The Reality of Herbal Therapy

Episode 107 of the Reality of Herbal Therapy podcast with host Jim Applegate dives into the lymphatic system — the body’s drainage and defense network. Jim explains what lymph is, why the lymphatic system matters for detoxification and immunity, and how it acts like a river that must keep flowing to maintain health. The episode covers how lymph moves (it has no pump), common signs of lymphatic sta...

In this episode from our series on the body’s systems, the host digs into the skeletal system—its structure, functions, and how to support it naturally. Guests and references include insights from Dr. Michael James and Lynn, who contribute clinical tips and personal stories. Topics covered include bone anatomy (bones, joints, cartilage, connective tissue), mineral storage, blood-cell production in...

In this solo episode I walk listeners through what hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is, how it spreads, and how to comfort affected children (and adults). You’ll hear clear explanations of common symptoms — fever, sore throat, and painful sores on the hands, feet, buttocks and in the mouth — why the illness typically lasts 7–10 days, and how it differs from similar-looking conditions such as i...

In this episode we take a deep dive into catnip, one of the common herbs from a 20-herb kit, exploring its botany, traditional uses and practical home remedies. We learn how catnip fits into the mint family, which plant parts are used (primarily the leaf), what the plant looks like and where it grows around the world. The episode covers the main therapeutic uses of catnip: a gentle relaxant for an...

In this episode we explore one of Dr. James’s 20 essential household herbs: the juniper berry. Lets walk listeners through the plant’s identity, history, traditional uses and practical ways to prepare and apply it at home. Expect a mix of historical context, herbal science and hands-on recipes you can try yourself. Topics covered include juniper’s botanical background (a small evergreen that produ...

In this episode we compare two broad approaches to cleansing: a gentle, once- or twice-yearly full body cleanse and more intense, targeted deep cleanses for the liver, kidneys, gallbladder, heavy metals, parasites and more. Hosts explain what is in a typical 15-day Full Body Cleanse (15 bags, 8 capsules each) and how it gently supports kidneys, blood, lymphatics, lungs, colon and liver with ingred...

Welcome to our latest episode, where we explore the fascinating world of hops, beyond its well-known role in brewing beer. We delve into Dr. James's essential 20 Herbs book, which includes these remarkable flowers, providing timeless remedies for a variety of health concerns. Hops have been used for centuries, renowned for their calming properties and health benefits. This episode introduces liste...

In this episode of "Herbal Insights," join host Jim Applegate as he delves into the fascinating world of the 20 Herbs book, emphasizing the foundational role it plays in holistic health. Jim introduces us to Dr. James, a pioneer in herbal medicine, who crafted a definitive guide to essential herbs that form the backbone of herbal health remedies. The episode focuses on one particular herb – burdoc...

In this enlightening episode, join hosts Lynn, Dr. James' daughter, and Jim Applegate as they dive into the myriad health benefits of a simple, yet transformative activity - walking. Discover how walking is not only an accessible form of exercise for all ages and fitness levels but also a powerful tool for enhancing heart health, weight management, mental wellbeing, and overall longevity. This epi...

The discussion begins with an overview of key glands such as the pancreas, adrenals, thyroid, and the hypothalamus in the brain. Dr. James provides insights into how these glands control hormone production and the significant roles they play in our health. The pancreas, for example, is essential for processing sugars and producing insulin, while the adrenals are responsible for managing our body's...

Episode Overview: Dive into the fascinating world of the lymphatic system with our special guests, Lynn and Jessica, daughters of Dr. James, as they join us for an insightful discussion. Jessica, who has worked extensively with Dr. James in clinical settings, shares her expertise on the lymphatic system and the benefits of a lymph cleanse. Lynn, Dr. James's oldest daughter, also contributes valuab...

In this episode, we delve into the fascinating world of ginger, a spice that has been cherished for its medicinal and culinary uses for over 5,000 years. Join us as we explore the myriad benefits this remarkable root offers, from aiding digestion and relieving nausea to its powerful anti-inflammatory properties. We introduce our guest, Lynn, Dr. James' oldest daughter, who shares her personal expe...

