The Reality of Herbal Therapy

The Lymphatic River: Keep Your Body’s Cleansing System Flowing

Episode 107 of the Reality of Herbal Therapy podcast with host Jim Applegate dives into the lymphatic system — the body’s drainage and defense network. Jim explains what lymph is, why the lymphatic system matters for detoxification and immunity, and how it acts like a river that must keep flowing to maintain health.

The episode covers how lymph moves (it has no pump), common signs of lymphatic stagnation such as swelling/edema, puffy glands, chronic fatigue, brain fog, skin breakouts, frequent colds and slow healing, and why hydration and movement are essential to keep lymph fluid thin and mobile.

Jim shares practical strategies listeners can use every day: short walks or desk “five-minute” walks, gentle exercise and rebounding, deep breathing, lymphatic massage (using gland oil blended with a carrier oil), hot/cold contrast (sauna or warm-to-cold showers), and a daily routine of water and movement. He also mentions a dedicated lymphatic cleanse episode with guest Jessica for listeners who want a guided protocol.

The podcast highlights specific herbal formulas and topical supports discussed in this episode — Fection (a cleansing lymphatic formula), Blood Wash (promotes drainage and purification), Bladney (supports lymph flow and elimination), and gland oil for targeted massage. Jim explains how these remedies can help clear lymphatic “gunk,” support immune function, improve skin clarity, reduce swelling and restore energy.

Key takeaways: treat your lymph like a river — keep it well-hydrated and moving, use movement and simple therapies to stimulate flow, and consider targeted herbal supports when needed. Expect clearer skin, improved energy, fewer infections, less stiffness and faster healing when your lymphatic system is well cared for. For more resources, subscribe to the podcast and visit DrugFreeHelpStore.com to download the free "Healer in Every Home guidebook" and explore the formulas mentioned.

Bones, Joints & Herbs: Natural Strategies to Rebuild Your Skeletal System

In this episode from our series on the body’s systems, the host digs into the skeletal system—its structure, functions, and how to support it naturally. Guests and references include insights from Dr. Michael James and Lynn, who contribute clinical tips and personal stories. Topics covered include bone anatomy (bones, joints, cartilage, connective tissue), mineral storage, blood-cell production in marrow, and the skeletal system’s roles in mobility, posture, immunity, and digestion.

The conversation covers essential nutrients and lifestyle supports for strong bones: key minerals (calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium), vitamins D and K for calcium transport, proteins and amino acids, hydration, and the critical role of restorative sleep. Practical nutrition tips highlight dark leafy greens and the value of getting sunlight for vitamin D. Weight-bearing exercises, resistance bands, stretching, chiropractic care, manual therapy, and massage are recommended to maintain alignment, mobility, and joint health.

The hosts also outline common bone-damaging factors to avoid—soda, highly processed foods, excess sugar and white flour, smoking, and alcohol—and explain how these habits can leach minerals and weaken bone lattice structure, increasing fracture risk and bone spurs.

Herbal and supplemental supports featured in the episode include PM minerals and colloidal minerals for absorbable mineral stores, Arth Rite for joint lubrication and inflammation relief, and Tissue Mend for accelerated healing after fractures, sprains, or soft-tissue injuries. Real-life examples are shared: a markedly quicker wrist recovery on Tissue Mend and a dramatic improvement in mobility for an elderly man with a spinal fracture. The episode also highlights Nemia (a bone-marrow–support formula) to improve red and white blood cell production and immune function.

An unsung hero emphasized in this episode is Silica DE (including diatomaceous earth), described as the body’s “construction manager” that helps direct calcium and other minerals into bone and connective tissue, supports collagen production, smooths bone spurs, and improves skin, hair, and nail quality. The hosts explain how small amounts of silica make a big difference in building a resilient, flexible bone matrix.

Listeners can expect practical takeaways—dietary and lifestyle actions, herbal formulas to consider, and tips for supporting healing and long-term bone health—along with personal anecdotes that illustrate how these approaches can restore mobility and reduce pain. The episode closes by encouraging listeners to explore other episodes in the systems series for a holistic view of health.

