The Adrenal Glands and That Important Hormone Cortisol

Albert Einstein is reputed to have said that he studied science in order to better ‘understand God’s thoughts’ as He created this wonderful world. As I have studied anatomy and physiology and the healing properties of ‘God’s pharmacy’—for a lifetime—I am, like Einstein, absolutely in awe of the genius of our Creator and of His overwhelming love for each of us!

With plants, in either herb or essential oil form, we have been given wonderful ways to nourish and heal our bodies. I have also been fascinated by and love the study of anatomy (where things are placed in the body) and physiology (what their functions are and why they are where they are)! Placing those little adrenal glands right on top of the kidneys makes perfect, beautiful, harmonious sense! Because of their importance to survival, they are placed with each other in a well-protected spot in the body!

Most of this perhaps too-long article is taken directly from part of what I teach about the Endocrine System during Foot Zone Therapy classes at Butterfly Expressions, LLC in Clifton, Idaho.

The Adrenal Glands

The adrenal glands are two bean-shaped glands that lie on top of the kidneys. The adrenal glands are, structurally and functionally, two endocrine organs in one. The adrenal glands consist of the glandular part—the adrenal cortex, and neural (nerve) tissue—the medulla.

Adrenal Medulla

When the body is (or perceives itself to be) under attack physically or emotionally, the sympathetic nervous system sends signals to the adrenal medulla and from there to the body/mind/spirit complex. Anatomy books will tell you that these signals are interpreted as instructions to either “flee”, “prepare to fight”, or simply “freeze” in place, either physically or emotionally.

It was pointed out to me recently that there may be a fourth possibility. This was presented to me as a state in which the person goes into, or lives their entire life, trying to please others in order to stay out of trouble. Following the ‘f’ line of ‘flee’, ‘fight’, or ‘freeze’, the word ‘fawn’ was proposed. Wow! This word ‘fawn’ opened new doors in my mind and in my work with people in the classroom and other settings!

The hormones secreted by the adrenal medulla, primarily epinephrine (also called adrenaline) and norepinephrine (also called noradrenaline), are meant to aid us in coping with short-term stresses. These adrenal hormones increase heart rate, blood pressure, and blood glucose levels and dilate the small passageways of the lungs. The results are more oxygen and glucose in the blood and more rapid circulation to the body organs—especially to the brain, the muscles, and the heart. The body is, very quickly, better able to respond to a short-term stressor.

The body now has the necessary energy and the resources to fight harder, run faster, be more alert, and be able to think more quickly and effectively, and even develop an anti-inflammatory response should an injury occur.  These hormones give us the energy we need in times of emergency, but they can be harmful in many ways if we insist on staying at “full alert” all of the time.

The Adrenal Cortex

The adrenal glands are the primary manufacturing site for cortisol, an absolutely essential hormone! Cortisol is so essential that it will be discussed later, in a separate section of this newsletter.
The adrenal cortex is the outer portion of the adrenal glands and is responsible for producing vital steroid hormones that are derived from cholesterol. (Yes, cholesterol is necessary to the body! No space to elaborate on that fact here.)

Some Other Functions Influenced by the Hormones Produced by the Adrenal Cortex:

•  aids in the regulation of blood pressure
•  maintains fluid balance in the body to prevent dehydration
•  facilitate the absorption or excretion of trace minerals
•  regulate the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats
•  plays a part in the production of glucose and increases blood glucose levels in response to stress
•  release amino acids from the body when their work is done
•  strengthens the contractions of the cardiac muscle
•  increase water retention to prevent dehydration
•  stimulate various anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic responses in the body
•  enhance muscle mass and stimulate cell growth,
•  produces precursor hormones for the development of some sex characteristics
•  plays a significant role in libido and mood
•  aids the body in detoxification from heavy metals and other toxins
•  affects memory, learning, sleep patterns, and mood
•  ovarian and prostate function
•  bone, muscles, and connective tissue integrity

Some of the hormones produced in the adrenal cortex are important in helping us cope with prolonged or ongoing types of stress, such as the death of a loved one or a traumatic injury or surgery.  If these hormones do their job well enough, the situation will be resolved without lasting damage to the body or the mind.  However, if the stress—or our perception of intense stress—continues on and on, the adrenal cortex may simply “burn out”. There are degrees of adrenal “burnout,” beginning with fatigue and blood sugar disorders.

