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.
Nickel Allergy: Links to Eczema, Gut, Thyroid, Hormones, and Hidden Sources
Nickel allergy is the most common contact allergy, and for sensitized people it can reach far beyond the skin into the gut, the microbiome, and possibly the thyroid. This guide covers the links to eczema, IBS and IBD, inflammation, hormones, and cancer, where nickel hides from cheap jewelry and 18/10 cookware to braces and high-nickel foods, what Ray Peat taught about nickel and pans, and practical ways to lower your exposure.
Magnesium Stearate, Silicon Dioxide, Carrageenan & Polysorbate 80: Are Supplement Additives Safe?
Six additives show up on the "Other Ingredients" line of most supplements. Here is what the research shows on each, which ones have real evidence behind the concern, and which ones do not.
Lab Tests Find Cadmium in Boxed Mac & Cheese Brands: Full Results
Independent lab testing found cadmium in three boxed mac and cheese brands and lead in one. The published results and the organization behind the testing.
Start Here
Reader Favorites
Not sure where to begin? These in-depth guides are the most-read pages on the site.
Is Apeel Discontinued? 2026 Store List
Which U.S. grocery chains have said no to Apeel-coated produce, which have not, and how to shop around it. Updated September 2026.
The Ray Peat Diet Guide
Every food he mentioned in a searchable database of 150, his hormone framework in order, recipes, and links to his first-hand sources.
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.
Best Water Filters for Fluoride, Aluminum & PFAS
A 2026 comparison of reverse osmosis and gravity filters from someone who has used them all firsthand.
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.