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Monday 10am - 5pm Tuesday 10am - 5pm Wednesday 10am - 5pm Thursday 10am - 5pm Friday 10am - 5pm Saturday 10am - 4pm

Essential Remedies, 141 Craig Street, Duncan, BC (2025)

11/07/2025

𝑰𝑴𝑷𝑹𝑶𝑽𝑬 𝑫𝑰𝑮𝑬𝑺𝑻𝑰𝑶𝑵, 𝑰𝑵𝑪𝑹𝑬𝑨𝑺𝑬 𝑬𝑵𝑬𝑹𝑮𝒀!!
When the digestion system is bogged down, it can leave us feeling just like that. By improving your digestion, your tummy will not only feel better, but you will be improving your whole body and the way you feel! Take off extra burdens on the digestive process with these simple measures, and free up your energy for the rest of your life!
1) 𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐂𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐕𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐫- Raw and unfiltered, simple apple vinegar from your cupboard. Take a tablespoon in the morning in water to start your day for liver and digestive health, increase energy, boost metabolism, body alkalization, and as a pain remedy. Taking it about 20 minutes before a meal will stimulate gastric juices and digestion, thus aiding in breaking down your foodstuffs and absorption of the nutrients. Also aids bloat and discomfort.
2) 𝐁𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐛𝐬/𝐬𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐚𝐢𝐝𝐬- some include dandelion root and Chinese gentian. These act as a digestive tonic and bitter to help stimulate appetite and aid digestion. Gentian is often included in bitter tonics that you can take pre-meal to stimulate your gastric fluids and bile flow. Also helps relieve digestive disturbances/dyspepsia, prevent nausea, and especially good for breaking fats down. Turmeric is a wonderful herb/root whose wide range benefits include liver and digestive health. Ginger, peppermint, dandelion, licorice, and chamomile teas are wonderful especially post-meal to assist digestion and ease discomforts.
3)𝐃𝐢𝐠𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐞𝐧𝐳𝐲𝐦𝐞𝐬- Include proteases, amylase, and lipase to assist in breaking down protein, carbohydrates, and fats in to their smaller components for enhanced absorption and assimilation of nutrients. Can also prevent gas and bloating caused by improper digestion.
4)𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐛𝐢𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐬- are important for intestinal bacteria balance for improved digestive health and assimilation of nutrients, amongst the myriad of benefits.
5) 𝐃𝐢𝐞𝐭 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 can include avoiding food for some time, and poor food-combining sensitivities, processed fats and sugars and junk non-foods, excess alcohol, and overeating(especially late-night and before bedtime). Drinking a lot of water during your meal will dampen your stomach acid and decrease digestive efficiency(especially cold water). Drink water around meals, throughout the day, and take small sips only if you must drink with your food. Eat a whole foods, natural diet rich in fiber and vegetables! Save treats for occasionally.
6) 𝐋𝐢𝐟𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐲𝐥𝐞 improvements include stress management, as stress especially while we eat will cause upset. Eat your meals in a relaxed and safe environment. Thorough chewing is vital for digestion. Mindful eating and appreciation will enhance your food experience and increase satisfaction. Exercise every day for increased circulation including to the stomach and intestines. It will also increase your energy and mood!
Essential Remedies in downtown Duncan carries a range of herbal tinctures and capsules, enzymes and probiotics, and other aids and remedies to assist you in your digestive health or whatever is ailing you.
BE WELL,
Tina Foster RHN

