Supernatural News | fungal superfoods, book cover insp, NatGeo on adaptogens, lemon balm gazpacho & more
Natural health need-to-knows
A newsletter about the industry and philosophy of wellbeing. In inboxes since 2015.
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A NEW-OLD FORMAT FOR SUPERNATURAL NEWS: Those of you who’ve been here since the very beginning (ILYSM) will recognize this list of links with a little POV from me on what’s newsworthy, funnily faddish, intriguing, and otherwise nice to know about happenings in the natural well-being world. We’re reintroducing this format in order to give you a regular dose of good news in a digestible format. *And because Ask the Herbalist is becoming its own, dedicated column (for all of you subscribers xo). Our intention is to make this newsletter your go-to source for health-industry happenings. Enjoy!
IN THE NEWS
Market demand for functional mushrooms is skyrocketing (expected to surpass the $23.3 billion mark by 2030), but are mushrooms the next “superfood”? (Did you know they contain prebiotics, vitamin D, and “bioactive compounds that can help relax blood vessels, improving circulation and reducing blood pressure”?) How about we just consume more, but avoid the term superfood. :)
Speaking of fungi, this (gorgeous!) book was sent my way as a reference while I was gathering inspiration for my book’s design. Will be buying as soon as I’m back in the states.
National Geographic recently covered adaptogens. (“Do natural adaptogens like ginseng actually combat stress?”) The pro: more herbal awareness is more. The con: They didn’t interview any herbalists. (And ICYMI, my post: How Do Adaptogens Actually Work?)
Olive oil may lower the risk of dementia: “Regardless of genetic predisposition and overall diet quality, participants who consumed at least 7 grams of olive oil per day had a 28% lower risk of dementia-related death compared to participants who never or rarely consumed olive oil.”
Many plants are known for their anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and cognitive performance benefits, but exercise is one of the most powerful ways to strengthen your brain. (Plus, the tools that fuel my practice, here.)
Lemon balm is in fresh abundance right now. Find it at your local farmer’s market (or grow some!) and make this medicinal Lemon Balm & Cucumber Gazpacho from Kosmic Cooking Club.
Another win for more fiber. Are you getting enough? I always recommend both eating for it as well as supplementing*—especially since the most diverse microbiomes in the world result in part from up to 100 grams of fiber per day. “Preindustrial and modern-day rural societies consume between 60 and 120 g/day fiber, while individuals in the United States consume about half of the daily recommended allowance of 38 g/day for men and 25 g/day for women.” (*code RACHELLE for 20% off)
FAQs related to blood sugar, herbs during pregnancy, and the best herbalism books can refer to this podcast, and list of resources (from me, xo).
Apothékary’s Take the Edge Off tincture with Yuzu is made with my most loved category of herbs: nervines. This potent formula is incredible for supporting your nervous system in times of stress. (code RACHELLE for 15% off site-wide)
Happy Hour HRBLS for been in the world for nine months now, and continue to receive rave reviews. Consider them in place of alcohol, while socializing, or any time you’re in need of a warm, fuzzy feeling.
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