of tears.
• Has shown to have protective effects against UVB radiation.

Foods containing Quercetin:

• Onions, green leafy vegetables, apples, honey, citrus fruits.
  

Sulfur

• Necessary for the production of glutathione, an important antioxidant for the lens of the eye.
• Anti-inflamatory, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal agent.
• Can help to fade dark circles.
• Used for dryness, redness of the eye and lid and allergies.

Foods containing Sulfur:

• The onion group, e.g. onions, garlic, leeks, shallots.
  

Charmaine D is here for you and is committed to helping you move through your ailments and forward into the rest of your life. 

Book in and see how she can help you!

The first signs of facial ageing tend to appear around the eyes due to the fragile nature of eye skin which is not as effective in absorbing and retaining moisture. This delicate skin lacks the oil glands and collagen that exist in our other face and body skin. Studies have shown that in areas where collagen and sebaceous glands are less dense, the skin is more vulnerable to dryness, sagging and wrinkling.

Introducing the Ideal Eye Care Duo by Cell Defence

Saffron Eye Firming Plant Stem Cell Serum + Fenugreek and Hops Eye Moisturiser.

Soften fine lines and wrinkles + improve hydration and increase elasticity.

The skin around the eyes reacts more strongly to external, environmental influences due to the lack of sebaceous glands or supporting tissue. Exposure to sunlight, dust, and/or dry air, insufficient sleep and inadequate diet are some of these influences which could easily lead to dry, crepey eye skin.

This eye skin is a unique type and requires different and extra special care with the support of both a serum, to essentially repair and rejuvenate whilst softening fine lines and wrinkles, and a moisturiser to essentially improve hydration and increase elasticity. It is suggested to use products that are made specifically for the eye skin and to avoid the use of products that lack the ability to absorb and moisturise effectively. Cell Defence dedicated eye serum and eye moisturiser are potentially the ideal pigeon pair for every day eye skin nourishment and protection.

Ingredients to Avoid

Unseemly eye skin care practices and products may lead to fine lines, wrinkles, dryness and lack of effective protection. Thin eye skin is less resistant to harsh chemicals and we need to use the correct products so as to avoid irritation or allergic reactions. It is important to check product ingredients, ensuring they do not include chemicals such as topical steroids, alcohol, salicylic acid or synthetic fragrance.

Note: Formaldehyde-releasing ingredients, sometimes found in eyelash glue and makeup, should also be avoided as they can cause irritation to the skin and eyes.

Eye Skin Cleansing

It is important to very gently cleanse the skin around the eyes every morning and evening to remove any mascara, makeup and grime. Failure to do so may lead to dry skin and irritation. The gentle, natural ingredients in Cell Defence Wild Chamomile Cleansing Milk will softly and effectively lift and remove eye make-up and impurities whilst maintaining a natural moisture balance. Firstly, wash your hands then moisten an eye remover pad with the cleansing milk and ever so gently wipe your eyelashes, eyelids and under the eye. Rinse using warm water. With a clean eye remove pad, repeat the same process for the other eye.

Applying the Serum

Gently add a light dab of Saffron Eye Serum to the skin surrounding the eyes each morning and evening. This eye serum is synergistically formulated with natural, active ingredients that will softly and deeply penetrate the delicate skin in the eye region to essentially help with skin regeneration and repair. Consequently, softened lines and wrinkles will become less apparent and skin will become less sagging. Also, the saffron in this eye serum is loaded with antioxidants and Vitamin C to help protect the eye skin against free radicals thus keeping fine lines and wrinkles at bay.

Applying the Moisturiser

Gently dab a little of the Fenugreek and Hops Eye Moisturiser over the Saffron Eye Serum morning and evening. This non-oily, ultra-fine elixir will then melt on contact with the skin, disperse evenly, and absorb quickly and deeply into the delicate layers.

It has been created with a synergy of natural ingredients including Lavender Water, Fenugreek Seed Extracts, Hops, Cupuacu Seed Butter, Beta-Glucan and Hydrolysed Jojoba Esters to ultimately provide the eye skin with superior, long-lasting hydration and moisturisation and protect against infection and environmental stresses.

“The question is not what you look at, but what you see.” – Henry David Thoreau, essayist, poet and philosopher.

Eye Conditions

The heart controls the blood which nourishes our eyes pigeon paired

The heart also harbours our spirit and energetics and, as such, the eyes command the heart

Dry eye is an inflammatory condition whereby the surface of the eye is affected. Tear film is the layer of tears that cover and protect the ocular surface of the eye. Dry eye occurs when this tear film does not function correctly as a result of tear depletion or excessive tear evaporation and results in symptoms of ocular discomfort.

Although dry eyes can be the consequence of numerous situations and conditions, often acupuncture and Chinese herbal formulas can help with the management of the dry eye problem, resulting in reduced symptoms.

The middle layer that makes most of the tears is produced by the lacrimal glands and smaller glands located in the conjunctiva. Here, salts, proteins and antibodies are also present, all of which are crucial for corneal wound repair and fighting against infection.

The layer of the eye responsible for enabling tears – mucous layer – is also the layer that removes any unwanted fatty compounds from the surface of the corneal.
The aqueous layer determines the quantity of tears while the mucous layers determines the quality of the tears. Therefore, dry eye can be caused by one of two
things; evaporative dry eye wherein there is a low level of tear quality, or aqueous insufficiency which is a result of a low quantity of tears. Aqueous insufficiency occurs when the watery component of the tear is not being produced sufficiently by the lacrimal gland. This creates what’s known as hyperosmolarity wherein the salts and proteins of the tears are too highly concentrated. These high concentrations can irritate the eye, resulting in inflammation.

• Our eyes reflect the function of the liver. Lack of blood in the liver may cause dry eyes and blurred vision. In Chinese Traditional Medicine liver Qi (energy) is connected to the eye and when emotional, and/or fight or flight, stress is in play it may affect our liver. Consequently, this may cause imbalance in our vision and eye focus. The liver governs the tears. Liver-Yin (fluid, substance) deficiency may cause dryness of the eyes and Liver Yang (energy, movement) excess may cause watery eyes. An equal balance of Liver Yin and Liver Yang is ideal for our vision and eye focus.
• Lungs dominate our Qi, which in turn gives our eyes brightness.
• The spleen Qi controls the circulation of blood in the eye’s blood vessels.
• The kidneys govern fluids. The Kidney meridian nourishes the blood to the eyes which in turn assists with the internal water metabolism which is frequently linked to dry eye syndrome, whereby it moistens the eyes.
• The yin and yang supports a lot of eye function, including the aqueous (the clear liquid inside the front part of the eye).
• It is thought that people who are thinkers exhibit dark blue-black circles around the eyes – their eyes may be deep set and hypersensitive to light.
• Transient discomfort may be stimulated by environmental conditions, inflammation and ocular surface damage.
• Blepharitis is one of the most frequently observed conditions among eye care practitioners, yet remains largely misunderstood. It is a common eyelid inflammation that is sometimes associated with a bacterial eye infection, symptoms of dry eyes or certain types of skin conditions such as acne rosacea. It is more likely that people with Blepharitis will suffer from certain inflammatory diseases, psychological issues, cardiovascular diseases and more.
• Migraine sufferers have significantly worse dry eye scores.
• Other eye conditions include Ocular Allergy and Allergic Conjunctivitis.

Diet, Vitamins, Eye Care Hints and Exercise

• Slash sugar and load up on leafy greens.
• Vitamin A is crucial for the health of the eye’s cornea and conjunctiva. It is also necessary to make mucin which comprises the mucous (innermost) layer of the eye.
• Potassium is considered the most important mineral for dry eye symptoms because it is one of the principle components that comprise tear film. Patients with dry eyes are usually linked to low intake of folic acid, Vitamin C and Vitamin B6 along with high sugar consumption. Increasing your consumption of fruits and vegetables (one banana, for example, contains 400 mg) easily enables you to consume at least 500 mg of potassium per day.
• The B vitamins are of importance in treating dry eyes. However, Vitamin B6 is extra special because it aids in the proper absorption of magnesium which can help our bodies to make a hormone called prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) which is essential for the formation of tears.
• Vitamin C is found in greater concentrations in the tear film than in the blood.
• Vitamin D (vitamin D3 recommended). 2,000 IU–5,000 IU per day. Not only is dry eye syndrome associated with low levels of vitamin D, but the evaporative type of dry eye syndrome is linked to changes in cornea structure (which may be linked to vitamin D deficiency).
• Consume foods rich in antioxidants as they are known to enhance vision bystrengthening retinal tissue and improving circulation. Take a break and have a green tea; a beverage ever so rich in antioxidants.
• Evening primrose or black currant oil. This produces the fatty compound that stimulates aqueous tear secretion as well as reduces another fatty compound which can often cause inflammation.
• Green tea extract. Showed in a case study, patients who’s meibomian glands were malfunctioning improved dramatically.
• Kidney yin tonic. assists with water metabolism throughout the body.
• Castor oil eyedrops Using this before bedtime can help keep the eyes lubricated as well as providing natural anti-inflammatory properties.
• Limit or avoid sugar and artificial sweeteners. If our diet consists of too much sugar then our bodies have too much glucose which can then make its way to the eyes. In addition to this, excess sugar can also increase the chances of diabetes. And over 50% of people suffering from diabetes also suffer from dry eye syndrome. “Consumption of 11 teaspoons of sugar a day has been linked to dry eye syndrome, “It’s thought that excess sugar in the diet results in too much unusable glucose in the eyes, and more than half of all diabetics suffer from dry eye syndrome.”
• Toxic fats in commercial red meats, dairy products, fried foods, and hydrogenated oils (such as margarine and shortening) should be avoided. These fats interfere with the essential fatty acids our bodies need, therefore causing dry eye syndrome.
• Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. It is essential to drink 8-10 glasses of water a day to promote the production of tears and alleviate the symptoms of dry eyes.
• Gut issues may contribute to dry eye. If inflammation is a contributing factor in your dry eye, then it is imperative to look at the possibility that your gut (leaky gut) may be the source of the inflammation, as well as imbalances in gut flora. Chronic inflammatory conditions have been tied to dry eye syndrome. Firstly, a high quality probiotic may be the answer for replenishment of the healthy flora in your gut, especially if you have been on long-term antibiotics. Secondly, try moving to probiotics in pill form once your symptoms are under control. Thirdly, switch to real food ferments, such as sauerkraut, pickles, miso, kefir, kombucha, kimchi, etc. These foods provide a greater variety of beneficial bacteria plus they contain many vitamins and minerals. Available in pill form.
• Invest in amber glasses. Amber-hued glasses can be effective in filtering the blue light from computer and phone screens. This blue light can cause dry eye as well as disrupt our hormones.
• An active lifestyle is essential for preventing depletion of the vital essence and the build-up of toxic wastes in the body. I recommend a program that includes cardiovascular exercise every other day and tai chi or qi gong exercises for 30 minutes every day. The exercise called ‘Warming Up the Eyes’ works directly on the eyes to improve circulation and reduce symptoms, and you can do it every day, to help preserve good vision.
• Do a twice-a-day warm compress. A warm compress is a quick and easy way to help with the symptoms of dry eye. Apply a warm, wet cloth over your eyes for ten minutes twice a day to help open the oil glands of the eyelids allowing natural oils to flow and relieve the discomfort of dry eyes.
• Crying is the human act of releasing emotions in order to decrease stress chemicals. With this theory in mind, crying may also help to prevent stress-related diseases.

