Toxic Mold Recovery with Dr. Ashley Beckman

Unfortunately, I did not get a recording of last week’s interview with Dr. Ashley Beckman. It’s been probably 5 years since I’ve fumbled a recording, but it happened.

Fortunately, I took some notes on the call and I am going to summarize some things we discussed below, along with helpful links.

  1. Firm Up Your Foundations Before Mold Detox

Before you attempt to detox, you need to have the foundational pieces in place. 

Pushing the body to detox when it’s currently unable to functional properly risks getting you sicker.

Tip #1: For good sleep and bowel movements, Dr. Ashley likes magnesium. The magnesium I take nightly is Magnesium Bisglycinate by Designs for Health (it’s the same one we once carried in our shop under our label). It will last 2 months at 2 capsules a night.

She also recommends Hormone Combination homeopathic blend if your sleep issue are related to hormonal imbalance.

Tip #2: You cannot truly recover when you are in state of panic, hypervigilance or anxiety. So it’s actually foundational that you work on these things.

Dr. Ashley said that if you only start with one DesBio product for mold recovery, you may want to start with PTS/Stress Remedy


Tip #3: A tip I got from Dr. Jeff at DesBio was to take this PTSD quiz, then take the PTS/Stress Remedy as directed for one month, then take the quiz again. You may want repeat months on this product.

You can put the drops in a large glass bottle and consume throughout the day.

In addition to the PTS/Stress Remedy, consider adding a mantra to your day, such as, “I am safe,” “I am doing a great job,” etc. 

Even though it’s a turbulent time going through mold, you can create a calm day as you steady yourself through the storm, practicing good self-care, having a kind internal dialogue, and not taking on too much each day. Slow and steady wins the race!

Energize

As many people with mold illness also have thyroid impairment, Dr. Ashley like these Energize drops to support thyroid function for energy.

2. Open the Drainage Pathways

DesBio has several kits for detox. I will cover two here:

Option 1: Comprehensive Homeopathic Detox Kit is the one Dr. Ashley uses with her clients.

This kit is ‘homeopathics only’ to prep the body for detox, gentle support all detox pathways, and then the cycle repeats, allowing for deeper detox over time.

These homeopathics are usually well-tolerated but can be taken at a lower dose as needed.


Option 2: The second version is the OmniCleanse Detox Kit, which contains the 6 homeopathics in the above kit plus a nutritional drink and a liver-supportive herbal supplement.

This is the cleanse I did recently and I really loved it. I felt an immense amount of clearing in my HPA area, which I think can be attributed to the CerebroMax tincture in the kit.

I also had a little fat loss which most people want to experience!

This kit can be a great first step before a deeper cleanse of mold, Lyme, candida or fat loss.

++ I will be offering a supported group cleanse shortly. If interested, keep your eye out for the day after Memorial day. I will share greater details about the cleanse kits to help you make a decision. ++

3. Going Further

If you want to work further after steps 1 and 2 are completed, a couple options are:

MYC-Combination

This is DesBio’s mold detox homeopathic. Dr. Ashley warns that it is very strong! It’s normally just 1-5 drops a day. If you cannot tolerate it orally, you can apply a drop to your skin or use it in a bath. Don’t overdo it!

Borr Plus | Lym: Combo

The weakened immunity of mold illness can allow Lyme bacteria to thrive. Dr. Ashley likes the above tinctures for her own health recovery in particular.

Dr. Ashley uses testing for things like mold and Lyme periodically and she also works well with kids. If you’d like to schedule with her or learn more about her, please go to the link below:

DrAshley.com

The Balanced Healer: Honoring the Gifts - and Boundaries- of This Archetype

For those of us drawn to helping—whether through our work, our relationships, or simply the way we move through the world—there is a quiet, powerful archetype that lives within us: the healer.

 

This part of us is intuitive, nurturing, and deeply attuned to the needs of others. We hold space. We offer care. We see potential and offer hope. It’s a beautiful gift.

 

But even the brightest light can cast a shadow….

Toxic Mold & Your Immunity

Before I found out about my mold exposure, and I had some years of increased colds, sore throats and chronic chills. It was frustrating.

Little did I know my immune system has reached a state of severe depression after prolonged mold exposure. 

Generally, when the immune system encounters a new threat, it revs up into action. This may show in a heightened WBC count. But it is not designed to deal with a prolonged threat. 

How to Do a Coffee Enema

The thought of a coffee enema might leave you in shock, but it’s actually a practice that has been used for thousands of years. I’ve seen the correct implementation of coffee enemas truly transform energy, gut health, antioxidant status and more. Learn the right way to do a coffee enema!

How to Do a Castor Oil Pack

I love castor oil because it is a simple, versatile solution. Learn my top tips for using castor oil to support digestion, keep your hormones happy, help you detox, improve circulation, and so much more!

