Saffron for Sleep

A 2025 study found that 30mg of saffron taken daily significantly improved subjective and objective measures of sleep quality in adults 55-85 years old over 4 weeks compared to placebo. Saffron contains crocin and safranal; both of which may enhance non-rapid eye movement (non-REM) sleep. Saffron may also improve symptoms of depression and anxiety. High doses may cause headaches, nausea or other side effects.

Lang L, Ditton A, Stanescu A, Jainani V, McArthur S, Pourtau L, Gaudout D, Pontifex MG, Tsigarides J, Steward T, Sami S, Muller M, Hornberger M, Vauzour D, Lazar AS. A standardised saffron extract improves subjective and objective sleep quality in healthy older adults with sleep complaints: results from the gut-sleep-brain axis randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study. Food Funct. 2025 Aug 26;16(17):6817-6832. doi: 10.1039/d5fo00917k. PMID: 40762630.

Lopresti AL, Smith SJ, Marx W, Díez-Municio M, Morán-Valero MI. An Examination into the Effects of a Saffron Extract (Affron) on Mood and General Wellbeing in Adults Experiencing Low Mood: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial. J Nutr. 2025 Jul;155(7):2300-2311. doi: 10.1016/j.tjnut.2025.05.024. Epub 2025 May 23. PMID: 40414301.

Dormal V, Suchareau M, Copine S, Simar L, Deldicque L. The Effects of Combined Scutellaria and Saffron Supplementation on Mood Regulation in Participants with Mild-to-Moderate Depressive Symptoms: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study. Nutrients. 2025 Feb 26;17(5):809. doi: 10.3390/nu17050809. PMID: 40077679; PMCID: PMC11901551.

Bostan HB, Mehri S, Hosseinzadeh H. Toxicology effects of saffron and its constituents: a review. Iran J Basic Med Sci. 2017 Feb;20(2):110-121. doi: 10.22038/ijbms.2017.8230. PMID: 28293386; PMCID: PMC5339650.

Bilberry, Chokeberry and Honeysuckle Berry May Improve Visual Acuity

A 2024 study found that an extract of chokeberry, honeysuckle berry and bilberry was significantly more effective than placebo at improving visual acuity in people over 50 years old with presbyopia who spend much of their working hours in front of screens. These berries are rich in anthocyanins, a type of antioxidant. They are thought to be anti-inflammatory and work by increasing biosynthesis of rhodopsin, modulating activity of retina enzymes, and improving microcirculation. These berries may cause digestive or other side effects and could affect the enzymes that metabolize certain medications.

Szumny D, Kucharska AZ, Czajor K, Bernacka K, Ziółkowska S, Krzyżanowska-Berkowska P, Magdalan J, Misiuk-Hojło M, Sozański T, Szeląg A. Extract from Aronia melanocarpa, Lonicera caerulea, and Vaccinium myrtillus Improves near Visual Acuity in People with Presbyopia. Nutrients. 2024 Mar 23;16(7):926. doi: 10.3390/nu16070926. PMID: 38612968; PMCID: PMC11013737.

Nevin Sanlier, Ezgi Nur Cinar, Aronia Berry (Aronia melanocarpa L.) as a Bioactive Treasure: Insights into Its Health-Promoting Effects, Journal of Functional Foods, Volume 135, 2025, 107116, ISSN 1756-4646, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jff.2025.107116.

Mastic Gum for Heartburn

A 2025 study found that 1.4g of resin from the mastic tree taken daily was significantly more effective than placebo at improving functional dyspepsia over 4 weeks. Functional dyspepsia included abdominal bloating and heartburn. The word masticate (to chew) is likely derived from the name of this tree located on the island of Chios in Greece. The famous Greek physician Hippocrates also noted the therapeutic properties of mastic resin. Mastic gum may even be effective for gastric ulcers.

Kleftaki SA, Amerikanou C, Tzavara C, Biagki T, Sigala D, Bouziou A, Zouboulaki S, Koutsia A, Smyrnioudis EV, Anapliotis P, Kaliora AC. A randomized, three-way crossover clinical trial on the efficacy of Mastiha based therapies (Pistacia lentiscus var. Chia) in functional dyspepsia. Pharmacol Res. 2025 Dec;222:108019. doi: 10.1016/j.phrs.2025.108019. Epub 2025 Nov 4. PMID: 41197785.

