Category: Herbs & Supplements

Get ready for virus season

Helping your kids through infections

In the wake of a surge of respiratory infections, parents are looking ahead with some trepidation and wondering how we can best support our kids. Dr. Caroline Meyer, a naturopathic doctor with a passion for pediatric medicine, shares her strategies for surviving the upcoming virus season.

Virus basics

Unlike bacteria, viruses lack their own cellular structure. Viruses are simply strands of genetic material that hijack other cells to drive ongoing replication and spread. Antibiotics are completely ineffective against viruses.

Antiviral medications do exist for the flu, RSV, and COVID-19 but benefit only those at high risk of complications. For most people, our immune systems are the ones doing the heavy lifting of clearing infection and restoring health. Supporting immune function is the key to coping with viral infections.

Avoid going viral

Meyer highlights the importance of healthy habits, mental health, and nutrient testing for infection prevention.

Sleep

Sleep has a significant role in immunity. Bedtime screen use disturbs sleep, and poor sleep can lead to more infections. Reinforcing bedtime routines and limiting nighttime access to devices can build immunity.

Movement

Movement is the perfect immune system primer. In a study of preschoolers, kids moving less had more frequent and more severe infections. Exercise also improves sleep quality, providing indirect but important immune effects. Get kids (and yourself) out and moving daily.

Diet

Diet matters. Children who eat more fruits and vegetables get fewer infections.

Mental health

Emotional distress impairs the immune system and has impacts on food choices, sleep patterns, and exercise. Reach out for support if mental health challenges are present in your family.

Nutrient deficiencies

Nutrient deficiencies can undermine immunity. Low stores of iron and zinc can also reduce resistance to infection. Get your kids checked for deficiencies if they’re having recurrent infections.

When to get help

While many infections can be managed at home, urgent care is needed in the following cases.

difficulty breathing or blue lips
dehydration (not urinating, dry lips)
pain that doesn’t improve with medication
seizure
fever in kids 12 weeks or younger

If your parental spidey-senses tell you that something is not right, take your child to hospital.

Want more immune support?

Talk to your health care practitioner about these supplements.

Supplement	Best form for kids	Actions
vitamin D	drops	deficiencies are associated with higher infection rates and longer/more severe illnesses
probiotics	powder or liquid	can prevent diarrhea associated with antibiotic use; may reduce duration of colds
zinc	lozenges	reduces number of ear infections and speeds recovery

Take action against viruses!

Wash, wash, wash your hands. Handwash before eating, after bathroom use, and on return from outside your home.
Stay home when sick. Keep your cold to yourself!
Cover nose and mouth when sneezing. Use a tissue or sleeve.

Dr. Gillian Flower, ND

Article Courtesy of Alive Magazine

August 1, 2024

Why we love Aura Bora Herbal Sparkling Water
When Aura Bora founders Paul and Madeleine Voge started experimenting with real herbs, flowers and fruits with their soda maker at home, they knew they were onto a great idea. After their friends and family were raving about their flavors, they decided to try to launch their business on Season 12 of Shark Tank! There were already a lot of sparkling waters out there, but Aura Bora had something special right from the beginning.

The constantly refreshing varieties include Lemongrass Coconut, Peppermint Watermelon, Cactus Rose, Lavender Cucumber, and Strawberry Basil, Ginger Meyer Lemon, and Grapefruit Elderflower. Each can of Aura Bora is crafted with carefully selected herbs, fruits, and sparkling water purified using reverse osmosis, resulting in a clean and crisp beverage that’s guilt-free and hydrating

You also need to try “Dry Guys” Olive Oil Martini! Graza’s Extra Virgin Picual Olive Oil with Aura Bora’s yuzu and juniper-laced herbal sparkling water, the non-alcoholic Olive Oil Martini is unlike any flavor that the company has released in the past.

One sip and you will realize why their slogan is “earthly tastes and heavenly feelings”! They can all be enjoyed on their own straight from the can, or as a mixer in cocktails and mocktails..