In this enlightening episode of the Reality of Herbal Therapy podcast, we delve into the profound impacts of gratitude on both mental and physical health. As we celebrate Thanksgiving, Jim and special guest Lynn—his wife and the eldest daughter of Dr. James—join forces to explore the transformative power of gratitude. Lynn shares her remarkable journey with daily gratitude exercises that helped he...

In this  episode, our host shares a personal experience that underscores the importance of freshness and quality in herbal remedies. After coming down with a respiratory illness, they explore the soothing effects of a homemade ginger, lemon, and honey tea, comparing it to a store-bought version. This comparison reveals significant differences in flavor and effectiveness, highlighting the value of...

In this episode, we dive deep into the fascinating world of colloidal minerals and their vital role in maintaining our health. Our host starts by addressing a common question from listeners about the absence of colloidal caps in their product line, which leads to an intriguing backstory about the creation of PM Minerals Plus. We explore the history behind the formulation of PM Minerals Plus, begin...

In this enlightening episode, we delve into the world of herbal formulas, uncovering the top five products that have garnered widespread popularity and trust. Join us as we explore each formula's unique benefits, ingredients, and the reasons behind their effectiveness. First up is Fection, our top seller. Fection is renowned for its ability to bolster the lymphatic system, fight infections, and cl...

In this episode, we continue our series on holistic health by diving deep into the digestive system. The discussion starts with an overview of holistic health principles, emphasizing the interconnectedness of body systems and the importance of treating the root cause of health issues. Our main focus is on the digestive system, which includes everything from the lipstick to the toilet paper, as wel...

In this episode of our podcast series focusing on the systems of the body, we delve into the cardiovascular system, also known as the circulatory system. This system is crucial as it involves your heart, arteries, capillaries, and lymphatics, all working together to move blood, nutrients, and oxygen throughout your body. We begin by discussing the heart, an electric pump that operates through elec...

In this enlightening episode, we continue our series on the different systems of the body, focusing on the nervous system. We explore how herbs can treat the system rather than just the symptoms, offering a holistic approach to health and wellness. The episode begins with a personal anecdote about dealing with stress during college years and introduces the concept of how stress affects the nervous...

Join us in this enlightening episode where we delve into a fascinating and underappreciated health tip: the benefits of adding baking soda to your water. Hosted by a family passionate about holistic health, this episode features insights from Lynn and Jessica, daughters of the renowned Dr. James, who share their personal experiences and professional expertise. Discover how a simple addition to you...

Welcome to this episode of 'The Reality of Herbal Therapy podcast'. This episode is entirely devoted to one of the most critical and oft-overlooked system of our body, the urinary system. Explore insightful discussion about the intricacies of our urinary system, the challenges it often faces, and how everyday habits like water intake critically affect its functioning. We also highlight how closely...

In this insightful episode of 'Reality of Herbal Therapy', join the engaging Lynn as she offers a comprehensive understanding of a common skin condition we often overlook - Impetigo. Leveraging her family's vast knowledge in herbal therapy, Lynn sheds light on the starting symptoms of Impetigo, its highly contagious nature, and how it escalates if not addressed early enough. Discover the importanc...

In this deeply engaging episode, we take you through a powerful journey of a family's struggle with a serious flu that hits their daughter. A tale of love, resilience, and the power of knowledge, this story is an eye-opening chronicle of at-home treatments and the necessity of professional medical intervention when the situation demands. The host enlightens you on the effectiveness of certain home...

One of the key elements to choosing a formula is by knowing the system you are wanting to treat. In this episode I talk about the formulas you would want to use when treating the respiratory system. Hay Asz Hay Asz Extra Strength Flem Up Monia Fection Throb Eaz Tissue Mend  Detoxalation PM Minerals Comfrey Gold Salve Gland Salve / Gland Oil Analgesic oil

Tagging herbs is one of the reasons we use formulas. In this episode we discuss what tagging is and how you can use it to your advantage. I talked about Herbal MSM The formulas that can be tagged are: Fection Throb Eaz Tissue Mend The formulas that will take the tagged formula where you want it: Arth Rite Bladney Tonic F Hrt There are several other formulas that will tag but these are the ones I t...