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If you’ve been told your cholesterol is too high—or you’re just trying to keep your heart healthy—you’re not alone. Millions of people are searching for safe, natural ways to regulate cholesterol without relying solely on medications. The good news? Nature has given us powerful remedies to help our bodies rebalance.

Let’s explore the top natural remedies for lowering cholesterol and improving heart health, backed by tradition and science.




1. Garlic: Heart Health’s Hero

Garlic doesn’t just spice up your food—it’s been used for centuries to support the heart. Studies show it can reduce total cholesterol and LDL (the “bad” kind), while supporting blood flow and circulation.

How to use: Add raw garlic to salads or take 1–2 cloves daily. Prefer supplements? Look for aged garlic extract.



2. Psyllium Husk & Soluble Fiber: The Gentle Sweepers

Fiber acts like a sponge, soaking up excess cholesterol and removing it from your body. Soluble fiber, found in psyllium husk, oats, and flaxseed, is especially helpful.

How to use: Stir 1–2 teaspoons of psyllium husk into water or smoothies daily. Add chia seeds, oats, or lentils to your meals.


3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Good Fats for a Strong Heart

Omega-3s found in flaxseed, walnuts, chia seeds, and fatty fish can lower triglycerides and raise HDL (the “good” cholesterol).

How to use: Eat 2–3 servings of fatty fish per week or take omega-3 supplements. Sprinkle ground flaxseed on oatmeal or yogurt daily.


4. Artichoke Leaf Extract: The Liver’s Ally

Artichoke leaf helps your liver process cholesterol more efficiently by increasing bile flow—a natural cholesterol-flushing mechanism.

How to use: Take a standardized artichoke extract before meals (check dosing on the label).




5. Berberine: The Metabolism Booster

Berberine, found in herbs like goldenseal and barberry, supports healthy blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

How to use: Take 500 mg before meals (2–3 times daily). This remedy is powerful—consult your practitioner if you're on medication.




6. Green Tea: Sip Your Way to Lower LDL


Green tea catechins help lower LDL and reduce inflammation. Bonus: it boosts metabolism, too.

How to use: Enjoy 2–3 cups daily, or take green tea extract if you prefer capsules.






Bonus Tip: A Holistic Lifestyle Makes the Difference

Natural remedies work best when paired with:

  • A plant-forward diet rich in beans, whole grains, and vegetables

  • Exercise: Aim for 30 minutes daily

  • Stress management: Meditation, movement, or nature walks

  • Weight balance: Even modest weight loss helps reduce LDL


The Takeaway

You don’t have to wait for a prescription to start taking care of your heart. With the right herbs, foods, and lifestyle shifts, you can support your body’s natural ability to balance cholesterol—naturally and powerfully.

Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re on medication or have existing health conditions.


Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you're ready to take control of your heart health naturally, I’d love to support you on your journey.

Schedule a personalized wellness consultation with Victoria Chavez today. Let’s work together to create a holistic plan that supports your body, mind, and long-term well-being.


In-person sessions are available at 317 North Front Street, Wilmington, NC, after scheduling

Virtual sessions available anywhere

 
 
 




Safe Herbs for Babies with Colic: Gentle Relief from Nature

Colic can be a distressing time for both baby and parents. While the exact cause of colic remains a mystery, herbal remedies have been used for generations to ease digestive discomfort in little ones. When used safely and appropriately, certain herbs can help soothe a colicky baby without needing medication.


Baby-Safe Herbs for Colic


1. Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare): Fennel is one of the most well-researched herbs for colic. It helps relax the gastrointestinal tract and reduce gas. Fennel seed tea, when given in tiny, diluted doses (or through a nursing mom’s diet), may ease colic symptoms.



2. Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla): Known for its calming effects, chamomile can help reduce cramping and soothe fussy babies. A very diluted chamomile tea can be given sparingly or added to a warm bath.




3. Catnip (Nepeta cataria): Gentle and calming, catnip supports digestion and helps ease spasms. It’s often found in baby colic blends and can be given as a weak tea in drop form.




4. Ginger (Zingiber officinale): Used in very small, diluted amounts, ginger is warming and anti-inflammatory. It helps reduce gas and support digestive function. Best given via a breastfeeding mother’s diet or in professionally formulated drops.




5. Dill (Anethum graveolens): Dill water has long been a go-to colic remedy. It eases bloating and helps with digestion. Use only professionally prepared versions to ensure safety and correct dosage.




