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FAQ

Check out so our most frequently asked questions below!

I am not a doctor. I am a self taught herbalist and health educator. The ideas I discuss does not constitute medical advice. The things I share may or may not apply directly to you but they will provide you with information to think about and some ideas to research further.


These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.
 

  • Where do I begin?
    1. Understand the cause of your ailments; physical, emotional and spiritual. 2. Define a goal or purpose. 3. Surrender to your deepest wisdom and implement positive alternatives that may help. 4. Understand that our healing journey will be different from other people's journey. 5. Understand that our health is a reflection of ourselves, our environment, our experiences, our associates and our food. 6. Understand the positive aspect of sickness; it informs us of our resistance and our imbalances and it provides a focal point for discovering all the negative energies we've cultivated.
  • Are herbs safe?
    Plants can be powerful allies, when used responsibly. Although most herbal preparations are safe and effective, it is important to note that there may be potential side effects (allergies) and individual results may vary. Creating a relationship with their vital energy plays a large role in the symbiotic partnership toward healing and physical well-being. There is no way to know any particular body will react to any substance. When you are taking herbs, you are your own primary care giver and you must be vigilant of your own health. Consult with an herbalist or primary care provider and do your own research, so that you can become a knowledgable and compassionate caretaker of your own body.
  • How do herbs work with the body?
    Herbs contain thousands of chemical compounds that interact with the body in extremely complex ways. Most herbs don't target specific biochemical reactions to create rapid changes. Instead, herbs work to bring the body back in to balance. It is important to note the herbs WILL NOT make up for lack of sleep, dehydration or a diet filled with processed and refined foods. As you continue on your healing journey, you may find that one modality (system of healing) may speak to you over the other.
  • Do you diagnose?
    No. I am not a doctor. I am a self taught herbalist and health educator. I am prohibited by law from offering any advice on taking herbs for a disease or to consume these herbs with any medications. The ideas I discuss does not constitute medical advice. No state or federal authority licenses herbalists in the United States and this content is for educational purposes only. Everyone's body is different and the things I talk about may or may not apply directly to you but they will give you information to think about and some ideas to research further. I want to remind you that good health is your own personal responsibility. The final decision in considering any course of therapy whether its discussed on the internet or prescribed by your physician, the decision is always yours.
  • Precautionary notes on herb use
    Negative effects and imbalances can occur when cautions are not taken into consideration. Otherwise, herbs are safe and produce no side effects when used correctly. Pregnancy + Children Choosing to use herbs during pregnancy is a personal choice, but to ensure the best outcome for you and your baby, you should be well educated on the types of herbs, parts of the herb (root, leaf, etc.) and the way they could be used (capsule, tincture, tonic, tea, etc.). Pregnant women should consult with an herbalist, mid wife or primary care provider before taking any herbal product. When treating young children, only very mild herbs should be used such as catnip, lemon balm, chamomile and lavender. Be sure to test for allergies prior to administering any herbal product to children. High Blood Pressure Avoid herbs that constrict blood vessels and effect heart action such as licorice root, arnica, bitter orange, blue cohosh, dong quai, ephedra, ginkgo, ginseng, senna, St. John's wort, and yohimbine. Only small amounts of stimulating herbs should be use to help calm muscles and the nerves such as garlic and cayenne. Visceral Effects Some herbs can cause sensory effects when consumed. Cayenne, prickly ash bark, ginger will cause a warming feeling in the stomach and may induce sweating; cloves and kava will cause a numbing effect in the mouth; astringent herbs such as yarrow, rose, myrrh and bayberry bark will cause a tightening sensation; and laxatives' such as cascara sagrada and senna leaf may cause griping (intestinal cramping). Tannins Tannins are present in most herbs and are astringent. Barks are particular high in tannins, including, yellow dock, comfrey root, sarsaparilla and cascara sagrada (to name a few). Some herbs are also rich in tannins. Excess use of astringent teas have been found to cause the formation of cancerous cells due to their tannin-rich content. Use astringent teas as needed -- neutralize tannins by preparing with milk. Essential Oils Essential oils are highly concentrated volatile oils and can be irritating if they are not properly diluted. Applied topically without proper dilution, you may experience a burning sensation on the skin. Ingesting can cause severe toxic reactions. Moderation Some herbs should not be taken regularly as they may cause cumulative effects. For example, horsetail should not be taken regularly as it may irritate the kidneys. After treatment, take a long resting period before consuming again. Moderation should be considered with any herbal protocol. Laxatives and Emetics The use of laxatives and emetics are to induce either a bowel movement or vomiting and will cause lots of discomfort if used in large doses, by one who is already weak or over extended period of time. Laxatives and emetics reduces the body's energy. Although most herbal preparations are safe and effective, it is important to note that there may be potential side effects (allergies) and individual results may vary. Creating a relationship with their vital energy plays a large role in the symbiotic partnership toward healing and physical well-being. When you are taking herbs, you are your own primary care giver and you must be vigilant of your own health. Consult with an herbalist or primary care provider and do your own research, so that you can become a knowledgeable and compassionate caretaker of your own body.
