This is a reply to # 1,695,238

Thyroid issues- I say give the Ashwagandha a try and then take it from there. It's likely you could a few months of plant-based Iodine. We have that in Dr. Christopher's Kelp Combination...but I hate to see folks spend money on herbs they might not need (not all thyroid issues are 'lack of iodine').I will try the Ashwagandha now and then perhaps we can see later if I need the iodine. I appreciate your trying to help me not order now if there is a possibility I won’t need it.  Ashwagandha is a very beneficial herb; other than the taste, I know of no 'down sides'. The reason we even have an Apothecary is because we simply couldn't afford to buy Superfood retail for ourselves...and making one led to making another (and so forth & so on). It's SO important that top-quality products are available to folks on their healing journey (that aren't overpriced like the few that are available on today's market). Sure, I teach/show people what "enough" really is (the old herbalists/healers dispensed mostly in 8oz bottles with teaspoon/tablespoon sized doses). But I know what it's like to not be able to afford 'what I need', and I never want to see people spending more money than they have to (unless of course, they just want to :).

Stomach: Yes, a poochy stomach that 'no exercise will flatten' is typically a sign of colon congestion (and if it's higher, it can be a swollen liver, particularly if it's a bit 'right sided')It is hard to say now where exactly it is poochy because of the scars and bloating since the surgery, my tummy is still a bit deformed. I do not think it is right sided butmainly just straight across. See image below...just to clarify - are you talking about your actual "stomach"- #4 in the image (most people aren't when they refer to their stomach or tummy), or are you referring to the various intestines below your actual stomach? If you don't mean your stomach, then you will likely resolve a LOT of poochyness via cleansing and healing. It takes most of us several months (at the very least) to totally restore an intestinal tract that's been compromised for decades (so don't be discouraged if you aren't 'unpoofy' in a few weeks). There's more to it than just cleansing away the build-up of debris (which can take months all by itself). Getting it all 'tightened up' after being stretched out for so long (and getting that natural peristalsis back online) is part of it all. And liver function is very important to the process. It all works together :)

Lady’s Slipper: The herbal tincture most likely to create a sound, uninterrupted sleep is also the most expensive. It's called Lady's Slipper, and it's phenomenally effective. . Most people are sleeping within 20-30 minutes of taking 1-2 teaspoons of the tincture (approximately 4-8 droppersful). I think I would like to try this. I see you sell this in ounces. How much would I buy if I took it nightly? Do you know if this makes you drowsy the next day? Or has any other adverse affects?  It seems to have a 'next day' effect of a very slight 'calming' for me (it's claim to fame is 'quieting a racy brain')...and that effect (for me) seems to roll over into the following day (at least in the morning). It's possible to get a very slight hallucinogenic effect if taken in excess...but I've never heard of that happening (the hallucinogenic effect is supposedly similar to the hallucinogenic effect of cannabis - which is barely discernible at all to most). Using the dropper in a 4oz oz bottle, 4 droppersful is almost a teaspoon. One teaspoon is usually enough for me, but when I've been incredibly stressed (and my brain is racing on 4 or 5 'channels', lol), I've taken up to 2 teaspoon (8 droppersful). So (from the chart above) there'd be 37 "1 teaspoon" doses, and 18.5 doses of 2 teaspoon each.

What about melatonin? Is this bad to take? I do find when things are going “well” that will usually help me sleep but I would not say it is always “uninterrupted” or restful but I do sleep. I also used to take magnesium at night to help with sleep and constipation.  If you're using a supplement (Melatonin) that you know is working, I suggest continuing it and then weaning off as it's need becomes less & less. The magnesium...?...not so much the same, because the reason that magnesium increases bowel activity is that it draws water from the bloodstream into the intestinal tract. This means that our natural electrolyte balance can be disrupted (stressing our kidneys & adrenals) as well as causing dehydration. Also, this encourages 'bowel action weakness' because it 'bandaids' the constipation without doing anything to address the cause. So I'd ditch the magnesium when you get the IF#1 (which will ensure you're not constipated).

Hormonal: I truly believe a huge percentage of this 'hormonal thing' will disappear after your first 30 days colon cleansing/healing round (I also believe it's likely you'll need at least another 30 days).  That would be wonderful!  Methinks you'll definitely have some level of relief - it might be substantial!