“The eyes are the windows to your soul.” – William Shakespeare poet, playwright and actor

Charmaine D is here for you and is committed to helping you move through your ailments and forward into the rest of your life. 

Book in and see how she can help you!

Understanding insulin resistance, why and how it happened and then moving forward towards regaining your oxygen for life.

This is an important topic for all, not just for people living with diabetes. It is taught as an early lesson because if we can assist our body to utilise its energy sources effectively then we are well and truly on our way to regaining our oxygen for life.

After suffering from insulin resistance for years without knowing, this is a subject close to my heart. As our bodies all have incredible memories, it is a relatively simple thing for us to slip back into. Regardless of whether or not you believe this to be applicable to you right now, understanding insulin resistance and applying the principles will allow you to understand others and ensure you don’t fall into the trap yourself.

What is insulin resistance?

Insulin is a hormone made by our pancreas. It assists the glucose (sugar) in our blood to turn into usable energy by entering the cells throughout our body. The amount of glucose in our bloodstream rises after eating a meal or a snack. The pancreas responds to this by releasing insulin into the bloodstream to help the glucose get to the required cells. This balances the sugar levels in our bloodstream to a more normal range. Insulin resistance happens when the body doesn’t respond well to the insulin, resulting in the glucose being less able to enter the cells. Because the glucose is struggling to enter the cells, the pancreas pumps out more insulin to help, however, this doesn’t make the glucose entering the cells any easier. The overall result being a rise in blood sugar levels.

If no lifestyle action is taken to slow or stop this, the abnormal glucose levels will continue to rise higher and higher, progressing the disease we know as diabetes. Abnormally high levels of glucose associated with diabetes has the potential to damage blood vessels and endanger organs.

Insulin resistance isn’t only related to diabetes. It has also been linked to high risks of cancer and heart disease, high blood pressure, weight gain, high cholesterol, inflammation, altered liver function and perhaps even dementia. An insulin resistance result in prediabetics or other health conditions could take years as it is a slow process. This means we have the ability to slow down or even reverse insulin resistance.

Our body decides through its own reasons what it considers to be a stressor (emotional, disease, vaccination, divorce, obesity, anorexia, exercise, abuse, sedentary lifestyle etc) and when it needs to save us. The intrinsic mechanisms involved in this process within us, decides when to save our energy for us. With this viewpoint, you can see insulin resistance being ‘switched on’ like a light bulb. Meaning it needs to be ‘switched off’ too. If the switch is on it means the liver produces too much insulin, signalling to the blood to save all the glucose for later. The glucose from our foods (mainly carbohydrates) is then carried through the blood into the liver. The liver has been signalled to store energy to save us – so it does by putting all the glucose into our fat storage. For most people this is in the upper abdominal area. If you are expending more energy than the fat stored daily, you may not notice the weight gain, however, this does not mean you are not still insulin resistant. Craving carbohydrates is a common symptom as you feel depleted of energy, your organs also become starved of energy.

When we bring ourselves back to being sensitive to insulin, the liver does not produce an abundance of insulin and therefore when glucose arrives in the liver, it uses it for energy easily. This energy is sent to the organs meaning they are no longer starved and have regained their oxygen for life.

If you are interested in learning more, diving in further into insulin resistance and finding out how you can best support yourself, your body and your overall health, Charmaine D has the answers for you. Her newly created online program is a five part program, covering topics of the utmost importance for us to be living our best lives at our healthiest. The second week of this online program is centred solely around insulin resistance. Here you will receive an in-depth video by Charmaine herself, and a written summary with all you need to know about insulin and the tools to implement essential changes into your life. Following this you will be provided with a questionnaire to fill out to help you better understand what you may be going through. This questionnaire will also assist Charmaine in understanding your past, patterns of behaviour and where things might have gone wrong for you in your health journey. You are then eligible for a virtual consultation with Charmaine to discuss your direction and options moving forward.

For more information on this online program, contact us and we’ll let you know all the details, or book in for a free 30 minute consultation.

Charmaine D is here for you and is committed to helping you move through your ailments and forward into the rest of your life. 

Book in and see how she can help you!

“If exercise could be packed in a pill, it would be the single most widely prescribed and beneficial medicine in the nation.” – Robert N. Butler, M.D. Former Director, National Institute on Aging

Exercise can help break insulin resistance. However, not on its own. A balanced diet, minimising stress, quality sleep, and various other things must also be included in the move towards breaking insulin resistance.

The single most effective exercise to assist with insulin resistance is resistance training. If done consistently, resistance training will drastically improve our insulin
resistance.

If you are someone who over-exercises (or has in the past), then it is likely you too are insulin resistant, as over-exercise is a stress on the body causing it to resist insulin. Our bodies are built to adjust and save us. It also has memories, so when we have been insulin resistant before, it will try and save us every time it feels like we need saving.

Breaking this mould is important.

Setting goals that are realistic is important.

The glucose stimulated by insulin is sent to skeletal muscle, which are the muscles used to control almost all of your movement. This not only creates energy during exercise but also helps with post-exercise recovery, fat-free mass gain and overall energy balance. Consistent, regular exercise causes our anatomy and physiology to change and adapt, providing defence mechanisms for the prevention and treatment of diseases. This is considered a chronic adaptation. The acute changes after exercise is also important to consider. The prolonged acute effect of exercise on insulin sensitivity can last up to 72 hours. Exercise, therefore, should be prescribed as the first-line defence to cardiometabolic diseases (such as type 2 diabetes) before pharmaceutical intervention. It is believed the acute effect plays a more important role to combat insulin resistance.

All of this can be considered as exercise as medicine.

If you are interested in learning more, diving in further into utilising exercise for insulin resistance and finding out how you can best support yourself, your body and your overall health, Charmaine D has the answers for you. Her newly created online program is a five part program, covering topics of the utmost importance for us to be living our best lives at our healthiest. The second week of this online program is centred solely around insulin resistance and exercising for insulin resistance. Here you will receive an in-depth video by Charmaine herself, and a written summary with all you need to know about insulin and the tools to implement essential changes into your life. Following this you will be provided with a questionnaire to fill out to help you better understand what you may be going through. This questionnaire will also assist Charmaine in understanding your past, patterns of behaviour and where things might have gone wrong for you in your health journey. You are then eligible for a virtual consultation with Charmaine to discuss your direction and options moving forward.

For more information on this online program, contact us and we’ll let you know all the details, or book in for a free 30 minute consultation.

Charmaine D is here for you and is committed to helping you move through your ailments and forward into the rest of your life. 

Book in and see how she can help you!

Dilly Bag skin?

Do you know anything about glycation?

Glycation can be likened to the action of drawing the cord closed on the old-fashioned dilly bag. When opened and laid flat, the dilly bag has no wrinkles, as your skin does when there is nothing pulling on the elastin fibres under the skin. When we pull the cord on the dilly bag, the tension causes the bag to crease. The sugaring of the elastin fibres under your skin are pulling the cord and creasing the skin.

So why then does this occur for some people and not others? Why you?

Below we are going to look at how we can lessen the severity of the ageing which is directly linked to the process of glycation.

The foods you consume and dietary choices you make may be affecting the glycation of oxidative stress for all organs in your body, including your skin. Overeating and undereating can also contribute to your ageing process following the glycation pathway.

Where we should be focusing is strategies to eat in order to prevent oxidative stress and to add protection to our body systems, especially the skin. The skin is the largest organ of the body.

During high-carbohydrate intake, the hepatic tissue converts glucose into fatty acids. Triacylglycerols are then formed and sent to the blood system, storing it as fat in the adipose tissue. Together with other proteins in the tissues of the body can compromise their function.

This is vastly accelerated in people living with diabetes as there is a large amount of sugar available for the glycation reactions. The deposition of glycotoxins damage vision, kidney function, vascular elasticity and circulation. Additionally, when blood sugar exceeds 180mg/dL, white blood cell function is basically paralyzed. This is why people living with diabetes suffer more commonly with wounds that will not heal. Glycotoxins also cause a release of inflammatory mediators. They change low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol making it easier to be deposited on the vessel walls and inducing the transformation of several different types of cells into myofibroblasts. Myofibroblasts tend to self-destruct and induce fibrous scar tissue.

