Herbalism Articles: Traditional Medicine Through a Modern Lens
Welcome to the Ivy Herbal article library. I'm Ivy Ham, a certified clinical herbalist, and every article here blends traditional wisdom from Western herbalism, Ayurveda, and Traditional Chinese Medicine with primary research you can check for yourself. Whether you are researching herbal remedies for a specific concern, learning to spot hidden toxins in your food, water, and home, or looking for clean, whole-food recipes, there is something here for you.
New to herbal medicine? Start with my Become an Herbalist guide or browse the free resources library.
Vitamin K, Calcium, and High Blood Pressure: A Food-First Look
Blood pressure is about far more than salt. This food-first guide explores how vitamin K2, calcium, and magnesium help keep arteries flexible, why the kind of salt you use matters, and how to be sure a high reading is even accurate before acting on it.
Chaparral (Larrea tridentata): Healing Properties of the Creosote Bush
Discover the ancient secrets of chaparral, a resilient desert plant revered for its remarkable healing properties and enduring legacy. From its potent antioxidants to its traditional uses across cultures, this creosote bush offers a fascinating blend of nature’s wisdom and modern potential.
Dr. Ray Peat on Progesterone: The Hidden Hero of Heart Health
Ivy’s latest article examines Dr Ray Peat's perspective on the complex connection between hormones and heart health. The piece invites readers to consider how nutrition and subtle hormonal influences might shape overall cardiovascular wellness.
How to Lower High Cholesterol Naturally (Start With Your Thyroid)
High cholesterol is often a symptom of something deeper, especially low thyroid function. Learn the thyroid-cholesterol connection, how the definition of "high" cholesterol has shifted over the decades, the real trade-offs of statins, and natural strategies to support healthy levels, from clinical herbalist Ivy Ham.
Start Here: Reader Favorites
Not sure where to begin? These in-depth guides are the most-read articles on the site.
Adaptogenic Herbs for Stress
Only seven botanicals truly meet the scientific criteria for adaptogens. Monographs on all seven, drawing on Ayurveda, TCM, and Western herbalism.
Ray Peat Approved Foods List
The complete guide to bioenergetic eating: fruits, dairy, proteins, fats, grey area foods, and a detailed FAQ.
Best Water Filters for Fluoride, Aluminum & PFAS
An honest 2026 comparison of reverse osmosis and gravity filters from someone who has actually used them.
Cleanest Sunscreen Brands + DIY SPF 50 Recipe
The cleanest mineral sunscreens on the market, plus a homemade SPF 50 recipe you can make yourself.
Natural Tick Repellent That Actually Works
Research-backed plant-based repellents, a DIY recipe, and the honest case against DEET and permethrin.
The Clean Coffee Buying Guide
Every brand that passes strict criteria: third-party tested, organic, mold-free, with a Swiss Water decaf option.