Adrenal Fatigue (Burn-Out)

There are basically 4 ways that adrenal fatigue can manifest:

1. 1.  The parasympathetic nervous system has not communicated its “rest and regroup” message to the adrenal glands. The system is still operating at high levels in every respect.
   2.  The cortisol levels remain high, but parasympathetic nervous signals to the immune system have become confused, and the immune system is compromised.
   3.  Cortisol levels are low, but the nerves are on high alert. The result is inflammation and pain somewhere, or everywhere, in the body.
   4.  Both the adrenal cortex and adrenal medulla are exhausted! Ongoing Adrenal Fatigue (sometimes referred to as Chronic Fatigue) occurs. (As a young man, my husband was diagnosed with Chronic Adrenal Fatigue. It took us years to understand and correct this situation!)

Symptoms of decreasing adrenal function include: weakness, lethargy, dizziness, headaches, memory problems, food cravings, mood swings—hyperactivity followed by depression and fatigue—aching joints, allergies, blood sugar disorders, and a need for frequent naps, especially in the afternoon.

Factors Which Negatively Affect the Adrenal Glands

The everyday stresses of life—family, employment, marriage issues, children, prescription and other drugs, traumatic injuries, infections, improper dietary habits, caffeine, carbonated beverages, smoking, lack of relaxation and rest, lack of sleep, lack of exercise or excessive exercise, psychological stress, the death of a loved one all impact the important adrenal glands!

Our insistence on living in fear, rather than in faith, can damage our adrenals to the point that they are not helping us but are struggling, malfunctioning, and making matters worse. Continually running faster than we have strength also wears on the adrenals

Managing the stressors in our lives and choosing proper responses to them is absolutely critical to good health and the ability to enjoy our lives and our families.

The Pineal Gland

This gland is mentioned here, very briefly, because this gland directly and dramatically impacts the adrenal glands—especially when the body is under a great deal of stress or stress that is ongoing for a length of time!

In classes that I teach, particularly the Endocrine portion of Foot Zone classes at Butterfly Expressions, LLC, this very important gland is given a great deal of time in order to foster understanding of how to keep this gland functioning. Suffice it to say, for this article today, that the Pineal Gland absolutely and without exception demands light—sunlight or, at the very least, full spectrum lighting when indoors!

The Impact of the Adrenal Glands on the Thyroid and Kidneys

Stress will, of course, quickly damage the adrenal glands. Since the adrenal glands and the thyroid are in constant communication with each other, malfunction of the thyroid gland is imminent and almost unavoidable. The kidneys will also be unavoidably damaged. The body is a ‘unit’ comprised of systems that impact each other constantly!

The adrenal glands are so important—and adrenal fatigue so debilitating—that my daughter and I thought getting this information out was important enough to create two YouTube videos. We collaborated on two such videos, one titled Adrenal Fatigue and the other titled Chronic Fatigue.

Cortisol

As mentioned previously in this article, cortisol is a vitally important steroid hormone that is produced and released by the adrenal glands. Our bodies continually monitor cortisol levels and work hard to keep those levels within a healthy range. Both excess cortisol and deficient cortisol levels can be precursors to a great many health problems! Cortisol impacts in some way nearly every organ system of the human body!  

Key effects include:

•  cortisol levels that are too high or too low
• immune system deficiency or hyper-vigilance (auto-immune disorders)
• no “brake” or emotional control of stress response, physically as well as emotionally
• past traumas feel as though they are happening in the here and now  (PTSD)
• inability to process past trauma and determine how it fits into life in the present time
• inability to learn from past mistakes in order to keep from repeating them over and over
• fibromyalgia
• chronic fatigue and adrenal failure
• sleepiness during the afternoon

What causes high cortisol?

• prolonged use of corticosteroid medications (for example, prednisone or dexamethasone)
• ACTH-secreting tumors—Pituitary gland cancers, for example
• adrenal tumors that are producing excess cortisol

Signs of high cortisol levels can be varied and may include:

• weight gain, especially in the face and abdomen
• fatty deposits between the shoulders (buffalo hump)
• wide purple stretch marks on the abdomen
• weakness in the upper arms and thighs
• elevated blood sugar (which can progress to type 2 diabetes)
• high blood pressure
• excessive hair growth in women (hirsutism)
• reduced bone density and increased fracture risk
• sleep issues
• anxiety
• weakened immune system

How can high cortisol be lowered?

Lifestyle changes are a good place to start!

