Fortunately, there are a number of vegan iron sources in the form of supplements. One such plant based iron supplement is the Yaga Roots Tonic – Which is our #1 recommendation for an iron tonic. More on that later.
Now, there are certain factors to consider when adding iron to your vegan / vegetarian diet:
Anemia and Iron Deficiency In Vegans
How Do Vegans Increase Iron Levels
Iron Tonic Benefits
Adding An Iron Tonic To Your Diet
How Much Iron Do Vegans Need Daily?
Iron deficiency is a type of anemia that results directly from a lack of iron in your body. It is also the most common type of anemia.
Contrary to popular belief, vegans are not more likely to suffer from an iron deficiency than the average person. However, that does not mean they are not susceptible to the illness.
Some common symptoms of iron deficiency anemia are:
Because anemia and iron deficiency are linked directly to low iron levels, it is important to prioritize increasing it.
5 vegan ways to add iron to your diet
Adding these foods to one’s diet can increase iron levels over time.
However, increasing iron isn’t the only priority here. Vegans need to eat certain foods that help to absorb iron, specifically Vitamin C enriched foods, like citrus fruits and broccoli.
Another way vegans can increase iron levels is by taking iron supplements.
Iron supplements are man-made capsules, pills, gummies, drinks, tonics or powders that, when ingested. Because supplements can take on so many different forms, it is easy to add iron to one’s diet.
An example of this is the Yaga Roots Tonic.
Yaga Roots Tonic is made from a blend of Jamaican-grown herbs which are then brewed in natural spring water – A key ingredient in this tonic is iron, making it a beginner-friendly supplement for new vegans and vegetarians.
So, how can you benefit from taking this tonic?
Image of Yaga Roots Tonic
Those who add an iron tonic to their diet lower their risk of iron deficiencies and other notable health risks (like heart disease).
Choosing an iron tonic is entirely based on your own preferences, but our Yaga Roots Tonic remains one of the best on the market.
Simply take a shot of this tonic, then chase with water afterwards: You’re done!
The human body needs iron for a number of reasons, but mainly for blood production.
Iron makes up a huge part of hemoglobin, which is a protein found in red blood cells. These cells carry oxygen from your lungs to other parts of the body. Without iron, there won’t be enough red blood cells to carry oxygen around the body, resulting in fatigue.
There are two types of iron found in food: Iron from animals (or heme) and iron from plants (non-heme).
So, unlike popular belief, vegans do ingest iron from their plant-based diet. However, this iron is not nearly as potent as the ones found in poultry, fish and other meats.
This is because our bodies absorb iron from animals better than iron from plants. This is just one reason why a vegan or vegetarian may develop iron deficiency anemia.
Studies have shown that vegan women need 32 milligrams of iron per day, while vegan men need 14 milligrams of iron per day. This is roughly 1.8x more iron than what’s found in people who eat meat.
While vegans and vegetarians get iron from plants, this is not easily absorbed by the body. Due to this, iron deficiency is very common among them.
Iron deficiency or anemia is caused by a lack of adequate amounts of iron in the body. Iron is crucial for red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout the body.
Fortunately, iron deficiency can be prevented. We all need to ensure that we are ingesting the right amount of iron daily: Vegans and vegetarians are no exception.
Adding iron-rich plants to your diet can significantly raise your iron levels to the recommended amounts, specifically 32 milligrams for women and 14 milligrams for men.
However, taking an iron supplement like the Yaga Roots Tonic is another great way – Because of the wide variety of natural ingredients, it’s an excellent source of iron. It is also a safe and reliable option for anyone looking for a quick and easy daily supplement.
Shop Yaga Roots Tonic while it’s still in stock!
]]>Symptoms may range from menstrual cramps to nausea to heavy bleeding – Luckily, herbs can provide all-natural aid almost immediately!
In this post, we’ll dive into 4 herbal remedies that can provide relief for your period pains, their benefits and their side effects. Namely:
Image of Jamaican Dog Blood Bush
Also known as Rivinia Humilis, the Jamaican Dog Blood Bush is recognized for its fertility properties. It is commonly referred to as “a girl’s best friend”, because it mainly improves female reproductive health!
Inflammation worsens symptoms of PMS, especially cramps and irregularity. Jamaican Dog Blood Bush has very potent anti-inflammation properties -- Which helps to relieve menstrual cramps and minimises the frequency of irregular periods.
The recommended dosage is 1 cup of Dog Blood Bush per day for at least 1 month. Start 3 days before your next period is due, then continue taking daily for 7 days.
One of the main benefits of using the Dog Blood Bush involves its anti-inflammatory properties – Due to this, the herb reduces inflammation by actively unblocking the fallopian tubes.