Hand, Foot & Mouth Relief: Herbal Hacks to Soothe Sores Fast

In this solo episode I walk listeners through what hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is, how it spreads, and how to comfort affected children (and adults). You’ll hear clear explanations of common symptoms — fever, sore throat, and painful sores on the hands, feet, buttocks and in the mouth — why the illness typically lasts 7–10 days, and how it differs from similar-looking conditions such as impetigo.

The episode covers contagiousness and transmission (sores, respiratory secretions and fecal matter, diaper exposure), basic safety and hygiene to limit spread, and red flags that require medical attention (very high fever, poor drinking, signs of complications).

Practical remedies and comfort measures are a major focus: soothing mouth treatments (slippery elm, chamomile, and a red raspberry leaf tea mist to spray gently inside the mouth), topical care for rashes (comfrey-based salves used carefully with single-use applicators), and fever relief (cool compresses made from elderflower and yarrow). The host also recommends pain-relief tea blends, hydration strategies (the episode’s “tea honey” concentrate mixed with water plus vitamin C powder and iodine), and kid-friendly cooling options like herbal ice pops and gentle baths with Epsom salt, baking soda, calendula or oatmeal.

Listeners get practical safety tips — never double-dip salves, avoid undiluted essential oils on open sores, wash hands frequently after diaper changes — along with recovery basics: rest, quiet, and letting the child’s body heal. The episode closes with a concise recap of the most important steps to keep kids comfortable while their immune system clears the virus.

Catnip, More Than Just for Cats

In this episode we take a deep dive into catnip, one of the common herbs from a 20-herb kit, exploring its botany, traditional uses and practical home remedies. We learn how catnip fits into the mint family, which plant parts are used (primarily the leaf), what the plant looks like and where it grows around the world.

The episode covers the main therapeutic uses of catnip: a gentle relaxant for anxiety and insomnia, a digestive aid for gas, bloating and colic, a fever-breaking/sweat-promoting herb, and a topical drawing agent when used in poultices. We share a step-by-step poultice recipe (two parts slippery elm to one part catnip, mixed with warm water to peanut-butter consistency) and clear brewing instructions for tea (about 1 tablespoon of catnip steeped 3–5 minutes; tips for combining with fennel so seeds are simmered first).

Preparation methods discussed include teas, tinctures, capsules and essential oil use. Practical tips highlight combining catnip with other mint-family herbs for digestion or sleep, simmering seeds or woody parts before adding delicate leaves, and using catnip oil or blends as a natural mosquito repellent (the host cites research showing catnip can outperform DEET in effectiveness, though oils need reapplication).

The host also shares a personal anecdote about a cat’s intense reaction to a freshly mixed catnip and fennel tincture, illustrating the herb’s well-known effect on felines versus its calming effect in humans. Key takeaways include catnip’s versatility as a calming and digestive herb, simple home remedies to try (tea, poultice, tincture), and the advice to test herbs on yourself to learn your individual response (catnip can cause drowsiness in larger amounts).

Juniper Berries: Ancient Spice, Modern Remedy

In this episode we explore one of Dr. James’s 20 essential household herbs: the juniper berry. Lets walk listeners through the plant’s identity, history, traditional uses and practical ways to prepare and apply it at home. Expect a mix of historical context, herbal science and hands-on recipes you can try yourself.

Topics covered include juniper’s botanical background (a small evergreen that produces berry-like pine cones), its widespread use across the Mediterranean and Asia, and cultural lore — from Roman and Greek culinary uses to Viking purification rituals and even its place in plague-era herbal mixtures.

The episode details juniper’s primary medicinal actions and what it is commonly used for today: supporting digestion (appetite, gas and bloating), urinary and kidney health (mildly diuretic, bladder and prostate support), joint and muscle cleansing, antimicrobial properties, and help for lower-back pain and sciatica. The host also explains how juniper can help build tolerance to local pollens (the connection to hay fever) and why it appears in allergy formulas like Hay Asz.