11/04/2025

Customer Appreciation day 15 percent off!😊

10/30/2025

𝑽𝑰𝑻𝑨𝑳 𝑩'𝒔🥦🦴
B Vitamins are water-soluble and work together in the body for energy metabolism, nutrient utilization, catalysts for many different enzymes, nervous system, energy levels, - just about everything that happens in the body requires B vitamins! They are rapidly used, and the more active and/or stressed a person is, the more Bs will be required daily(as with C and magnesium). B vitamins are also heat and light sensitive, so cooking or food processing will deplete much of it from food.
Deficiency of one or more of the Bs is common, and it is a good idea to top up with a good B-complex(at least 50mg), in addition to eating a whole foods natural diet. Stress management is also important too. Here is a little breakdown of the different Bs and just some of the functions they serve in our bodies. Remember that they work synergistically together, so a combination complex is best to supplement, although for therapeutic uses a single B can be taken for some time. If unsure, take a complex also for good measure.
𝐕𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐧 𝐁𝟏
Also known as thiamin, vitamin B1 helps convert food into energy, plays a role in muscle contraction, and supports normal nervous system function. Additionally, it is often called an “anti-stress” vitamin because of its ability to protect the immune system.
Can be found in: whole grains, beans, spinach, kale, yeast, nuts, sunflower seeds, meat.
𝐕𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐧 𝐁𝟐
Also known as riboflavin, vitamin B2 helps your body break down and use the carbohydrates, fats, and proteins in your diet. It is important for body growth and red blood cell production.
Can be found in: almonds, wild rice, eggs, Brussels sprouts, spinach, broccoli, salmon.
𝐕𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐧 𝐁𝟑
Also known as niacin or niacinamide, vitamin B3 helps the digestive system, skin, and nerves to function. In addition, it supports cellular energy production and boosts HDL cholesterol (the good cholesterol).
Can be found in: beef, poultry, fish, legumes, nuts, eggs, beans, and green vegetables.
𝐕𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐧 𝐁𝟓
Also known as pantothenic acid, vitamin B5 is needed for our bodies to break down fats and carbohydrates for energy. In addition, is necessary for our bodies to produce hormones, as well as being needed for growth.
Can be found in: just about every food group – its name even says so. Pantothenic comes from the Greek word pantothen, meaning “from everywhere.” Rich sources include organ meats, egg yolk, whole grains, avocados, nuts, lentils, broccoli, kale, and yogurt.
𝐕𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐧 𝐁𝟔
Involved in over 100 cellular reactions throughout the body, vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, is instrumental in keeping various bodily functions operating at their best. It helps the body metabolize amino acids from our food, build new red blood cells, and is involved in mood and sleep patterns because it helps the body produce serotonin, melatonin and norepinephrine.
Can be found in: meat, poultry, eggs, fish, bananas, berries, peaches, carrots, spinach, sunflower seeds, and brown rice.
𝐕𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐧 𝐁𝟕
Known as the “beauty” vitamin, vitamin B7, or biotin, is especially known for supporting healthy hair, skin and nails.
Can be found in: strawberries, organ meat, yeast, chicken, fish, cauliflower, egg yolks, and nuts.
𝐕𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐧 𝐁𝟗
Also known as folate, vitamin B9 is most commonly known for its role in fetal health and development because it plays a critical role in the proper development of the baby’s nervous system. It additionally fosters the growth of red blood cells.
Can be found in: dark green leafy vegetables, organ meats, beets, dates, avocados, beans, salmon.
𝐕𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐧 𝐁𝟏𝟐
This B vitamin, also known as cobalamin, is a team player. It works with vitamin B9 to produce red blood cells and help iron do its job – create the oxygen-carrying protein, hemoglobin. Vitamin B12 also helps regulate and maintain a healthy central nervous system.
Can be found in predominantly foods of animal origin such as chicken, beef, fish, pork, and clams, and some in spirulina and seaweeds. Because vitamin B12 is not adequately naturally occurring in plant foods, vegetarians and vegans might not get enough in their diets and may need to take a B supplement. As we age, our ability to absorb it becomes less so, so good idea to supplement and in its methyl-form, as it does need to convert to this form to be utilized in the body.
Be Brain smart, and take your Bs!!!👩‍🏫
Tina Foster, RHN
Essential Remedies

10/24/2025

𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐗𝐀𝐍𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐍
The Super antioxidant from the sea...
Astaxanthin is actually the red pigment from Haematococcus pluvialis, a type of algae (that which makes salmon, shrimp, and flamingos pink). Being a type of super-ketocarotenoid and xanthophyll (an oxygen-rich plant color), it is a superb and potent antioxidant!
As a carotenoid, astaxanthin is a fat-soluble pigment with powerful antioxidant properties that plays a role in protecting your cells from free radicals and oxidative stress. Carotenoids are known for their ability to neutralize reactive oxygen, on the inner and outer layers of cell membranes. Consuming this algae has countless benefits, some of which are:
*Immune system support
*Antiinflammatory
*UV skin protection(from the inside out!)
*Cognitive enhancement and support
*Heart and blood vessel health
*Vision and eye health
*Male fertility
*Glowing skin
*Exercise and workout support
*Free-radical protection
and yes, we could all use more support and protection from free-radicals and oxidative damage.
Increase your whole body wellness and reach for Astaxanthin!