Dabos KJ, Sfika E, Vlatta LJ, Frantzi D, Amygdalos GI, Giannikopoulos G. Is Chios mastic gum effective in the treatment of functional dyspepsia? A prospective randomised double-blind placebo controlled trial. J Ethnopharmacol. 2010 Feb 3;127(2):205-9. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2009.11.021. Epub 2009 Dec 2. PMID: 19961914.

Blomquist SA, Fernandez ML. Chios Mastic Gum: A Promising Phytotherapeutic for Cardiometabolic Health. Nutrients. 2024 Sep 2;16(17):2941. doi: 10.3390/nu16172941. PMID: 39275256; PMCID: PMC11397435.

Huwez FU, Thirlwell D, Cockayne A, Ala'Aldeen DA. Mastic gum kills Helicobacter pylori. N Engl J Med. 1998 Dec 24;339(26):1946. doi: 10.1056/NEJM199812243392618. PMID: 9874617.

Chasteberry for Premenstrual Syndrome

A 2012 study found that a 20mg extract of chasteberry taken daily over 3 menstrual cycles was significantly more effective than placebo at reducing symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. Premenstrual syndrome was assessed by reported levels of irritability, mood alteration, anger, headache, bloating and breast fullness. The German Commission E, an expert committee in Germany to assess herbs, has approved chasteberry use for menstrual irregularities, premenstrual syndrome and cyclical breast discomfort. Chasteberry may cause dry mouth, dizziness or stomach upset among other side effects.

Schellenberg R, Zimmermann C, Drewe J, Hoexter G, Zahner C. Dose-dependent efficacy of the Vitex agnus castus extract Ze 440 in patients suffering from premenstrual syndrome. Phytomedicine. 2012 Nov 15;19(14):1325-31. doi: 10.1016/j.phymed.2012.08.006. Epub 2012 Sep 28. PMID: 23022391.

Blumenthal M. German Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices. Commission E. Herbal Medicine: expanded Commission E monographs. 1st ed. Newton, Mass.: Integrative Medicine Communications, 2000.

N-Acetylcysteine for Cocaine Dependence

A 2020 study found that 1200mg of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) taken three times daily significantly reduced cocaine-seeking behavior compared to placebo over 1 week. Another study showed that people taking NAC were significantly more likely to remain abstinent from cocaine compared to those taking placebo. NAC may cause nausea among other side effects.

Woodcock EA, Lundahl LH, Khatib D, Stanley JA, Greenwald MK. N-acetylcysteine reduces cocaine-seeking behavior and anterior cingulate glutamate/glutamine levels among cocaine-dependent individuals. Addict Biol. 2021 Mar;26(2):e12900. doi: 10.1111/adb.12900. Epub 2020 Mar 24. PMID: 32212237; PMCID: PMC10369173.

LaRowe SD, Kalivas PW, Nicholas JS, Randall PK, Mardikian PN, Malcolm RJ. A double-blind placebo-controlled trial of N-acetylcysteine in the treatment of cocaine dependence. Am J Addict. 2013 Sep-Oct;22(5):443-52. doi: 10.1111/j.1521-0391.2013.12034.x. Epub 2013 May 15. PMID: 23952889; PMCID: PMC4348575.

Alpha Lipoic Acid for Peripheral Neuropathy

A 2020 study found that 600mg of alpha lipoic acid (an antioxidant) taken twice daily was significantly more effective than placebo at treating diabetic peripheral neuropathy over 6 months. Other studies have shown that alpha lipoic acid, in combination with the medication ipidacrine hydrochloride, may prevent peripheral neuropathy caused by a type of chemotherapy. Alpha lipoic acid may cause nausea among other side effects.