Antioxidants & Skin Health: Part 3 of 3 Microneedling with Serums

The Benefits of Micro-needling

Having taken a break from practicing acupuncture, I did not realize that we acupuncturists had gained the clearance to do micro-needling treatments.

Micro-needling, a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure, has gained significant popularity in recent years, particularly for its benefits in promoting hair, skin and scalp health. It involves sweeping over the skin or scalp with a sterile ‘pen’ of oscillating needles that penetrate about .5 mm into the second layer of skin.

I’ve been very excited to learn this procedure and start practicing it on myself and clients. Home skin care is great, but it can be tedious and it definitely cannot work as deeply and powerfully as micro-needling- a procedure you can do once a month for a series, lasting potentially for a few years!

Read on to learn more about micro-needling and one special serum we use.

1. Promotes Hair Growth

One of the primary benefits of microneedling the scalp is its ability to promote hair growth. The micro-injuries created by the needles stimulate the production of collagen and other growth factors in the scalp. These factors are crucial for hair follicle health and can lead to the regrowth of thinning hair. 

 Micro-needling can help improve scalp health by increasing blood circulation and facilitating the absorption of topical treatments. The increased blood flow ensures that hair follicles receive the necessary nutrients and oxygen, promoting healthier hair growth. 

Moreover, the enhanced absorption of topical treatments allows for more effective delivery of active ingredients, making treatments more effective. This is particularly beneficial for antioxidant serums, which can help protect the scalp and hair follicles from oxidative stress, a major factor in hair loss.

According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, micro-needling combined with topical minoxidil showed significant improvement in hair density compared to minoxidil alone. This finding suggests that microneedling can enhance the efficacy of other hair growth treatments.

Scalp inflammation can contribute to various hair disorders, including androgenic alopecia (pattern hair loss) and telogen effluvium (temporary hair loss). Micro-needling has been shown to reduce scalp inflammation, which is a crucial factor in preventing further hair loss. A study published in Dermatologic Surgery found that micro-needling significantly reduced inflammation markers in patients with androgenic alopecia, suggesting that it can be an effective treatment for inflammatory scalp conditions.

In the clinic, we use a speciality Chinese tincture for this procedure and send you home with the bottle!

2. The Benefits of Micro-needling for Facial Skin Improvement

Reduces Fine Lines and Wrinkles

One of the most sought-after benefits of micro-needling is its ability to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The micro-injuries caused by the needles trigger the production of collagen and elastin, two proteins that are essential for maintaining the skin's firmness and elasticity. 

Over time, as collagen levels increase, the skin becomes smoother and more youthful-looking. A study published in Dermatologic Surgery found that micro-needling significantly improved the appearance of facial wrinkles, making it a valuable tool in anti-aging skincare routines.

Improves Skin Texture and Tone

Micro-needling can also enhance the overall texture and tone of the skin. The procedure promotes cell turnover, which helps to smooth out rough skin and reduce the appearance of pores. 

It can also be effective in addressing uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation, including melasma. A study in the Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery reported that micro-needling combined with topical vitamin C was effective in treating facial scars and improving skin texture and tone .

and Aesthetic Dermatology highlighted that micro-needling is a safe and effective treatment for acne scars, offering visible results with minimal downtime.

Enhances Absorption of Skincare Products

One of the unique benefits of micro-needling is its ability to enhance the absorption of topical skincare products. The microchannels created by the needles allow active ingredients to penetrate deeper into the skin, increasing their effectiveness. This makes micro-needling an excellent complement to serums containing hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and other potent ingredients designed to nourish and repair the skin. By improving product absorption, micro-needling can maximize the benefits of your skincare routine.

Reduces Hyperpigmentation and Sun Damage

Microneedling can be particularly beneficial for those dealing with hyperpigmentation and sun damage. The increased collagen production helps to break down excess pigment, leading to a more even skin tone. Additionally, the procedure can enhance the effectiveness of brightening serums and treatments, making it a powerful tool in addressing discoloration and promoting a radiant complexion.

3. The Benefits of Apple Stem Cell Serum and Its Antioxidant Properties

Apple stem cell serum has become a popular addition to many skincare routines due to its potential to rejuvenate and protect the skin. Derived from the rare Swiss apple variety Uttwiler Spätlauber, which is known for its remarkable shelf life and longevity, this ingredient is packed with stem cells that are believed to offer numerous anti-aging and skin health benefits.

Promotes Skin Cell Regeneration

One of the primary benefits of apple stem cell serum is its ability to promote skin cell regeneration. Stem cells from the Uttwiler Spätlauber apple are rich in epigenetic factors and metabolites, which can help to protect human skin cells and extend their longevity. A study published in Phytotherapy Research found that these apple stem cells could enhance the vitality and lifespan of skin cells, which is crucial for maintaining a youthful appearance and improving skin texture .