It can also:Women who are pregnant are not recommended to take the Dog Blood Bush. This also applies to children and breastfeeding women.
Image of packaged Jamaican Dog Blood Bush - Yaga Lifestyle
You can purchase your own Dog Blood Bush here – Where it is harvested by hand in the wild Jamaican forest, then air-dried in the shade. Yaga Lifestyle ensures that it retains its healing properties.
Image of Blue Vervain root
Reaped from the foothills of Jamaica’s Blue Mountains, the Blue Vervain plant is one of the most popular herbs on the island. It is considered a ‘super-herb’, as all parts of the plant can be reaped for added benefits.
Low estrogen is a significant reason why menstrual symptoms occur every month. These symptoms include breast tenderness, irregular periods, fatigue, mood swings and irritability.
The Blue Vervain plant promotes estrogen by acting as a hormone balancer. Because of its dopamine count, the Blue Vervain also minimizes mood swings and calms the nerves too!
Like Dog Blood Bush, the Blue Vervain also reduces inflammation.
Studies have shown that those with kidney issues are more likely to experience irritated kidneys and inflammation. They are urged to avoid it.
Image of packaged Blue Vervain Root - Yaga Lifestyle
Blue Vervain can be purchased directly through Yaga Lifestyle here – Guaranteed to be pure and all-natural!
Periods are especially frustrating when progesterone levels are low -- This results in irregular and absent periods.
Cerasee has significant amounts of Vitamin C, which increases progesterone levels when ingested. During menstruation, we lose iron during bleeding, but Vitamin C helps to absorb additional iron.
Cerasee tea is also known for relieving menstrual cramps!
Image of Bitter Purge package
While we do not offer Cerasee on its own, we do have a detox fitted with 3 purifying herbs – Bitter Melon (Cerasee), Bitter Wood (Quassia) and Rice Bitters! You can order our all natural detox here.
Studies have shown that chemicals like prostaglandins cause painful period cramps and bleeding, as it triggers uterine spasms.
The Jamaican Dandelion Root contains Vitamin E -- Nature's very own ibuprofen. This effectively blocks the production of prostaglandins and lessens bleeding during menstruation.
A British study found that ingesting Vitamin E supplements (eg: Dandelion) 2 days before a period siginificantly impacts PMS symptoms like cramping and heavy flow.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as children, should avoid taking Dandelion root, tea or supplements.
If you are scheduled for surgery in two weeks or less, do not consume any Dandelion during the time leading up to it.
Image of Jamaican Dandelion package
Your best bet is to order Dandelion through Yaga Lifestyle here – We promise that your Dandelion will be 100% all natural, just how your body needs it!
The Duck Flower Detox is one of the most potent ways to cleanse the body of toxins, improve digestion and aid in weight loss.
It works by targeting areas of the digestive and reproductive systems for up to 8 hours. This leads to some adverse side effects like nausea and increased bowel movements.
Once through with the cleanse, users have reportedly felt more renewed and energetic. This is brought on by the removal of excess mucus from the body, as well as the elimination of impurities from within.
Most detoxes only offer digestive and weight loss support. However, the Duck Flower Detox provides a deep and thorough cleansing process – From the user’s mind straight to their intestinal tract.
Found mainly in The Caribbean, Latin and Central America, the Duck Flower is known widely for its strong purging potential.
In this post, we’ll highlight all the things you need to know about the Duck Flower prior to your first use, namely:
The duck flower targets various parts of the body. In order to get the most out of your detox, it is best to learn as much as possible about it.
It offers significant improvements to the body’s digestive system. One of its main targets is the intestines – It removes both parasites and impacted waste that may inhabit the intestinal tract.
One of the main benefits of using the duck flower is its cleansing properties. The cleanse removes excess mucus where it should not be. This process affects the entire body.
After taking the duck flower cleanse, users have reportedly experienced more restful nights and better sleep patterns.
Women can expect to see improvements in their reproductive system. Notably, the duck flower detox lessens the chance of irregular periods and reduces menstrual cramps.
Whether you choose to eat the flower whole or blend it into a drink, the form doesn’t affect how your body absorbs the nutrients: The benefits are the same.
Image of side view of Duck Flower
Our first tip is to stay home on whatever day you choose to detox.
The symptoms can range from moderate to severe in a matter of hours, so you are better off being close to a bathroom when that time does come.
Remember: one duck flower equals one adult dose!
As the purge will affect your entire body, you won't be able to hold in much food.
You'll need to have a light breakfast: Our go-to includes fruit and water or tea.
