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.
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.
Symptothermal Fertility Awareness Method
The symptothermal method is a highly effective, evidence-based fertility awareness technique that works as well as hormonal birth control when practiced correctly. Learn how to track your cycle using real-time biomarkers like basal body temperature and cervical mucus—and why it's nothing like the outdated rhythm method.
Got Beef? A New Perspective on Meat Consumption for Women's Health
Explore the health benefits of nutrient-optimized beef as revealed in a recent study. Learn how this specially produced beef impacts levels of Vitamin D and selenium in young women, and what this means for a balanced diet rich in herbs and essential nutrients. A must-read for anyone interested in Women's Health and Herbalism.
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.