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.
Adaptogenic Herbs for Stress
The word adaptogen is everywhere, but only seven botanicals and fungi actually meet the strict scientific criteria. This guide covers what separates a true adaptogen from an ordinary tonic herb, draws from Ayurveda, TCM, and Western herbalism, and includes short monographs for all seven.
Risks of the Essential Oil Industry: Marketing Myths and Safety Concerns
The essential oil industry is built on trademarked myths and unsustainable practices. Learn about the hidden risks of endocrine disruption, the environmental cost of production, and why whole herbs are the safer choice for your home and health.
Tylenol Autism Mechanisms & My Thoughts on Yesterday's Announcement
New evidence is raising questions about Tylenol’s safety during pregnancy and its link to autism risk. Learn the possible biological mechanisms and why medical freedom and informed consent remain crucial in this ongoing discussion.
The Truth About the FDA’s Natural Desiccated Thyroid Ban
The FDA plans to ban animal-based thyroid medications like NDT, raising questions about patient choice and evidence. I break down why this matters, share research favoring NDT, and compare it directly to synthetic thyroid drugs.
Safe Menstrual Products
Are you aware that most commercial period product brands include toxic chemicals that have been shown in studies to be detrimental to your health? With reproductive health issues and cancers on the rise, it’s time to take responsibility for your health and vote with your dollars for safer menstrual products for your monthly bleed.
The FDA’s War on Herbal Medicine
Why does the FDA label time-tested herbs as “dangerous” while ignoring nuance and traditional use? Learn how modern regulation is silencing herbalists and limiting access to safe, plant-based alternatives.
Tylenol Autism & ADHD Lawsuits: Is Acetaminophen Unsafe During Pregnancy?
Plaintiffs allege that Tylenol makers and distributors failed to warn pregnant users about a heightened risk of autism and ADHD in their children. Although the multidistrict litigation judge issued a summary‑judgment ruling in favor of the defendants in August 2024, the decision is now being challenged on appeal.
D.A.R.E to Hate Delta8
Delta-8 THC is a synthetic, chemically processed version of cannabis that lacks the safety, sustainability, and therapeutic integrity of traditionally grown, whole-plant cannabis. In this article, I’m exposing the hidden risks of Delta-8—from industrial solvents to mold-prone monocultures—and explaining why landrace, outdoor-grown cannabis remains the superior choice for health.
Do You Need a Certification to Be an Herbalist?
You don’t need a certification to be an herbalist — in fact, the title is unregulated and based more on experience than credentials. This article explores why self-taught herbalists can be just as skilled as certified ones, and how institutional bias plays a role in who gets to be considered “official.”
Obstetric Ultrasounds: Are they Safe?
Discover the potential risks of ultrasounds during pregnancy, supported by recent studies, and explore safer diagnostic alternatives.
Tracking Your Menstrual Cycle Without Compromising Privacy
Stepping away from digital apps and traditional medications, this guide offers trusted, non-digital methods to track and manage your menstrual cycle. Prioritize privacy and embrace natural fertility management without incurring extra costs.
Discover the Path of Herbalism: Why become an Herbalist in 2023
Explore the profound world of herbalism with Ivy Ham, a dedicated herbalist and founder of ivyherbal.com. In this insightful article, discover the compelling reasons to consider herbalism as a vital path in 2023. From focusing on holistic healing to providing affordable and accessible remedies, herbalism presents a refreshing alternative to modern healthcare.
The Need for Informed Consent
Explore the importance of informed consent in herbal medicine. This essential process respects your right to make health decisions, helps build trust with your herbalist or medical provider, and contributes to more effective treatments.
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.