• Make quality sleep a priority. Chronic sleep deprivation, even shift work, can be a problem.
• Stay physically active. Regular exercise improves sleep and stress coping ability.
• Practice relaxation techniques: deep breathing exercises, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation activate the “rest and digest” aspects of the parasympathetic nervous system.
• Nurture social connections that are supportive and give you an opportunity to relax.
•  Learn to include enjoyable activities and laughter. These positive emotions release endorphins that counter stress hormones.
• Manage ongoing stressors with time management, boundary-setting, and, if necessary, therapy or counseling

Remember that “worry ends where faith begins.”

What causes low cortisol?

• autoimmune disorders in which the body mistakenly attacks the adrenal glands
• infections such as tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and fungal infections attacking the adrenal glands
• hemorrhage/bleeding into the adrenal glands
• cancer cells that spread to the adrenal glands.
• genetic disorders that impair either the development or function of the adrenal glands
• pituitary tumors or gland malfunction; bleeding or loss of blood flow affecting the pituitary
• medication withdrawal—suddenly stopping long-term corticosteroid drugs (prednisone or hydrocortisone) used for such things as asthma or arthritis
• hypothalamic dysfunction

Signs of low cortisol levels can be varied and may include:

• persistent fatigue
• persistent fatigue
• unintentional weight loss and poor appetite
• low blood pressure (which may cause lightheadedness)
• general weakness and sometimes abdominal pain or nausea
• general muscle weakness
• purpleish stretch marks on the belly

How can low cortisol be raised?

Non-prescription drug methods to improve cortisol levels include:

• Increasing sodium (salt—a good one) intake. This is especially important during hot weather, heavy exercise, or periods of diarrhea.
• Focus your daily diet on whole foods, lean proteins, calcium, and Vitamin D while avoiding excessive sugars and processed foods.

See the full list of topics.

In This Issue

^LeAscendance Essential Oil Blend
Redmond Re-Lyte
Super Antioxidants
July Essential Oils
Featured Herbs
Featured Blessed Waters
Featured Blend – ^LeLife Force
Featured Single – Neroli
Evening Primrose Carrier Oil
Featured Kit

^LeAscendance Essential Oil Blend

This is a very new product! The first attempts and variances were first brought to my attention just a few weeks ago by the talented employee who was creating it. Good job! I am going to put the entire description as it was created to be added to the Butterfly Express website shortly. I love this blend and certainly appreciated it even more on the stressful day it was presented to me!

INGREDIENTS: Bergamot, Clary Sage, Frankincense, Lavender, Marjoram, Nerolina, Orange Sweet, Rosemary, Ylang

AFFINITY FOR: Adrenals, nervous system, hormones, endocrine system, immune system

APPLICATION: ^LeAscendance may be diffused, added to a bath, or applied topically over the mid-back to support the adrenal glands. A favorite application is to apply it to the feet at bedtime to encourage restful sleep. Diffusing at night may help relieve stress and promote relaxation. For quick relaxation support, place a few drops into an essential oil inhaler or onto a cotton ball and inhale as needed.

AROMATIC CONSIDERATIONS: ^LeAscendance has an herbaceous, slightly menthol aroma with a spicy licorice-like base and soft floral undertones. The fragrance may vary considerably from person to person when applied topically. The fragrances of the individual essential oils in this blend have been studied for their supportive effects on the nervous system and healthy cortisol balance.

EMOTIONAL – SPIRITUAL – MENTAL ASPECTS: ^LeAscendance may help calm tension, nervousness, and anxiety. This blend contains essential oils that have been studied for their ability to support serotonin production, helping to uplift mood and encourage a deep sense of emotional well-being.

PHYSICAL ASPECTS: ^LeAscendance is formulated to support the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (H-P-A) axis, which plays a role in stress response, immune function, digestion, mood, emotions, and energy regulation. It may help the body maintain a healthy cortisol balance and ease stress-related tension associated with prolonged fight-or-flight responses. ^LeAscendance is also known for its calming influence on the nervous system and its supportive affinity for emotional balance. In addition, it may help tone and stimulate the vagus nerve, which assists the body in shifting out of chronic stress mode and back into a more relaxed state.

GENERAL INFORMATION: ^LeAscendance is an excellent blend for supporting the body during times of stress and may help promote relaxation, healthy blood pressure, and a balanced heart rate. Aromatic inhalation directly influences the brain and may help modulate brain wave activity, particularly in areas associated with memory and emotions, such as the amygdala and hippocampus. Individuals experiencing prolonged stress may feel more relaxed or sleepy after application as the body begins to unwind from chronic overstimulation.

CAUTIONS: This blend contains Clary Sage, which is strongly contraindicated during pregnancy. Avoid use during pregnancy or if you have epilepsy. ^LeAscendance also contains essential oils known to support lower blood pressure, so use caution if you are prone to low blood pressure.