Next, remove your duck flower from its packaging. We ensure that each duck flower’s nutrients are preserved and fresh, so you will need to rehydrate the plant:
The side effects start to kick in roughly 3 hours after it is ingested.
For the next 4 to 8 hours, you must drink adequate amounts of liquid with electrolytes.
Given the strong effects of this detox, you will most likely vomit or defecate. This means that the detox is purging your body of its impurities and toxins!
Afterwards, rehydrate with either coconut water or clean water.
After about 8 hours, the detox will be complete.
While some symptoms may linger beyond those 8 hours, the majority have now subsided.
Here are some tips for ending your duck flower cleanse:
Consuming the flower is an easy-enough part of the process, but the aftermath and side effects have turned people away and excluded many.
But, why is that?
Image of bottom view of Duck Flower
It is important to note that the Duck Flower Detox is not for the faint at heart - It remains one of the most aggressive forms of herbal detoxification on the market today.
The most common side effects of the duck flower detox are bowel movements and nausea, in which users can vomit on as much as 5 separate occasions.
The flower aims to remove as many impurities as humanly possible.
With that, potential users should watch out for other common side effects:
Under no circumstances should pregnant women take the duck flower detox.
Reportedly, its abortifacient properties increase the likelihood of miscarriages and spontaneous abortions.
Nursing mothers and children should also avoid taking the duck flower detox due to its powerful nature.
Given these strong side effects, all potential users should exercise caution and consult their health professional beforehand.
It is heavily recommended that users undergo the duck flower detox no more than twice a year - Once a year is enough time to cleanse the body of excess mucus, impurities and toxins.
Image of Yaga Lifestyle’s Duck Flower Detox
Stinking Toe is the fruit of the West Indian Locust tree (Hymenaea courbaril) that is found in Jamaica, as well as Brazil, Mexico and Central and South America. It is known as Stinky Toe, Jatoba, Guapinol, Locust Fruit, and Courbaril. The mature fruit is a hard brown pod, shaped like a big toe. When the pod is cracked open, the flesh inside is a cream-colored powder with 3 or 4 large black seeds under the flesh.
Does stinking toe fruit live up to its name? Yes and no. It does have a pungent odor when the pods are freshly cracked, but the sweet powdery flesh inside has a creamy banana/vanilla taste that goes well with smoothies, porridges, cakes and sweet breads.
This fruit is rather underrated even though it comes packed with medicinal and nutritional benefits. It contains many minerals like iron, calcium, and vitamins. It is also known to be a natural energy booster and helps to alleviate headaches, asthma, diarrhea, general fatigue, rheumatism, constipation, prostate problems, athlete's foot, laryngitis, nail fungus, and bronchitis. There doesn’t seem to be a lot it can’t do!
Because it is so rich in magnesium, vitamin C, potassium, calcium, and phosphorous, with even more potassium in it than bananas and more calcium than milk, it is considered to be a natural energetic. But let’s look at all the health benefits:
Nutrition Facts per 100g serving
Stinking Toe Punch Recipe
You can pair Stinking Toe with other fruits like passion fruit and pineapple and in the Caribbean, it is even made into ice cream.
Ingredients
Directions
Blend the stinking toe fruit pulp with the spring water and cane juice. Add nutmeg or any spice of your choice and blend briefly. Serve chilled. Its pulp is also great for smoothies.
Even though the children enjoy eating the pulp raw, the stinking toe is used a lot for baking, cooking, and blending. The Jamaicans blend the pulp with sugar, water, and some spices for a delicious beverage. Back in Brazil, the fruit is known as jatobá, where bakers use the dried powder of the pulp to make a biscuit type of pastry called broinha. In Central and South America, the fruit is used for its medicinal benefits.
Kalawalla (Calaguala) is a potent alkaline herb that grows in the rainforests of Jamaica. It is a fern of the Polypoides genus, the most popular strains being Polypodium leucotomos and Polypodium decumanum also known as Samambaia. Kalawalla also grows in the rainforests of some South and Central American countries such as Honduras, Peru and Mexico, where its leaves and rhizomes are used for making herbal remedies. Modern researchers have recently caught on to the amazing healing benefits of kalawalla fern, and there are now many studies and findings that prove effectiveness of this herbal remedy.
Kalawalla is reported to address autoimmune disorders such as Lupus, Multiple Sclerosis, Vitiligo, Psoriasis, and others, by modulating the immune system to resolve imbalances that cause overactive immune cells to attack healthy human cells and tissue. The components of this plant are so intelligent that it selectively corrects the actions of overactive immune cells. It's immuno-modulating properties has been extensively studied for the treatment of Vitiligo. where it is proven effective for treatment.