10/17/2025

𝐀𝐬𝐡𝐰𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐡𝐚 𝐇𝐞𝐥𝐩𝐬 𝐏𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐌𝐢𝐥𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐠𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭
Seniors with mild cognitive impairment have more trouble with memory and thinking than expected with aging, but the trouble is not serious enough to cause the more catastrophic problems of Alzheimer’s Disease. A remarkable 42% of seniors are affected by it.
This 60 day double-blind study found that, compared with placebo, 250mg of ashwagandha extract significantly improved all of immediate, general and working memory, response and visuospatial processing. On a memory assessment scale, there was a 14.77% improvement, and on assessment of cognitive impairment and dementia, there was a 19.21% improvement.
Journal of Psychopharmacology. Mar 2025;39(4): 2698811251324377.

𝐋𝐢𝐜𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐆𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐞𝐬𝐨𝐩𝐡𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐞𝐟𝐥𝐮𝐱
The conventional treatment for the all too common gastroesophageal reflux syndrome (GER) is antacids. But supressing acid has several serious side effects.
This double-blind study used licorice extract instead. The dose was 75mg twice a day for 2 weeks. Compared to the placebo, licorice significantly improved GER related quality of life, including heartburn when lying down, standing and after meals; pain when swallowing and regurgitation when standing or after meals. There was significant improvement in symptom frequency and severity, patient distress, stomach noise, gas, early feeling of fullness.
For a lot of people, this study offers some much needed, safe relief.
Complement Med Res. February 10, 2025;1-11.

10/03/2025

𝑨𝑷𝑷𝑳𝑬 𝑪𝑰𝑫𝑬𝑹 𝑽𝑰𝑵𝑬𝑮𝑨𝑹
An old time remedy with vast health benefits!!

*enzyme-rich(raw, unfiltered)
*natural probiotics_raw, unfiltered)
*energy boost
*stimulates digestion
*aids liver health
*fat digestion
*bowel regularity
*speeds metabolism/thermogenesis
*body alkalization
*pain remedy

Look for raw unfiltered, "with the mother" for these health benefits. A shot, with or without water, 20ish minutes before meals is an excellent digestive aid, and yes is best to take on empty stomach, however you can take post-meal for digestive discomfort. Also available in capsules or gummies for metabolic-boosting use.

09/26/2025

𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐚𝐢𝐧: 𝐈𝐭’𝐬 𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐆𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐊𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐋𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐥𝐞 𝐊𝐧𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭.
Managing pain has proven to be a challenge for science. Existing pharmaceutical painkillers are limited by their disappointing efficacy and considerable side effects. But there is a little known natural supplement that is showing tremendous promise for its power over pain and for its safety.
𝙋𝙖𝙡𝙢𝙞𝙩𝙤𝙮𝙡𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙤𝙡𝙖𝙢𝙞𝙙𝙚, 𝙤𝙧 𝙋𝙀𝘼 for short, is naturally made in your body. It has strong immune and antidepressant effects. But it is also powerfully anti-inflammatory, pain relieving and neuroprotective.
Several studies have found that PEA can manage many kinds of pain because it works in many different ways. One double-blind study found that 400mg of PEA taken 3 times a day reduces many kinds of pain by reducing central and peripheral sensitivity to pain and increasing pain inhibition as a pain modulator (Nutrients. 2022 Oct;14(19):4084).
A meta-analysis of 10 controlled studies of pain found that PEA is significantly superior to controls for reducing pain. It had the important bonus of being remarkably safe (Pain Physician. 2017 Jul;20(5):353-362).
Now a new meta-analysis adds to the evidence for PEA as a painkiller. The new meta-analysis included 18 controlled studies with 1,196 people. Once again, it showed that PEA helps manage a wide range of types of pain. PEA significantly reduced pain compared to controls, and quality of life, including pain-related quality of life, was significantly higher in the PEA group.
PEA was effective for all types of pain studied, including nociceptive pain caused by tissue damage, like cuts, burns or bruises; neuropathic pain, or pain caused by nerve damage; and nociplastic pain, or chronic pain caused by the altered processing of pain by the central nervous system.
This new meta-analysis “confirms” that PEA reduces pain and improves quality of life while being safe and free of opioids’ risk of abuse and dependency.
Nutr Rev. 2025 Jul 1;83(7):e1604-e1618.