Redmond Re-Lyte

Re-Lyte Hydration

This product is a line-up of variously flavored, high-quality hydration supplement that combines the Redmond line of ancient sea salt (Redmond Salt) with essential electrolytes and important trace minerals to promote hydration for better health, energy levels, and stamina. Their clean formulations are meant to be added to water for daily replenishment of electrolytes and valuable minerals.

Redmond Salt is a key ingredient in these electrolyte mixes. I can personally attest to the quality and cleanliness of the salt produced by the Redmond company. Redmond Salt has been a staple in my kitchen for many years now, and I am finding the same quality in the Re-Lyte product line.

These delightful mixes are free from artificial colors, unnecessary additives of any kind, and from heavily processed table salt. They are also sugar-free, which is often a red flag for me (because I react in extreme and nearly deadly ways!). Fortunately, Re-Lyte Hydration is sweetened with stevia rather than artificial sweeteners.

Butterfly Express, LLC carries the Re-Lyte Hydration formula in 60-serving jars and in packs with 30 single-serving sticks in various flavors. Also available is a sample pack, which contains 1 each of the 7 flavors (including unflavored) of the Re-Lyte Hydration line.

So, what is an electrolyte? Electrolytes are essential minerals that are dissolved in your body’s fluids. These minerals carry an electric charge (either positive or negative). The human body relies heavily on electrical charges, and it is known that lightning-like pulses of energy fly through the brain and nerves. In addition, most biological processes depend on ions traveling across the membranes of each cell in our body. This is a fascinating branch of scientific discovery and the basis by which many ‘energy’ modalities operate as they restore balance and health to the body and to the mind.

So, what are the benefits of utilizing a high-quality electrolyte supplement? Entire body hydration, more energy and mental clarity, fewer headaches, increased lean muscle mass, fewer muscle cramps, fewer urinary tract infections, the regulation of pH balance, and faster recovery after workouts—to name just a few.

Re-Lyte Immunity

I can’t imagine anyone not wanting a stronger, healthier immune system. If our immune system is healthy and the lymph is moving as it should be, all will be well. Potential problems are quickly identified, and a response is just as quickly set into motion. Even a cancer will likely be eliminated in an early, unnoticed stage.

We all understand that in order for our immune systems to function properly, we need vitamins and trace minerals. Proper hydration is also important for a proper immune response. Re-Lyte Immunity has lots of electrolytes, well-chosen vitamins, and some special immune-supporting herbs. These ingredients are formulated to do an excellent job of helping us feel strong, balanced, and healthy.

In Re-Lyte Immunity, there is an optimal balance of calcium, magnesium, sodium, chloride, and potassium. Re-Lyte Immunity also provides clean electrolytes, as well as vitamins C, D, and B12, and zinc.

• • Vitamin C – antioxidant, immune-stimulating, many other nutrients need Vitamin C to be absorbed
  • Vitamin D – important to the signaling system within the immune system and supports a healthy inflammation response
  • Vitamin B12 – a vital nutrient and is needed for the production of red blood cells. Vitamin G also promotes optimal energy levels
  • Zinc – Among its many function support critical immune T cells

Re-Lyte Immunity also contains elderberry, turmeric, and ginger. These wonderful plants are all known for their immune-supporting qualities.

In summary, Re-Lyte Immunity doesn’t contain unnecessary fillers, has a host of amazing electrolytes, and includes the vitamins mentioned above, along with zinc, and is sweetened with stevia.

Super Antioxidants Supplement

Let’s begin with a brief summary of what an antioxidant, when ingested, does in the body, why what they do is important, and why it is sometimes/oftentimes advisable—even a really good idea—to include antioxidants in our daily supplementation regimen as an adjunctive to the foods that we consume.

What is an antioxidant? Antioxidants are substances found in a great many foods and captured and placed in some supplemental health products. These substances, which we call antioxidants, protect cells from the potential damage caused by free radicals.

So, then, what is a free radical? A free radical is a highly unstable molecule, some of which are made naturally by our bodies as a byproduct of certain normal and necessary functions (such as breathing and digesting food).

Question in my mind? Why do natural processes produce these harmful substances? The answer, in part at least, would seem to be that naturally occurring as the result of normal bodily functions occur at lower levels than the constant barrage of them that we uptake in other ways! Free radicals can also enter our bodies through a variety of toxic substances, harmful bacteria, radiation, and as ingredients in many processed foods.