Reduces the Appearance of Fine Lines and Wrinkles

Apple stem cell serum is often touted for its anti-aging properties, particularly its ability to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The stem cells in the serum work by promoting collagen production and protecting the skin's stem cells, which can lead to firmer, more elastic skin. Research published in the Journal of Applied Sciences indicated that apple stem cell extracts could effectively decrease wrinkle depth and improve the overall appearance of the skin when applied consistently over time .

Enhances Skin Elasticity and Firmness

With age, the skin loses its elasticity, leading to sagging and a less firm appearance. Apple stem cell serum can help combat this by supporting the structural integrity of the skin. The serum's active ingredients encourage the production of collagen and elastin, which are essential for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness. This makes the skin appear more toned and youthful.

Antioxidant Protection

One of the standout benefits of apple stem cell serum is its potent antioxidant properties. Antioxidants are crucial for protecting the skin from oxidative stress caused by free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage cells and accelerate the aging process. The Uttwiler Spätlauber apple is rich in phytonutrients and antioxidants, which can help neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative damage to the skin.

A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology highlighted that apple stem cell extracts contain high levels of quercetin, a powerful antioxidant that can protect the skin from environmental stressors like UV radiation and pollution. By neutralizing free radicals, apple stem cell serum helps prevent premature aging, reduces inflammation, and maintains a healthy, radiant complexion .

Hydrates and Nourishes the Skin

Apple stem cell serum is also known for its hydrating properties. The serum can help the skin retain moisture, which is essential for maintaining a plump, healthy appearance. By providing deep hydration, the serum can improve the skin's texture and reduce the appearance of dryness and rough patches. Additionally, the nourishing components of the serum can help to repair and strengthen the skin barrier, ensuring that the skin remains resilient and protected from external aggressors.

Conclusion

Skincare has advanced leaps and bounds, and you don’t have to shoot your face up with questionable ingredients in order to take advantage of modern advancements! 

Feel free to message me at bridgit@bridgitdanner.com if you have any questions or you can schedule here for our Scottsdale clinic!

References

  1. Dhurat, R., Sukesh, M., Avhad, G., Dandale, A., Pal, A., & Pund, P. (2013). A randomized evaluator blinded study of effect of microneedling in androgenetic alopecia: A pilot study. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 6(1), 27-31. Available from: PubMed

  2. Faghihi, G., Imani, M., Rajabi, M., & Dastgheib, L. (2014). Evaluation of the effect of microneedling in combination with topical minoxidil solution for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: A randomized clinical trial. Dermatologic Surgery, 40(1), 1-7. Available from: PubMed

  3. Chandrashekar, B., Nandini, A. S., & Vasanth, V. (2014). Alopecia treated with microneedling and its effect on stem cells in the hair follicles. International Journal of Trichology, 6(2), 60-63. Available from: PubMed

  4. Alam, M., Dover, J. S., Arndt, K. A., & Bhupathy, A. R. (2018). Microneedling: A Comprehensive Review. Dermatologic Surgery, 44(3), 314-322. Available from: PubMed

  5. Aust, M. C., Reimers, K., Kaplan, H. M., Stahl, F., Repenning, C., & Schwaiger, N. (2011). Percutaneous collagen induction therapy: An alternative treatment for scars, wrinkles, and skin laxity. Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery, 4(1), 36-41. Available from: PubMed

  6. Fabbrocini, G., Annunziata, M. C., D'Arco, V., De Vita, V., Lodi, G., Mauriello, M. C., Pastore, F., Monfrecola, G. (2014). Acne Scarring Treatment Using Skin Needling. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 7, 45-51. Available from: PubMed

  7. Schmid, D., & Zülli, F. (2010). Plant Stem Cell Extract for Longevity in Skin. Phytotherapy Research, 24(5), 669-674. Available from: PubMed

  8. Kwon, T. R., Oh, C. T., Choi, E. J., & Jang, Y. H. (2018). Clinical efficacy of apple stem cell extract for skin wrinkle improvement: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Journal of Applied Sciences, 8(7), 1215. Available from: PubMed

  9. Zafiropoulou, F., Karapanagiotis, I., & Chryssoulakis, Y. (2017). Antioxidant activity of Uttwiler Spätlauber apple extracts. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 16(3), 420-425. Available from:PubMed

Antioxidants & Skin Health: Part 1 of 3

In this three-part blog series, I will share some helpful information about antioxidants and skin care. If you’ve mainly learned all your information from skin care commercials, you may be in for some surprises! In these blogs, I’ll cover 3 ways antioxidants interact with your skin and what you can do to optimize that!

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Easy Salmon Salad

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