09/26/2025

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐚𝐰 𝐏𝐚𝐥𝐦𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐨 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐇𝐚𝐢𝐫 𝐆𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐭𝐡 𝐢𝐧 𝐌𝐞𝐧 & 𝐖𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧
Androgenetic alopecia, or pattern baldness, is a common hair loss condition in both men and women. It affects nearly 80% of men as they age, and, strangely, it is becoming more common. Emerging research is establishing saw palmetto berry as a herb that can safely help.
There are only two FDA approved drugs on the market for hair loss: minoxidil and finasteride. But only about 20% of people who use them get substantial results. And there are considerable side effects. Minoxidil is a topical treatment that can cause scalp irritation, allergic contact dermatitis and facial hair in women. Finasteride can cause erectile dysfunction and loss of libido.
Previous research has suggested that saw palmetto berry works as a hair loss supplement. Like saw palmetto, finasteride is primarily used in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate).
This new 16 week placebo-controlled, double-blind study gave men and women with mild-to-moderate androgenetic alopecia either a placebo or 100mg of saw palmetto berry extract standardized to 85% fatty acids and sterols and 2-3% β-sitosterol.
The hair comb test revealed that, while hair fall significantly increased in the placebo group, it significantly decreased by 29% in the saw palmetto group. The hair pull test found a similar 20.52% reduction in hair fall. 33.3% of people on saw palmetto experienced improvement in the amount of hair covering the scalp, and significantly more people in the saw palmetto group positively evaluated their improvement in hair thickness. 33.33% positively evaluated overall appearance, amount of hair, and new hair growth.
While hair density continued worsening by 3.23% in the placebo group, it increased by a significant 5.17% in the saw palmetto group. Hair thickness also improved significantly in the herb group.
An added advantage over the drugs is that, in this study, the saw palmetto berry was very safe

09/26/2025

𝙉𝙖𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙖𝙡 𝙒𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙎𝙪𝙥𝙥𝙤𝙧𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙄𝙈𝙈𝙐𝙉𝙀 𝙎𝙔𝙎𝙏𝙀𝙈
1) Probiotics- good gut bacteria support digestion, combats harmful organisms, and keeps the immune system strong. Fermented foods are great to consume regularly- think cultured yogurt, kefir, kombucha, tempeh, kimchi, and more! A quality supplement is a good idea for extra support.
2) Intestinal Cleansing- adequate fiber and water is first key to having daily bowel movement(s). Good bacterial balance also is important for regularity, Because of the onslaught of toxins from our environment and within our body, it is a good idea to periodically encourage a little extra intestinal cleansing(especially if you are prone to constipation). This can be accomplished with the help of a colon cleanser such as magnesium oxide/citrate and/or triphala. Gentle and effective, and beneficial for whole body.
3) Oregano Oil- antioxidant rich, and good defender against dangerous organisms. Promotes a healthy balance of good to bad bacteria. Other excellent immunity herbs are Astragalus, Ginseng, Andrographis, Black Cumin seed oil, and medicinal mushrooms.
4) Collodial Silver- good internal and topical disinfectant. Great immune defense.
5) Raw Apple Cider Vinegar- a helpful tonic, enzyme rich, and offers beneficial bacteria and nutrients. Promotes pH balance and alkalinity and therefore a healthy immune response. Can be diluted in water.
6) Reduce Stress levels- emotional, mental, and physical stress all take a toll on the immune system. An excess also accelerates aging. The are many adrenal support supplements, as well as natural remedies for helping you keep calm and carry on! Deep breathing, stretching, and getting outside are great stress-relievers. Talking it out helps too, as does practicing trust.
7) Sleep- aim for at least 8 hours. Sleep resets your entire system, relieves stress, improves the immune system and overall health. Do what you need to do to ensure you get adequate Zzzzzs.
8. Vitamin C- a vital antioxidant and immune supporter. More is needed in times of stress and illness.
9) Vitamin D- the sunshine vitamin, however we get very little in the northern hemisphere especially in non-summer months. Supplement for optimal levels. Strong immune support and disease defense.
10) Turmeric- contains the active component curcumin which is a potent antiinflammatory and antioxidant. An immunomodulator that also supports action of T cells, B cells, and natural killer cells. Put a 1/2-1 tsp of turmeric in your meals, and seek a high-quality supplement for most effectiveness.
11) Iodine- great defense against all microorganisms. Also supports your thyroid and metabolism.

