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.

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.

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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.

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11 Tips for a Healthy Liver

Your liver works tirelessly to detoxify your body, but modern diets, environmental toxins, and hormonal imbalances can overwhelm it—contributing to conditions like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). This article explores 11 powerful, evidence-based ways to support liver function, from dietary shifts and targeted herbs to reducing toxin exposure and optimizing hormone balance.

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Clinical Evidence Shows Saffron Is as Effective as Antidepressants with Fewer Side Effects

Discover how saffron, a time-honored herb in Ayurvedic medicine, effectively treats depression and anxiety with fewer side effects compared to conventional antidepressants. Backed by modern clinical studies and thousands of years of traditional use, saffron offers a natural alternative for mental health care.

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How to Lower High Cholesterol Naturally (Start With Your Thyroid)

High cholesterol is often a symptom of something deeper, especially low thyroid function. Learn the thyroid-cholesterol connection, how the definition of "high" cholesterol has shifted over the decades, the real trade-offs of statins, and natural strategies to support healthy levels, from clinical herbalist Ivy Ham.

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Herbal Remedies for Depression: Non-toxic and Effective Solutions

Depression is a common and serious condition that can have a significant impact on an individual's quality of life. While conventional treatments such as medication and therapy are often effective, some people may be interested in exploring natural alternatives. In this article, we will discuss the use of herbal remedies for depression and the potential benefits of these treatments. We will also provide tips for finding safe and effective herbal remedies and offer guidance on how to incorporate herbs into your treatment plan.

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Supporting TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury) Healing with Herbal Medicine

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can have significant physical, cognitive, and psychological effects on individuals. While traditional medical treatment approaches often focus on addressing the immediate physical consequences of TBI, there is growing evidence that complementary and alternative therapies may also play a role in supporting recovery and rehabilitation. In this article, we explore the potential benefits of using psilocybin microdosing, Centella asiatica, and Bacopa monniera as adjunctive therapies for individuals with TBI, based on the available evidence. Learn more about these alternative therapies and their potential role in TBI recovery.

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