Vitiligo is a chronic skin condition in which patches of the skin loses its pigmentation due to overactive immune cells attacking melanocytes that give pigment to the skin. Kalawalla both modulates the overactive immune cells and aids in UV sun protection of the parts of skin that have already lost pigment. It is also reported to enable repigmentation of the skin where pigment was previously lost.
Kalawalla extracts are reported to decrease the over-growth of skin cells and skin thickening caused by psoriasis. It is said to reduce the severity and extent of skin lesions in psoriasis patients. Kalawalla also has anti-inflammatory capabilities which can aid in soothing the pain that psoriasis flare-up may cause.
Kalawalla contains an abundance of sun-protective and antioxidant properties that impart anti-aging and UV protection benefits. It can reduce the recurrent harshness caused by the polymorphous light eruption. It reduces redness from damaged skin as well as relieves pain and speeds us the healing process. It can be considered as form of natural sunscreen. Kalawalla is reported to have anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant components that combat free radicals to prevent premature aging of the skin.
Kalawalla is known to improve Multiple Sclerosis (MS). MS is an autoimmune disease that affects the transmission of information to the nerves in the body. This can affect the brain and spinal cord which are the nerve centres of the body. Because of the interruption of nerve signals, movement of the limbs and other extremities are affected causing problematic lack of sensation in areas of the body. Kalawalla helps to relieve that numbness and also decreases fatigue. It aids by calming down but not suppressing the immune system as MS is known for having an abnormal imbalance of suppressors. As MS may also cause problems with thought process, Kalawalla can be used to restore and rebuild mental strength.
Kalawalla can also be found as part of Yaga Lifestyle’s wide range of natural herbal products. Their Jamaican Kalawalla Herb is 100% pure Kalawalla leaves and rhizomes harvested by hand in the Jamaican rainforest where it grows wild. Our packaged powdered Kalawalla can be used to make a decoction tea or made into Kalawalla capsules. Shop Kalawalla Herb here
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In Jamaica the herb called Dog Blood Bush (botanical name Rivina humilis) is widely used to resolve womb-related conditions such as infertility, irregular periods, painful periods, fibroids and cysts.
This potent fertility herb is deep-rooted in traditional Jamaican bush medicine, with teachings of its benefits being passed down through generations. Grandmothers teach their daughters, who in turn teach their daughters to take Dog Blood Bush when faced with reproductive challenges.
Now this popular Jamaican herb has been discovered by the mainstream and its effectiveness is being put to question. Can Dog Blood Bush really help with infertility? To a skeptic it may sound like common folklore, but there is some scientific basis to these claims.
Research has shown that Dog Blood Bush is a potent anti-inflammatory that targets inflammation in the uterus. Specifically, it resolves inflammation of the Fallopian tubes allowing the easy fertilization of the ovum. This anti-inflammatory property is why it is also known as "inflammation weed".
Dog Blood Bush also attends to fibroids and cysts in the womb, and is known to relieve painful period cramps and resolve irregular periods. That's why this herb is known in Jamaica as a young girl's best friend!
Though it is most noted for its fertility benefits, Dog Blood Bush also offers several other healing properties:
Treatment of wounds, bruises, and cuts
The tea from this plant is noted to be very effective in rapidly healing wounds, bruises, and cuts – it prevents the wounds from becoming infected. You wash wounds and cuts with the tea three times a day until you see healing occurring.
Relieves headaches, muscle pains, and joint pain
The tea from the Dog Blood Bush has been successfully used for treating pain and headaches.
Treatment of skin conditions
Prepare a tea from the leaves and add it to your bath to resolve skin conditions such as eczema, rash, psoriasis. Your skin will thank you!
Treatment of gastrointestinal problems
Dog Blood Bush tea is also reputed to resolve gastrointestinal problems, enhancing the normal functioning of the digestive system.
Respiratory support
Dog Blood Bush is also used to resolve respiratory complaints, specifically in the treatment of catarrh, also coughs, colds, and fever.
It is typically recommended to take this herb up to 3 times daily for two weeks, then break for two weeks before repeating the cleanse. It’s also important that you watch your diet in this time - an alkaline diet is ideal for healing!
Dog Blood Bush is often combined with Jamaican Blue Vervain (botanical name Stachytarpheta jamaicensis) also known as Vervine. Together these herbs work in synergy to support optimal reproductive health.
Centuries before the advent of expensive fertility treatments, Jamaican women have been using this herb and getting real results! Nature has provided this amazing medical chest and there are natural remedies like Dog Blood Bush that can improve reproductive health and fertility. Remember it always seems impossible until you yourself try. Please note, this herb is not recommended for use by women who are pregnant. Always consult your health professional before taking any herbal product.