  • How do I prepared a medicinal strength tea?
    1. Add 1 1/2 - 2 tsps. of tea blend to 2 cups of water. 2. Bring to a boil then simmer for 5 - 10 minutes on low heat. 3. Remove from heat and allow to steep for an additional 10 minutes before straining. 4. The longer you allow it to simmer/steep, the more potent this tea will be.
  • What's the difference between an infusion and a decoction?
    Infusions are steeped and usually made with flowers or leaves. Decoctions are simmered, generally made with roots or bark and are stronger than infusions.
  • I don’t consume alcohol; can I use a tincture?
    Did you know there is more alcohol content in a ripe banana than there is in the average dose of a tincture made with 80 proof vodka (which is 60/20 water/alcohol per drop)? If you are still concerned, you can simply put your dose into a cup of warm water to evaporate the minuscule amounts of alcohol.
  • What is iridology?
    The eye (iris), the “windows of the soul”, tells many stories. Not only does it enable us to bring images of the outsde world in, it also shows images of what is within to the outside. A mirror of the body. The iris is connected to every organ and tissue by way of the brain and nervous system (both sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems are present in the iris. Nerve fibers in the iris respond to changes in body tissues by manifesting a physiological reflex/markings in the iris that corresponds to specific tissue changes and location.  Iridology does not diagnose instead, it reveals an individual’s strengths and weaknesses, inflammation, where it is located and in what stage it is manifesting. To be properly aware of our health level, we must know where our weak tissues are located. If you are interested in learning more about your personal imbalances, I suggest getting an iridology reading. Learn more here.
  • What's the difference between holistic and allopathic medicine?
    Holistic medicine is preventative medicine, focusing on the root cause. Holistic medicine helps to bring balance and restore strength to the body, supporting the bod's natural healing process. Allopatic medicine is a disease care system, focusing on symptomatic supression.
  • Are all teas created "equally"?"
    All teas are NOT created equally. And you may be consuming a cocktail of pesticides and toxins instead. We think buying organic is somehow protective but here are some things to consider when buying tea: May contain fluoride + pesticides: Many organic teas contain multiple pesticides, heavy metal residues and fluoride. Many teas are sprayed with pesticides and not washed, those toxins end up in your tea. Older leaves will have more toxins which are often used by many companies, since it is cheaper. Mold?: Tea leaves are susceptible to mold growth depending on how they are grown and stored. GMO tea bags: GMO, plastic and bleached paper tea bags are often used, even some teas marked ‘organic’; all of which leach out into the hot water and get absorbed by our body. “Natural” flavors - not so natural: Many teas, even organic, may contain "natural flavors" - who really knows where natural flavors come from? (Natural flavors are a whole another controversy.) How to avoid buying toxic tea: 1) Buy loose tea and brew your own from scratch. 2) Avoid tea from China. 3) Buy organic, GMO free tea from companies that report where their tea is grown and how it is harvested. (See below) 4) Check for added flavors or GMO ingredients. 5) Do not order tea while out at restaurants. 6) Expect higher amounts of toxins, pesticides, etc. if the tea is not organic. ** Best toxin-free grocery store teas: Numi Tea Buddha Tea Traditional Medicinals ** As of 7/27/2021
  • How taste and smell play a role in consumption
    Refined foods can trick your sense with flavoring, sugar, salt, etc. This is why it is important to taste and smell your food/herbs (when consuming). Your senses help regulate what you put in your body. When you're in tune with what you consume, your body will resist it when you've had enough.
