Botanical Database
Evidence-informed botanicals organized by the body system they support, with traditional preparation methods for educational purposes only. These are optional, supportive tools — not treatments or cures.
All Systems
🔥 Metabolic Support
🩸 Blood Sugar Support
🫁 Liver Support
💧 Kidney & Fluid Balance
🫃 Digestive Support
🧘 Stress & Hormonal Support
✨ Skin Elasticity Support
🛡️ Immune Support
❤️ Cardiovascular Support
🦴 Joint & Bone Support
🩻 Thyroid Support
🎯 Metabolic Syndrome Support
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Traditional Use:
Anti-inflammatory and triglyceride support
Explored For:
EPA and DHA extensively studied for reducing triglycerides (FDA-approved at prescription doses), reducing systemic inflammation (CRP, IL-6), and improving endothelial function
🍵 How To Use (Educational):
Eat fatty fish 2–3 times per week (salmon, mackerel, sardines, herring). Supplement: 1,000–4,000 mg combined EPA+DHA daily with a fatty meal. Algal oil for vegetarians/vegans. Store fish oil in the refrigerator to prevent rancidity.
⚠️ Safety & Interactions:
May thin blood at high doses — consult doctor if on anticoagulants. Fish oil may cause fishy burps (take with meals or use enteric-coated capsules). High-dose (>3,000 mg) may increase LDL slightly. Choose products tested for heavy metals and rancidity.
Notes:
2,000–4,000 mg EPA+DHA daily shown to significantly lower triglycerides
Traditional Use:
Fiber for cholesterol, blood sugar, and satiety
Explored For:
Soluble fiber studied for reducing LDL cholesterol (7–10% reduction), improving post-meal glucose response, and promoting satiety. FDA-approved health claim for cholesterol reduction
🍵 How To Use (Educational):
Stir 1–2 tsp psyllium husk into a full glass (8+ oz) of water and drink immediately before it gels. Take before meals for glucose benefits, or twice daily for cholesterol. Increase dose gradually.
⚠️ Safety & Interactions:
MUST take with ample water — can cause esophageal or intestinal blockage. May reduce absorption of medications — take medications 1–2 hours before or after psyllium. Start low to avoid bloating and gas.
Notes:
FDA-approved claim for cholesterol reduction — one of the best-evidenced fiber supplements
Traditional Use:
Systemic anti-inflammatory and metabolic support
Explored For:
Curcumin studied for reducing CRP (C-reactive protein), improving insulin sensitivity, endothelial function, and modulating NF-κB inflammatory pathway — all key drivers of metabolic syndrome
🍵 How To Use (Educational):
Take 500–1,000 mg curcumin extract with piperine (black pepper extract) daily with food. As spice: ½–1 tsp turmeric in golden milk with a pinch of pepper and fat source.
⚠️ Safety & Interactions:
May thin blood. Requires piperine for adequate absorption. High doses may cause GI distress. Avoid with bile duct obstruction.
Notes:
Targets the systemic inflammation that drives metabolic syndrome
⚠️ Important Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Botanicals are not drugs and are not intended to treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
- People with medical conditions should consult their healthcare provider before using any botanical.
- Many botanicals interact with prescription medications — always check with your pharmacist.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should avoid most botanicals unless specifically cleared by their provider.
- Quality and sourcing matter — look for third-party tested products (USP, NSF, ConsumerLab).
- Start with low doses and listen to your body.
- "Traditional use" does not equal proven efficacy — it means historical usage, not clinical evidence.
— Dr. George Ekema, The Plateau-proof Diet™
