St. John’s Wort

St. John’s wort is one herbal remedy that has been (and continues to be) under a lot of scrutiny by modern science. Also known as hypericum and goat weed, use of St. John’s wort for treating mental and mood disorders dates back to ancient Greece. The plant may get its name from historical and religious figure John the Baptist, because the yellow flowers bloom around the time of the feast of St. John the Baptist in late June. The herb was traditionally used to treat nerve pain and a host of mental disorders. It was also used as a balm … Continue reading

Why Does My Body Need Folic Acid?

Folic acid is actually part of the large family of B vitamins. Folate helps your body form DNA and RNA — the genetic building blocks for our bodies. The name folate comes from the word “foliage” because green, leafy vegetables are a great source for this vitamin! So why is folic acid important? You can’t grow without it. That makes folate especially important for pregnant women. Without enough folate while the baby is developing, you run the risk of serious brain disorders. Since 1992, doctors have suggested that women of childbearing age get four hundred micrograms of folate every day … Continue reading

Increased Serotonin Promotes Weight Loss and Wellness

Does your diet make you moody? Do you feel like you’re missing out on all the foods you like to eat? Doctors Judith Wurtman and Nina Frusztajer Marquis want to show you how to feel full and lose weight without the emotional roller coaster. They claim increasing serotonin will do the trick. In their book, The Serotonin Power Diet, they map out a twelve week plan to help you increase your serotonin levels, lose up to 2 pounds a week, and manage your emotions. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that triggers satiety and affects emotions. The amino acid tryptophan helps the … Continue reading