One definition for ageing is the progressive accumulation of damage to the living tissue over the organ’s lifetime. Both internal and external stressors add to the ageing process of skin which lead to the structural change affecting youthful appearance and physiological functions. Wrinkles, dryness and loss of elasticity can all be reactions of the ageing process. Some external stressors that contribute to this process are sunlight, UV radiation, chemicals, pollutants and smoking.

Now let’s look at the definitions of some terminology.

Glycan

Glycan is a term for sugar, or group of sugars that are either in free form or attached to another molecule. Can also be called saccharide or carbohydrate.

Glycan-binding proteins

These are proteins that bind to specific glycans (sugars) and mediate their biological function.

Glycome

The collection of all glycans that have been synthesised by a cell, tissue or organism.

Glycosylation

The ability for your body to form a bond between the sugars and proteins. This is the key factor in cumulative skin damage and ageing. This is not just the case for diabetics.

Glycation

When glucose and fructose molecules link the proteins and fats found in collagen and elastin and cause cross-linking.

Glycotoxins

Glycation produces glycotoxins. Also known as AGEs (advanced glycation end products). As there is an absence of enzymes in the glycation process, it makes it impossible for our bodies to transport the modified proteins.

The glycation reaction forms an unstable Shiff base. The rearrangement of the Shiff base leads to stable ketoamines being formed. These usually reversible reactions undergo irreversible oxidation, polymerization, dehydration and cross-linking. Which we now know all generate the AGEs. The AGE receptors are expressed in both the epidermis and dermis. They also show higher expressions in sun-exposed areas of the skin.

The acceleration of AGE’s in all body tissues may be due to a range of factors; diet, insulin resistance, pre-diabetes or Type 1 or 2 diabetes. If this condition is impacting you on your skin – your body’s largest organ – it may also be occurring on the epithelial tissues within your internal organs. Decreasing sugar in your diet will assist in depleting the elements that are causing this sugaring of the fibres. Not all sugars are created equally with the simple sugars being sucrose, fructose and glucose. The fourth sugar is name fructooligosaccharide (FOS).

Sucrose

Table sugar, typically from sugar cane. Digests down to fructose and glucose to be delivered to the body when required. Too much sucrose can raise blood sugar levels leading to detrimental effects on the vascular system.

Fructose

Found in most fruits and vegetables and may be added in processed foods and drinks. Unlike glucose, fructose is processed directly by the liver and turned into energy for the body. And of course, only to be consumed in moderation as excess can be stored as fat, creating additional body imbalances.

Glucose

Glucose is our body’s favourite source of energy. Our blood sugar molecule that circulates in the blood, triggering insulin to regulate the blood sugar levels. Most carbohydrates are broken down in the body into glucose and then becomes an immediate source of fuel for muscles or liver (as glycogen). Carbohydrates that digest slowly are called low GI and regulate the rise in blood sugar levels much better than high GI, complex carbohydrates.

Fructooligosaccharide (FOS)

A so-called ‘fourth sugar’. It is known as a hyper-glycemic and it does not get digested in the body but rather it aids in digestive health and controlling glycemic levels. Sources of this are garlic, onion, leeks, asparagus and green bananas. As with all things, you can overuse FOS and abdominal discomfort may occur, just like with any sugar indulged in. FOS feeds the good bacteria in your colon, hence why it’s called a prebiotic. It also aids in constipation due to the fibre content.

So you can see, from this simple explanation of the different sugars, that the way we eat these molecules can make a difference to the available sugar in our blood and the processing of the sugar and delivery as energy.

A source for major glycotoxins is carbohydrate-rich food which has been processed under high heat without water. The kidney is usually what clears the glycotoxins and takes approximately 24 hours, although this is slowed down in diabetes. When glycotoxin-rich food is consumed daily, an accumulation in the tissue will occur.

Barbeques, steaks and almost all fast foods are either added with glycotoxins for flavour or cooked at a high heat. Therefore, cooking at lower temperatures with water (boiling, steaming, marinating foods etc) and increasing the fresh produce consumption will drastically reduce the glycotoxin load. By removing flamed-cooked or fried meats from our diets, we can decrease the glycotoxin intake by over 50%. Studies show that over time, this has been linked to a lifespan increase of 15%.

So where is this all happening? It is happening in the mitochondria of the cells.

Within our cells, mitochondria are hard at work converting nutrients from food into adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Our bodies use ATP as an energy source. Mitochondria are sophisticated and essential to our biological processes.

Their functions are;

• Converting food into energy. Our fuel source is completely reliant on them
• Shapeshifting. When excess nutrients occur, mitochondrial fragmentation occurs. They combine and divide and alter themselves depending on our changing energy needs.

So how can we fix glycation?

There are some carotenoids, namely lutein, β-carotene, and astaxanthin which have been shown to have antiglycative power.

Charmaine D has studied and understands this process well. Book a ‘why you?’ consultation and chat with her to gain some understanding of her 35 years experience in the field. Working both as a skin therapist and a naturopath to bring change to the process of AGEs. Charmaine D also has a Cell Defence skin care range. The cosmetic chemist behind her products has developed antiglycating stem cells. This is explained in more detail in her blogs which expands on the ingredients that assist in reducing the AGEs and the crosslinking (or dilly bag cord being pulled) in your skin and internal organs.

Book a consultation today and start to learn the “why?” and the “how can I fix it?”

Acne: Sebum is an oily secretion of the sebaceous glands. When excess sebum is generated by the glands our skin pores may become clogged. The sebum then becomes trapped in the pores whereby the ideal breeding ground for acne bacteria is formed. This may lead to the appearance of acne, including whiteheads, blackheads or pimples.

Rosacea is a non-contagious skin condition that generally affects the face. This condition typically causes facial skin to reveal a flushing and blushing appearance whilst blood vessels may become visible and pustules sometimes form.

Histamine sensitive skins: People with histamine sensitive skins may have an overreaction to insect bites or experience persistent itching and slow healing of inflamed skin. Skin may appear flaky and/or red and may have red lumps or welts that feel warm.

What causes these skin conditions?

In most acne cases, it’s the activation of androgens that increases the oils on your skin. The activation of androgens affects 5a-reductase (an enzyme involved in steroid metabolism), and this in turn can cause androgen overload. Androgen overload and imbalances affect the skin and internal mechanisms of the body.

Other causes include bacterial infections and inflammation, insulin resistance, liver imbalances (including liver overload and restricted waste removal from the liver and therefore the body), lymphatic system dysfunction, poor diet choices and poor exercise choices. 

Our Lilac Rebalancing Plant Stem Cell Serum is a powerhouse of natural, active compounds and is the ideal formula for assisting with acne, rosacea and histamine sensitive skin conditions.

Antioxidant rich Lilac stem cell extracts, hydrating coconut water, soothing aloe vera juice and an array of fruit extracts, including the calming blueberry fruit extract and the purifying tomato fruit extract, have been synergistically formulated to create this fast absorbing, rebalancing serum. The Lilac Rebalancing Plant Stem Cell Serum will assist in the provision of superior healing, purification, hydration, antioxidant protection and pigment inhibiting capabilities. 

Why choose this powerhouse serum?

Lilac stem cell extract – the hero ingredient

Calming lilac stem cell extracts have been shown to have the ability to  address the problem of excess sebum production, to decrease inflammation, and to provide hydration and purification in the leadup to acne.  

Verbascoside, found in lilac stem cells, has been found to have significantly accelerated wound healing and anti-inflammatory action displaying the potential to help histamine sensitive skins. Polyphenols from lilac leaf demonstrate the potential to contribute to the treatment and prevention of blood stagnation, which can assist in the control of skin redness.

Vaccinium Myrtillus (Blueberry) Fruit Extract 

Blueberries contain an abundance of anthocyanins, a compound which has antimicrobial, antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties, thereby intensifying the skin healing benefits of the lilac stem cell extracts. 

Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Water

Coconut water is amazingly hydrating, helping the skin to retain moisture and preventing it from drying out.  It moistens the skin in the most natural way, without the addition of excess oil, and is an anti-inflammatory, detoxifier and an antimicrobial.  

Opuntia Ficus Indica (Prickly Pear) Extract

Prickly pear is a great addition to the formula as it has excellent hydrating properties due to its high content of water binding activities. It has also displayed exceptional soothing and firming abilities.

Tomato Fruit Extract

This fruit extract is rich in Vitamin C, potassium, vitamin K and folate. It is purifying to the skin, helping to balance its pH and regulate sebum.

Here’s our 4 step daily skincare regime for people with sensitive skin

Our daily skincare regime is one extremely important part of skin preservation. Cell Defence has aspired to introduce the following gentle, soothing regime for sensitive skin types to help achieve a healthy, clear complexion whilst also keeping aging skin at bay.  

Step 1

Cleanse skin morning and evening with Cell Defence Indian Moringa Gentle Cleansing Gel to soothingly remove impurities and makeup.

Apply a drop of gel to dampened fingertips and ever so gently smooth over your face. Lightly splash face with cool water and the gel will instantly lather for a deep clean. Rinse with lukewarm or cool water and pat dry with a fresh, soft towel.

Your skin will feel fresh, moisturised and ideally, will be non-greasy. This is because the coconut water and moringa seed oil in this formula are known to decrease the excess oils on your skin.

Indian Moringa Cleansing Gel is so precious for sensitive skin because it:

• Will spread over face with ease;
• Will ensure an efficient deep cleanse;
• Has incredible hydrating qualities that help prevent moisture loss;
• Helps to naturally moisturise the skin without adding excess oil;
• has several anti-inflammatory and antibacterial components to help in the treatment of sensitive skin conditions; to decrease the incidence of acne prone skin types; and to assist wound healing and skin regeneration.

Step 2

Tone your skin with Cell Defence Skin Saviour Toner, an electronically activated saline solution containing hypochlorous acid (HOCl).

Lightly spray this saline solution over your face morning and evening to help protect against bacteria or infection. This is the ideal toner for sensitive and inflamed skin conditions as it is natural, non-toxic, non-allergenic and non-sensitising, yet a powerful antimicrobial and antibiofilm agent that is highly effective against microorganisms.