We love Aura Bora as a company because they remain committed to using natural ingredients without any artificial additives or sweeteners. If you’re looking to cut down on sugar and artificial ingredients, Aura Bora offers a satisfying alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste. All their flavors are made from real herbs, fruits and flowers. There’s no added sugar, sweeteners, citric acid or artificial ingredients. 0 Sodium, 0 Calories, and delicious natural flavors you’ll love.

If that wasn’t enough, Aura Bora are part of 1% for the Planet, donating 1% of their revenue each year towards environmental causes like wildlife relief, conservation, and ocean cleanup.

Basil Bandwagon’s exclusive May offer, you can get all varieties of Aura Bora for just $1.49 per can! Stock up for the warm weather.

Don’t forget to enter to win a super cool retro cooler at each of our locations! No purchase necessary. The raffle will be drawn on May 31st. From picnics in the park to cozy nights at home, Aura Bora sparkling water is the perfect companion for life’s everyday moments.
Print Pin

Mint Refresher

Ingredients
4 ounces watermelon juice
1 1/2 ounces alcohol or non alcohol of your choice
1/2 ounce simple syrup
3 ounces Aura Bora Peppermint Watermelon
juice of one lime
ice
fruit of choice for garnish

Instructions
In a cocktail tin add alcohol or non-alcohol option, watermelon juice, lime juice, simple syrup and ice. Shake and strain into your favorite glass. Add ice, top off with Peppermint Watermelon and add a fruit of your choice on top!
REFERENCES~

https://aurabora.com/

https://aurabora.com/blogs/recipes/mint-refresher
May 22, 2024

Your menopause journey

Tips to help you navigate

Somewhere in our fourth decade of life, our bodies start acting up—hot flashes, night sweats, sleep problems, and irregular periods. Ditto for depression and mood swings, joint pain, bloating, memory issues, low libido, hair changes, and weight gain, particularly in the midsection.

It’s a rollercoaster, and it starts with perimenopause around the age of 40 (or earlier) and it can last between six to eight years.

Menopause is the one-day milestone women reach once they have gone without a period for a year (tracking makes sense!). After that, it’s all post-menopause. Many symptoms subside, but the risk of some chronic diseases can go up.

Behind the scenes

Estrogen and progesterone work together to orchestrate the menstrual cycle, and they start fluctuating during perimenopause. So does testosterone, which can cause depression and lower libido, and may increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases and insulin resistance during post-menopause.

Estrogen keeps almost everything running smoothly in a woman’s body: menstrual cycles, glucose balance, brain and heart health, temperature control, immunity, bone and muscle health, pelvic floor health, and skin and hair, too. Low estrogen means hot flashes, insomnia, vaginal dryness, and incontinence, among others. Too much of it leads to breast tenderness, bloating, and heavy periods.

How our bodies change

After 30, we lose approximately 3 to 5 percent of our muscle mass each decade, which is due to aging (so is fat tissue accumulation), but menopause can add to it due to dwindling estrogen levels.

We also lose bone tissue (20 percent of bone loss happens during menopause), more so after 50.

Both menopause and the aging process have impacts on metabolism. Postmenopausal women often have higher blood glucose and insulin levels, which can increase the risk of metabolic syndrome and heart disease.

Not exactly hot news, but it’s not all gloom and doom either. Science has answers!

Eat better for a better journey

Consider following the Mediterranean diet
Get enough protein
Eat fermented foods such as sauerkraut and kimchi
Consume calcium-rich foods
Don’t forget vitamin D

Lifestyle matters, too

The menopausal journey overlaps high stress times for many women: parenting, work demands, caring for aging parents, and/or dramatic life changes.

Slash stress levels with yoga and meditation and prioritize sleep with good habits: early dinners, choosing books over screens, reducing alcohol, swapping out beverages for soothing herbal teas, and staying social.

Two to three sessions of resistance exercise weekly may help prevent muscle loss and bone loss, improve body composition, and boost cognition.

