Q & A with Dr. Koenig, D.C., President of Wise Woman Herbals®

Questions & Answers with Dr. Koenig, D.C., President of Wise Woman Herbals®

Q: What distinguishes Wise Woman Herbals from other tincture companies?

A: It is the sum of all the steps that we take; from sourcing ingredients to creating the finished handmade product that distinguishes us from other companies.  First and foremost, we remain purists.  We feel that producing traditional whole-herb supplements, which are supported by thousands of years of traditional use, are most efficacious and desirable.  Second is the effort we put forth in sourcing ingredients.  Without exception, we begin with the highest quality plants and ingredients that nature has to offer.  Third is our unique processing technique.  We continue to process herbs by performing labor-intensive macerations, daily agitation, and when indicated we repeat the process by performing multiple macerations.  This allows us to preserve all of the plant constituents and end up with a completely natural herbal product as intended by nature. 

Q:  How do you respond to people who feel there is little to no difference between tinctures produced by one manufacturer to the next?

A:  A practitioner can take all of the steps necessary in taking a patient’s history, rendering a proper diagnosis and suggesting a valid treatment plan, and then not reap the reward of a positive outcome due to inferior supplements; I have personally experienced this in practice.  It is essential to use products that you have the highest regard for and the utmost confidence in. 

Q:  Why can’t I find Wise Woman Herbals products in retail stores?

A:  Most tincture companies derive the bulk of their sales through retail distribution channels- to large health food store chains and other retail outlets. We feel the best outcomes are from recommendation and management by qualified licensed health care practitioners with a focus in botanicals.  This protects the consumer, our customers and our brand.

Q:  The name Wise Woman Herbals can be misleading.  Where did the name originate? 

A:  The name does lead people to think of us as a gender specific product line.  But we have something for both genders, adults, children and even for our pets, which are being recommended by holistic veterinary practitioners.  The name Wise Woman Herbals was chosen to honor the early European practitioners who were primarily [wise] women working with plants indigenous to their area and were revered as the village healers.  We embrace their values and adhere to a similar herbal tradition. 

Q:  How has the FDA’s Good Manufacturing Practices had an affect on Wise Woman Herbals?

A:  We have strived to maintain cGMP compliance for many years.  As a member of the American Herbal Products Association (AHPA) we participated in their roundtable discussions, the results of which were presented to the Food and Drug Administration.  This was an opportunity to provide input on the GMP guidelines from a unified voice from our industry.  After many years of preparation, Wise Woman Herbals earned distinction through compliance with FDA’s good manufacturing practices in 2008, verified by a 3^rd-party audit.   

Q: What further insights would you like to share about your company?

A:  I hope that by reading this, people will gain an appreciation for Wise Woman Herbals® being a company with a conscience. Our natural desire to be of service and play an important role in natural health care is sincere.  Every member of the Wise Woman Herbals staff is cognizant of the vital role they play in producing supplements intended to enhance an individual’s sense of well being and quality of life.  In closing, I would like to thank our loyal customers’ for their ongoing support and for allowing us to contribute to making this a better, happier and healthier world. 

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is defined as a recurrent, cyclic set of physical and behavioral symptoms that occur 7-14 days before menstruation. It is believed that 80% of women experience symptoms of PMS with 40% of women suffering to a degree that interferes with some aspect of their daily life during that time. The physiological causes of PMS are unknown. It stands to reason that the varying symptoms experienced with PMS speak not only of physiological causes but also cultural and emotional factors. Some 150 symptoms have been ascribed to PMS and women will experience symptoms to varying degrees, but always with very regular onset and regular relief at the beginning of menses. This regularity and cyclical nature is the basis of a diagnosis of PMS.

The most common symptoms of PMS include:

Nervousness

Irritability

Lethargy

Mood swings

Abdominal bloating

Headache

Back pain

Sugar cravings

Low-libido

Clumsiness

Low self-esteem

Insomnia

Anxiety

Fatigue

Depression

Water retention

Tender breasts

Change in appetite

Acne

Diarrhea

Constipation

Dizziness

Social isolation

Joint pain

Dr. Guy Abraham developed a system for categorizing PMS into four distinct groups based upon the most common symptoms experienced together during the premenstrual time. It is important to remember, however, that most women will experience a variety of symptoms from several categories with the majority of their symptoms coming from one category in particular.

