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.
5 Ray Peat Inspired Dinner Ideas for a Pro-Metabolic Diet
These five Ray Peat inspired dinners are built around pro-metabolic principles, with balanced protein, easy-to-digest carbs, quality saturated fats, and gentle fiber in every meal.
Ray Peat Diet Approved Foods List: The Complete Guide to Bioenergetic Eating
A complete, organized list of foods approved on the Ray Peat diet, including fruits, dairy, proteins, fats, and functional foods, plus grey area foods and a detailed FAQ.
High Cholesterol? Check Thyroid Levels
If your cholesterol is high, your thyroid may be the real issue. Learn why an underactive thyroid causes cholesterol to accumulate, how to test your thyroid at home using the Broda Barnes basal body temperature method, and explore both natural supplements and prescription treatment options for hypothyroidism.
Can You Eat Sourdough Bread on the Ray Peat Diet?
Sourdough bread remains a grey area for people following Dr Peat’s work. In this article I share what Ray Peat does say about sourdough bread via his interviews, emails, and articles and explain why I chose to include it in my 7-day Ray-Peat Inspired bioenergetic meal plan.
Homemade Rose Marshmallows Recipe + Rose Herbal Monograph
Make gut-friendly marshmallows with grass-fed beef gelatin and maple syrup or cane sugar in minutes. This Ray Peat-aligned recipe creates fluffy, collagen-rich squares that outshine any store-bought bag.
Cartilage Regeneration in Humans: Evidence, Metabolism, and Hormones
New research shows humans actually retain salamander-like cartilage regeneration superpowers, even in elderly populations. Learn how metabolism, hormones, and nutrition may support slow but real joint repair.
A Complete 7-Day Ray Peat–Inspired Bioenergetic Meal Plan
Check out this complete 7-day Ray Peat–inspired bioenergetic meal plan designed to boost energy, balance hormones, and support thyroid and liver health naturally. This plan emphasizes nutrient-dense whole foods like eggs, dairy, liver, seafood, fruit, and root vegetables while avoiding inflammatory PUFAs.
Ray Peat Diet: The Basics
This concise guide distills Dr. Raymond Peat’s research into a practical framework that puts energy production first. Explore food lists, protein tips, and lifestyle tweaks designed to leave you warmer, calmer, and more resilient.
Homemade Gelatin Marshmallows Recipe (+ Rose Variation)
My simple recipe for fluffy homemade marshmallows made with grass-fed beef gelatin and cane sugar or maple syrup, no corn syrup required. Plus how to turn them into rose marshmallows and a full herbal monograph on rose.
Raw Carrot Salad for Hormone Balance
Discover how the raw carrot salad, popularized by Dr. Ray Peat’s bioenergetic diet, can help support hormone balance, reduce estrogen dominance, and improve digestion. Backed by its unique fibers and anti-inflammatory benefits, this simple recipe is a powerful tool for gut, liver, and thyroid health.
Ray Peat’s Bioenergetic Theory for Diet & Why Energy is Everything
Dr. Ray Peat’s bioenergetic approach to nutrition—an energy‑first framework that prioritizes mitochondria, thyroid health, and pro‑metabolic foods over calorie restriction. Learn how optimizing cellular energy can boost metabolism (hellooooo weight loss), hormone balance, and overall vitality.
Potassium Over Sodium: Reconsidering the Approach to Better Hydration
Discover why a potassium-dominant electrolyte drink may offer a healthier balance than traditional sodium-focused options, supporting blood pressure regulation, fluid balance, and overall metabolic health. Learn about potential pitfalls like hidden “natural flavors” and stevia, and get a simple DIY recipe for a truly clean, personalized hydration boost.
How Hypothyroidism Could Secretly be Sabotaging your Weight Loss Goals, Hormones & Overall Wellness
Hidden hypothyroidism may be silently sabotaging your metabolism, making weight loss feel impossible while disrupting hormone balance and overall energy. This article explores how modern diets, stress, and environmental toxins contribute to thyroid dysfunction—and what you can do to restore optimal function naturally.
Ray Peat Inspired Savory Beef and Gelatin Broth Bowl
Discover how gelatin, praised by Dr. Ray Peat for its stress-busting and anti-aging benefits, can transform your health with this simple broth recipe. Packed with glycine and easy to make, it’s a tasty way to support wellness inspired by Peat’s groundbreaking insights.
Is your Plant-Based Milk Harming Your Gut Health?
Plant-based milks might seem like a healthy swap, but hidden ingredients could be quietly working against your gut. Discover what’s really in your favorite dairy alternative and whether it’s time to rethink your pour for better digestion and wellness.
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.
Tremella Mushroom Pomegranite Gelatin Gummies Recipe
Boost your daily beauty and wellness with these nutrient-packed Tremella Mushroom Pomegranate Gelatin Gummies, made with organic pomegranate juice, grass-fed beef gelatin, and raw honey. Inspired by pro-metabolic nutrition and Dr. Ray Peat’s approach, this customizable recipe delivers a delicious way to support healthy skin, hair, and nails.
Ray Peat Gelatin Gummies Recipe (+ Pomegranate Variation)
These Ray Peat-inspired fruit juice gummies are a simple, protein-rich treat made with gelatin and fresh juice, offering a deliciously nourishing snack that's easy to customize.
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.