Supplements to consider

Remember, always check with your health care practitioner to ensure a supplement is right for you.

flaxseeds	source of fiber, omega-3s, and lignans (help eliminate excess estrogen)
probiotics and prebiotics	may help with gut imbalances, including bloating and gas
omega-3 fatty acids	anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, increase insulin sensitivity
vitamin B12	red blood cell and DNA production, cardio- and neuroprotective

By Daniela Ginta, MSc, NNCP

Article Courtesy of Alive Magazine

May 1, 2024

Support your immune system

Support your immune system

Sift through the hype and learn the truth

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, collective awareness of our immune system has increased. Once an invisible ally, our immunity is now the topic of Tiktok videos, news articles, and endless product recommendations. Sifting through the hype represents a monumental task.

To boost or not to boost?

Pandemic-driven Google searches focused on strengthening the immune response, but that may not be the best course for everyone. Indiscriminate immune boosting could be harmful in people with autoimmune disease, creating more damage than support to the body, overall.

Research literacy 101

If you’re going to use online resources, avoiding the pitfalls of misinformation can be overwhelming. Dr. Ellen Conte, ND, has a passion for teaching her patients to make informed decisions. “Be wary of statements that sound too good to be true,” she cautions. She guides people toward evidence-based resources like PubMed.gov as well as university and hospital websites.

Supplements

Understanding the specific immune influences of individual supplements can help you put reliable research into action. Always ask your health care practitioner if a supplement is right for you—especially if you are immune suppressed or have an autoimmune condition.

Probiotics

Beneficial strains of bacteria coat our bodies inside and out, creating a living shield to protect us from infection. Probiotic bacteria, both supplemental and naturally occurring, interact directly with our immune system, influencing its function.

Elderberry

Elderberry is an important traditional medicine, long used by the indigenous peoples of North America. Elderberry may boost the immune response by interacting with our dendritic cells—helper cells that spur other cells into action against invaders.

Garlic

In addition to banishing certain pointy-toothed figures of folklore, garlic is equally offensive to fungal and bacterial pathogens. Taking aged garlic extract may reduce the intensity and duration of colds while gently enhancing immune function.

Turmeric

Similar to probiotics, turmeric can dampen the inflammation that accompanies an immune response.

Foods

Include the following nutrients in your diet for ongoing immune benefits.

Fats

Avoid low-fat diets unless you have been otherwise instructed. Fat-containing foods help us to absorb key immune nutrients like vitamin A and vitamin D.

Omega-3 fatty acids

Polyunsaturated fats found in fish, chia seeds, flax, and omega-3 eggs can reduce inflammation and allow for balanced immune function.

Mushrooms and seaweed

These foods contain beta-glucans, soluble fibers that feed our gut flora and gently promote immune activity.

Protein

Amino acids such as arginine, glutamine, and tryptophan form the building blocks of cytokines and other immune factors.

Vitamin C

This well-known immune support cannot be made in the human body. Eat your fruits and veggies to stock up on this nutrient.

Other nutrients

Zinc, from pumpkin seeds; selenium from Brazil nuts; and B vitamins from grains, root veggies, and chickpeas support a wide range of immune functions.

By Dr. Gillian Flower, ND

Article Courtesy of Alive Magazine

April 1, 2024
A quick guide to botanicals

A quick guide to botanicals

What they are and what to be aware of

Botanicals are any part of a plant that can be used medicinally and are attractive due to their tendency to be safe, have minimal side effects, function holistically, and even act preventively.

Nearly 26,000 plants have been documented globally to have therapeutic uses—a vast store of potential medicine! Our growing desire to treat health more holistically, combined with our ability to assess the evidence critically, bodes well for a future where botanicals are integral to our well-being.

What’s new?

Science continues to investigate medicinal plant uses, sometimes confirming anecdotal evidence, sometimes setting the record straight.

Adaptogens—botanicals that help the body adjust to stress and maintain balance—are of particular interest since our burden of stress has been mounting. Holistic nutritionist and health coach Sheena Huculak has seen the public increasingly seeking this class of remedy: “One that stands out the most for me is ashwagandha and other adaptogens like rhodiola, holy basil, and mushrooms.”

Proof meets promotion

But the popularity of plant remedies sometimes has the science scrambling to keep pace with marketing. For example, if consumers perceive acai as having health benefits, a chocolate-coated version of it becomes an easy sell even though the research is lacking and the product may be more sugar than anything else.