At higher levels, these nasty little destructive critters are thought to play a part in such things as cancer, heart disease, stroke, as well as many of the consequences and diseases of aging. Free radicals can affect the skin, creating sagging, slow healing of wounds, etc. Other possible consequences of high levels of free radicals circulating in the body include improper hormone balance and the breakdown of proteins in cells anywhere in the body. In this way, they may harm our DNA, even to the point of causing mutations of various sorts.

Free radicals raise stress levels throughout the nervous system. This makes it difficult to ever truly relax, get a restful and deep night’s sleep, or recover from workouts or heavy bouts of activity of any kind.

This is, of course, a very simplistic explanation. A deeper study and commentary is simply not possible here, but as you can probably guess if you know me at all, something I really enjoyed doing!

The Super Antioxidants carried by Butterfly Express, LLC were chosen, as always with Butterfly, because after research and by trial of the product around here, to be one of the best on the market, and something Butterfly was willing to sell under the Butterfly Express label!

By the way. . . What are some foods high in antioxidants? According to the USDA, after they tested more than 100 foods from all categories, their list includes small red berries, wild and cultivated blueberries, blackberries, cranberries, sweet cherries, red kidney beans, pinto beans, artichokes, prunes, apples, plums, russet potatoes, and dark leafy greens. There are, of course, many others, as well.

Featured Herbs for Adrenal Health & Cortisol

AD (formerly Adrenal Toner)

Adrenal function and fatigue have been discussed somewhat already in this article. However, I would like to remind readers (and myself) that the well-being of the kidneys is closely connected to the health of the adrenal glands.

I have pondered the connections here because kidney issues were once something that I had to learn to repair and keep healthy in my own younger years. Stressed kidneys can contribute to a personality that is generally fearful. Such a person may feel afraid to move forward, but afraid not to at the same time. They are likely to be in a constant state of agitation and worry. Did the malfunctioning kidneys cause the fear, or are the kidneys malfunctioning because of the fear? Either way, the adrenals get overworked and need help!

This formula has been helpful, along with other remedies and lifestyle changes, for Mononucleosis and Chronic Fatigue. There is a full program for these outlined in my book, Butterfly Miracles with Homeopathic Remedies II.

CF (formerly Chronic Fatigue)

Chronic fatigue is a walk we have walked with more than one family member over the years. We have learned a few things about it along the way. I hope that some of our experience in this area can be of benefit to others who are suffering from this debilitating condition, or any condition that comes with a great deal of fatigue.

There are many good herbal combinations, homeopathics, and essential oils for chronic fatigue and similar conditions. Many of these are talked about in one of the companion volumes to this book, Butterfly Miracles with Homeopathic Remedies II, which is available from Butterfly Expressions and can be purchased through Butterfly Express, LLC.

Be sure to use this formula with the AD formula discussed above. The adrenal glands are always involved—and suffering—when there is extreme fatigue! There are homeopathics, supplements, and other tinctures and oils that will help a great deal.

As I have often stressed, in classes and everywhere else I could get it in, herbs are not magic. They are nutrition. The name of the disease is not as relevant as what nutritional deficiency brought about the condition and what nutritional elements can strengthen the affected body part in order to facilitate the demise of the bug, if there is one at play. And homeopathics do not work by disease name or disease-causing entity, either. They work based on energy and the symptoms of the ailment.

CF is a wonderfully effective formula, but care should be taken to cover every aspect of good nutrition with the daily diet! Soda pop, excess sugar, and a lot of stress rob the body of nutrients and energy. Adequate rest, including daily naps, is essential until the adrenal glands have recovered.

Ingredients of this formula include echinacea, licorice root, lomatium, astragalus, ginseng root, osha, usnea, and oregon grape.

Devil’s Claw

Devil’s claw is an adrenal, thyroid, and parathyroid tonic, but it is a lot more than that! This wonderful adaptogenic and ‘bitter’ herb is a wonderful tonic to the digestive system as a whole. (The term ‘bitter’ does not refer to the taste of an herb, but rather indicates that it signals the digestive system, the bile ducts in particular, to act in anticipation of the need to digest something by bringing digestive ‘juices’ up and ready.) A wonderful way to relieve heartburn and soothe minor stomach upsets when the cause may not be exactly known. Devil’s claw also acts to gently cleanse and repair the liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts.

Almost miraculously, this herb is believed to soften hardened vascular walls and restore normal function to the heart. I believe it was a benefit to me many years ago with the heart issues that were scaring my family and me more than just a bit.