Now I know it's because there wasn't anything truly "wrong" with me at all, it was simply my liver couldn't process what hormones I was making adequately, and I couldn't make enough because my ovaries were squished out of shape/function. My body didn't want supplements, it wanted to be healed. However, at that time, I didn't think to buy/try the Female Formula (because I'd had negative experiences with other low-quality herbs) Do you think I should do at least a 30-Day colon cleanse and then see if I need to try the female tonic formula? That's what I'd do. Some gals go ahead and get the Female Formula so they can get some relief right off the bat, so if you want to do that, it'd be okay.   I was so used to the 'hormone tango' (and the severe cramps & clots, which I'd had all my life), that I didn't ever even consider trying to heal it naturally in the beginning. I just felt it WAS natural :::eyeroll::: Also, at the time I did my first colon cleanse, I was not aware of the benefits it could have on my female-system, so the next month when my period started (without 'warning me' with 7-10 days of major PMS), I was flabbergasted. It actually worried me (I was sure there must be something wrong! lol). I didn't make the connection with the colon cleanse until I learned more.

Memory:. The best thing for this is Dr. Schulzes Brain Formula (the one I suggested to help with migraines). The major herb in it is Ginkgo, but it has others to create a strong/effective synergistic action. It is slightly stimulating due to the "1 part Kola Nut" (which contains natural caffeine). I guess the stimulating would not be bad for me since I am so tired. Any side effects or other cautions with this?  The natural caffeine in the Kola Nut is the only thing I know of.  I once used it to kick my coffee habit, so it's possible there's enough caffeine in the Brain Formula to cause you to have a bit of 'caffeine withdrawal' when you stop taking it...but I didn't experience that as I weaned off it.

I noticed on the link that it said “This Brain Formula Tincture can also be used for "KILLER" Migraine Headaches (6-10 Dropperfuls at ONCE)! If Brain Circulation is CONSTRICTED, HOLDING Blood in the Skull, using Lobelia Seed Pod Tincture (also see Basic Tincture Method) may work BETTER to cause the SPASM to let GO!” You also recommended it for my headaches.

So would you recommend the Brain Formula for my memory and the migraines? Would I take it daily? If yes, how much a day and what size bottle should I buy?If it is stimulating I would not want it to interfere with my sleep so would I take early in the day? For memory, yes, you'd take it every day - same basic dosage as most: 2-4 droppersful 3x daily (6-12 droppers a day). Depending upon how sensitive you are to the Kola Nut, I'd say not to take any 4-6 hours before going to bed. You can spread your doses throughout the day however you'd prefer. 

When I have an actual migraine would I use additional brain formula as he instructs (6-10 Dropperfuls at ONCE) and also the cayenne tincture? I realize some of this may be trial and error to see what works at that time. Is there any problem with using them at the same time? For example if I had a “killer migraine” and I tried the brain formula and it did not relieve it could I then try the cayenne tincture?   Yes, 'trial & error' (or better yet, "trial & success") is something we usually need to do to learn how our body responds. If it were me, this is what I'd do with the migraine issues you report (after I had acclimated to Cayenne tincture doses at the 2-3 droppersful level): Upon sensing a migraine 'coming on', I would immediately take 5 droppersful of Cayenne tincture and take another 5 if needed (as I explained before). If that didn't work (or only worked partially), I'd take 5 of the Brain Formula (and another 5 in the same manner as the Cayenne). (Note: caffeine can have a positive OR negative effect on migraines...typically positive, but not always. So be SURE to "test" the Brain Formula before taking 5 droppersful. I'd start with 1/2 a dropperful, which is approximately 15 drops - then if that didn't have a negative effect, make my next dose a full dropperful, then my next 1 1/2 droppersful, then 2, etc).  Definitely test the Lobelia in the same manner - sometimes 15 drops of Lobelia is all it takes (and our Lobelia is very potent). 

What does he mean by “using Lobelia Seed Pod Tincture (also see Basic Tincture Method) may work BETTER to cause the SPASM to let GO!”

Regarding Echinacea & Candida: from here: http://www.purelinatural.com/ArticleCandidaHealth.html Echinacea is an antiseptic and anti-infection herb that helps stimulate the immune system. Scientific research indicates antibiotic activity, cortisone-like activity, promotion of wound healing, production of systemic interferon and stimulation of T-cell lymphocytes. Sounds like a good thing to add not only for the candida but for my immune system as well.  I continue to find new & amazing aspects of Echinacea (check this out when you have the time: Echinacea - MANY BENEFITS  And this for fun 'herbal lore'Echinacea Wellness Tip of the Month - the ORIGINAL "Snake Oil"!  ). It's far & away my favorite herb - I take at least a teaspoon everyday :)

Which IF#1 & IF#2 –I am guessing I want the ones under specific packages. Which one?