  • Let's talk about parasites
    Parasites love the intestine, liver and bile duct, but also many of the other elimination organs; such as the kidneys, lungs and skin — where they can nest and increase transmission. Parasites cause havoc in the body; releasing neurotoxins, heavy metals, viruses, and other toxins. Symptoms of parasite infections include: Stomach pain, dehydration, brain fog, nausea, vomiting, weight loss/inability to put on weight, varying digestive issues, swollen lymph nodes, aches and pains and/or itching/redness/irritation of the skin. ** Symptoms vary depending on what kind of parasites you have and what body system it affects. How to combat them: When an eradication agent is introduced to the body, parasites die. The dying parasites release inflammatory toxins that alert your body to expel them. Humans don't have good anti-parasitic defenses, plants DO — those that are bitter and aromatic. Here are a couple of effective anti-parasitics (eradication agents): Black walnut hills Wormwood Quassia Clove Oregano oil Keep in mind, when introducing eradicating agents, it is likely you will experience die-off symptoms. The trouble is, especially if you’re chronically ill, some of these detoxification organs can be blocked. This means the toxins can recirculate in the body as they wait to be detoxified, and that’s what typically causes die-off symptoms. Headaches Aches Weakness Brain fog Skin rash/eruptions/absesses Fatigue Nausea Vomiting Fever Die-off is sometimes necessary to endure, because the very thing causing the drainage trouble can often be the parasites themselves. There are three ways we feel satisfied after a meal: increased blood sugar, stomach distension and bitter flavors. Parasites can release neurotoxins, heavy metals, viruses, and other toxins. These toxins then travel to the lymphatic system, which helps filter your body’s waste. Next, they head to the spleen, lymph nodes, or liver to be further filtered, and then sent to other drainage organs (like your kidneys, bladder, colon, or even your breath and skin).
  • Fasting...what to expect:
    Fasting: Day 1-2 How You Feel: Hungry Your body is transitioning into fasting mode, you will start to feel the hunger as you skip your regular mealtime routine. Most first time fasters start to feel a reduction in their energy levels. These effects can induce a negative mood or irritability for most fasters. At this stage, you may feel drained. However, if you push through it out for a little longer, some of that lost energy will return. Fasting: Day 3-7 How You Feel: Less Hungry and More Energetic When you fast, glucose becomes limited, and your body must turn to fat stores for the energy it requires. Burning fat has several benefits for your health — the first being weight loss. Getting rid of extra fat has a detoxifying effect on the body by expelling toxic metals and other toxins that are stored in fat deposits. During this stage, you will start to feel less hungry and more energetic. Fasting: Day 8-15 How You Feel: Clear Minded By this stage, a sort of “fasting high” begins. And you should start to see improvements in how you feel, including an elevated mood and increased energy levels. During this stage, your body starts to enter into a “healing mode.” This healing process begins as your digestive system takes a rest from the common stressors and toxins it endures on a daily basis. Fasting: Day 16 and Beyond How You Feel: Balanced For those that do make it this far, there are not any drastic shifts that occur in how you feel. Instead, a steady balance seems to set in.
  • Perpetuating the death cycle
    Poor food choices lowers the energy, which lowers the quality of thoughts, which then makes you want to indulge, which then depletes the body, which makes you want to indulge and eat even more, which perpetuates the death cycle.