PMS-A (anxiety) Believed to be related to high levels of estrogen and deficiency of progesterone. Women experience irritability, anxiety, and emotional changes.

PMS-C (carbohydrate craving) Of unclear etiology, may be due to enhanced intracellular binding of insulin. Women experience increased appetite, sugar and carbohydrate craving, headache, and heart palpitations.

PMS-D (depression) Most likely due to low estrogen levels leading to a breakdown of neurotransmitters. Low estrogen may lead to enhanced adrenal androgen, or progesterone secretion. Women may experience depression.

PMS-H (hyperhydration) Due to increased water retention from elevated levels of aldosterone. Elevated aldosterone in the premenstrual phase of the cycle may be a result of excess estrogen, increased salt intake, stress, or magnesium deficiency. Women may experience weight gain, abdominal bloating, swelling in the hands and feet, and breast fullness and tenderness.

Treatment of PMS should be addressed first through lifestyle and dietary considerations. Women who add regular exercise into their lifestyle experience significant reduction in symptoms during the premenstrual phase. Aerobic exercise appears to be the most beneficial, however, yoga and tai chi are equally effective when performed at least three times per week.  Dietary changes such as reducing refined sugars, caffeine, and sodium will help to lessen the symptoms as well as adequate intake of calcium, magnesium, fiber–rich foods, and vitamin B6.

Considering the many symptoms of PMS, herbs excel in the treatment of this disorder due to their wide range of chemical constituents. Following is a list of several commonly used herbs and a brief profile of each. This list is just a small portion of herbs that are effective and are most commonly compounded together with other herbs rather than being taken alone in order to create effective synergy for a wide variety of symptoms.

(The following information is based upon traditional use of raw plant as well as information from the German Commission E and is not to be used in place of direct guidance from a health care professional)

Vitex agnus-castus (chaste tree) is used for premenstrual syndrome, easing menstrual cramps, soothing symptoms associated with premenstrual herpes and premenstrual acne. It is useful in many of the high estrogen, low progesterone related health problems often accompanying premenstrual symptoms.

Cimicifuga racemosa (black cohosh) is useful for restlessness, nervous excitement, easing temporary mild breast pain, and soothing menstrual headaches.

Ginkgo biloba (ginkgo) supports normal circulation and is useful in women who experience congestive conditions during the premenstrual phase such as fluid retention, weight gain and breast tenderness.

Hypericum perforatum (St John’s wort) promotes a healthy nervous system and emotional balance and has long been used for conditions of mild temporary depression. Hypericum may interfere with certain medications, which makes it advisable to check with your health care practitioner.

Piper methysticum (kava) is approved by the German health authorities for “conditions of nervous anxiety, stress and restlessness.”

Other botanicals traditionally used include Caulophyllum thalictroides (blue cohosh), Chamaelirium luteum (false unicorn), Dioscorea villosa (wild yam), and Viburnum opulus (cramp bark). Traditionally, the herbs mentioned would be used during the premenstrual phase of the cycle (days 15-28) and stopping their use once menstruation begins.

When considering treatment for PMS it is important to remember that lifestyle, cultural views, emotions, and physiology all play a role in the disorder. Treating a symptom without also addressing the psychological and emotional beliefs of the individual may fail to bring about the desired results. It is important to re-educate women on the inherent value and power that is held within the female self and the processes that occur during the menstrual cycle. Addressing treatment from the avenues of lifestyle, exercise, nutrition, and herbs will allow the woman to create comprehensive changes in her physiological and emotional well being.


Kris Vaughan, CH

Herbs for Prostate Health

Prostate health is a commonly overlooked issue with men. This is a small organ that is usually not thought of unless symptoms appear to draw attention to it. Over 50% of men in their 60’s and as many as 90% in their 70’s or older have symptoms of enlarged prostate (BPH-Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia). It is theorized that this enlargement is due to the changing hormonal system in men as they age. In order to understand the symptoms of BPH as well as effective support for the prostate, let’s first discuss what the prostate is.