Practical preparation tips are emphasized: use whole crushed berries for teas (avoid powders for tea), crush only the amount you’ll use to preserve volatile oils, and try combinations like juniper + parsley for flushing the bladder and kidneys or juniper + peppermint for digestion. The episode explains infused oils and essential oil use for topical massage on sore muscles, alcohol tinctures and more concentrated simmered decoctions (plus preservation options such as honey, vinegar or glycerin and refrigeration for shelf life).

The host describes formula uses — juniper appears in Bladney (for urinary and kidney cleansing) and in blends aimed at joint and rheumatic complaints (e.g., Arth Rite). You’ll hear how juniper helps clear uric-acid buildup that can crystallize in muscles and contribute to chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia.

Practical sourcing and safety notes include wildcrafting advice (avoid roads and polluted areas), storage recommendations (keep whole berries until ready to crush), and reminders about choosing the right preparation for your needs (tea, infusion, tincture, or topical oil).

Listeners are invited to check the show notes for a link to Dr. James’s 20-herb booklet for recipes and suggested uses, and to reach out with questions or requests for future herb spotlights.

Spring Clean Your Body: Full-Body Cleanse vs. Deep Targeted Cleanses

In this episode we compare two broad approaches to cleansing: a gentle, once- or twice-yearly full body cleanse and more intense, targeted deep cleanses for the liver, kidneys, gallbladder, heavy metals, parasites and more. Hosts explain what is in a typical 15-day Full Body Cleanse (15 bags, 8 capsules each) and how it gently supports kidneys, blood, lymphatics, lungs, colon and liver with ingredients like Bladney, Blood Wash, Monia, Kolonic Kaps, Liv Clean and Col Cer. The episode covers when to choose a full body cleanse (maintenance, prevention, beginners), how to take it (evening before bed, split dosing if needed), and diet and hydration tips to get the most benefit.

We then contrast that with brisk, deep cleanses: liver flushes (preparation, two-day intensity and follow-up), kidney cleanses (including a simple watermelon flush and parsley tea for stones), gallbladder cleanses (apple juice and lemon/olive oil/garlic fast), and heavy metal detox protocols (daily detoxification capsules and precautions). The hosts discuss expected effects, precautions, who should seek professional guidance, and the importance of preparation and follow-up—especially ensuring regular bowel and urinary elimination to avoid reabsorption of toxins.

Key takeaways include hydration checks (thumb test), eating light, vegetable-rich meals during cleanses, matching the cleanse intensity to your health needs, and combining maintenance and targeted cleanses when appropriate. The episode emphasizes safety: rest, professional supervision for deep cleanses, and using supportive products like Liv Clean and Kolonic Kaps before and after intensive protocols. Tune in for practical tips, step-by-step protocols, and guidance to choose the right cleanse for your health journey.

Unveiling the Secrets of Hops: More Than Just a Beer Ingredient

Welcome to our latest episode, where we explore the fascinating world of hops, beyond its well-known role in brewing beer. We delve into Dr. James's essential 20 Herbs book, which includes these remarkable flowers, providing timeless remedies for a variety of health concerns. Hops have been used for centuries, renowned for their calming properties and health benefits.

This episode introduces listeners to the historical use of hops in medieval monasteries, where they were cultivated to aid in relaxation and sleep. Discover why hops are a staple in nerve tonics and sleep aids today, and how they can support digestive health by promoting bile production. We discuss the traditional and modern applications of hops, from therapeutic teas and tinctures to soothing pillow sachets.

Learn about the folklore surrounding hops, including their symbolic use in warding off negative energy and promoting peaceful sleep. Whether you're interested in herbal medicine or simply exploring natural remedies, this episode offers valuable insights into incorporating hops into your wellness routine. Join us as we uncover the multifaceted benefits of this ancient herb, often hidden in plain sight.

 

You can download the 20 Herbs booklet

Burdock: From Herbal Kits to Healing Strategies

In this episode of "Herbal Insights," join host Jim Applegate as he delves into the fascinating world of the 20 Herbs book, emphasizing the foundational role it plays in holistic health. Jim introduces us to Dr. James, a pioneer in herbal medicine, who crafted a definitive guide to essential herbs that form the backbone of herbal health remedies.