30 Day Colon - 100 IF#1 - 30 oz IF#2 Ground Flax

30 Day Colon - 100 IF#1 - 30 oz IF#2 ULTRA Ground Flax

30 Day Colon - 100 IF#1 - 30 oz IF#2 ULTRA Whole Flax

30 Day Colon - 100 IF#1 - 30 oz IF#2 Whole Flax

Or should I do the 200 IF#1?   IF#1 is "as needed" individually - some people need 1 capsule a day (or none) - other people need 10-20 daily. If you're already having 2 bms a day, it's not likely to take more than 3 capsules to get it up to 3 bms a day...so you should be okay with the "100 capsule" options. Ground flax seed or whole flax seed is entirely your choice - it's been made both ways by Dr. Schulze. We always made it with just the ground flax seed until we realized there's a huge 'internet thing' about flax seed going "rancid" within hours after it's ground :::sigh::: It doesn't become "rancid", it just oxidizes like any other grain or seed when it's ground. But since that info is 'out there', we wanted to give folks the choice. I think the ground flax seed version would likely be best for you (I think the ground flax is "softer" and more soothing than the whole seeds).. The "Ultra" has more charcoal and bentonite. I typically suggest people stay with the regular until they're sure they can achieve 3 bms daily (unless they have known issues with things like heavy metals, where they need the extra toxin adorption asap), because the Ultra is more likely to be constipating. It's GREAT for the second 30 days.

Once you get regulated on the IF#1 then you add the IF#2 (and feel free to start at 1/2 doses and work up to the 'heaping teaspoon' dose), it would be very unusual to experience constipation.Thank you, those instructions are very helpful  Always, always, ALWAYS - "First physician, do no harm" :)

Yes, psyllium can cause a bit of gas/bloating. Normally this is short-lived because once we get the bowels moving regularly, the fiber doesn't have time in the intestinal tract to ferment and give off gas. From what you are saying I should not experience constipation. Is there any need to have anything on hand a type of senne tea or anything just in case?  The IF#1 contains senna (and other similar herbs). If you want to have some senna tea 'on hand', that's certainly alight...but with the IF#1 having the same type of action, I can't see why you'd need it.

Someone mentioned in a post to me that they add Psyllium husk to your formula #1, is this something people often do? Should I have anything like that on hand? The ground psyllium seed & husk is in the IF#2 - I've never heard of anybody adding psyllium to the IF#1 (the IF#1 is encapsulized, so they could actually "add it into the capsules" unless they took them apart). I'd guess they meant the IF#2.

On the doseage link It says to take “One hour after your morning nutritional drink …” What is this? Is this the superfoods? Or is it the nutritional drink listed below? Is this the superfoods smoothie I read about? How often do I drink this?

8 ounces of fresh-squeezed fruit juice, or less if the sugar content does not agree with you.

8 ounces or more of distilled or pure water.

1/2 to one cup of fresh seasonal fruit.

2 ounces of food mixture from above recipe. ( I am guessing this is superfoods?)

When you say 30 days minimum does that mean from when I start or from when I am on #1 and #2 together?   It means "around 30 days" give or take a few days. When in doubt, always go with ' what's best for your body' (which in this case is to start counting on the day you start the IF#2)...that way you're sure to get 30 days worth of healing/cleansing goodness.

“After using the intestinal formula #1 for at least a week, begin the colon cleansing formulas mentioned in the chapter on bowel cleansing in the User Manual. This comes before anything else you do. Take the Number Two Intestinal Formula 6 times a day, and do NOT decrease the number of times you take it by using more formula less often. You want the formula in your colon at all times, and not sporadically. Then, you will notice parasites being removed, casing of old fecal matter coming out, and mucus. If you take the number two formula erratically or once or twice a day, this will not happen. I can confused by the information above which was on the link, can you explain?  You betcha! :)  I can explain (but none of us like the answer). Dr. Schulze wrote lots of different instructions at lots of different times during his years in his clinics (and now that he's not doing clinical work and only "selling product", his instructions are many times different from when he was in practice). SO, you'll see variances like this quite frequently (and do know that you're NOT the first person --or the thousandth-- to be confused). To clarify the above - if you are having 3 bms daily after 2-3 days on the IF#1 and you want to go ahead and start the IF#2, that works. If you'd rather make absolutely 'persnickety sure' that you can continue having 3bms daily on the IF#1 before you start the IF#2, that works, too. 5x daily or 6x daily? Since you'll be starting with heaping 1/2 teaspoons (to make sure everything is 'safe' from the surgery), you'll likely have enough to have 6 doses daily. Our '30 day bags' of IF#2 are measure for a heaping teaspoon 5x daily. When I'm doing IF#2, I take a level (or heaping) tablespoon 5-6x daily (my body just LOVES IF#2 :) This: You want the formula in your colon at all times, and not sporadically. Then, you will notice parasites being removed, casing of old fecal matter coming out, and mucus. If you take the number two formula erratically or once or twice a day, this will not happen.  is ALWAYS the case!   Think of it like "scrubbing bubbles that have magnets"...every time you take a dose of IF#2, the psyllium and mucilaginous herbs 'swell a bit' and become sticky-slimey and gently stick to the junk (or lining) of your colon (doing a little 'scrubbing')...and the bentonite/charcoal 'pulls out' toxins. Then it gently pulls away...taking a tiny bit of the top layer of crud with it, and pulling at the deep chunks & pockets. We want this gentle action to happen again and again and again throughout the day...stick to the crud, pull away from the crud (taking a little bit with it) while tugging at the bigger pieces of plaque (and what is in the diverticuli pockets). The more times per day this action happens, the faster and more effective the cleanse will be. 

