Herbalism Articles: Traditional Practice, Primary Research
I'm Ivy Ham, a certified clinical herbalist. Every article in this library combines traditional practice from Western herbalism, Ayurveda, and Traditional Chinese Medicine with primary research you can check for yourself.
Pick a topic below to get started.
Sea Moss and Carrageenan: The Same Seaweed, Two Reputations
Sea moss is sold as a mineral supplement. The same seaweed is processed into carrageenan, a compound researchers inject into animals to create inflammation. Here is what the research shows and what to look for on a label.
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.
Natural Melatonin Alternatives for Adults and Kids (Evidence-Based)
Melatonin supplements can suppress your body's own production over time. A clinical herbalist covers safer, non-hormonal sleep support for adults and children, from chamomile and tart cherry juice to light exposure and magnesium.
Stop Taking Fish Oil Supplements: The Seed Oil of the Sea
Fish oil is sold as an anti-inflammatory. Laboratory testing of retail supplements tells a different story, and Ray Peat's objection to omega-3 oils goes further than shelf stability.
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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
A 2026 comparison of reverse osmosis and gravity filters from someone who has used them all firsthand.
Clean Mineral Sunscreen Brands + DIY Zinc Sun Balm
The cleanest mineral sunscreens on the market, plus the non-nano zinc sun balm I make at home instead.
Natural Tick Repellent That Works
Plant-based repellents that hold up in studies, a DIY recipe, and the 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.