In good measure

Once you’ve gone beyond the marketing and landed on a botanical that has the weight of science behind it, its efficacy is still going to depend a great deal on the dose and consistency with which you take it.

Sprinklings of widely tolerated botanicals may be a fine thing, but for medicinal effect you will need a medicinal dose. So go ahead and enjoy the health properties of a turmeric latte, but don’t expect it to cure your arthritis.

Playing it safe

How much of a botanical you take and for how long also become questions of safety; just as too little can be ineffectual, too much can be risky.

Huculak cautions, “It is important to know there can be negative interactions between some natural health products and medications.” Botanicals can pose a risk in scenarios such as pregnancy or surgery, too, so it’s well worth running it past a health care professional and heeding the product label.

Quality control

Plant material is extremely complex and chemically diverse, making the task of identifying and standardizing particular botanical constituents very challenging. In the case of a blended supplement, interactions between the ingredients also need to be considered.

Upping the standard

Seeing this gap in the potential quality and safety of their offerings, many botanical supplement companies choose to have their products tested and certified by an independent lab and display that certification on their labels. But the natural health industry recognizes this is still an imperfect system, and there are initiatives underway to integrate better quality and safety controls into the market as a whole.

By Jackie Skrypnek

Article Courtesy of Alive Magazine

April 1, 2024
Unlocking the Power of Ancient Nutrition

Unlocking the Power of Ancient Nutrition

In the quest for optimal health and wellness, many individuals are turning back the clock, seeking solutions rooted in ancient wisdom. One brand at the forefront of this movement is Ancient Nutrition, spearheaded by the renowned Dr. Josh Axe. With a focus on harnessing the power of traditional remedies and modern science, Ancient Nutrition offers a range of products designed to support holistic well-being.

Dr. Axe, a certified doctor of natural medicine, chiropractor, and clinical nutritionist, founded Ancient Nutrition with a vision to revive ancient healing traditions for modern health challenges. Drawing inspiration from Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and other time-tested practices, Dr. Axe and his team have developed a comprehensive line of supplements, superfoods, and protein powders.

One of the key principles driving Ancient Nutrition is the belief in the importance of quality ingredients. Their products are crafted using only the finest, ethically sourced ingredients, free from artificial additives, fillers, and GMOs. Whether it’s bone broth protein, collagen peptides, or herbal blends, each formulation is carefully curated to deliver maximum potency. By demystifying ancient healing practices and providing evidence-based insights, Ancient Nutrition helps consumers make informed choices about their well-being.

Their products offer a bridge between ancient wisdom and modern lifestyles, supporting our quest for vitality and longevity. And now, there’s even more reason to explore their offerings.

For the entire month of February, Basil Bandwagon is delighted to offer Ancient Nutrition brand products at a special discount of 25% off. This exclusive promotion provides an opportunity to experience the transformative power of Ancient Nutrition’s supplements and superfoods at a great value. Don’t miss this chance to nourish your body, mind, and spirit with the wisdom of the ages, brought to you by Ancient Nutrition.

February 21, 2024
New Year, New Gut: Why Your Microbiome Matters and How Vital Planet Can Help
New Year, New Gut: Why Your Microbiome Matters and How Vital Planet Can Help

The new year is a time for fresh starts and new beginnings. And what better place to start than with your gut health? Gut health is the foundation for overall health and well-being.

Your gut microbiome is a complex ecosystem of trillions of bacteria, viruses, and other microbes that play a vital role in everything from digestion and immunity to mood and brain function. Good bacteria like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium break down food, synthesize vitamins, and keep harmful invaders at bay. But stress, antibiotics, and processed foods can throw this ecosystem into disarray. When your digestive system is out of balance, it can lead to a variety of health problems, including bloating, gas, constipation, diarrhea, and even chronic conditions like autoimmune diseases. This is where probiotics can help, acting like reinforcements for the good bacteria to get your gut back on track.