When might I start to see mucoid plaque being removed? I am sure it is different for everyine just tryin gto get an idea if I can. This is the fastest and 'mostest' I've ever heard tell of (be sure to read the whole thread - pix included): IF1 and 2 testimony

Superfood ("Original" if juice-fasting or vegan; "Special Blend" if eating meat and/or dairy). 2 Tablespoons daily for "typical living", 4-6 Tablespoons daily for energy & healing. 14 oz provide 2T daily for 30 days.I assume I would be 4-6 T daily right now for energy and healing, is this correct?  Correct!

I am not sure if I should get the original or special blend since it depends on what I am eating. As I mentioned above, I am not sure I could jump right into 100% raw. I think I am also waiting until my bm’s were regulated and then would do a juice fast. So, would it perhaps be best for me to get both kinds? Would you agree?  The "Original" has a lot more nutritional yeast than the "Special Blend" - the nutritional yeast is high in protein and B vitamins (something we typically get plenty of when we're eating meat & dairy, but not when we're vegan and/or juice fasting). So if you're going to be cutting down on the meat fairly substantially/quickly, I'd say go ahead and get the Original. If it's going to take you a few weeks to ditch the meat, then go ahead and get at least 14 oz of the Special Blend.   

ACV Bomb (or Uny Bomb) - before every meal, have an ACV Bomb (1 Tablespoon of raw/organic apple cider vinegar; 1 "dose" of Cayenne powder; 1-3 minced cloves of garlic and 1 Tablespoon of organic Blackstrap molasses or raw local honey) If you add UnyWorm AntiParasite liquid to this, it's a Uny Bomb :) You say take before every meal, does that mean 3x day before breakfast/lunch/dinner? Does that mean drink this and eat directly after or do you wait a bit? What about when I am juice fasting? When/how would I drink this? The benefits of the vinegar (to help increase stomach acidity) will be most beneficial on an empty stomach, and the assimilation of the garlic, cayenne & blackstrap will happen faster that way, too. So it doesn't really matter if it's "right before a meal', just make sure your stomach is relatively empty when you take it. Same with juice-fasting...take the ACV bomb a few minutes before a juice rather than a few minutes afterward. 3x daily.

For the “dose” you previously mentioned I should start with 1/8 tsp and work my way up to ½ tsp, correct?  Right!

 Do you prefer the molasses or honey? Just curious. I think I read something that blackstrap molasses can also be good for depression?  Blackstrap for the minerals; honey if someone has allergies (but the honey must be raw and from a local source to help with allergies).

Would I need to use organic garlic or would any garlic do? I one of your posts you mentioned a Garlic Twist? What is that? I saw quite a few on the web. I have a garlic press but not a twist. Does this really make it easier? Guess you need something easy if you are using that much garlic daily!  Organic garlic is not essential, but it's always best (the cloves are MUCH bigger). Organic cloves can be as big as the end of your thumb!   So if you're not going to be able get organic (and the cloves are only about the size of your thumbnail), then "adjust up" the amount of cloves you take. 

I mentioned this above, do you think I should add the UnyWorm AntiParasite liquid to this now or wait until month two? Since you're likely going to be doing another month of bowel cleansing, I'd just get the dry/ground herbs for now. When that's combined with the ACV Bomb it's a very good parasite regime...and it will definitely "show up" any intestinal parasites you may have. If you have them (most of us do) and you're still seeing them in a month, then do it again with the liquid.

The Garlic, ACV & Cayenne are all strong anti-candida/parasite herbs - the benefits of all three individually are phenomenal (something we should all have daily). The Blackstrap or raw honey are for nutrition. If you feel it's too 'sugary' with the Candida issues, then you can leave it out. My opinion? With THREE strong anti-candida herbs and just a tablespoons of Blackstrap/Honey (dissolved into the ACV), I don't think it's an issue. You can add a bit of water (a "gulp's worth" or two) - just don't dilute it too much or you won't get all the benefits of the ACV.  If you are fine with the Blackstrap/honey then I am as well! :) If you sense any type of "too much sugar" reaction, just cut it back to 1/2 Tablespoon and take it from there.

Slippery Elm bark powder - 1-3 tablespoons daily (this can be added to the IF#2 mixture, but it's much more effective if taken separately in the form of a "porridge". When would I take this each day? I would do as porridge as you recommend. Whenever you'd prefer it :) When I'm juice fasting, if I decide to have some, I have it for 'breakfast', or for a late night treat.