09/22/2025

𝐆𝐄𝐓 𝐘𝐎𝐔𝐑 𝐕𝐈𝐓𝐀𝐌𝐈𝐍 𝐃

Moving into shorter daylight, anyone and everyone should definately supplement this vital vitamin which we do not get enough of in this hemisphere. Important to health in all aspects, for so any reasons!
*Immunity- helps prevent cold and flu, builds stronger immune system
*Bones- absorbs and utilizes calcium into bones
*Nervous system
*Mood
*Brain function- healthy brain cells, aids concentration, learning, and memory. Mood balance and depression.
*Lung function
*Insulin regulation- helps manage blood sugar levels and Diabetes
*Infant health- necessary, prevents rickets, supports healthy babies and children
*Autoimmune conditions
*Antiinflammation
*Cancer protecton and prevention- plays a role in factors that influence tumor growth, cell differentiation and apoptosis
*Cardiovascular- maintenance of normal blood pressure and inflammation levels
*Hormone regulation and balance- stimulate activity of endocrine glands, support neurotransmitter production, help maintain homeostasis of the nervous system and fight inflammation in the brain which all supports this.
*Skin health- supports via immune system, antiinflammation, and aiding in skin cell growth, repair and metabolism
..and much more! Deficiency is linked to many disorders and disease. Vitamin D supplementation is easy, affordable, and will aid everyone so lets take it daily. Available in softgels, liquid drops, spray, tabs, and chewables/gummies. Recommendation is 2,000IU+.

09/19/2025

𝙎𝙪𝙧𝙥𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙉𝙚𝙬 𝙐𝙨𝙚𝙨 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝘾𝙧𝙖𝙣𝙗𝙚𝙧𝙧𝙮
You already know that cranberry is one of the best things out there for urinary tract infections. But here’s five new uses you may not know and one more that was just discovered.
Cranberry juice is well established as a leading treatment for infections and recurrent infections of the urinary tract. But the powerful berry has hidden talents that are less well known.
𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡
A recent meta-analysis of 16 controlled studies shows that cranberry juice or pills significantly improve the ratio of total cholesterol to the heart healthy HDL cholesterol (Nutrients. 2024;16(6):782).
Other research has also shown that cranberry juice significantly improves systolic and diastolic blood pressure (Eur J Nutr. 2021 Mar;60(2):615-639).
𝐃𝐢𝐚𝐛𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐬
The same meta-analysis also uncovered cranberry’s benefits for diabetes. Cranberry significantly reduces insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and, when taken as a capsule, tablet or powder, also significantly reduces fasting insulin levels.
𝐀𝐫𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐬
A preliminary study suggests that cranberry juice can significantly improve disease activity in women with rheumatoid arthritis (Nutrition. 2019 Apr ;60:112-117).
𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐬
Double-blind research found that 6 months of cranberry powder can significantly improve the lower urinary tract symptoms that men often experience with benign prostatic hyperplasia, or enlarged prostate. Voiding, residual volume, flow rate and irritation all improved significantly (World J Urol.2016;34(3):419-24).
𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐂𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐫
When men with prostate cancer were given 1500mg a day of cranberry powder extract for 21 days, PSA levels, which continued to rise in the placebo group, dropped by a significant 22% in the cranberry group (Biomed Pap Med Fac Univ Palacky Olomouc Czech Repub 2016;160(4):559-565).
𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡𝐲 𝐒𝐤𝐢𝐧
The newest discovery is that cranberry juice is good for your skin. Women who drank two 8 ounce bottles of cranberry juice a day for 6 weeks had significant improvement in inflammatory reddening of the skin. Women who were over 40 also had significant improvement in skin elasticity, smoothness and transepidermal water loss. The women drinking the cranberry juice also had a significant decrease in wrinkles (Nutrients. September 16, 2024;16(18):3126).
So, don’t forget cranberry for urinary tract infections, but remember it for all of these important new uses too.

Essential Remedies

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