El-Nahas MR, Elkannishy G, Abdelhafez H, Elkhamisy ET, El-Sehrawy AA. Oral Alpha Lipoic Acid Treatment for Symptomatic Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy: A Randomized Double-Blinded Placebo-Controlled Study. Endocr Metab Immune Disord Drug Targets. 2020;20(9):1531-1534. doi: 10.2174/1871530320666200506081407. PMID: 32370731.

Holotiuk IS, Kryzhanivska AY, Holotiuk SI, Holotiuk VV, Maliborska SV. EFFECTIVENESS OF ALPHA-LIPOIC ACID AND IPIDACRINE HYDROCHLORIDE IN PREVENTION OF PACLITAXEL-INDUCED PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY ASSESSED BY ELECTRONEUROMYOGRAPHY OF SUPERFICIAL PERONEAL AND SURAL NERVES. Exp Oncol. 2022 Dec;44(4):300-306. doi: 10.32471/exp-oncology.2312-8852.vol-44-no-4.19030. PMID: 36811539.

Holotiuk I, Kryzhanivska A, Holotiuk S, Teren T, Hirna H. PREVENTION OF PACLITAXEL-INDUCED MOTOR NEUROPATHY OF FIBULAR AND TIBIAL NERVES WITH ALPHA-LIPOIC ACID AND IPIDACRIN HYDROCHLORIDE IN BREAST CANCER PATIENTS. Exp Oncol. 2025 Oct 7;47(2):230-237. doi: 10.15407/exp-oncology.2025.02.230. PMID: 41058457.

Medical Marijuana for Alzheimer’s Disease

A 2025 study found that a low dose oral cannabis extract (0.350 mg of THC and 0.245 mg of CBD) was significantly more effective than placebo at improving cognitive assessment scores over 26 weeks in people ages 60-80 years old with Alzheimer’s disease. Marijuana can cause lightheadedness, nausea or other side effects. It can also significantly interact with certain medications like Warfarin. Marijuana is not recommended for people at increased risk for psychosis. Marijuana is not safe during pregnancy. Marijuana is federally illegal.

Cury RM, da Silva T, Cezar-Dos-Santos F, Fakih YRC, Narvaez KAR, Gouvea MC, Espínola C, Ferreira CF, de Castro WAC, Pamplona FA, Silva EGD, Bicca MA, Nascimento FP. A randomized clinical trial of low-dose cannabis extract in Alzheimer's disease. J Alzheimers Dis. 2025 Dec;108(4):1602-1613. doi: 10.1177/13872877251389608. Epub 2025 Oct 29. PMID: 41160460.

Quercetin for Seasonal Allergies

A 2022 study found that 200mg of quercetin daily significantly improved seasonal allergy symptoms compared to placebo over 4 weeks. Quercetin is a flavonoid commonly found in vegetables. It is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting mast cell activity and histamine release. Another study found that quercetin was similarly effective in children. Prolonged intake and high doses could cause stomach discomfort among other side effects.

Yamada S, Shirai M, Inaba Y, Takara T. Effects of repeated oral intake of a quercetin-containing supplement on allergic reaction: a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind parallel-group study. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. 2022 Jun;26(12):4331-4345. doi: 10.26355/eurrev_202206_29072. PMID: 35776034.

Marseglia G, Licari A, Leonardi S, Papale M, Zicari AM, Schiavi L, Ciprandi G; Italian Study Group on Pediatric Allergic Rhinoconjunctivitis. A polycentric, randomized, parallel-group, study on Lertal®, a multicomponent nutraceutical, as preventive treatment in children with allergic rhinoconjunctivitis: phase II. Ital J Pediatr. 2019 Jul 18;45(1):84. doi: 10.1186/s13052-019-0678-y. PMID: 31319883; PMCID: PMC6637471.

Feverfew for Migraines

A 2005 study found that an extract of feverfew 6.25mg taken three times per day was significantly more effective than placebo at reducing the number of migraines per month over a period of 4 months. Feverfew may be less effective than typical medications used for migraine prevention, but side effects in trials have been fewer and less severe. Feverfew can cause gastrointestinal issues among other side effects. Feverfew is not safe to take during pregnancy.