It can be made with water, but it's MUCH tastier if made with apple juice (with a bit of cinnamon, nutmeg and a touch of natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey). Would it be best to make my own apple juice? Since you use so much each day can I make it ahead and keep in fridge? Would it matter what type of apples (I know they should be organic) It's always best to make our own :) Any type of apples are fine - the 'green ones' have less sugar.

Herbal Calcium Tincture - this is one of Dr. Christopher's formulas and is FANASTICALLY effective for helping to rebuild bones. It's full of plant-based calcium & silica. Recommended dosage is 2-4 droppersful 3x daily  How many ounces would I need to do 2-4 dropperfuls 3x daily?

Is this tincture is just for bone healing (for my knees) or if it is something I would use long term for calcium. I did mention that I have osteopenia and also have a family history of osteoporosis. I believe that calcium is important for me and understand from your info that supplements are not the way to go. With the knees, the osteopenia (steroids) and a family history, I'd take an 8oz bottle the first month and then adjust down in the following months...making sure to juice high calcium/silica fruits & veggies and whenever possible add high calcium/silica herbs (Prof. L. Kervran "Biological Transmutations" proved that silica converts to calcium in the body). Check here for high calcium/silica herbs & plants http://www.ars-grin.gov/duke/highchem.html (when using this database, be SURE to note what "part" of the plant/herb it's referencing)

What about magnesium? Would I need to get this somehow as well? --Same links/databases as above. Don't forget :) -- once you start cleansing, juicing AND Superfooding, you're likely going to be getting more bio-available nutrients than your body has ever had in your entire life :)

Deep Tissue Repair Oil (to support knee healing and/or for massage for muscle tension/tightness)???: Re: What is BF&C (for Tissue Repair) + Deep Tissue Repair Oil?   My knees are mostly not painful any longer, every once in awhile they may ache a bit. But the doctor told me they are still healing. She said that stress fractures can take awhile to heal. Mainly I am just not supposed to do any weight bearing exercise for awhile until the fractures are completly healed. In regards to walking I have been instructed to still not walk long distances, such as for exercise but otherwise I am okay. Healing and only aching once in a while...that's good news, for sure!

I am a little confused by the herbal calcium tinture and the BF&C, basically if there is a benefit/reason to have both? If not which would be the most beneficial to me?. As I asked above I was not sure if the herbal calcium tinture was just for my knee healing or for adding calcium to my diet as well. I ask this because if it is just for healing I did not know if I really needed it and/or the BF&C since as I mentioned my knees are not painful right now. Perhaps I need these for the healing process? As you can tell I am a little confused still by them.  I think it's totally understandable that you're "a little confused still"...you're grasping these concepts VERY quickly (and quite admirably!).  To me...?...osteopenia, stress fractures, family history of osteoporosis and past (high) steroid use adds up to "let's get these bones enough of what they need to repair themselves"! The Herbal Calcium is a solid/strong source of silica & calcium; the BF&C is also a solid/strong source of calcium (Oat Straw, Oak bark)...along with Comfrey (which contains a substance known as allantoin, which is a cell regenerator, amongst it's myriads of other attributes)...and Gravel root (which helps to dissolve 'rock calcium' build-up and deposits...and an array of synergistic herbs that help regenerate bone, flesh and cartilage. Remember, I'm always going to do my best to suggest everything I think/know would benefit your healing. The cleansing protocols aren't really optional, they're part of building a solid foundation, but you don't "have" to use "all" of the tinctures/herbs that I suggest (or that anybody suggests). You can add the BF&C later, or not use it at all if you feel you're progressing fine without it.

I do not have a hand held shower head so I would not be able to do the Hot/Cold Contrast therapy that way but I could do hot/cold packs. It sounds like a good thing to try along with the showers you mention in the recommendations. Hot/cold packs work just fine. Hot/cold and castor oil packs are SO much more effective than most people realize. We know the hot/cold draw blood to the area and pushes it away. Dr. Schulze says something like "you're doing all this work to cleanse, oxygenate and nourish your healing blood, and you're putting all the healing herbs into your bloodstream. The hot/cold drives the nutrient/herbal laden blood TO the parts that need to be restored, oxygenating them and 'shoving in' all the healing goodness, then draws it away, carrying all the hardened minerals and toxins that prevent healing (or cause the problem)". WOOHOO! That's what I LOVE about these natural healers - they make so much SENSE!   And when it makes sense, that's when I can do what it takes to 'make it happen'!