The episode focuses on one particular herb – burdock. Jim takes listeners on a journey, revealing the rich history of burdock, from its roots in Eastern Europe and Asia to its widespread use today. The episode goes beyond history to discuss the practical applications of burdock, exploring its powerful cleansing properties for kidneys, lymphatics, and the digestive system. Burdock is a key ingredient in healing formulas such as Blood Wash, aimed at purifying the blood and skin, and providing relief for arthritis by cleansing joint fluids.

Listeners will discover the multifaceted uses of burdock, including how it aids in the treatment of rashes, liver support, and rheumatism, along with tips for identifying and harvesting burdock safely. Jim shares practical advice on preparing burdock in various forms – from teas and tinctures to culinary uses in Japanese cuisine.

This episode is a must-listen for herbal enthusiasts and those interested in natural healing methods, offering a wealth of knowledge on incorporating burdock into everyday health practices.

Step into Health: Discover the Benefits of Walking

In this enlightening episode, join hosts Lynn, Dr. James' daughter, and Jim Applegate as they dive into the myriad health benefits of a simple, yet transformative activity - walking. Discover how walking is not only an accessible form of exercise for all ages and fitness levels but also a powerful tool for enhancing heart health, weight management, mental wellbeing, and overall longevity.

This episode sheds light on the everyday factors that keep most of us sedentary and offers practical insights into integrating more steps into your daily routine. Whether you're a busy parent, someone with a demanding desk job, or just seeking a natural way to boost your health, Lynn and her co-hosts provide inspiring stories and expert tips to motivate listeners to start walking today.

Explore the surprising impact of walking on digestion and immunity. Learn how something as simple as a stroll in nature can clear your mind, lift your spirits, and improve your cognitive function. They also tackle common misconceptions like the infamous '10,000 steps rule' and discuss personalized goals to fit individual lifestyles.

Perfect for listeners at any fitness level, "Stride Towards Wellness" encourages you to lace up your shoes and embrace this beneficial habit. Tune in to find out how a daily walk can be your stepping stone to a healthier, happier life.

The Endocrine System Unveiled: Glands, Hormones, and Health

The discussion begins with an overview of key glands such as the pancreas, adrenals, thyroid, and the hypothalamus in the brain. Dr. James provides insights into how these glands control hormone production and the significant roles they play in our health. The pancreas, for example, is essential for processing sugars and producing insulin, while the adrenals are responsible for managing our body's energy levels and adrenaline production.

Listeners will learn about the importance of maintaining proper hormone balance and the potential health issues that can arise from imbalances. Dr. James explains how high sugar and low sugar formulas can help manage conditions like diabetes and hypoglycemia. He also shares valuable tips for supporting adrenal health and conducting simple tests to assess adrenal function.

The episode also covers the thyroid gland's role in cleansing the blood of viruses and toxins, emphasizing the importance of iodine and other nutrients in supporting thyroid health. Dr. James discusses the lymphatic system and its crucial function in detoxification, providing practical advice on how to keep this system active and healthy.

The conversation then shifts to the differences between male and female hormonal systems. For women, Dr. James highlights the benefits of herbs like Dong Quai and formulas such as Hormone and Tonic F, which support estrogen and progesterone balance, alleviate menstrual issues, and assist with menopause and fertility. For men, the focus is on the Hapio formula and its role in supporting testosterone production, muscle strength, and overall vitality.

Throughout the episode, Dr. James emphasizes the importance of vitamins, minerals, and other supplements in maintaining hormonal health and overall well-being. He also touches on how certain conditions, such as infections or blood flow issues, can impact hormone production and how to address these problems with herbal remedies.

By the end of the episode, listeners will have a comprehensive understanding of the endocrine system, the critical roles of various glands and hormones, and practical strategies for supporting hormonal health through herbal formulas and lifestyle choices. Don't miss this enlightening discussion that aims to empower you with the knowledge to take control of your health.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe to our podcast on your preferred platform and stay tuned for more insightful discussions. See you next time!