Step 3

Firm and balance your complexion with Cell Defence Lilac Rebalancing Plant Stem Cell Serum. 

Lightly dab and spread a small amount of this elixir over your face morning and evening. Feel it instantly absorb to provide your skin with protection from the environment and assist in soothing, healing and reducing the signs of aging. This is the perfect choice of serum to assist in gradually revealing a clearer, healthier, firmer and well-balanced complexion.

This stem cell serum has the potential to suppress sebum and assist in controlling skin redness. It is suitably blended with calming and soothing ingredients to create a potent elixir ideal for rebalancing sensitive skin.

Step 4

Moisturise your skin with Cell Defence Calendula Flower Balancing Moisturiser.

An application of this moisturiser will have a light hydrating effect, leaving the skin feeling soothed, firm, moist and non-greasy. It can assist in lowering inflammation, keeping breakouts at bay, soothing redness, reducing skin damage, reducing age spots and promoting cell turnover.

Charmaine D is here for you and is committed to helping you move through your ailments and forward into the rest of your life. Book in for a free 30 minute skincare consult and see how she can help you!

Further Information & Research:

Cell Defence Lilac Rebalancing Plant Stem Cell Serum

A powerhouse of natural, active compounds makes this serum an ideal formula for assisting with acne, rosacea and histamine sensitive skin conditions.

Antioxidant rich Lilac stem cell extracts, hydrating coconut water, soothing aloe vera juice and an array of fruit extracts, including the calming blueberry fruit extract and the purifying tomato fruit extract, have been synergistically formulated to create this fast absorbing, rebalancing serum.  A serum that will assist in the provision of superior healing, purification, hydration, antioxidant protection and pigment inhibiting capabilities. 

Lilac stem cell extract – the hero ingredient

Syringa Vulgaris (lilac) leaf extracts are the primary ingredient in this formula.  These extracts are water soluble (hydrophilic), easily absorbed into the skin and a powerhouse of active compounds ideal for addressing sensitive and ageing skin conditions.  They are known to have antioxidant rich compounds called verbascoside: A phenylpropanoid glycoside which is a natural occurring, water-soluble compound with outstanding antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.  Testing of this compound has exhibited the highest radical scavenger activity and highest antioxidant power amongst other tested phenylpropanoid glycosides Alipieva et al. 2014.  Lilac leaf extract is also hydrophilic which means that is water soluble.

Sebum is an oily secretion of the sebaceous glands.  When excess sebum is generated by the glands our skin pores may become clogged. The sebum then becomes trapped in the pores whereby the ideal breeding ground for acne bacteria is formed.  This may lead to the appearance of whiteheads, blackheads or pimples.

Acne – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic

The Role of Sebum (Skin Oil) in Acne – Acne.org

Calming lilac stem cell extracts have been shown to have the ability to  address the problem of excess sebum production, to decrease inflammation, and to provide hydration and purification in the leadup to acne.  

“These stem cells inhibit 5α-reductase, an enzyme involved in sebum production, and they also decrease the pro-inflammatory chemokine IL-8. In a clinical study (again, not independent), lilac stem cell extract reduced lesions in 29 acne patients by 40% in 30 days and showed a significant decrease in inflammation and melanin pigmentation.”

Rosacea is a non-contagious skin condition that generally affects the face. This condition typically causes facial skin to reveal a flushing and blushing appearance whilst blood vessels may become visible and pustules sometimes form.

Verbascoside in lilac stem cells has been found to have significantly accelerated wound healing and anti-inflammatory action.  Recent research has stated that polyphenols from the lilac leaf demonstrate the potential to contribute to the treatment/prevention of blood stagnation which can assist in the control of skin redness.

An update on the treatment of rosacea – PMC (nih.gov)

People with histamine sensitive skins may have an overreaction to insect bites or experience persistent itching and slow healing of inflamed skin.  Skin may appear flaky and/or red and may have red lumps or welts that feel warm.

Verbascoside in lilac stem cells has been found to have significantly accelerated wound healing and anti-inflammatory action displaying the potential to help histamine sensitive skins. 

Other contributing ingredients

Vaccinium Myrtillus (Blueberry) Fruit Extract 

Blueberries also contain an abundance of anthocyanins, a compound which has antimicrobial, antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties thereby intensifying the skin healing benefits of the lilac stem cell extracts.  There is evidence that anthocyanin extract from blueberries may help to reduce collagen destruction generated by UV-induced photoaging of the skin.

Research Progress on Absorption, Metabolism, and Biological Activities of Anthocyanins in Berries: A Review – PubMed (nih.gov)

Blueberry Extract for Skin | Blueberry Extract Benefits – UpCircle (upcirclebeauty.com)

Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Water

Coconut water is amazingly hydrating, helping the skin to retain moisture and preventing it from drying out.  It moistens the skin in the most natural way, without the addition of excess oil, and is an anti-inflammatory, detoxifier and an anti-microbial.  Research has shown it to have significant anti-oxidant activity and to be rich in Cytokinin, a plant hormone which helps to reduce redness and irritation.  Additionally it has been verified by the EWG as a safe ingredient with low toxicity.  A perfect addition to assist with anti-ageing, wound healing and the prevention/reduction of sensitive skin types.

Kinetin Improves Barrier Function of the Skin by Modulating Keratinocyte Differentiation Markers – PMC (nih.gov)

Opuntia Ficus Indica (Prickly Pear) Extract

Prickly pear is a great addition to the formula as it has excellent hydrating properties due to its high content of water binding activities.  It has also displayed exceptional soothing and firming abilities.  It also helps to prevent the formation of ROS thus intensifying this benefit found in the lilac stem cells.

Tomato Fruit Extract

This fruit extract is rich in Vitamin C, potassium, vitamin K and folate.  It is purifying to the skin, helping to balance the pH of the skin and regulate sebum.

Propanediol (also called 1,3-propanediol)

Derived from corn sugar, propanediol is a clear, colourless solvent and emollient.  It will assist all the amazing natural ingredients in the formula by dissolving; preserving and keeping them fresher for longer.  Amazingly, it will also help to enhance the penetration of the active ingredients so that they go deeper into the skin layers.

Propanediol has been verified by the EWG as a safe ingredient with low toxicity for topical use.

Daily Skin Care Regime by Cell Defence

for people with sensitive skins

Our daily topical skin care regime is one extremely important part of skin preservation.  Accordingly, Cell Defence has aspired to introduce the following gentle, soothing regime for sensitive skin types to help achieve a healthy, clear complexion whilst also keeping ageing skin at bay.  

Step 1

Cleanse skin morning and evening with Cell Defence Indian Moringa Gentle Cleansing Gel to soothingly remove impurities and makeup.

Apply a drop of gel to dampened fingertips and ever so gently smooth the gel over your face.  Lightly splash face with a little cool water and the gel will instantly lather for a deep clean. Rinse with lukewarm or cool water and pat dry with a fresh, soft towel.

Your skin will feel fresh, moisturised and ideally, will be non-greasy.  This is because  the coconut water and moringa seed oil in this formula are known to decrease the excess oils on your skin.

Indian Moringa Cleansing Gel is so precious for sensitive skin because it:

• Will spread over face with ease;
• Will ensure an efficient deep cleanse;
• Has incredible hydrating qualities that help prevent moisture loss;
• Helps to naturally moisturise the skin without adding excess oil;
• has several anti-inflammatory and antibacterial components to help in the treatment of sensitive skin conditions; to decrease the incidence of acne prone skin types; and to assist wound healing and skin regeneration.

Step 2

Tone your skin with Cell Defence Skin Saviour Toner 

An electronically activated saline solution containing hypochlorous acid (HOCl)

Lightly spray this saline solution over your face morning and evening to help protect against bacteria or infection. The ideal toner for sensitive and inflamed skin conditions as it is natural, non-toxic, non-allergenic and non-sensitising yet a powerful antimicrobial and antibiofilm agent that is highly effective against microorganisms.

Step 3

Firm and balance your complexion with Cell Defence Lilac Rebalancing Plant Stem Cell Serum 

Lightly dab and spread a small amount of this superior elixir over your face morning and evening.  Feel it instantly absorb to provide your skin with protection from the environment and assist in soothing, healing and reducing the signs of ageing. The perfect choice of elixir to assist in gradually revealing a clearer, healthier, firmer and well-balanced complexion.

This stem cell serum has the potential to suppress sebum and assist in controlling skin redness. It is suitably blended with calming and soothing ingredients to create a potent elixir ideal for rebalancing sensitive skin.

Step 4

Moisturise your skin with Cell Defence Calendula Flower Balancing Moisturiser

An application of this moisturiser will have a light hydrating effect, leaving the skin feeling soothed, firm, moist and non-greasy.  It can assist in lowering inflammation, keeping breakouts at bay, soothing redness, reducing skin damage, reducing age spots and promoting cell turnover.

Why choose this powerhouse serum?

Lilac stem cell extract – the hero ingredient

Calming lilac stem cell extracts have been shown to have the ability to  address the problem of excess sebum production, to decrease inflammation, and to provide hydration and purification in the leadup to acne.  

Verbascoside, found in lilac stem cells, has been found to have significantly accelerated wound healing and anti-inflammatory action displaying the potential to help histamine sensitive skins. Polyphenols from lilac leaf demonstrate the potential to contribute to the treatment and prevention of blood stagnation, which can assist in the control of skin redness.

Vaccinium Myrtillus (Blueberry) Fruit Extract 

Blueberries contain an abundance of anthocyanins, a compound which has antimicrobial, antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties, thereby intensifying the skin healing benefits of the lilac stem cell extracts. 

Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Water

Coconut water is amazingly hydrating, helping the skin to retain moisture and preventing it from drying out.  It moistens the skin in the most natural way, without the addition of excess oil, and is an anti-inflammatory, detoxifier and an antimicrobial.  