Diener HC, Pfaffenrath V, Schnitker J, Friede M, Henneicke-von Zepelin HH. Efficacy and safety of 6.25 mg t.i.d. feverfew CO2-extract (MIG-99) in migraine prevention--a randomized, double-blind, multicentre, placebo-controlled study. Cephalalgia. 2005 Nov;25(11):1031-41. doi: 10.1111/j.1468-2982.2005.00950.x. PMID: 16232154.

NCCIH. “Feverfew.” NCCIH, Dec. 2020, www.nccih.nih.gov/health/feverfew.

Ashwagandha for Anxiety and Depression

A 2025 study found that a 125mg extract of ashwagandha root significantly improved anxiety and stress scores on questionnaire compared to placebo over 84 days. Another study in 2024 found that a 500mg standardized extract of ashwagandha root daily significantly improved mild to moderate anxiety and depression vs placebo over 90 days. Ashwagandha is thought to increase serotonin levels. Ashwagandha may cause gastrointestinal issues among other side effects. Prolonged use at high doses can lead to liver injury.

Mahadevan M, Gopukumar K, Gupta R, Morde A, Patni P, Srinivas SS, Bhuvanendran A, Phanindra A. A New Ashwagandha Formulation (Zenroot™) Alleviates Stress and Anxiety Symptoms While Improving Mood and Sleep Quality: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Study. Adv Ther. 2025 Oct;42(10):5238-5254. doi: 10.1007/s12325-025-03327-z. Epub 2025 Aug 28. PMID: 40875185; PMCID: PMC12474591.

Majeed M, Nagabhushanam K, Murali A, Vishwanathan DT, Mamidala RV, Mundkur L. A Standardized Withania somnifera (Linn.) Root Extract with Piperine Alleviates the Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression by Increasing Serotonin Levels: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study. J Integr Complement Med. 2024 May;30(5):459-468. doi: 10.1089/jicm.2023.0279. Epub 2023 Oct 25. PMID: 37878284.

“Office of Dietary Supplements - Ashwagandha: Is It Helpful for Stress, Anxiety, or Sleep?” Ods.od.nih.gov, ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Ashwagandha-HealthProfessional/.

Silicone for Scars

Studies have shown that topical silicone can improve scar appearance. A 2019 study found that a new cream of highly selective growth factors in a silicone matrix leads to significantly better improvement in postsurgical scar appearance vs silicone alone over 12 weeks. A 2020 study also found that a similar cream containing growth factors and vitamins can significantly improve hyperpigmentation vs standard therapy. Topical silicone may cause irritation among other side effects.

Christopher I Zoumalan, Shiva C Tadayon, Jason Roostaeian, Anthony M Rossi, Allen Gabriel, Safety and Efficacy of a Scar Cream Consisting of Highly Selective Growth Factors Within a Silicone Cream Matrix: A Double-Blinded, Randomized, Multicenter Study, Aesthetic Surgery Journal, Volume 39, Issue 3, March 2019, Pages 319–330, https://doi.org/10.1093/asj/sjy185

Kalasho BD, Minokadeh A, Zhang-Nunes S, Zoumalan RA, Shemirani NL, Waldman AR, Pletzer V, Zoumalan CI. Evaluating the safety and efficacy of a new topical formulation for hyperpigmentation consisting of highly selective growth factors, tranexamic acid, and other ingredients to hydroquinone 4%: a prospective, randomized, controlled split face study. J Cosmet Sci. 2020 Sep/Oct;71(5):263-290.

Frankincense for Osteoarthritis

A 2025 study found that a standardized resin extract of frankincense (Boswellia serrata) 100mg daily was significantly more effective than placebo at improving pain and function in people with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis over 180 days. Pain and function were assessed with questionnaires and physical testing. MRI also seemed to show increases in cartilage volume, thickness, and joint space width with frankincense.

Another 2025 study found that frankincense resin (300mg) and celery seed extract (250mg) was also more effective than placebo at improving symptoms in people with knee osteoarthritis over 90 days. Frankincense can cause gastrointestinal symptoms among other side effects. Prolonged use at high doses can lead to rare but serious electrolyte imbalances.