The prostate gland is a sex gland that is approximately the size of a walnut and wraps around the urethra.  The urethra is the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the penis and this is also the tube that carries semen during ejaculation. The prostate gland grows considerably during puberty and seems to stop at the end of that cycle. There is virtually no change in the size again until approximately age 40 when the gland again begins to grow. In some men, the gland does not stop growing and leads to experiencing symptoms of enlarged prostate. 50% of men are usually not bothered by symptoms; for those who are, they will experience a variety of issues associated with BPH.

BPH is a non-cancerous disorder and is the most common prostate health problem in men. BPH may result in a range of uncomfortable symptoms such as frequent urination, incomplete emptying of the bladder, a weak urine stream or difficulty starting urination. In rare cases BPH may also lead to bladder stones, kidney infections, and damage to the bladder, kidney, and urethra. As the prostate continues to enlarge, symptoms may gradually worsen, interfere with sleep, cause physical discomfort, and interfere with routine activities.

In supporting a healthy prostate it is important to increase blood supply and lymphatic flow to the prostate and pelvic area, support healthy hormonal balance, and treat all inflammatory conditions as well as remove those triggers that cause inflammation such as food allergens. Activities such as exercise, yoga, sitz baths, and a healthy sex life are also vital to normal healthy prostate function.

There are some viable botanical considerations to add into a protocol for prostate health and support. Botanicals are useful for relieving congestion in the prostate and pelvis, improving circulation for improved glandular function, and for reducing inflammation and irritation to the gland.

Serenoa repens (saw palmetto) is a tonic for the male reproductive tract. This herb is used as a diuretic, decongestant, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic. These actions are all useful for prostate health. Saw palmetto is thought to decrease conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone that promotes growth of the prostate and is implicated in BPH. It may also interfere with binding of dihydrotestosterone receptors in the prostate and may additionally have anti-estrogenic effects. It is indicated for atony of pelvic organs, urethritis, impotence and all wasting diseases of the male pelvic organs.

Galium aparine (cleavers) is a relaxing diuretic and a lymphagogue. It corrects the inability to pass normal catabolic wastes. Cleavers is a soothing herb used in pelvic problems when a lymphagogue is needed.

Chimaphila umbellate (Pipsissewa) is a lymphagogue with an affinity for the pelvic region and a diuretic and antiseptic in the urinary tract. It is used in atonic, chronic and infectious conditions such as prostatitis and BPH.

Urtica spp. (nettle root) is used as a diuretic and is specific for benign prostatic hyperplasia. The methods of action on the prostate are thought to be an interaction with sex hormone binding globulin, inhibiting the binding of epidermal growth factor to its receptor and inhibition of aromatase.

Protocols for prostate health will be most effective when adjusting the combination of lifestyle and nutritional considerations, exercise, and supplementation with botanicals, vitamins and minerals. It is also important to seek guidance from a qualified health care practitioner as well when there is concern about the prostate. Proper screening for prostate cancer is a simple exam and can be life saving.  


Kris Vaughan, CH

Herbs for Common Cold Symptoms

Most adults will experience four to six colds in a year, and children may experience ten to twelve per year. Although many attempts have been made by pharmaceutical companies to find a “cure” for the common cold, still no cure exists. However, nature has provided us with a medicine bag of plants that will assist in shortening the duration and severity of symptoms commonly associated with the common cold.

What we simply refer to as a “cold” is actually a comprehensive collection of symptoms that are the body’s response to a number of viruses that affect the upper respiratory system. Generally during a cold an individual will feel fatigue, headache, upper respiratory congestion, sore throat, and some may also have a slight fever. The symptoms of a cold will generally last about seven to ten days. It is always a good idea to consult your health care practitioner to make sure you are not afflicted with a more serious illness.