Opuntia Ficus Indica (Prickly Pear) Extract

Prickly pear is a great addition to the formula as it has excellent hydrating properties due to its high content of water binding activities. It has also displayed exceptional soothing and firming abilities.

Tomato Fruit Extract

This fruit extract is rich in Vitamin C, potassium, vitamin K and folate. It is purifying to the skin, helping to balance its pH and regulate sebum.

Here’s our 4 step daily skincare regime for people with sensitive skin

Our daily skincare regime is one extremely important part of skin preservation. Cell Defence has aspired to introduce the following gentle, soothing regime for sensitive skin types to help achieve a healthy, clear complexion whilst also keeping aging skin at bay.  

Step 1

Cleanse skin morning and evening with Cell Defence Indian Moringa Gentle Cleansing Gel to soothingly remove impurities and makeup.

Apply a drop of gel to dampened fingertips and ever so gently smooth over your face. Lightly splash face with cool water and the gel will instantly lather for a deep clean. Rinse with lukewarm or cool water and pat dry with a fresh, soft towel.

Your skin will feel fresh, moisturised and ideally, will be non-greasy. This is because the coconut water and moringa seed oil in this formula are known to decrease the excess oils on your skin.

Indian Moringa Cleansing Gel is so precious for sensitive skin because it:

• Will spread over face with ease;
• Will ensure an efficient deep cleanse;
• Has incredible hydrating qualities that help prevent moisture loss;
• Helps to naturally moisturise the skin without adding excess oil;
• has several anti-inflammatory and antibacterial components to help in the treatment of sensitive skin conditions; to decrease the incidence of acne prone skin types; and to assist wound healing and skin regeneration.

Cell Defence Lilac Rebalancing Plant Stem Cell Serum

A powerhouse of natural, active compounds makes this serum an ideal formula for assisting with acne, rosacea and histamine sensitive skin conditions.

Antioxidant rich Lilac stem cell extracts, hydrating coconut water, soothing aloe vera juice and an array of fruit extracts, including the calming blueberry fruit extract and the purifying tomato fruit extract, have been synergistically formulated to create this fast absorbing, rebalancing serum.  A serum that will assist in the provision of superior healing, purification, hydration, antioxidant protection and pigment inhibiting capabilities. 

Lilac stem cell extract – the hero ingredient

Syringa Vulgaris (lilac) leaf extracts are the primary ingredient in this formula.  These extracts are water soluble (hydrophilic), easily absorbed into the skin and a powerhouse of active compounds ideal for addressing sensitive and ageing skin conditions.  They are known to have antioxidant rich compounds called verbascoside: A phenylpropanoid glycoside which is a natural occurring, water-soluble compound with outstanding antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.  Testing of this compound has exhibited the highest radical scavenger activity and highest antioxidant power amongst other tested phenylpropanoid glycosides Alipieva et al. 2014.  Lilac leaf extract is also hydrophilic which means that is water soluble.

Sebum is an oily secretion of the sebaceous glands.  When excess sebum is generated by the glands our skin pores may become clogged. The sebum then becomes trapped in the pores whereby the ideal breeding ground for acne bacteria is formed.  This may lead to the appearance of whiteheads, blackheads or pimples.

Acne – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic

The Role of Sebum (Skin Oil) in Acne – Acne.org

Calming lilac stem cell extracts have been shown to have the ability to  address the problem of excess sebum production, to decrease inflammation, and to provide hydration and purification in the leadup to acne.  

“These stem cells inhibit 5α-reductase, an enzyme involved in sebum production, and they also decrease the pro-inflammatory chemokine IL-8. In a clinical study (again, not independent), lilac stem cell extract reduced lesions in 29 acne patients by 40% in 30 days and showed a significant decrease in inflammation and melanin pigmentation.”

Rosacea is a non-contagious skin condition that generally affects the face. This condition typically causes facial skin to reveal a flushing and blushing appearance whilst blood vessels may become visible and pustules sometimes form.

Verbascoside in lilac stem cells has been found to have significantly accelerated wound healing and anti-inflammatory action.  Recent research has stated that polyphenols from the lilac leaf demonstrate the potential to contribute to the treatment/prevention of blood stagnation which can assist in the control of skin redness.

An update on the treatment of rosacea – PMC (nih.gov)

People with histamine sensitive skins may have an overreaction to insect bites or experience persistent itching and slow healing of inflamed skin.  Skin may appear flaky and/or red and may have red lumps or welts that feel warm.

Verbascoside in lilac stem cells has been found to have significantly accelerated wound healing and anti-inflammatory action displaying the potential to help histamine sensitive skins. 

Other contributing ingredients

Vaccinium Myrtillus (Blueberry) Fruit Extract 

Blueberries also contain an abundance of anthocyanins, a compound which has antimicrobial, antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties thereby intensifying the skin healing benefits of the lilac stem cell extracts.  There is evidence that anthocyanin extract from blueberries may help to reduce collagen destruction generated by UV-induced photoaging of the skin.

Research Progress on Absorption, Metabolism, and Biological Activities of Anthocyanins in Berries: A Review – PubMed (nih.gov)

Blueberry Extract for Skin | Blueberry Extract Benefits – UpCircle (upcirclebeauty.com)

Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Water

Coconut water is amazingly hydrating, helping the skin to retain moisture and preventing it from drying out.  It moistens the skin in the most natural way, without the addition of excess oil, and is an anti-inflammatory, detoxifier and an anti-microbial.  Research has shown it to have significant anti-oxidant activity and to be rich in Cytokinin, a plant hormone which helps to reduce redness and irritation.  Additionally it has been verified by the EWG as a safe ingredient with low toxicity.  A perfect addition to assist with anti-ageing, wound healing and the prevention/reduction of sensitive skin types.

Kinetin Improves Barrier Function of the Skin by Modulating Keratinocyte Differentiation Markers – PMC (nih.gov)

Opuntia Ficus Indica (Prickly Pear) Extract

Prickly pear is a great addition to the formula as it has excellent hydrating properties due to its high content of water binding activities.  It has also displayed exceptional soothing and firming abilities.  It also helps to prevent the formation of ROS thus intensifying this benefit found in the lilac stem cells.

Tomato Fruit Extract

This fruit extract is rich in Vitamin C, potassium, vitamin K and folate.  It is purifying to the skin, helping to balance the pH of the skin and regulate sebum.

Propanediol (also called 1,3-propanediol)

Derived from corn sugar, propanediol is a clear, colourless solvent and emollient.  It will assist all the amazing natural ingredients in the formula by dissolving; preserving and keeping them fresher for longer.  Amazingly, it will also help to enhance the penetration of the active ingredients so that they go deeper into the skin layers.

Propanediol has been verified by the EWG as a safe ingredient with low toxicity for topical use.

Daily Skin Care Regime by Cell Defence

for people with sensitive skins

Our daily topical skin care regime is one extremely important part of skin preservation.  Accordingly, Cell Defence has aspired to introduce the following gentle, soothing regime for sensitive skin types to help achieve a healthy, clear complexion whilst also keeping ageing skin at bay.  

Step 1

Cleanse skin morning and evening with Cell Defence Indian Moringa Gentle Cleansing Gel to soothingly remove impurities and makeup.

Apply a drop of gel to dampened fingertips and ever so gently smooth the gel over your face.  Lightly splash face with a little cool water and the gel will instantly lather for a deep clean. Rinse with lukewarm or cool water and pat dry with a fresh, soft towel.

Your skin will feel fresh, moisturised and ideally, will be non-greasy.  This is because  the coconut water and moringa seed oil in this formula are known to decrease the excess oils on your skin.

Indian Moringa Cleansing Gel is so precious for sensitive skin because it:

• Will spread over face with ease;
• Will ensure an efficient deep cleanse;
• Has incredible hydrating qualities that help prevent moisture loss;
• Helps to naturally moisturise the skin without adding excess oil;
• has several anti-inflammatory and antibacterial components to help in the treatment of sensitive skin conditions; to decrease the incidence of acne prone skin types; and to assist wound healing and skin regeneration.

Step 2

Tone your skin with Cell Defence Skin Saviour Toner 

An electronically activated saline solution containing hypochlorous acid (HOCl)

Lightly spray this saline solution over your face morning and evening to help protect against bacteria or infection. The ideal toner for sensitive and inflamed skin conditions as it is natural, non-toxic, non-allergenic and non-sensitising yet a powerful antimicrobial and antibiofilm agent that is highly effective against microorganisms.

Step 3

Firm and balance your complexion with Cell Defence Lilac Rebalancing Plant Stem Cell Serum 

Lightly dab and spread a small amount of this superior elixir over your face morning and evening.  Feel it instantly absorb to provide your skin with protection from the environment and assist in soothing, healing and reducing the signs of ageing. The perfect choice of elixir to assist in gradually revealing a clearer, healthier, firmer and well-balanced complexion.

This stem cell serum has the potential to suppress sebum and assist in controlling skin redness. It is suitably blended with calming and soothing ingredients to create a potent elixir ideal for rebalancing sensitive skin.

Step 4

Moisturise your skin with Cell Defence Calendula Flower Balancing Moisturiser

An application of this moisturiser will have a light hydrating effect, leaving the skin feeling soothed, firm, moist and non-greasy.  It can assist in lowering inflammation, keeping breakouts at bay, soothing redness, reducing skin damage, reducing age spots and promoting cell turnover.

The acid/alkaline balance, what is it?

To understand the balance of acid and alkaline, we first must look at how it is measured. Acid and alkaline levels are measured by looking at the pH of a solution. pH stands for ‘potential hydrogen’ and is a measurement of the hydrogen-ion concentration. The lower the pH reading of a fluid, the more acidic it is. While the higher the pH reading, the more alkaline it is. The measurement range for pH levels is 0 to 14, with 7.0 being neutral. Therefore, anything above 7.0 is considered alkalemia, and anything below 7.0 is considered acidemia. 