Kumar B, Ghaytidak AB, Pandey AK, Somepalli RR, Sarda P, Raychaudhuri SP, Rokkam MP. A Standardized Boswellia serrata Extract Improves Knee Joint Function and Cartilage Morphology in Human Volunteers with Mild to Moderate Osteoarthritis in a Randomized Placebo-Controlled Study. J Am Nutr Assoc. 2025 Jul;44(5):375-386. doi: 10.1080/27697061.2024.2438894. Epub 2024 Dec 19. PMID: 39700461.

Vaidya N, Agarwal R, Dipankar DG, Patkar H, Ganu G, Nagore D, Godse C, Mehta A, Mehta D, Nair S. Efficacy and Safety of Boswellia serrata and Apium graveolens L. Extract Against Knee Osteoarthritis and Cartilage Degeneration: A Randomized, Double-blind, Multicenter, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial. Pharm Res. 2025 Feb;42(2):249-269. doi: 10.1007/s11095-025-03818-2. Epub 2025 Jan 28. PMID: 39875757; PMCID: PMC11880083.

Finsterer J. Boswellia serrata intoxication manifesting with syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion, hyponatremia, seizure, and rhabdomyolysis. Crit Care Sci. 2024 Jun 24;36:e20240049en. doi: 10.62675/2965-2774.20240049-en. PMID: 38922237; PMCID: PMC11152439.

Yarrow for Multiple Sclerosis

A 2019 study found that yarrow significantly decreased the annual relapse rate more than placebo over 1 year, in addition to standard treatment, for people with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. The 500mg daily dose of yarrow also significantly decreased the mean volume change of lesions on MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). Yarrow improved cognitive performance and increased time to first relapse compared to placebo. Yarrow is not safe to use in pregnancy. Yarrow can cause an allergic reaction, digestive issues or other side effects.

Ayoobi F, Moghadam-Ahmadi A, Amiri H, Vakilian A, Heidari M, Farahmand H, Fathollahi MS, Fatemi I, Shafiei SA, Alahtavakoli M, Shamsizadeh A. Achillea millefolium is beneficial as an add-on therapy in patients with multiple sclerosis: A randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial. Phytomedicine. 2019 Jan;52:89-97. doi: 10.1016/j.phymed.2018.06.017. Epub 2018 Jun 27. PMID: 30599916.

Topical Chamomile for Diabetic Neuropathy and Carpal Tunnel

A 2025 study found that topical chamomile oil significantly improved diabetic neuropathy when added to standard medication therapy with gabapentin as compared to placebo oil with gabapentin. Improvement was measured with neurothesiometer (vibration perception) and questionnaires.

Similarly, a 2017 study found that topical chamomile oil significantly improved mild to moderate carpal tunnel syndrome vs placebo in addition to wrist splint over 4 weeks. Compound latency of the median nerve in the chamomile oil group significantly decreased compared to placebo. Some people may be allergic to chamomile and this can be severe in rare cases. Chamomile can also cause drowsiness, gastrointestinal issues or other side effects.

Amiri M, Imani MH, Imani AH, Bazrafshan H, Bazrafshan M, Vardanjani HM, Zohalinezhad ME. Topical chamomile oil as a novel therapeutic intervention for diabetic neuropathy: A randomized double-blind controlled clinical trial. Explore (NY). 2025 Jul-Aug;21(4):103189. doi: 10.1016/j.explore.2025.103189. Epub 2025 May 16. PMID: 40440968.

Hashempur MH, Ghasemi MS, Daneshfard B, Ghoreishi PS, Lari ZN, Homayouni K, Zargaran A. Efficacy of topical chamomile oil for mild and moderate carpal tunnel syndrome: A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2017 Feb;26:61-67. doi: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2016.11.010. Epub 2016 Nov 30. PMID: 28107852.

Valerian Root May Improve Insomnia and Anxiety

A 2024 study found that Valerian extract significantly improved subjective sleep quality, measured sleep latency and sleep efficiency, and subjective anxiety after 56 days compared to placebo. Total sleep time also improved as measured by polysomnography. Valerian has been used with apparent safety for up to 6 weeks in doses of 300-600 milligrams daily. Valerian may cause headache, stomach upset or other side effects. Withdrawal symptoms are possible with prolonged use. Insomnia is complex and it’s always important to address the underlying cause.