In the “What is BF&C” post it states “Start with several daily hot/cold treatments, if that doesn't do the trick...add the Deep Tissue Repair Oil, and if that doesn't work, add the BF&C.”I do not know if I would need to do this every day for my knee but perhaps I could use the oil as needed for muscle tension/tightness as you mentioned? The only problems might be it is a little hard to reach all the tight places myself but I could reach my shoulders some. I have done this previously with Tiger Balm. It's FANTASTIC for tension and tightness (if Willowley is reading this, she'll likely pop in add her thoughts on the Deep Tissue Oil). I understand about not being able to reach :( Perhaps your mom could help (?). Although it's best if someone massages it in, you will get a lot of "soothing/relaxing warmth" from even a light topical application....and it doesn't take very much. Typically we start with just one dropperful (say for a strained ankle or joint) and rub that in completely. It's pretty amazing what just one lil' dropperful can do!

In the same post you said “Since we started using the Deep Tissue Repair Oil, we've never found a need for anything else.” Perhaps I might just need the oil ? Is that what you would think? Since I think I would mainly be using it for muscle tension/tightness That'll work! And if/when your knees start feeling achey, you could rub a couple of droppersful into them. My knees are happy for your knees already! :::grin:::

Ashwagandha - 1-3 Tablespoons daily (mixed with water or juice). I'd start with 1T and work up to 3T (if you need it). Will do! You can get this at Mountain Rose or Starwest Botanicals (always be sure to get "organic"!!!) 1lb of mountain rose organic is $12.50 versus Starwest which is $22.00. Any reason I would not get the mountain rose? Wow, I wonder when that happened..that's just crazy ($22 a pound) :( I typically get mine from M/R (but I've used it from Starwest). Get it from M/R and save yourself the $10 bucks!

Echinacea Tincture - 2-4 droppersful, 3-4x daily (to bolster & restore immune system and assist with Candida).Just wondering if this is something I am doing long term? Should I go ahead with the 8oz size?  I always want everybody to get as much Echinacea as they possibly can - I just can't help myself! (lol) I think there's likely more people on the forum that have decided to start making their own Echinacea tincture than any other tincture. Once you experience it's benefits, it becomes "essential". One of the greatest benefits is being able to knock-out a cold or flu before it 'gets you'; Rocky and I are going on 10 years without either! And that's just the tip of the 'benefit iceberg'. Our poor immune systems are under SO much stress (especially with Candida and when our gut-flora is out of whack); once you've taken it regularly, you'll likely notice that your body's 'none too happy' that you stopped. 

Kidney Cleanse - here's the complete instructions: http://curezone.com/upload/_N_Forums/Natural_Heali/Kidney_Cleanse.doc and here's the Working FAQ: [FAQ] Healing Cleanse: Kidney/Bladder: Working File Thread I count 25 different "renal adverse effects" on the various pharmaceuticals below (renal = kidneys), so your kidneys are seriously overdue for some TLC. Yikes! It does seem to need a little Kidney TLC among other things!  Yes indeedy! The truth is, we ALL need to do a bit of maintenance work a lot more frequently than we do - but it's really important when we've taken drugs that 'rough us up'.

I suggest you do at least one, five day Kidney Cleanse per month. When would you suggest I start this? Right away with the colon cleanse or wait? Consider the juice-fasting and the colon cleansing a "neutral"...every cleanse or protocol you do will be MORE effective when you're giving your body ultra-premium high-grade fuel, ensuring it assimilates (continuing to get rid of the build-up and restore your intestinal tract) while sopping up the toxic burden on your system. This will explain it a bit better (and answer one of the questions below)

 I saw this on the FAQ link it states “IMPORTANT NOTICE FROM DR SCHULZE: You must complete the 2-week colon cleansing program using Intestinal Formula #1 and #2 and CONTINUE taking #1 & #2, while completing this Program. [Uny here, although Dr. Schulze said "you must", I have known MANY people that have done a Kidney Cleanse without using IF#1 & IF#2 at the same time. It's definitely OPTIMAL to use the IF#1/IF#2, but if you're in the middle of a 'kidney emergency', I think it's better to do the cleanse than to wait until you've done 2 weeks of colon cleansing].”So would I wait two weeks?   

I am a little confused by the kidney cleanse document. On the first page it says “Kidney Cleanse/Flush 5 Days” then the second page it is “Five-day Cleansing and Detoxification Program for Kidney.” Are you suggesting I follow the instructions on page one or the instructions/diet on page 2? Since the second page program instructs you do “2 Days of a Purifying Raw-Food Program and a 3-Day Juice Fast .” I was not sure if I do this since I am not juice fasting at the start. So again just wondering do I start right away, in two weeks, or after I am regular in my bm’s and going to juice fast? Actually, this is another one of those "one of many faces of various Dr. Schulze instructions" things. When he was healing people in his clinic, he wasn't marketing product to people he'd never met. So now we have his (various) instructions from when he was in the clinic AND the way he suggests to do things for people that aren't doing a full program. What you're seeing above is how he would suggest to do a 5-day kidney cleanse if you just go to his website and decide to do a kidney cleanse.   You're going to be juice-fasting AND colon cleansing...so you can do a kidney cleanse (or a liver cleanse) at any time when you're doing those things.   If you feel more comfortable doing 2 weeks of colon cleansing before starting a kidney cleanse, that's certainly alright, but you don't "have" to do that.