Our body’s optimal pH level is 7.365, slightly alkaline. If the pH of the blood moves below 7.2 or above 7.6, our enzymes are unable to function properly and illness will usually occur. If too acidic, our body is less able to absorb minerals and nutrients, produces less energy in the cells, isn’t able to repair damaged cells and is less able to detoxify. Additionally, it creates an environment where tumour cells thrive, invading pathogens thrive and makes you more susceptible to fatigue and illness. 

Research indicates that unless our body is working at its optimal, slightly alkaline level, it is unable to heal itself. This means that no matter the modality you have chosen to help heal any ailments or illnesses, be it vitamins, food supplements etc, if our pH is not balanced, we are unable to effectively assimilate these modalities. Our pH is the foundation for everything.

Diabetes, athlete’s foot, cancer, chronic fatigue, osteoporosis, autoimmune disease, adrenal/thyroid disorders, inflammatory bowel disease, depression, influenza, thrush, acne, headaches, obesity and fibromyalgia are just some of the many illnesses and ailments that may be caused by over-acidity. 

By restoring the acid/alkaline balance to a more alkaline environment, we can help restore our health. It should therefore be the first step in the treatment of chronic illnesses.

To summarise, our body has an optimal pH level of 7.365, meaning we function at a slightly alkaline rate. So how do we know what our pH levels are? Should we test our saliva, urine, blood or all three? Are our illnesses being caused by an imbalance? How can we ensure we are consuming the correct foods to ensure an alkaline-rice environment?

If you are interested in learning more, diving in further into the acid/alkaline balance and finding out how you can best support yourself, your body and your overall health, Charmine D has the answers for you.

Her new soon-to-be-released Energise Your Gut, Liver & Kidneys and Regain Your Oxygen for Life online program is a five week course covering topics of the utmost importance for us to be living our best lives at our healthiest. The first week of this online program is centred solely around the acid/alkaline balance. Here you will receive an in-depth video by Charmaine herself, and a written summary with all you need to know about pH levels and the tools to implement essential changes into your life. Following this you will be provided with a questionnaire to fill out to help you better understand what you may be going through. This questionnaire will also assist Charmaine in understanding your past, patterns of behaviour and where things might have gone wrong for you in your health journey. You are then eligible for a virtual consultation with Charmaine to discuss your direction and options moving forward. 

For more information on this online program, contact us and we’ll let you know all the details, or book in for a free 30 minute consultation. The program will also be available on our website in early January 2023.

Charmaine D is here for you and is committed to helping you move through your ailments and forward into the rest of your life. Book in and see how she can help you!

Is Intermittent Fasting for You? And if so Why YOU?

It can assist in regaining your oxygen for life…!

It should be mentioned that during the eating windows, it is important to eat a healthy, well-balanced diet. As you are limiting the time in which your body is able to assimilate food, you should be thoughtful about what you consume. Furthermore, if you are hypoglycemic, pregnant or a child it is recommended that intermittent fasting is not for you.

Read this paper if interested in longevity dieting.

If you are someone with insulin resistance, a weight problem or are just interested in the multitude of benefits intermittent fasting brings, then contact Charmaine D for a Free Why You Consult – 30 minutes gifted to you by her to look at how this may fit into your meaning behind Why You? and see if this plan of action may work for you. Whether you are strict with your fasting schedule or just fast periodically, giving your body a break from eating is great for overall health, but may need to be guided by a professional.

Fasting is known to ramp-up human metabolism, increase cellular maintenance and protection, increase activation of stress-resistance pathways, remove and repair damaged and dysfunctional cells and reduce inflammation. In Diabetes, IF can lower insulin, protect against fatty liver, improve sensitivity to blood glucose and may even lower pancreatic fat.

Fasting can boost mitochondria efficiency, and in a fasting state, our length of telomeres may be protected. Additionally, clinically it can turn on the SIRT! Gene and turn off the mTOR gene (more on that later!)

For amazing benefits, fasting requires supervision. This can be discussed in a 15 min phone call with me, Charmaine D. Make a booking below for individualised care and support.

To chat with Charmaine – book a complimentary 30 minutes Why You? Consult. Her gift to you, (one per person).

And how can the skin and body benefit from this amazing extract?

Vitis vinifera (grape) seed extract (GSE), is making its debut as a superior antioxidant and is gradually proving to hold it’s own in contributing towards today’s sophisticated environment of natural health and beauty remedies. 

Winemaking can be dated back to about 8,000 years ago in Georgia, a country in the Caucasus region between Asia and Europe.  It is now practised worldwide.  In the past, grape seeds were disposed of as a waste product.  Recently, many seedless varieties have been introduced and have become extremely popular.  Despite this, the future is proving to be far from grim for these little seeds as studies progressively reveal that the seeds could actually provide many of the health and beauty promoting benefits of grapes.

Too many free radicals in our body can create an imbalance, leading to oxidative stress and problems such as tissue damage and loss of collagen.  We may feel fatigued; suffer from muscle or joint pain, inflammation or blocked arteries; experience brain fog; or our skin might start to display fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots or loose, sagging skin.  Free radicals can occur naturally in the body or can be introduced from outside by things like pollution, and can damage cells and contribute to the ageing process.  We need some assistance to protect against them and to fight them off with an aim to naturally stimulate our internal defence systems.  Introducing antioxidants into our health routine is an ideal way to introduce some armour and weapons for this task.

Oxidative Stress – What is it? | Advancing Health Naturally

As an aside, many of the Cell Defence products contain Vitis vinifera (grape) seed extract. Due to the research on its great benefits mentioned above and below.

Why is Vitis vinifera (grape) seed extract (GSE) so superior?

It has been reported that:

• phenolic compounds are the main components of GSE;
• an overwhelming 92% to 95% of these phenolic compounds can consist of oligomeric proanthocyanidins¹ ;
• Proanthocyanidins have displayed greater antioxidant capabilities than either of Vitamins C or E ^2 (14) and
• Proanthocyanidins have shown to reduce the lipid oxidation of the cellular structure of the skin and inhibit the production of free radicals (Markus and Morris 2008). 

GSE also contains Vitamin E, Linolenic acid, Potassium, Magnesium, Iron, Copper, Phosphorus, Calcium and Zinc. 

It has shown to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antitumor activity.

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel concluded the vitis vinifera (grape) seed extract to be safe in the present practices of use and concentration in cosmetics.

All this makes it an even more powerful and safe weapon to help relieve many symptoms and to enhance and maintain skin integrity.

Safety Assessment of Vitis vinifera (Grape)-Derived Ingredients as Used in Cosmetics – Monice M. Fiume, Wilma F. Bergfeld, Donald V. Belsito, Ronald A. Hill, Curtis D. Klaassen, Daniel C. Liebler, James G. Marks, Ronald C. Shank, Thomas J. Slaga, Paul W. Snyder, F. Alan Andersen, 2014 (sagepub.com)

HEALTH BENEFITS

Heart Disease

Grape seed extract has displayed the ability to help manage symptoms of cardiovascular disease by strengthening the defence systems against this disease and neutralising free radicals.  Studies have shown that GSE has cardio protective effects as well as the ability to minimise oxidative stress.  This is done firstly by lowering the oxidant levels and secondly by improving the antioxidant levels in plasma.  This results in helping to modify the existence of oxidation of the Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) which is the bad cholesterol.  This process can help minimise the risk of heart disease by addressing the build-up of fatty plaque in the arteries and assisting with the prevention of blood clotting.  It can also assist in reducing leg swelling and edema and alleviating inflammation.

Grape seed proanthocyanidin extract induced mitochondria-ass… : Chinese Medical Journal (lww.com)

Effect of Oligomeric Proanthocyanidin on the Antioxidant Status and Lung Function of Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease – PMC (nih.gov)

Fatigue

Studies have shown that there is an association between

fatigue generated by exhaustive exercise

and

oxidative stress injury, inflammation and abnormal functioning of the mitochondria.

“Mitochondrion is the place of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) generation. The human body needs more ATP to maintain muscle contraction and movement during exercise. However, exhaustive exercise can lead to damaged mitochondria that further cause skeletal muscle damage and fatigue.” ^{3 (38)}

The anti-oxidant capabilities of GSPE have shown to assist with fatigue created by exhaustive exercise and also play a part in protecting against oxidative stress.  Studies have also suggested that GSPE has the potential to improve mitochondrial dysfunction and there is a possibility that it could be used to treat uremia toxin-induced injury.

Grape seed proanthocyanidin extract supplementation affects exhaustive exercise-induced fatigue in mice – PMC (nih.gov)

https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=19&contentid=grapeseedextract

Cancer

GSE may have an anti-oxidant effect which could have the potential to lower the risk of certain cancers.

GSE may also be able to help with type 2 diabetes ^{4 (15)} , alzheimers disease and reducing iron levels of people with hemochromatosis.

Grape Seed: Health Benefits, Nutrients, Preparation, and More (webmd.com)

BENEFITS FOR SKIN

Protection from Ageing

Today, a large majority of the population want to maintain a youthful appearance.  The harmful effects of the sun and the environment can make this an arduous task.  Unfortunately, the facial skin is more prone to UV radiation, often resulting in photo ageing and giving skin a sagging and wrinkled appearance.  Grape Seed Extract can help to counteract this process by giving some extra support against the harmful UV rays.  Grape seed extract can increase hydration and help maintain collagen, revealing a smoother and more supple complexion.

Assessment of viscoelasticity and hydration effect of herbal moisturizers using bioengineering techniques – PMC (nih.gov)

Wound healing

Studies have indicated that Grape (Vitis vinifera) seed extract (GSE), with its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, may have the potential to advance wound healing.

Topical grape (Vitis vinifera) seed extract promotes repair of full thickness wound in rabbit – PubMed (nih.gov)

Grape seed extract: having a potential health benefits – PMC (nih.gov)

Have you lost your oxygen for life? Your zest for life? The pep in your step? And if so, how? Do you have the ability to approach your medical practitioners to gain a better understanding of your health and why it’s not as you wish it to be? Read on if this is of interest to you.