  • The truth about cleansing
    Sadly, most over the counter cleanses are not well thought out and make promises they cannot keep. The most important thing to address when it comes to detoxification is how you became toxic in the first place. Poor food choices. Your body has a detoxification system that happens to use the same pathways as the digestive system. If your digestive system breaks down so will your ability to detox. Instead of your body naturally eliminating toxins, these toxins will be stored in fat cells. Wellness focuses on restoring balance to the body with fresh foods and herbs. There is no point in starting a cleanse/fast until there is a change in diet. And there is no point in starting a cleanse/fast to then go back to eating and drinking unhealthy food/beverages as soon as you’re done. The best way to start detoxing is simply to stop eating toxic food (meat, dairy, processed food, alcohol, soda, white foods(ex: white sugar, white rice), etc.). Begin loading your diet with plenty of fresh ripe fruits, veggies, grains, and legumes. (The last story will provide a list on how to incorporate detoxification into your grocery list.) If you’re looking to detoxify and eat fairly clean, here are some cleanses/ways to detoxify that I’ve found most effective: Intermittent fasting Fruit fast with herbs Fruit juice fast with herbs Dr. Morse’s 30-Day Master Fast Limeade fast Water fasting Dry fasting Dr. Hulda Clark’s Liver Cleanse (after intestinal cleanse) When you’re food shopping, try to avoid: Foods that contain artificial dyes, flavors, or preservatives Foods that contains artificial sweeteners Foods that contains high-fructose corn syrup Highly processed foods such as faux meat and cheese All meat and dairy All fish, especially swordfish, tuna, and grouper due to the high mercury content Any foods containing added sugar Palm and palm kernel oil (found in a variety of sweets and baked goods) Foods that contain wheat Nonorganic produce in specific items
  • Are your products vegan-friendly?
    Yes. 100% vegan-friendly (…and organic)!
  • Are your products organic?
    We strive to sell organic products whenever possible. If a product is not organic, it's wild-harvested. We source from an herb seller whom constantly test to ensure they meet their strict specifications and are free from adulterants and contamination, including pesticides. Upon request I can provide a certificate of analysis, organic certificate, and kosher certificate from our source.
  • Are your products gluten-free?
    No. Some of our blends include gluten-containing herb, oatstraw. Although oatstraw can be tolerated by people with gluten sensitivities, individuals with severe gluten sensitivity or allergies should avoid oatstraw.
  • My products are separating, is it still safe to use?"
    As with most natural products, you may have ingredients settle or separate. Always shake or stir to incorporate ingredients properly. We never use synthetic fillers or stabilizers, also known as, potentially harmful chemicals. Therefore, our products may be of a different consistency than what you may be used to, but just as, if not more effective and definitely safer. Natural products may also vary in color by season.
  • How should I store my products?
    Teas, capsules, infused oils, deodorant, salves, toothpaste, tinctures and herbs should be stored in a cool, dry, dark place. Ensure that moisture doesn't reach to them. Avoid heat, light, air and moisture. It is not necessary to store in the fridge but suggested if you live in a warm humid area. Oils are sensitive to fluctuating temperature and light. Refrigerate for long-term storage. Keep away from water to prevent molding. Oxymels, vitamin C drops, sea moss gel and gummies should be stored in the refrigerator. Dry sea moss can be store the same way you would store herbs. I do not suggest storing teas with other spices.
  • Which preparation method do you use?
    I use the measurement method for tea blends, powders, salves, deodorant, toothpaste, sea moss products and Plasma Pudding, and; The folkloric method for tinctures, infused oils, toners, vitamin C drops and oxymels.
  • Why is osha root no longer inthe Prana tea blend?
    Osha root is an endangered herb on the United Plant Savers 'at risk list'. It grows in the wild in high elevation in Colorado and New Mexico and has become increasingly difficult to source. Many efforts are being made to support the growth of this herb in the wild, but progress takes time. The increased popularity of herbal medicine may lead to the extinction of Osha in the wild if herbal companies continue to harvest the root without any way to sustainably cultivate it. One of The Healing Junkie core values is sustainability. We strive to keep our personal commitment to the sustainability of the environment therefore, osha root will be removed from our Prana blend.
  • How to prepare sea moss:
    Step 1 – Wash (most crucial step) Make sure you get as much of the sand, salt, and other impurities off your sea moss as you can in this first wash. Change the water and rinse your sea moss before moving on to the next step. Step 2 – Soak Soak sea moss for 24 hours with a couple of lemons/limes. Make sure your sea moss is completely submerged. I prefer to soak my sea moss rather than cook it. Raw foods have better energetic properties plus, cooking your sea moss kills off much of its sacred energy. When soaking, make sure the water is as pure as possible. Use purified or distilled water., this is important. (Optional) Add crystals in the water to help energize the sea moss. Step 3 – Blend Remove sea moss from water and give a final rinse purified or distilled water before putting it in the blender. When blending the sea moss, don’t add too much water, add water as you go, until you get the viscosity (thickness) that you want. The less water you add the thicker and more jelly-like the mix will be. This will also thicken up when refrigerated. Step 4 – Storing Make sure that you use a jar that has been thoroughly cleaned. I like to pour a pot of boiling hot water into the jar and allow it to cool. The lid will need to be clean too, and effective at sealing the jar. I recommend a mason jar. ** The sea moss gel will keep in the fridge for between 2 to 3 weeks.