Have you ever been in the same room with someone who was coughing and sneezing relentlessly, and complaining of not feeling well, then to have several more people who had been in the same room also become sick in the next few days? What about the individuals who didn’t catch the cold? How are they different from everyone else? Viruses are actually very picky critters and like their “home” to be just right. A strong, healthy immune system is not a good host for a virus, and those individuals who have a well supported immune system will contract a cold much less often than their friends or coworkers who have a weakened immune system or compromised immune response. Prevention of a cold can be attributed to a few simple factors; hand washing, good nutrition, healthy activity, and adequate rest. Creating a strong healthy environment within the body is the best protection against contracting a cold virus and will also assist in a speedy recovery when you do fall ill.

Even the healthiest people will catch a cold once in a while. When this happens, there are a variety of herbs that are highly effective in supporting your immune system and normal healthy organ and glandular function in order to reduce the severity and duration of symptoms associated with the common cold. When taken at the first signs of a cold the results can be quite noticeable. When taken after the cold is already underway, you may experience some relief and a shorter duration of your symptoms. Some herbs can be used individually to boost the immune system but most are more effective in combination. Knowing what each herb has the ability to do will help you choose the most effective herbs for your current condition.

Echinacea spp. (echinacea) supports normal healthy immune system function. This powerful herb stimulates the body’s immune function and has been shown to be especially useful to promote normal healthy immune system function especially when you are just beginning to feel run down and/or exposed to someone who is sick. A variety of studies have been done on Echinacea that show it to have an affinity for supporting normal healthy respiratory tract function.

Hydrastis canadensis (goldenseal) supports normal healthy immune system function through its high berberine and hydrastine content, which makes this useful with in maintaining health. Goldenseal, however, is endangered in the wild and should only be used when organically cultivated on a farm. An equally effective option is Mahonia (Oregon grape root), which contains some of the same active components.

Mahonia spp. (Oregon grape root) is an excellent source of berberines which provides immune system support; especially when combining the berberine plants with echinacea and vitamin C.

Inula helenium (elecampane) is an herb that has a tremendous affinity for the respiratory system. Elecampane is astringent and tonifying to the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract and has strong immune support capability.

Eriodictyon californicum (yerba santa) is an expectorant and eases temporary tension in the upper lung region. Adding yerba santa to a formula will help to make expectoration easier and will reduce the temporary irritation in the upper respiratory tract.

Ligusticum porteri (osha) promotes normal upper respiratory tract function and vitality. Osha is effective in supporting normal healthy immune function and may be beneficial for people who tend to get repeated illnesses.

Verbascum Thapsus (mullein) is an expectorant, astringent and demulcent. Mullein is traditionally used for soothing temporary mild respiratory tension as well as soothing irritated tissue in the respiratory tract.

Zingiber officinalis (ginger) can ease a temporary mild cough and thin mucous making for easier expectoration.

Herbs that support the immune system are traditionally combined for a greater overall effect that will address the large variety of symptoms you experience during a cold. Keep in mind that adequate nutrition, hydration and rest are essential to your health and recovery. A stressed body and mind can not recover as quickly as when you allow yourself to rest and recuperate.

Herbs are traditionally very safe. However, if you are pregnant or have any other health conditions, you should seek the advice of a qualified health care practitioner before choosing the herbs that are best for you.

The information contained herein is not intended to offer medical advice or to act in any way as a substitute for consultation 
and advice from a health care professional.


Kris Vaughan, CH

Herbal Tea for Peace and Serenity

For centuries herbal teas have been used throughout the world as the main delivery system of a culture’s medicine. Plant material was chosen from the surrounding regions for the properties that would suit the illness at hand. An herbal infusion was made by using the aerial portions of a plant and steeping them in water for several minutes to hours. An herbal decoction was made by using the woody portions of a plant, the bark and roots, and simmering them over heat for several hours. Preparing teas in these ways allowed the medicinal properties of the plant material to be drawn out of the plant and into the water. This form of medicine is highly bio-available to the body and therefore the desired approach for addressing a large number of ailments in many cultures.

Herbal teas of many varieties have been used traditionally for supporting the immune system, soothing the sore throat, controlling fever, and a multitude of other uses. Just about any ailment native people were confronted with they were sure to have a tea to treat it with. Plants were used not only for teas but also as their food source. For this reason, it was a natural choice for them to turn to the same nutritive plants to create a stronger healing presence in the body.