Devil’s claw has properties similar to chaparral. This includes the ability to cleanse the body deep into the muscles, the tissues, and even the cell walls. Somehow, again almost miraculously, it accomplishes these things quite gently while relieving pain in muscles and joints. Since this herb has traditionally been said to relieve gout, I suspect that it is a herb for strengthening the kidneys.

Herbal medicine of yesteryear often followed a simple principle called ‘the law of signatures’. This law stated that the shape of a plant gave very definite clues as to the properties of the plant. I don’t know about that in the case of devil’s claw, but the plant certainly looks like the claw of something awful and maybe even otherworldly. It has a beautiful flower; however, the flower almost appears to be caught in the claw!

LIC/HGL

These two herbal combinations are discussed together here for a reason. That reason is that they are exactly the same formula, except that the licorice root in the original LIC formula has been deleted from the HGL formula, and red clover blossoms have been added.

LIC was formulated to strengthen adrenal and pancreatic function and to aid in the regulation of blood sugar levels in both hypoglycemia and diabetes. Devil’s claw and bilberry are specific to blood sugar-related problems, and early studies (years ago now) indicate that licorice root has also shown potential for managing blood sugar and insulin resistance.

However, licorice root is contraindicated for those with certain heart problems. You need not become overly concerned about using licorice root. If you use some and you fit in the category of people for whom licorice root is contraindicated (as I did long ago), you will feel an increase in your pulse and, perhaps, a bit of vague tiredness for a short period of time. A few hours, not days. This is plenty of warning to avoid licorice root in the future. If this is a factor for you, use the HGL formula instead. That is why it was created.

Featured Blessed Waters for Adrenal Health & Cortisol

Adrenal Support

This remedy is just what it says that it is. Support for the adrenal glands. It consists of five polycrest homeopathic remedies. What is a polycrest remedy? The term polycrest simply means that the remedy would, if utilized properly, be of benefit to a great many people at some time—perhaps several times—during their lives.

A keynote ingredient in this combination is Sepia succus (derived energetically from cuttlefish ink). I love homeopathics/blessed waters. They are an everyday illustration to me that ‘God is good’ and most everything—perhaps even everything God created can be useful in some way to God’s children. Sepia is the #3 polychrest remedy (chosen from literally thousands of remedies) for women and is among the top 10 most useful and most often used remedies for men! Emotionally, the defining symptom of a need for this remedy is being overwhelmed and maybe even a tiny bit resentful of family responsibilities.

Ignatia Amara, very briefly, is a hormone-balancing remedy and is specific to such things as mood swings and ailments brought on by grief. Grief and loss are always a part of this remedy, and grief and loss always take a terrible toll on the adrenal glands.

The next remedy in this combination, Calcarea carbonica, takes up nearly seven pages of very small print in my Materia Medica and is, very definitely, another polycrest remedy. Just the list of possible ailments would likely prove helpful to take a half-page column for an entire page! Emotionally, overworked and exhausted are the most outstanding keynotes here, whether male or female.

Gunpowder (as I said before, Homeopathic/Blessed Waters are made from some very strange things!) Gunpowder is also, without doubt, another polycrest remedy! It is specific to glandular system disorders and compromised immune systems! It has proven effective for more than a century now for the effects of poisoning from bad food or water. Interestingly, it is also considered an antidote for the ‘ill effects of vaccinations’!

Euphorbia pilulifera. There is a whole family of Euphorbia remedies (and plants). Little is known or recorded in Materia Medica about this remedy, but in the initial provings, done in the late 1800s, there was a pronounced action on the heart. Keynote symptoms would include an alarmingly quick and rapid pulse followed by an equally sudden chill!

Overall, this combination makes a wonderful treatment for adrenal gland fatigue and failure, especially when the heart and kidneys have become stressed as a result!

Detox #15

This remedy was designed by someone (not me) to provide temporary relief from symptoms associated with a weakened system, including frequent or recurrent infections, fatigue, swelling, mental sluggishness, and symptoms related to chemical exposure. These symptoms also come very close to a description of adrenal fatigue as well as a reaction to chemicals, etc.

If I had not witnessed for myself the response of a couple of very much weakened persons to this remedy (based on a muscle test response), I would be more than a little concerned about administering it at all! Why? Because this combination contains more than 30 different remedies, and they are 12X potency. Not a high potency since X potencies are low potency remedies, but still . . . My training, which is extensive, leads me to prefer a single remedy, or possibly two, in a higher potency as the preferred method for homeopathic/blessed water treatments. However, low potency remedies have a very useful place, and I use them nearly every day to good effect, especially with babies, small children, and particularly weakened persons. Low-potency remedies can accomplish a great deal of good and are great remedies for rapid treatment and/or as a way to become familiar with homeopathic remedies.