Chandra Shekhar H, Joshua L, Thomas JV. Standardized Extract of Valeriana officinalis Improves Overall Sleep Quality in Human Subjects with Sleep Complaints: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Clinical Study. Adv Ther. 2024 Jan;41(1):246-261. doi: 10.1007/s12325-023-02708-6. Epub 2023 Oct 30. PMID: 37899385; PMCID: PMC10796483.

“Valerian.” NCCIH, Oct. 2020, www.nccih.nih.gov/health/valerian.

Turkey Tail Mushroom May Improve Survival for Cancer Patients

Studies in Asia have found improvements in survival with turkey tail mushroom for breast, gastric, colorectal, and lung cancers. Turkey tail mushroom is thought to enhance your own immune response to cancer. Polysaccharide K (PSK), an extract of turkey tail mushroom, is widely used in Japan in addition to standard cancer treatments. Turkey tail mushroom may cause dark stools among other side effects (although these cannot be distinguished from chemotherapy side effects).

Eliza WL, Fai CK, Chung LP. Efficacy of Yun Zhi (Coriolus versicolor) on survival in cancer patients: systematic review and meta-analysis. Recent Pat Inflamm Allergy Drug Discov. 2012 Jan;6(1):78-87. doi: 10.2174/187221312798889310. PMID: 22185453.

Fritz H, Kennedy DA, Ishii M, Fergusson D, Fernandes R, Cooley K, Seely D. Polysaccharide K and Coriolus versicolor extracts for lung cancer: a systematic review. Integr Cancer Ther. 2015 May;14(3):201-11. doi: 10.1177/1534735415572883. Epub 2015 Mar 17. PMID: 25784670.

“Coriolus Versicolor | Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.” Www.mskcc.org, www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/coriolus-versicolor.

Gingko Biloba for Dementia, Tardive Dyskinesia and Tinnitus

A 2012 study showed that a 240mg extract of Gingko biloba was significantly more effective at improving cognition than placebo at 24 weeks in patients with mild to moderate dementia. Studies have also shown Gingko biloba may improve tinnitus (ear ringing). A 2024 study found Gingko biloba was significantly more effective than placebo at reducing symptoms of tardive dyskinesa (a neurological side effect of psychiatric medications) at 12 weeks. Ginkgo biloba may boost antioxidant enzyme activity and may improve circulation. Gingko biloba can interact with many medications. Gingko biloba can cause headache, dizziness, stomach upset or other side effects.

Herrschaft H, Nacu A, Likhachev S, Sholomov I, Hoerr R, Schlaefke S. Ginkgo biloba extract EGb 761® in dementia with neuropsychiatric features: a randomised, placebo-controlled trial to confirm the efficacy and safety of a daily dose of 240 mg. J Psychiatr Res. 2012 Jun;46(6):716-23. doi: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2012.03.003. Epub 2012 Mar 27. PMID: 22459264.

Wang D, Tian Y, Chen J, Zhu R, Li J, Zhou H, Chen D, Wang L, Kosten TR, Zhang XY. Ginkgo biloba for Tardive Dyskinesia and Plasma MnSOD Activity: Association with MnSOD Ala-9Val Variant: A Randomized, Double-blind Trial. Curr Neuropharmacol. 2024;22(14):2443-2452. doi: 10.2174/1570159X22666240530095721. PMID: 38919004; PMCID: PMC11451319.

Radunz CL, Okuyama CE, Branco-Barreiro FCA, Pereira RMS, Diniz SN. Clinical randomized trial study of hearing aids effectiveness in association with Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb 761) on tinnitus improvement. Braz J Otorhinolaryngol. 2020 Nov-Dec;86(6):734-742. doi: 10.1016/j.bjorl.2019.05.003. Epub 2019 Jun 18. PMID: 31300303; PMCID: PMC9422696.

Methylfolate for Depression

A 2014 study found that 15mg of L-methylfolate daily was significantly more effective at treating selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI medication) resistant depression than placebo over 60 days.