Safety Tips for Using Herbs with Babies

  • Always consult with a pediatrician or qualified herbalist before giving herbs to infants.

  • Use only organic, baby-safe herbal products formulated for infants.

  • Avoid essential oils or concentrated extracts unless professionally prescribed.

  • Test one herb at a time and monitor for any allergic reactions.


Herbs offer a gentle, natural option for easing colic, supporting both your baby’s comfort and your peace of mind.


Peace, Love and Light

Victoria Chavcz

 
 
 

Becoming a mother is a transformative experience, but it can come with unexpected emotional lows. Many women experience postpartum depression (PPD)—a deeper, longer-lasting version of the “baby blues.” For breastfeeding mothers, the emotional toll is often compounded by hormonal shifts and the physical demands of milk production.

Let’s explore how to nurture your mind, body, and hormones naturally—without compromising breastfeeding.

Gentle Postpartum Exercises to Support Mood, Energy, and Hormonal Health

Movement is one of the most natural ways to balance hormones, improve circulation, and lift mood—especially when dealing with postpartum depression. But it’s important to choose exercises that are safe, non-depleting, and respectful of your healing body.

Here are some postpartum-safe exercises that are also lactation-friendly:


1. Breath-Driven Core Activation


Diaphragmatic breathing to re-engage
Diaphragmatic breathing to re-engage

Start with diaphragmatic breathing to re-engage your core and pelvic floor:

  • Sit or lie comfortably, one hand on your chest, one on your belly.

  • Inhale deeply through your nose, expanding your belly (not your chest).

  • Exhale slowly through your mouth, gently drawing your navel in.

  • Do 5–10 rounds, 2–3 times a day.

Benefits: Calms the nervous system, supports pelvic floor healing, and improves oxygen flow.


2. Pelvic Tilts and Bridge Poses


Pelvic Tilt
Pelvic Tilt

Gentle pelvic tilts or bridges on your back can reawaken deep abdominal and glute muscles:

  • Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor.

  • Press your lower back into the floor, then tilt your pelvis slightly upward.

  • Progress to raising your hips into a gentle bridge for 5–10 seconds.

  • Repeat for 10 reps.

Benefits: It rebuilds core strength, supports the lower back, and improves blood flow.


3. Postpartum Yoga

Postpartum Yoga Stretches
Postpartum Yoga Stretches

Choose beginner or postpartum-specific yoga sessions. Focus on:

  • Cat-cow stretches for spinal release

  • Seated twists and forward folds for digestion and hormone flow

  • Child’s pose for relaxation

  • Legs up the wall for circulation and rest

Benefits: Balances cortisol, lifts mood and eases tension in nursing shoulders and hips.


4. Walking with Baby

Walking with Baby
Walking with Baby

A simple 15–30 minute walk with your baby in a stroller or carrier does wonders:

  • Improves circulation and lymphatic flow

  • Enhances serotonin and endorphin levels

  • Helps reset circadian rhythms (especially with morning light)

Bonus: Your baby benefits from the fresh air and bonding time!



5. Low-Impact Strength Moves

Low-Impact Strength Moves
Low-Impact Strength Moves

If cleared by your provider (usually 6–8 weeks postpartum), incorporate light resistance work:

  • Bodyweight squats

  • Wall pushups

  • Light dumbbell rows or bicep curls

  • Resistance band side steps

Benefits: Supports bone density, improves insulin sensitivity, and boosts energy.


6. Stretching for Breastfeeding Relief

Breast-feeding mom
Breast-feeding mom

Nursing moms often deal with tight necks, shoulders, and backs. Gentle stretches like:

  • Neck rolls

  • Shoulder openers

  • Chest expansion poses

  • Spinal twists

Benefits: Reduce breastfeeding-related muscle strain, open posture, and ease emotional tension.



Tips for Exercising While Breastfeeding:

  • Wear a supportive nursing bra to avoid discomfort.

  • Stay hydrated before and after movement.

  • Feed or pump before exercise to avoid engorgement during workouts.

  • Listen to your body: rest is still productive healing.


Final Thoughts

Postpartum healing is multidimensional—it’s emotional, physical, and spiritual. Gentle movement supports hormonal balance and mood and helps you reconnect with your body in a positive, nurturing way.


When combined with proper nutrition, herbal support, and emotional care, a safe movement practice can become a cornerstone of postpartum wellness—without compromising breastfeeding or recovery.

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