Herbal teas have remained popular as a beverage today because they are flavorful, soothing, warming, and generally give us a sense of calm and well-being. However, as a culture we under rate the true healing benefits of teas and overlook this simple, yet powerful, system of healing. It may possibly be that we have also lost the healing power found in the ritual of tea drinking. There are not many opportunities in our world today to stop momentarily and just peacefully focus on the intricacies of our bodies and our need for balance in the physical, mental, and emotional realms. Drinking an herbal tea for what ails you will support the body, but that support becomes amplified when we can focus on these other aspects of drinking a cup of tea.

Many herbs make amazing teas. To truly support calm and well-being let’s discuss a few herbs geared toward that very thing.

Matricaria recutita (chamomile)

Chamomile promotes emotional balance and soothes temporary nervous tension. This herb is specific for individuals who are restless, irritable, sensitive, complaining, and argumentative. This soothing herb also helps control the inflammatory and allergic response within the body. Chamomile is superb for temporary nervousness that may affect digestion, indigestion, flatulence, ulcers, and cramping. This herb is also gentle enough that it can be used to soothe temporary irritability in colicky babies.

Chamomile is also known to be a “plant doctor” in the garden; when placed next to a sickly plant you will notice renewed vigor, energy, and growth in that plant which is consistent with chamomile acting as an excellent tonic for people as well. The gentle support this modest flower gives is powerful in the body.

Melissa officinalis (lemon balm)

Lemon balm eases mild temporary nervous tension while promoting normal healthy nervous system function. This flowering herb has a slight lemon smell and taste and is very uplifting to the senses. Lemon balm is well suited for anxiousness, restlessness, seasonal affective disorder, maintaining normal healthy blood pressure, and irritability associated with stress. Lemon balm is also slightly calming to the nervous system and has had some success with easing discomfort associated with migraine headaches, mild temporary depression, and disrupted sleep. Hot infusions have shown to be most beneficial in these instances as opposed to a cold infusion. This herb pairs well with other herbs for a synergistic effect in promoting normal nervous system function.

Passiflora incarnata (passionflower)

Passionflower is a flowering herb that supports normal nervous system function, promotes restful sleep, and eases normal mild temporary nervous tension. This is a premier herb for individuals with restless agitation and exhaustion. This relaxing nervine relieves cerebral irritation and has also been used for easing excitability and sleep disturbances due to nervousness. Passionflower tends to be calming and grounding to the body’s energy.

Scutellaria lateriflora (skullcap)

Skullcap supports normal nervous system function, promotes restful sleep, and eases normal mild temporary nervous tension. This herb is specific for individuals with nervous fear, restless sleep, cardiac irritability and nervousness due to mental overwork or physical exertion. These individuals may have a hard time paying attention, may anger easily, and may sometimes experience a dull headache that gets worse with light, noise, or odors.

Hibiscus sabdariffa (hibiscus)

Hibiscus flower adds a beautiful red, or rosy color, to a tea. This herb has a tart, lemon-like flavor, which is cooling and uplifting. This nourishing herb contains vitamin C as a component and is delicious in both hot and cold teas.

Lavendula angustifloria (English lavender)

English lavender is calming to mild temporary nervous tension. The flowers are used well for headache and muscle spasms due to nervous tension, and mild temporary depression where an individual feels as if they are “in a fog.”

Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice)

Licorice supports normal adrenal gland function. This root is also sweet and nutritious making it a wonderful flavoring agent in a tea as well as nourishing to the liver and adrenal glands.

When making an herbal tea, you must first decide whether you are using aerial portions of a plant or roots and barks. Aerial portions will be infused in either hot or cold water for ten to fifteen minutes up to several hours. Roots and barks will need to be simmered on low heat for a similar amount of time. The above herbs can be used singularly or combined for a very flavorful and beneficial tea for supporting normal nervous system function.

Remember that the act of drinking the tea is as calming to the system as the tea itself. The benefits of the herbal tea will be much more powerful if you can stop for five minutes, sip your tea, and focus your thoughts on being calm and peaceful. Take several deep breaths and enjoy the aroma of the tea. You just may find a new inner calm and serenity that you have been missing. Drink tea and be well.