Probiotic supplements introduce beneficial bacteria strains to your gut community. They help restore balance, strengthen the gut barrier, and boost immune function. This can help you feel healthier in so many ways:
- Ease digestive discomfort: Say goodbye to bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. Probiotics can help regulate bowel movements and soothe irritated bowels.
- Fortify your defenses: A healthy gut is a strong defense against pathogens. Probiotics can help fight off harmful bacteria and viruses, keeping you feeling your best.
- Nurture your mood: The gut-brain connection is real! Probiotics may help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression by influencing brain chemistry and reducing inflammation.
- Optimize nutrient absorption: Get the most out of your food. Probiotics can help your body absorb essential vitamins and minerals from your diet.
That’s why making gut health a priority in the new year is so important. And one of the best ways to do that is to take a high-quality probiotic supplement.

Why Choose Vital Planet Probiotics?

Vital Planet offers a wide range of probiotic supplements designed to support your gut health in a variety of ways. Their probiotics are:
- Potent: With up to 60 billion live cultures per serving, Vital Planet probiotics are some of the most potent on the market.
- Diverse: They contain a variety of beneficial bacterial strains, which is important for creating a healthy and balanced gut microbiome.
- Prebiotic-infused: Vital Planet probiotics include prebiotics, which are fibers that help nourish and support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.
- Delayed-release: This ensures that the live cultures reach the intestines alive, so they can be most effective.
- Family-owned and operated: Vital Planet is a family-owned and operated company that is committed to quality and sustainability.
To help you jumpstart your New Year, New Gut journey, Basil Bandwagon is offering a special 25% discount on all Vital Planet products for the entire month of January.

With a little effort, you can make your gut health a priority in the new year. And with Vital Planet probiotics, you can be on your way to a happier, healthier you!

Cheers to a happy and healthy 2024!
January 23, 2024
Three essential oils you might not know!
What is it good for?

Three essential oils you might not know the benefits of.

Whether you’re new to essential oils or already have some favorites, the variety of botanicals and their uses is so vast there’s always something to learn. Let’s delve into the fragrant world of three fantastic essential oils: lime, cedarwood, and geranium rose. Each one boasts a unique aroma and an array of potential uses, ready to enhance your well-being.
Lime

Lime essential oil is a ray of sunshine in a bottle. It’s uses extend far beyond adding a zing to your cocktail:

Mood Booster: The bright, cheerful aroma of lime oil can combat fatigue and lift your spirits. Diffuse it throughout your home or workplace for an instant pick-me-up.

Natural Deodorant: Lime oil’s antibacterial properties make it a fantastic natural deodorant. Dilute with coconut oil and apply it to your underarms.

Skin Cleanser: Lime oil can help regulate oily skin and minimize the appearance of pores. Add a drop or two to your DIY cleanser or toner.
Cedarwood

Earthy and grounding, cedarwood essential oil exudes a sense of calm and stability. It’s far from just a moth repellent for your closet!

Stress Relief: The warm, woody aroma of cedarwood can promote relaxation and ease anxiety. Diffuse it in your bedroom before bedtime or inhale carefully from the bottle for a moment of tranquility.

Scalp Soother: Cedarwood oil can help balance the scalp’s oil production and soothe itchiness. Dilute a few drops into an oil and massage it into your scalp.

Focus Enhancer: The grounding properties of cedarwood can help improve concentration and mental clarity. Diffuse it while studying or working on a complex task.
Geranium Rose

Floral and uplifting, geranium rose essential oil is a fragrant hug in a bottle.

Hormonal Balance: Geranium rose oil can help regulate hormones and ease symptoms of PMS and menopause. Dilute into grapeseed or your favorite carrier oil and massage it onto your lower abdomen. As a bonus, it’s been used to reduce the appearance of stretch marks!

Skin Savior: Geranium rose oil can balance sebum production, making it beneficial for both oily and dry skin. Add a drop or two to your moisturizer or facial serum.