I highly recommend this remedy for anyone suffering from Adrenal Fatigue or chronic, ongoing fatigue of any kind, especially when related to the glandular system in any way!

Nux Vomica

What to say, here, about this very definite remedy?! Nine pages in my Materia Medica!

Nux has a very definite remedy picture, especially in emotional/nervous system categories. The person needing Nux vomica is easily recognized by homeopaths and the people who live with this type of personality.

Nux vomica is the typical Type A personality who consistently runs faster than he/she has strength and is competitive, ambitious, and impatient with the normal pace of life. These are strongly aggressive personalities. Other keynote descriptive words for this personality are successful, often focused on work and productivity, argumentative, irritable, easily offended, workaholic, and compulsive.

Nux vomica balances and detoxifies the liver and other digestive organs and is a remedy for adrenal stress. Adrenal fatigue leads to the opposite set of symptoms, which out-of-balance Nux people show as they get older or at particularly stressful parts of their lives—a pattern of extreme fatigue, often chronic fatigue syndrome. They have simply worn themselves out and can go no further!

Like the nut from which this remedy is made, Nux people have a hard outer shell but are sensitive, passionate, and compassionate on the inside, most particularly with people closest to them.

Nux Vomica is excellent for alleviating collapsed states such as Adrenal Fatigue and will also help temper the personality to avoid the excesses that led to the collapse in the first place!

This remedy is also good for ADHD and other learning and behavioral disorders. These children (and later as adults) are competitive and independent. They have a desire for freedom so that they can move forward on their own agendas and personal goals (and they always have agendas and goals!) They are optimistic, sometimes unrealistically so, about their goals and feel great satisfaction at their own accomplishments. These children are always on the move, must have everything in order, and are irritable if anyone else’s disorganization slows them down in the slightest degree. They are not patient, ever, and they crave stimulants. The Nux child tends to have had colic and stomach problems since birth.

Interesting, Nux vomica is considered to be an antidote for nearly all remedies when they are given incorrectly and at too high a potency! How is this done? Very carefully! A low potency one time is usually all it takes!

^LeLife Force Essential Oil Blend

I use ^LeLife Force almost as frequently to follow up a zone session with my husband as I do the ^LeRevitalize blend mentioned above. The reason for this is simple. ^LeLife Force builds, strengthens, and protects the body because it is an immune, endocrine, and adrenal gland stimulant and toner.

One of the best places to apply this blend is along the spine. Other good places are all over the feet and on the thymus area of the chest. Please dilute well with a carrier oil of your choice. (Diluting with a carrier oil is recommended for use with all essential oils to keep the heat of the body from diffusing the oils before they can be properly absorbed. For the sake of quality and effectiveness, please do not dilute an essential oil by adding a carrier oil to the bottle before use.)

Neroli Essential Oil

Neroli essential oil (extracted from bitter orange blossoms) supports the adrenal glands by modulating and calming the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (H-P-A) axis discussed at the beginning of this article. The active volatile compounds, among them limonene and linalool, reduce cortisol levels. This stabilizes the nervous system and eases anxiety without leaving a person feeling dopey or less alert.

Neroli impacts both adrenal gland health and reduces cortisol production when that is needed. Inhalation of the beautiful aroma of Neroli directly signals the limbic system (considered to be the brain’s emotional center and learning center). This has been shown to significantly lower serum cortisol, which can be a very good thing if too much cortisol is being produced!

By stabilizing the H-P-A axis, Neroli can prevent the over-activation of the adrenal glands in response to chronic emotional or physical stress. This shifts the body from a “fight-or-flight” state (sympathetic) to a “rest-and-digest” state (parasympathetic), giving overworked adrenal glands a chance to recover. I have found Neroli particularly used for children who, when stressed, tend to go into the state being referred to by those who know as the ‘freeze’ state of H-P-A axis and adrenal gland shut down.

Evening Primrose Carrier Oil

Evening Primrose Oil is used topically and, by some people, taken internally as a supplement. The oil made from this plant, Oenothera biennis, contains many essential fatty acids. Evening Primrose oil contains GLA (gamma-linolenic acid), which is found in very few other plants. GLA is essential for the maintenance of cell structure and improves the elasticity of the skin. It is also said to regulate hormones as well as improve nerve function. This combination is best known to be beneficial in the management of women’s health issues. PMS symptoms, including mood changes and cramping, are often alleviated by the topical application of this oil, especially when used as a carrier oil for the appropriate essential oils.

