In the first half, pharmacist Ben Fuchs addressed the latest in health information and news, as well as natural remedies and supplements. LDL cholesterol is misunderstood and unfairly demonized, he said. Cholesterol is actually "the single most important molecule in the body," and is needed for stress management, growth, repair, and fertility. Statin drugs, he continued, serve to suppress the production of cholesterol – but it's in the coronary arteries to help repair them, and people would be better off strengthening their cardiovascular system, rather than "poisoning their liver" with pharmaceuticals.
Regarding recent study findings that taking low dose aspirin may be harmful, Fuchs concurred, noting that gastrointestinal bleeding is a problem. Mushrooms, he enthused, are an excellent food and supplement, as they are packed with immune boosters and "adaptogenic" substances that help adjust the body. For someone troubled by waking up frequently during sleep, coupled with dry mouth, he suggested it may be due to low blood sugar, and recommended a light protein meal before bed, as well as the supplement magnesium.
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In the latter half, "arcane horticulturist" Amy Blackthorn, discussed how she combines witchcraft with such things as magical plants, aromatherapy, and essential oils. "Magic is agency," she said, and "the ability to transform the energy of physical objects like candles and oils and intentions into what we need them to be." Botanical magic can be used for a variety of conditions, she noted. For example, lemon balm can help with fertility, depression, and as a sedative. Plants, she added, are great for both herbal healing and aromatherapy (using the volatile oils of a plant to positively affect the mind and body).
One of Blackthorn's favorite magical remedies is dragon's blood, the resin from a tropical tree, which looks like red chalk, and can be used for protective power, or to cleanse a space, somewhat akin to sage. Various scents carry different feelings, she pointed out, such as myrrh, which has the energy of consecration and helps people tap into their compassion. She also talked about an NDE she had as the result of a severe car accident. Though she was in a medically induced coma, when she came out of it, she could recall the position of the ambulance and details that could only be seen from out-of-the-body.
News segment guests: Mish Shedlock, Christian Wilde