The document recommends “Drink a total of 4-6 cups of the Tea daily, with two droppersful of Kidney Tincture in each cup.” In the am it says to drink 2 cups. Would you space the additional 2-4 cups out throughout the day or each time you drink 2 at a time. For example 2 in the am, 2 afternoon and 2 evening? After the am ones are the rest also to be drank on an empty stomach for example an hour or something before eating?   If/when possible, it's always more effective to take the teas & tinctures on an empty stomach...but that's not always possible (and the herbs WILL get into your bloodstream eventually). The most important thing here is to remember that it's 2 droppersful of tincture per 1 cup of tea (don't put 2 cups into one mug and only add 2 droppersful of tincture). With your kidneys likely needing a lot of TLC, I recommend you go with the 6 cups of tea daily. After the first two cups, you can split the rest up however it's most comfortable for you.

On the document it says “Add to this a pinch of cayenne pepper”. Could I use cayenne powder I am buying from you or cayenne pepper? If cayenne pepper this may be silly but would I just buy a fresh one and add a little or do I buy a cayenne pepper in powder form? The Cayenne powder you're getting from us will be perfect!

On the document it says “maple syrup (or other natural sweetener) “. It seems I will be using natural sweeteners for a few things. There was blackstrap molasses or raw honey for the ACV, the Kefir link mentioned Rapadura, Succanat and I am sure there others I am forgetting . I am just wondering what you think I need to buy to stock my pantry and trying to condense what I can.  The Rapadura/Turbinado/Sucanat (or any type of 'evaporated cane juice - organic' are the easiest to utilize and the least expensive. There are some really "cheap" sugars that say "evaporated cane juice" that are finely ground and "grey/dirty" in color (ack). You're wanting the crystals to be big (like the kind you'd sprinkle on muffins) and light brown/golden. The Sucanat (that has blackstrap molasses in it) also has large crystals and is very dark brown (and tastes 'dark brown'). Personally, Turbinado is my favorite...but you can use any truly natural sweetener (except Agave Nectar - which really isn't natural at all, it's overprocessed and void of nutrients just like high fructose corn syrup). Maple Syrup (grade B has more nutrients than grade A) is fantastic, but very pricey (still...YUM - particularly with the Slippery Elm. There's also (natural organic, never "white") Palm, Date, Maple & Coconut sugars...all are good (and more expensive than the evaporated cane juice types).

Also in regards to natural sweeteners I currently use Stevia, just wondering your thoughts on Stevia?  Well, when people have to be sugar free (very few people really have to be), then if they use Stevia in it's natural form (powdered green leaf), that really IS natural. But "white powder" Stevia? That's really no more natural than "white sugar" :( Still, it's "sweet" without the sugar. We must remember though...anytime anything sweet touches our tongue, our pancreas immediately starts making/releasing insulin and our body readies itself for incoming sugar. But our body never receives that sugar, or any of the nutrients that should come along with the sugar! This is something that can cause 'insulin resistivity' (basically because it burns out our insulin receptors because we've "cried wolf" so many times). The other thing it does is make us hungry! Our body was expecting sugar & nutrients when it tasted "sweet", but didn't get ANY nutrients or sugar. After the insulin wears off (and it had no sugar to process), the blood sugar drops and we have strong cravings for food/snacks.   This is why diet soda typically causes a weight gain rather than a weight loss.

You may find after the first 5 day cleanse that you have a major reduction in symptoms - if that's the case, you can do another one in a week or two.   Since I have so much going on physically I was wondering if you were referring to any specific symptoms you are talking about or just feeling better in general?   The kidneys have a LOT of functions most people aren't aware. At most basic, they're the foundation of the adrenal glands, so if the kidneys are 'rock hardened' when they should be 'soft & flexible', this will negatively affect the adrenals. The kidneys (and adrenals) control our electrolytes, so many people feel much 'balanced' when those minerals are being processed properly. Also the kidneys play a big part in the regulation of blood pressure; they stimulate bone marrow to make red blood cells; and via calcitriol (Vitamin D) they help control calcium for the bones and maintain chemical balance. And of course, the more obvious things like fluid balance and blood cleansing/filtering. So, there's a LOT of reasons why you may have a "reduction in symptoms" after doing a kidney cleanse...and some of the improvement may be something 'indirectly affected' by the things the kidneys affect.