The secret to a brighter, healthier future is looking back over your timeline to find where you may have lost your oxygen for life. Now is the time to take responsibility for your future to ensure your health, your oxygen for life, can flow through your mind, body and spirit.

Charmaine D understands. Her oxygen for life has been lost many times over throughout her life span. By investigating and researching her family background, illnesses, operations, how she was raised and how she lost her own identity and applying her genetics and epigenetics understanding she is now finally in the process of reclaiming her own life and regaining her oxygen for life.

This is Charmaine’s story – what’s yours?

We will start with this – and finish with it:

Charmaine D is not your body and skin saviour – that’s you. Rather, she is the investigator that can bring together your past, present, looking towards your future, and finding your suitable pathway to assist your health so that you can do the saving.

Charmaine D can assist you in finding the source of how and where you lost your oxygen for life. Through personalised consultation, investigation, research, discovery and application of your personal circumstances with your genetic and epigenetic background in mind, she can hypothetically pinpoint areas of concern along your timeline, from conception to present, and evaluate where you may have lost your oxygen for life. From here, an individualised program can be developed to rediscover and regain what you’ve lost.

Health concerns, big and small, all stem from the oxygen you have for life. So answer this question;

Why wouldn’t you see a naturopath? Charmaine D is someone who doesn’t just diagnose a condition, but rather searches for the root issue, the cause behind the symptoms. She won’t prescribe you with something to smother or cover up the problem, but rather get right to it, learn about it, understand it and assist in solving it or supporting it. Pinpointing not only why you’ve lost your oxygen for life, but why you?

Seeing a naturopath provides a completely holistic approach to assist the healing process, to better understand what is actually happening to you and why. It may only take one or two consultations with Charmaine D to gain a better understanding of yourself and what went wrong with your personal oxygen for life.  This then can make working with medical professionals easier for you, as you have the knowledge and power to know what you need and how they can help. Working hand-in-hand with a naturopath, like Charmaine D, and a medical professional  may combine the best of both worlds for you and make for a comprehensive and integrated approach to your health journey.

Charmaine D, as most naturopaths are, has a government accredited  Bachelor of Health Science degree in Naturopathy, a health professional in her own right – is this how you see them?

A professional in her field, a naturopath such as Charmaine D can assist you in determining where your oxygen for life went, and guide you to ask the right questions from other medical professionals. The answer to your health concerns is not “it’s just the way you are”. Charmaine can dive deeper. Acne – why you? Rosacea – why you? Psoriasis eczema – why you? Constipation or diarrhoea – why you? Allergies, intolerances or sensitivities – why you? Any condition, acute or chronic, Charmaine asks “why you?”

Before a consultation, Charmaine provides you with an in-depth, thorough consultation form to fill out. This is so, prior to meeting with her clients (client, not patient!), she can piece together the jigsaw puzzle of your timeline and find out when your oxygen for life may have become dysfunctional. Which means when you attend her clinic or have a telehealth consultation, the investigation process has already begun, and you are able to dive right in on the specific healthcare plan that may assist you.

Charmaine D believes oxygen is a key factor with all of her clients’ various ailments – why is their oxygen not as it should be?

She believes this so firmly that her skincare range, Cell Defence, focuses on bringing oxygen to the skin tissue, creating life and energy for the skin cell receptors. For more information on this, see our blog on Plant Stem Cells, antiaging, oxygen for cell renewal and many more over the upcoming months.

At the core of all Charmaine’s naturopathy work is the focus on where has the homeostasis – the balance of organs functioning together – gone wrong. Why you? What’s happening? Every tissue and organ in the body is dependent on oxygen to function effectively. Therefore, oxygen homeostasis is maybe the critical element to everyone’s health. Whether it’s hyperoxia (over oxygenation) or hypoxia (under oxygenation), it all creates oxygen dysfunction, leading to issues with your health.

With COVID-19 as our new reality, we have all been witness to when dysfunctional oxygen levels can create ill health. It affects people in different ways depending on the core of the person’s health at the time. Our oxygen levels control us and our health, so learning about oxygen for life with Charmaine D can open our eyes and answer our unanswered questions.

Questioning is at the epicentre of all Charmain D’s naturopathic work. It can determine what happened and why. For example, when working with weight management – is it actually about stagnation, and why? How can we turn it around? Or when working with skin and the lymphatic system, Is it stagnation? How is the blood and lymph carrying oxygen and waste through the body and eliminating it? Is it eliminating the by-products of cellular energy or respiratory energy? Is there a bacterial or viral toxic release? If yes, is this decreasing your oxygen for life and, therefore, lowering the level of oxygen in your body?

For more in-depth information about Charmaine D’s passion, the lymphatic system and how stagnation plays a huge role, see her future blogs.

Consider the following;

With every breath, oxygen is carried through the lungs to the capillaries and then ultimately into the bloodstream. Once in the blood, the oxygen is fused to the protein haemoglobin and diffuses into tissue for energy and nutrients. The oxygen delivered to your cells is balanced with just the right amount of myoglobin present to distribute the ideal amount of oxygen.

• The oxygen fused to each molecule of haemoglobin is referred to as haemoglobin saturation
• Each of these haemoglobin molecules are able to carry four molecules of oxygen
• Oxyhaemoglobin is formed by the binding of oxygen to haemoglobin
• Deoxyhaemoglobin is when haemoglobin is not bound to oxygen

Hypoxia is defined by a deficient amount of oxygen reaching the tissues and is characterised by inflamed, injured or infected tissue. With reduced levels of nutrients and oxygen, immune cells are then able to penetrate the tissues. Environments of low-oxygen are a breeding ground for most bacteria and viruses. This can occur for many reasons, including but not limited to; ageing, stress, sleep apnea, smoking, sedentary living, high intensity exercise. Oxygen levels play a crucial role in many of our bodily functions and ailments such as; mood and mental health, inflammatory bowel disease, learning and memory issues, hormonal imbalances, immunity, type 2 diabetes and headaches. There is also evidence that indicates the weakened muscle tissue, impairing oxygen metabolism, affects the pain and fatigue of fibromyalgia.

As mentioned above, an imbalance between oxygen level and demand is known as hypoxia. The oxygen level required for standard physiologic processes is known as normoxia. And hyperoxia is the state of elevated oxygen levels.

The disassociation we have with our body’s health is where Charmaine D steps in. Where in your timeline did you lose track of your health? And how is this connected to self love?

With the absence of self love comes the need to draw that love from external sources – usually other people. This means maybe your life’s oxygen is no longer coming from within. Loving others before loving yourself may be detrimental to your health and the oxygen of your life. Where in your time-line did you lose your self love?

Before diving further into self love, let’s get back to oxygen in health and disease.

Cellular function is determined by the level of oxygen in your cells so let’s look more closely at the crucial role of oxygen for health.

This lack of oxygen may be causing a stagnation in your cells, tissues, organs and whole-body function. Why is this happening to you? Have you ever stopped to think “why me?” What is it your body is struggling with? Lack of blood flow? Is it stagnation, broken capillaries, rosacea, histamines? Lack of nutrients in your blood? Is it malabsorption? You may not be getting the benefits of the food you eat. Removal of waste products, kidneys, liver, gut function, bowels, respiratory, endocrine, the list goes on..

It would be unusual for you not to feel overwhelmed. This is why a naturopath like Charmaine D is essential on your health journey. Someone who doesn’t just diagnose your condition, but helps you find the core issue and pinpoints the moment you may have lost your oxygen for life.

A huge contributing factor of our body’s health and mental wellbeing is the food we are consuming. What goes into your food? What does your body excrete (process of elimination)? And what happens in between (digestive system)? If what goes into your body is insufficient, or what comes out is insufficient then what happens in between will also be insufficient. This combined with genetics, epigenetics, life, balance, acid alkaline balance, movement, sleep, nutritional values and more is the recipe for assisting health concerns and a possible lack of oxygen for life.

Let’s use food as medicine. What might we need more of? Less of? Why does movement help? And what kind of movement do our bodies actually need? Why does overexertion make it worse?

How can we overcome the neurotransmitters that have gone wrong? How can we balance couch-potato with athlete? What has triggered the imbalance and how can a naturopath help?

There is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ answer to any question asked in this blog, because you are you, solely (and soul-ly) you. Spiritual, physically, we meet you where you are at, no judgement, just you. There is no one machine or test or blood sample that can determine why it is you who has been on your individual health journey. But rather, in-depth consultations, follow ups, a holistic approach to your health care journey and an individualised plan, curated by a professional who cares.

Throughout this blog we have touched on many of the possible reasons for oxygen for life depletion, but there are still so many more; exogenous imbalances, environmental disturbances (mould, dust, pesticides), hormones, emotional disturbances (good emotions and challenging situations). It is all so complicated. So let’s uncomplicate it. Let’s work with people who can help you dissect the complex causes and help you to move forward. But how do you know who you should listen to and figure out what you need to know? Mediators such as Charmaine D can help to balance the nutrition, delivery systems, elimination systems and bring it all together to aid your overall health. To help you understand that within you is the ability to assist your healing and the ability to control what happens to you, from plate to toilet.

Are you wanting to conceive? Pregnant? Just had a baby? Infant, child, teenager, young adult health? Early 20s? 25-35? 35-45? 45-55? 55-65? Over 65? Then ask yourself “what can Charmaine D do to assist me?”

Have you been diagnosed with an acute disorder? Have you been diagnosed with a chronic disorder? Then ask yourself “what can Charmaine D do to assist me?”

Do you have a multi-system dysfunction? Persistent respiratory condition? Persistent gut condition? Persistent iron deficiency? Are you lethargic? Lacking energy? Is your skin ageing? Then ask yourself “what can Charmaine D do to assist me?”