Shop Jamaican Dog Blood Fertility Bush here. It is wild-harvested in Jamaica where it grows naturally, then air-dried in the shade to preserve all healing compounds, cut up and packaged in Kraft paper pouches for shipping worldwide.
Jamaica is known to have some of the most potent healing herbs in the world, including many popular remedies for respiratory illness such as the cold, flu, or even the big 'C" that is currently a full blown pandemic!
Use these Jamaican herbs to build up your immune defenses and support optimal respiratory health.
Leaf of Life (Bryophyllum pinnatum) is a succulent plant that is a good Jamaican remedy for bronchial problems, colds, chest congestion, flu, asthma and shortness of breath. The common names are Tree of Life, Miracle leaf, Wonder of the world, and Live forever. It is has been shown to rid the body of mucus when it is drunk as a tea, juiced or even eaten raw. It is also said to address asthma and shortness of breath, and also boosts the immune system.
Jamaican Guaco Tea (quaco) is a well-known herbal remedy for upper respiratory problems including colds/flu, coughs, bronchitis, asthma and some allergies. It is an effective natural bronchodilator, expectorant and cough suppressant to relieve upper respiratory discomfort. It is also effective at soothing sore throats, laryngitis, and reducing fever. Wildcrafted Jamaican Guaco Herb is available here.
John Charles herb is considered a household staple in Jamaica for respiratory ailments. Everyone has it growing in their yard! It is used both internally and externally. Internally it can be consumed as a tea or even used externally as a balm or tincture for congestion relief.
Jack-in-a-Bush is a flowering shrub that can be found in all over Jamaica. Herbalists recommend inhaling the pungent, aromatic smell from the crushed leaf to bring relief from nasal congestion. The leaves can be crushed in the hands or ground to release the healing aroma. The leaf of this herb can also be steeped in hot milk, or used as to make herbal tea for treating bronchitis, asthma along with the cold and the flu. Tests conducted by the University of the West Indies also show that Jack -in-a-Bush has anti-inflammatory properties.
Also known as the bees bush, the bright pink flowers of rice and peas bush can be see along many roadsides in Jamaica. It is popular known as "cold bush" and is highly regarded for addressing the flu and colds. It is also used to relieve period pains and muscle cramps, but its primary use is to support the lungs.
Jamaican fever grass, also known as lemon grass, is an aromatic healing herb that is a favorite of many due to its pleasant taste and aroma. It got the name "fever" grass because it is typically used to reduce fevers. It is also reputed to relieve nasal congestion and sinusitis and dry cough. You can take fever grass as a tea, or add it to a bowl of hot water and hold your head over the bowl with a towel and inhale the steam herbs.
This herb needs no introduction as it is known worldwide for its soothing effect on the respiratory tract. It can be made into a tea or used in a steam bath to address congestion, sore throat, bronchitis, sinusitis, pulmonary tuberculosis and microbial lung diseases. It can also be used to control typhoid, scarlet fever, diabetes and intermittent fevers.
Spanish Needle is known to possess anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiseptic,
antimicrobial and antidysenteric properties. A tea drawn with Spanish Needle may be used as a natural mouthwash to combat sore throat, and odour causing germs along with sore gums and mouth. The herb is also beneficial in treating joint discomfort, swellings, colic, stomach ailments along with the cold and flu. The leaves may be eaten raw like green vegetables or steamed with other greens such as callaloo and cabbage to create a tasty and healthy meal that is loaded with vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients.
Nearly every Jamaican should be well acquainted with the bitter taste of Cerasee aka Bitter Melon. This infamous Jamaican herb is typically used as a blood cleanser, however, it is also used to rid mucus build-up in the respiratory tract.
Breathe Easy Herbal Blend is a carefully balanced combination of the BEST Jamaican herbs that support the respiratory and immune systems. These "cold bush" herbs have been used in Jamaica for centuries to address respiratory problems such as colds, influenza(flu), coughs, bronchitis, asthma, allergies, and to boost the immune system against respiratory pathogens such as viruses and bacteria. The herbs in this blend include (but are not limited to):
- Leaf of Life (Bryophyllum pinnatum)
- Guaco (Mikania micrantha)
- Rice and Peas Bush
- John Charles (Hyptis verticillata)
- Jack in a Bush (Eupatorium odoratum)
Breathe Easy Herbal Blend cleanses the Respiratory system of excess mucus so you can BREATHE with EASE to allow the efficient flow of oxygen through the body. It also supports healthy immune function against respiratory and other infections by boosting the body's natural ability to eliminate pathogens. Order your Breathe Easy Herbal Tea here.