Kris Vaughan, CH

Herbs for Allergies and Hayfever

Each year, an estimated 40 million people suffer from allergic rhinitis (inflamed nasal passages) and sinusitis (inflammation of the sinus lining). Although the condition is not life threatening, chronic occurrences can severely limit the quality of life a person experiences.  Often referred to as seasonal allergies or “hay fever”, allergic rhinitis is triggered by outdoor allergens as well as in the home.

Allergic rhinitis occurs when you breathe in particles of something you have a sensitivity to. This causes a reaction such as the inside of the nose becoming inflamed and swollen. Common triggers are mold, trees, grass and weed pollens, and indoor elements such as animal dander, mold, dust and dust mites.

Sinusitis is often linked with allergic rhinitis. Sinusitis is inflammation in the lining of the sinuses. When the sinuses become inflamed they become blocked. The sinuses will fill with fluid, which offers an environment perfectly suited to growth of germs. It is the germs within the sinuses that can cause symptoms such as headache and nasal discharge.

Individuals who have suffered from an occurrence of allergy symptoms can attest to the irritating conditions of runny nose, sneezing, itchy and watery eyes. These symptoms can be severe enough to keep an individual from participating in activities that they enjoy. Chronic occurrences, however, can also further decrease quality of life by contributing to sleep disorders, chronic fatigue, and learning disabilities.

Traditionally, there are many herbs that have been effective for supporting the body and to enhance resistance to indoor and outdoor irritants that can lead to allergic rhinitis. Many herbs have properties that are beneficial for promoting normal healthy function of the respiratory system, liver, and adrenal glands to help protect against potential irritants.

Cymbopogon citratus (West Indian lemongrass leaf)

This aromatic leaf has been used traditionally in India to protect against bacteria, fungus, and inflammation. It has a propensity for the respiratory tract and these properties are beneficial in supporting normal healthy respiratory tract function.

Euphrasia stricta (eyebright)

Eyebright’s properties are as an astringent, expectorant, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and a decongestant. It has traditional and contemporary uses for inflammation and discharges from the eyes and nose. It is specific for congestive conditions of the eyes with profuse watery discharge, sinus and nasal congestion, hay fever and other allergies.                                         

Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice)

An immunomodulator, also known as an adaptogen, and soothing to the mucous membranes, it is demulcent, offers protection against bacteria and viruses, anti-allergenic, expectorant, anti-inflammatory, nutritive, spasmolytic and antioxidant. Licorice root is used for throat and bronchial irritations.     

                       

Urtica dioica (nettles)

Nettles are an alterative, an alkalizing diuretic, a urinary tract tonic, rich in minerals such as potassium, calcium, and silicic acid. Nettles are used in hay fever, asthma, gouty arthritis and edema. Best effects for treatment of chronic illnesses are seen when used long term. 

                                        

Crataegus spp. (hawthorn leaf and flower)
Hawthorn is astringent (especially the leaves), antioxidant and nutritious. 

When herbs are combined, as in a medicinal tea, the synergy of the herbal constituents offer greater relief than a single herb alone. When creating an herbal tea, use herbs that offer a pleasant flavor and aroma as well as great benefit to supporting normal healthy bodily functions. Adding additional items to a tea, such as hibiscus flowers, orange zest, or honey can enhance the flavor and create an even more enjoyable tea experience.

When choosing to use an herbal tea as an approach to preventing or relieving allergy symptoms, use 1 heaping teaspoon of herb mixture with 1 cup of almost boiling water. Allow the herbs to steep for approximately 10-15 minutes, strain, and drink 3-4 cups per day.

With the allergy season coming upon us, herbs are often a powerful tool for preventing the symptoms that so often interrupt our lives. Know your allergy triggers and the seasons to which they are most prevalent. Begin using your herbal teas or extracts prior to onset of the symptoms and you may just avoid them altogether. If you are already in an episode of allergic rhinitis, drink up. Herbal tea is an effective natural remedy for reducing the occurrence and symptoms of hay fever and other irritants.


Kris Vaughan, CH