Charmaine D is not your body and skin saviour – that’s you. Rather, she is the investigator that can bring together your past, present, looking towards your future, and finding your suitable pathway to assist your health so that you can do the saving.

So ask yourself “what can Charmaine D do to assist me?”

Synergistically driven, Whole Body Immune Booster Program, now available with Charmaine D.  

True immunity: follow Charmaine D’s protocol of thermogenesis – lymphatic and skin support – gut and liver support – in conjunction with boosting immune cells.

The forgotten truths behind true immunity: thermogenesis is the skins ability to support our immunity, through circulation and lymphatic function. This is a simplified, strategic protocol for total body synergistic immunity boosting.

Is the increasing spread of viruses causing you to question whether your personal health can stand up to it? Is your body prepared if you are exposed? Are you prepared to ward off a common cold, flu or other viruses? 

Vitamins may not cut it alone. Taking zinc and vitamin C and eating raw garlic is great but what if you can’t get them? Even if you do pump your body full of these things are you really fully prepared?

Below is Charmaine D’s protocol from the perspective of a naturopath and skin technician of over 25 years’ experience. The protocols follow the naturopathy guidelines.  You should seek further advice from a qualified health care advisor and / or your general practitioner before making any of the suggested changes. You can book a private appointment with Charmaine D to assist you with a plan of action.

1. Do you have dry skin?

If yes – we will work out a program of products and lifestyle changes to change this. Increasing oils and water within your skin is a priority. Releasing toxic waste is difficult when you have dry and dehydrated skin, as your pores will struggle to open and release. Without this mechanism, your immune system will struggle to rid morbid waste. A personalised strategy will form part of your immune boosting consultation. This will include:

• Herbal formulations for different strategies like: diaphoretics, lymphatic support, healthy skin support, amongst others.
• Dry skin brushing protocols
• Why you should look at rebounding
• Improving skin micro biome
• Water therapy
• Mechanical and manual lymphatic drainage
• Diet and water intake
• Exercise Let’s get you sweating properly!!
• Stress management
• Support emotions and nervous system issues
• Gut, liver, kidney, endocrine and circulatory system support, amongst others

2. Do you have sluggish lymph?

Don’t know? I can teach you about this system. Its important to understand your lymphatic system and how it functions – iridology may shed some light – observation and consultation will also help you get the drift of what your lymphatic system does for you.

Charmaine D performs lymphatic drainage treatments. When a virus has been with you for around 5 days, and its time to rid mucous from your body, it needs your lymphatic system to function optimally. Nasal congestion, sinus function and elimination could become compromised if the lymphatic system is not up to speed. A bacterial infection can take its place in the sinus, ear, nose and / or throat and develop into another form of infection, like bacterial sinusitis.

Clear lymphatic pathways are necessary for your immune system to function properly.

3. Have you had a lot of past ear, nose and throat infections? Glandular fever or similar?

Possibly your lymph in these areas may be compromised.

How can I assist?

• Through mechanical movements, lymph pathways can be assisted to reduce congestion.
• Liquid herbals.
• Ensuring correct fluid intakes and good food choices.
• Rebounding if you are physically able to. Short bursts a few times a day.
• Dry skin brushing and water therapy.

4. Do you sweat?

Is it just water or water and oil? Without sweating you may not be able rid morbid waste correctly – your immune system may not function optimally. All points in level 3 will assist and also:

• Using liquid herbal diaphoretics will aid this function but must be individualised.

5. Do you eat all essential amino acids?

• Vegan or vegetarian – source a pea protein collagen powder that synthesises the missing ones in plant foods. Amino acids are necessary for immune health. One example without histadine we may not produce natural moisturising factor in our skin – depleted immune system may increase. Without Histadine we may suffer from muscle atrophy – without this your lymph and blood flow may be compromised.  Delivery of oxygen to our cells and removal of toxic waste may not function optimally.

• Bovine collagen peptides are also a great source for our health and amino acid intake. I have available in my clinic both sources.

6. Fruits and vegetables

Are you having your two and five? Follow healthy eating guidelines – eat a rainbow of foods daily.
I can supply this information at your consult with me.

7. Do you have gut issues?

Are your bowel movements regular? If any compromised gut issues are present it is imperative you consult a health adviser – immune system needs your gut to be in great health. Your gut needs your lymphatic system to function optimally. Where there is inflammation and overgrowth in our gut, our immune system will be in competition with a virus. The immune system will struggle as it is fighting other things too.

Individualised protocols can be provided upon consultation.

8. Ensuring your migrating motor complex is functioning in your gut is important – this sweeps out toxic waste like bacteria die off – I use colostrum or a vegan form of prebiotic in my clinic to assist with this function. Die off when you have infections can cause grief and tiredness this function is necessary to not compromise your immune function.

9. Vitamin and mineral supplementation may be necessary – this is individualised and the levels required need to be looked at. 

Protocols are including your fat soluble vitamins A,D E and K – water soluble zinc and vitamin C, Bs and iodine (amongst others). 

One size does not fit all – you may end up peeing a lot of it out if you do not need it and that is a waste of your economic supplies. 

10. If your body is already compromised it may not be time to do full blown gut, liver and kidney detoxification program. Restoration and nourishment of these organs may be of more benefit. This is where qualified advice may be a great choice for you.
     

Last but not the least YOUR HERBAL REMEDY BAR IS THERE FOR YOU AT CHARMAINE D.

• Enhancing immune health with liquid herbal formulations – available on prescription only. 

• I have sourced and researched approximately 30 high quality formulations that can be blended together to target your individual needs and requirements of your body to enhance immune health. Apart from the 200 other herbal extracts in the Herbal dispensary that can be synergistically formulated to ensue all points from 1 to 10 are covered where needed. 

• Herbal preparations are available in tablet form. 

• Prophylactic herbal formulations for immune support. 

• Anti-viral, flue formulations and anti bacterial herbal formulations are available to have on hand to assist with decreasing virulence to begin with, and assist in decreasing symptoms so you are more comfortable where possible.

Your next move – Book an immune boosting consultation today online at

CharmaineDnaturopath.com.au or phone 0407077134.

Phone consultations may be available to those in isolation.  

Registering as a client with an online consultation form is a once of fee of $15. This will be emailed to you once you have completed your booking.

You will then be set up for all further consultations. Existing naturopath client’s will not incur the one off fee.

March and April 2020 –  $45 for a 30-minute consultations.

Our health is vital – I open late nights and Saturdays to assist booking availabilities.

Please note: Iridology may incur extra charge. Your program will be ticked off and emailed to you. Your suggested protocol will be emailed and discussed in the consult and you can choose to go ahead with some nutritional supplements and herbal formulations suggested. This is not a full in-depth consultation it is centred around your immune system and immune health.  During this consultation, it may become apparent that further consultation is required.  Prescriptions will only be available at Charmaine D. If you purchase elsewhere you will not be able to use Charmaine D’s prescription advice.

We know buying organic fruits and vegetables is better for the environment and good for our health, however for numerous reasons such as availability and the hefty price tag that accompanies purchasing organic food, it is often put in the too-hard basket instead of our shopping basket. Which is okay and completely valid, however it does mean that we need to take a bit of extra care with our non-organic fresh produce purchases before storing and prepping them.

Why? Well first, let’s look at the difference between Organic and Non-organic and what that actually means.

Organic fruit and veg is produced using farming systems that don’t rely on synthetic fertilisers, pesticides or genetic modification. This means working with nature rather than against it, by recycling natural materials, maintaining soil fertility, and encouraging natural methods of pest control rather than relying on chemicals. Crop rotations, crop residues, animal manures, green manures, legumes, organic waste, mineral-bearing rock, and biological pest control are used by organic farmers to raise whole, natural foods resulting in foods that contain higher levels of nutrients, less chemicals, and are taste smashingly better.

Non-organic fruit and veg is produced using farming systems that rely on chemical fertilisers, pesticides, herbicides and genetic modification. This results in a boost in production ensuring a larger supply per crop equalling more profit – but at what cost? Our health is a simple answer. Exposure to pesticides are linked to increased toxin stores in our body, elevated rates of chronic disease, and reproductive, immune and nervous system effects. Researchers have also linked symptoms such as headaches, tremors, lack of
energy, depression, anxiety, poor memory, dermatitis, convulsions, nausea, indigestion and diarrhoea with dietary intakes of pesticides.

Washing your non-organic fresh produce is essential to ensuring your favourite fruit and veggies are safe to consume and
your exposure to chemicals is dramatically reduced. Washing removes dirt and dust, some pesticide residue, toxic compounds produced by mould, and detaches bugs. You will also get an added bonus of increasing the fridge-life of these foods as the bacteria
which causes food decay is removed during the washing process. Washing is required at an industrial level however the quality of water used in this process is poor and often recycled used in both harvesting and processing, which increases the risk of cross-contamination.

This is why we need to wash our non-organic fruit & veggies and not just rinse! Fortunately, you can drastically reduce your exposure to the pesticides and bacteria found on fresh produce with a thorough vinegar and water wash which will kill 98% of bacteria and remove pesticides.

White vinegar & water is a simple, affordable, and effective natural produce wash. Using a solution that is three-parts water and one-part vinegar will be most effective at removing bacteria. Place your fruit and veg in a freshly cleaned sink or large bowl and fill with water. Add white vinegar to ensure the ratio solution of three-to-one, and soak for ten minutes to an hour. If you have time a gentle scrub and rinse will be extra effective. To prevent fruit and veg decay, allow your produce to fully air or wipe dry before returning to the fridge.

It is as easy at that.

How does vinegar work? The acid in vinegar chemically changes the proteins and fats that make up nasty bacteria, destroying their cell structures – essentially causing the bacteria cell to die.

That’s it! YAY – here is to vinegar!

And here is to forever washing your favourite fruit and veggies in this easy and affordable method to ensure you and your family’s health is not compromised by our capitalism minded agriculture industry.  

By Guest Editor, Nell Abbott