Due to the high GLA content, evening primrose oil is used to calm the itching caused by eczema. It is also recommended as a natural therapy to calm inflammation and to reduce joint swelling in arthritic conditions.

Synergy Kit

This kit is designed to support and enhance total body wellness by targeting key body systems—circulatory, digestive, endocrine, immune, nervous, respiratory, reproductive, and urinary. Each essential oil included has been carefully selected to address both physical and emotional health concerns associated with these systems. Whether you are looking to support the heart, balance hormones, improve digestion, or promote immune function, this kit offers a synergistic blend of oils that work together to create complete body harmony. This kit comes in the 10ml Hard Case. This case will hold 30 bottles of oil.

As a very long-time Foot Zone Therapist, Cranio/Sacral Therapist, and as a midwife (and because I just love the study of anatomy), I have spent a great deal of time making information about body systems available on the Butterfly Express and Butterfly Expressions sites! (This is a serious understatement!) I also love to teach about anatomy! If you are interested, there is further information on the systems of the body, as well as assistance in finding additional products for each system. Please visit the website www.butterflyexpress.shop. Under the “Information” tab, you will find a body systems index. Clicking on a body system will bring up an article explaining that system and providing insights as well as helpful products and suggestions, including herbals and, on occasion, homeopathic remedy suggestion, also.

The Synergy kit includes the following (20) 10ml oils: ^LeAmplify, ^LeBaby Me, ^LeBalance, ^LeDeeper, ^LeDeliverance, ^LeEndoRelief, ^LeExhale, ^LeGuardian, ^LeHeartSong, ^LeKey To My Heart, ^LeLetting Go, ^LeMillenia, ^LeReflections, ^LeRevitalize, ^LeSolace, ^LeStimulate, ^LeSweet Relief, ^LeTransition, ^LeWisdom, and ^LeWoman Wise.

Oils in this kit for the Circulatory System: ^LeAmplify, ^LeBaby Me, ^LeDeeper, ^LeGuardian, ^LeHeartsong, ^LeKey to My Heart, ^LeMillenia, and ^LeRevitalize.

Oils in this kit for the Digestive System: ^LeBalance, ^LeMillenia (for digestive issues involving the electrical system that supplies the digestive system or any alignment issues), ^LeRevitalize, ^LeStimulate (for digestive issues involving the vagus nerve), and ^LeTransition.

Oils in this kit for the Endocrine System: ^LeBaby Me, ^LeBalance, ^LeEndoRelief, ^LeLetting Go, ^LeRevitalize, ^LeSolace, and ^LeTransition.

Oils in this kit for the Immune and Lymphatic Systems: ^LeAmplify, ^LeDeliverance, ^LeEndoRelief, ^LeExhale, ^LeGuardian, ^LeKey to My Heart, ^LeReflections (to strengthen kidney function and promote better processing of lymphatic congestion), ^LeSolace, ^LeTransition, and ^LeWisdom (apply counterclockwise over the thymus or on the thymus foot signal).

Oils in this kit for the Integumentary System: ^LeBaby Me, ^LeDeliverance, ^LeGuardian, and ^LeMillenia.

Oils in this kit for the Nervous System: ^LeAmplify, ^LeBalance, ^LeDeeper, ^LeGuardian, ^LeLetting Go, ^LeMillenia, ^LeStimulate, ^LeSweet Relief, and ^LeWisdom.

Oils in this kit for the Respiratory System: ^LeAmplify, ^LeDeliverance, ^LeDeeper, ^LeExhale, ^LeLetting Go (for emotional components), ^LeMillenia (structural and energetic alignment), ^LeSolace (lymphatic congestion), ^LeSweet Relief, and ^LeTransition.

Oils in this kit for the Reproductive System: ^LeBalance, ^LeEndoRelief (for hormonal imbalances), ^LeLetting Go (for emotional components), ^LeMillenia (for alignment of the uterus, etc.), ^LeSolace (lymphatic congestion of reproductive organs), ^LeWisdom (for inner child work or grief affecting fertility), and ^LeWoman Wise.

Oils in this kit for the Urinary System: ^LeAmplify (especially when applied with ^LeReflections), ^LeBalance, ^LeDeliverance (for infection-fighting), ^LeGuardian, ^LeHeartSong, ^LeKey to My Heart, ^LeLetting Go, ^LeMillenia, ^LeReflections, ^LeRevitalize, ^LeSolace, and ^LeWisdom.

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