  • Does The Healing Junkie offer any discounts
    On occasion we do offer discounts. Other ways to save is to sign up for the Smile Rewards program where you can earn 5 points for every dollar you spend, 1000 points on your birthday (if provided) and 50 points when you share on Facebook! Once you hit 1000 points, you earn $10 off your next order (code provided). You can also help us reduce our carbon footprint with our Jar Recycling program. Simply return 5 jars and recieved 1 product free!
  • How do I track my order?
    Once your order is shipped, you will receive and email with the shipping confirmation and tracking details. In that email, you can click on the USPS link to track your order.
  • Do you offer gift wrapping?
    Yes. Upon request. Keep in mind, gift wrapping requests can take an additional 2-5 days to prepare. Simply leave a note at the end of you order.
  • How do you ship?
    Orders are shipped Monday - Friday, excluding observed holidays within the United States via USPS. Typically, it takes 2 business days for an order to be shipped and 3 - 5 business days to be delivered. Orders shipped to an address in the state of Florida, generally take 1 - 2 business days to be delivered. You will receive email updates on the progress of your order. If you have any additional concerns, please feel free to contact us.
  • How can I track my order?
    You will receive email updates on the progress of your order. Once your order is shipped, you will recieve an email including the tracking information.
  • Can I pick up my orders locally?
    Yes. Select the pickup option at checkout. If you're local to Miami, you can pick up many of our items from Oscar at, Arte Sana location at: 7623 Biscayne Blvd #S1, Miami, FL 33138. You can also visit our STOCKISTS page for stores carrying our products near you. Call ahead for availability.
  • How can I take advantage of free shipping?
    Shipping is free on all orders over $75 and $8.95 flat rate on all orders below $75. * Shipping fees are non-refundable.
  • My order has not shipped yet, can I cancel it?"
    Yes, reach out to me directly to cancel your order. However, requests for order cancellations after the order has shipped will not be accepted.
  • Do you ship internationally?
    At this time, The Healing Junkie is only processing and shipping orders with billing and final destination shipping addresses located in the United States. We are not able to bill or ship to any countries outside of the United States.
  • What is The Healing Junkie's return policy?
    If you are not satisfied with one of our products that you have purchased, you may return the item within 14 days from the date your product was delivered for a full refund of the purchase price, minus the shipping. The item must be returned in good condition, in the original jar to ensure full credit. You can expect a refund in the same form of payment originally used for purchase within 3-5 business days upon us receiving your returned product. We are not responsible for lost, held, damaged or unclaimed packages. As soon as a package ships, we provide tracking information for your convenience. It is your responsibility to be aware of delivery dates and arrange delivery, re-delivery or pick-up with your local post office if it becomes necessary. Sample sizes, personal blends and purchases made with Sorted Olio vouchers are final sale.
  • Are all sales final?
    No. However, shipping fees, sample sizes, specialty blends, specialty capsules, specialty powders, loose herbs, roots, flowers and barks; and purchases made with Sorted Olio vouchers ARE final sale.
  • An item is 'Out of Stock', when will it be available?"
    Once an item is OOS it can take up to 7 weeks to get replenished. An OOS item with have a "Back in Stock" date on the ribbon located on the upper right-hand side of the product image.
  • Do you have a store?
    Not at the moment. However, if you're local to Miami, you can pick up many of our items from Oscar at Arte Sana location at: 7623 Biscayne Blvd #S1, Miami, FL 33138. You can also visit our Stockists page for stores carrying The Healing Junkie products near you. Call ahead for availability.
  • Do you sell on Amazon?
    No. If you see our products listed on those marketplaces, they are being sold by a third party, and we have no way of guaranteeing their quality. We do have stockists that carry a selection of our products - Stockists
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