Another 2014 study did not show any benefit from adding 5mg of folic acid (not methylated) vs placebo to anti-depressant medication over 12 weeks in patients with moderate to severe depression. High folic acid intake may mask vitamin B12 deficiency, affect medication levels, or have other side effects.

Papakostas GI, Shelton RC, Zajecka JM, Bottiglieri T, Roffman J, Cassiello C, Stahl SM, Fava M. Effect of adjunctive L-methylfolate 15 mg among inadequate responders to SSRIs in depressed patients who were stratified by biomarker levels and genotype: results from a randomized clinical trial. J Clin Psychiatry. 2014 Aug;75(8):855-63. doi: 10.4088/JCP.13m08947. PMID: 24813065.

Bedson E, Bell D, Carr D, Carter B, Hughes D, Jorgensen A, Lewis H, Lloyd K, McCaddon A, Moat S, Pink J, Pirmohamed M, Roberts S, Russell I, Sylvestre Y, Tranter R, Whitaker R, Wilkinson C, Williams N. Folate Augmentation of Treatment--Evaluation for Depression (FolATED): randomised trial and economic evaluation. Health Technol Assess. 2014 Jul;18(48):vii-viii, 1-159. doi: 10.3310/hta18480. PMID: 25052890; PMCID: PMC4780991.

National Institutes of Health. “Office of Dietary Supplements - Folate.” Nih.gov, National Institutes of Health, 2022, ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Folate-HealthProfessional/.

Selenium for Hashimoto’s (Autoimmune) Thyroiditis and Hypothyroidism

A 2016 study found that significantly more patients with subclinical hypothyroidism (thyroid stimulating hormone TSH below 10 mU/L) and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (thyroid peroxidase TPO antibodies) taking 83 mcg selenomethionine daily restored euthyroidism (TSH normalized) vs controls (31.3% vs 3.1%) over 4 months. TPO antibodies also significantly decreased in patients taking selenomethionine vs controls.

Another study in

2017 found that L-selenomethionine plus 600mg myo-

inositol was more effective than L-selenomethionine at decreasing TPO antibodies and improving TSH. Brazil nuts are one of the highest natural sources of selenium. The thyroid contains many selenium dependent proteins that help protect it from damaging free oxygen radicals and help with local activation of thyroid hormones. At high doses (> 400mcg daily), selenium can cause stomach discomfort, rash, fatigue or other side effects. Inositol can also cause stomach upset among other side effects.

Nordio M, Basciani S. Myo-inositol plus selenium supplementation restores euthyroid state in Hashimoto's patients with subclinical hypothyroidism. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. 2017 Jun;21(2 Suppl):51-59. PMID: 28724185.

Pirola I, Gandossi E, Agosti B, Delbarba A, Cappelli C. Selenium supplementation could restore euthyroidism in subclinical hypothyroid patients with autoimmune thyroiditis. Endokrynol Pol. 2016;67(6):567-571. doi: 10.5603/EP.2016.0064. PMID: 28042649.

“Office of Dietary Supplements - Selenium.” Nih.gov, 2025, ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Selenium-HealthProfessional

Astragalus for Anti-Aging

A 2024 study found an astragalus supplement significantly increased telomere length in middle-aged volunteers compared to placebo over 6 months. Telomeres are the protective ends of chromosomes. Shorter telomeres have been linked to more than a threefold higher risk of dying from heart disease. Astragalus is thought to increase telomerase activity (an enzyme that lengthens telomeres). Astragalus may cause stomach discomfort among other side effects.

de Jaeger C, Kruiskamp S, Voronska E, Lamberti C, Baramki H, Beaudeux JL, Cherin P. A Natural Astragalus-Based Nutritional Supplement Lengthens Telomeres in a Middle-Aged Population: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study. Nutrients. 2024 Sep 3;16(17):2963. doi: 10.3390/nu16172963. PMID: 39275278; PMCID: PMC11397652.

Cawthon, R.M.; Smith, K.; O’brien, E.; Sivatchenko, A.; Kerber, R.A. Association between telomere length in blood and mortality in people aged 60 years or older. Lancet 2003, 361, 393–395.