Emotional Uplifter: The sweet, rosy aroma of geranium rose oil can combat feelings of sadness and promote emotional well-being. Diffuse it throughout your home or inhale directly from the bottle for a mood boost.
Remember, these are just a few of the many potential uses for these amazing essential oils. Come into one of our locations and speak to one of our friendly wellness ambassadors so you can discover the perfect ways to incorporate these fragrant allies into your life and harness their many benefits. Pranarom Essential Oils, pre-mixed Wellness blends, and Hydrosols are all 20% off until the end of December. All of their products are third party certified organic – that’s NO synthetics, NO herbicides, NO pesticides, NO additives, NO animal testing. Just a few of the many reasons we love their products here at Basil Bandwagon!
December 21, 2023
Adaptogenic Hot Chocolate Bliss
Adaptogenic Hot Chocolate Bliss

This adaptogenic hot chocolate aims to provide a sense of calm and balance, thanks to the inclusion of an ashwagandha and mushroom blend, known for their adaptogenic properties.

Adaptogens are a class of herbs and mushrooms that are believed to help the body adapt to stress and maintain balance. They have been used in traditional medicine systems, such as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine, for centuries. While the scientific understanding of adaptogens is still evolving, there are several potential reasons why they are considered beneficial:

Stress Response Regulation: Adaptogens are thought to modulate the body’s stress response by regulating the production of stress hormones, such as cortisol. They may help the body adapt to both physical and mental stressors, promoting a more balanced response.

Homeostasis Promotion: Adaptogens are believed to support homeostasis, the body’s natural state of balance and stability. By helping the body maintain equilibrium, adaptogens may contribute to overall well-being.

Energy and Endurance: Some adaptogens are thought to enhance physical and mental performance by supporting energy production and increasing endurance. They may help the body cope with fatigue and improve stamina.

Immune System Support: Adaptogens are thought to have immune-modulating properties, meaning they may help regulate the immune system. This could contribute to a better defense against infections and diseases.

Antioxidant Properties: Many adaptogens have antioxidant properties, which means they can help neutralize free radicals in the body. This antioxidative effect may contribute to cellular health and longevity.

Cognitive Function: Some adaptogens are believed to have neuroprotective effects and may support cognitive function. They are thought to enhance mental clarity, focus, and memory.

It’s important to note that while adaptogens have a long history of use in traditional medicine, scientific research on their efficacy is still ongoing, and more evidence is needed to fully understand their mechanisms of action and potential health benefits. Additionally, individual responses to adaptogens can vary, and they may interact with medications or have contraindications in certain situations. Before incorporating adaptogens into your routine, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your specific health needs.
Elisa Franco

Adaptogenic Hot Chocolate Bliss

Warm, cozy, adaptogenic hot chocolate to soothe your worries.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Servings: 2

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

2 cups almond milk or your preferred milk
2 tblsp cacao powder
2 tblsp maple syrup
1 tblsp OM Master Blend powder
pinch of sea salt
whipped cream or marshmallows optional

Method

In a saucepan, heat milk over medium heat.
Whisk in cacao powder, maple syrup, OM Master Blend powder, and a pinch of sea salt.
Heat until hot but not boiling.
Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream or marshamallows if desired.
November 28, 2023
Rosemary & Sage Apple Cider Fizz
Rosemary & Sage Apple Cider Fizz

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with a creative and herb-forward cocktail that brings together the warm notes of apple cider with the aromatic essence of rosemary and sage?
Rosemary & Sage Apple Cider Fizz

This herb-forward creative cocktail combines the earthy flavors of rosemary and sage with the sweetness of apple cider and a touch of effervescence.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Servings: 1

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

2 oz gin
4 oz apple cider
1 oz fresh lemon juice
3 fresh sage leaves
1 sprig of rosemary
sparkling water or club soda
ice cubes
apple slices and fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish

Method

Muddle Sage and Rosemary: In a shaker, muddle the fresh sage and rosemary leaves to release their flavor.
Add Ingredients: Add gin, apple cider, and fresh lemon juice to the shaker.
Shake Well: Add ice to the shaker, close the lid tightly, and shake the ingredients vigorously for about 15-20 seconds.
Strain into Glass: Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
Top with Sparkling Water: Pour sparkling water or club soda over the mixture for a fizzy finish. Adjust the amount based on your preference.
Garnish: Garnish with apple slices and a sprig of fresh rosemary.
Stir Gently and Enjoy: Give the cocktail a gentle stir to mix in the sparkling water. Sip and savor!
November 22, 2023