Occasionally when folks have taken a lot of calcium supplements (or ingested a lot of rock-minerals or had lots of hard/spring/mineral water), they experience a lessening of urine flow in their first kidney cleanse (that's typically just the herbs breaking up all the hardened minerals throughout the kidneys, which can cause a bit of slight congestion). If that should be the case, then you can go right into another cleanse and add the "Kidney stone/bad calcium flush" along with it. I see you sell a 5-day and a 10-day Kidney Cleanse. It seems more cost effective to buy a 10-day and then use that for two 5-day Cleanses. Is there any reason I would not do this?   The only reason I can think of is if you were sure were only going to do a 5-day cleanse.

So basically if I find that I am urinating much less than go right into my 2nd cleanse adding in the flush? YesI mentioned previously that I have always urinated frequently so I should be able to tell if it changes. Many people that urinate normally think they urinate 'frequently'. We should urinate around 6-8 times per day and void around 6 1/2 cups of urine (some say 8 cups). One of the most overlooked things about urinating too frequently (or 'leaking' when there's any type of bladder stress) is that 'colon thing' again. Before my first cleanse I'd reached the point (sometimes) that I would leak when I sneezed, coughed, laughed hard, or jumped on the trampoline. 'Turns out that was because of the engorged colon pressing on the bladder - when my colon was not longer engorged, I stopped leaking :) Another reason (believe it or not) is dehydration. If the bladder is dehydrated it shrinks and becomes non-elastic (so it can't hold nearly as much urine as it should), and that causes lot of times in the bathroom, with very little urinary output. Typically most people urinate like fire-hydrants when they kidney cleanse - your mileage may vary, of course.

And I assume I need to go ahead and purchase the "Kidney stone/bad calcium flush" to have on hand in case there is a problem? You'd likely feel more comfortable having it 'at the ready' if you discern you need it :)

I want to make sure I understand these directions. I split the 5oz mixture you are sending me into ½. I take each half which is 2.5 ounces and combine with freshly squeezed organic apple juice and allow to sit overnight out of the fridge, is this correct?

The next day I simmer both quarts but only strain one of them and drink it all that day, correct?

If I am drinking 2ozs/hour the first day then I am this for 16 hours. So I need to make sure I am up for 16 hours or I have to wake up to drink the 2oz/hour correct?

On the 2nd day I am straining all of the 2nd quart correct?

On the directions it says “On the morning of the 2nd day, strain and drink t his 1 qt. at a rate of 1 oz./hr., using up 16 oz. by the end of this 2nd day” Since a quart is 32 ozs so am I correct that I would only be drinking ½ of the 2nd quart on the 2nd day? Then drinking the other 16 ozs on the 3rd day?

What am I doing with the leftover 16oz from the 2nd quart that I strained on the 2nd day to drink on the 3rd ? Does it just get left out of the fridge waiting to drink on the 3rd day?

Put three heaping tablespoons (medium) or four heaping tablespoons (strong) of the tea into 48 ounces of distilled water (water must be distilled, or high grade reverse osmosis only – we want the water to be as ‘empty’ as possible to absorb all the ‘herbal goodies’…other filtered & ionized water or spring/mineral water are not as good), and soak overnight. Be sure to use only stainless steel, glass, or enameled cookware. The next morning put it all into a blender and puree. Next, transfer to a pot and bring to a boil, immediately reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Strain out the herbs, but do not discard them. Let cool, but drink hot. Put the used herbs back into the container of tea for further soaking. (OR, do not strain the herbs out of the tea at all, and just strain each cup as you fill your cup). In the evening add 2-3 tablespoons more of the Kidney Tea herbs and enough water for the next day. Let sit overnite and repeat the process again. Keep adding new herbs/water to the old ones until the evening of the third day, then discard all herbs and start over.

Liver Cleansing - once you get your bm's regulated and have done 7-10 days of the IF#2, you can start prepping your liver for series of Liver Flushes. The absolute best "prep" for a liver flush is Dr. Schulzes 5 Day Liver Cleanse; http://curezone.com/forums/am.asp?i=1617299 Is this your 5 Day Liver Cleanse (Tincture & Tea)?    Yes it is.

I did not see any instructions on the link for what to do on the 5 day liver cleanse, maybe I am missing it?  Hmmm, the instructionss for the 5 Day Liver Cleanse are in the Liver FAQ here: http://curezone.com/forums/am.asp?i=1617299

Would purchasing the 5 day Liver Cleanse be enough or should I get the 10-Day? I was not sure if I was doing this more than once?  You will likely/definitely want to be doing more than one 5-Day cleanse, but perhaps not every time you do a liver flush. 

When would I do the actual liver flush? Just wondering if I there is anything I would order now?  After doing the 5-Day Liver Cleanse, most people like do the liver flush on the evening of Day 6 - but that's not something you "have" to do, it's just seems to work out best if you plan it that way.

The one thing I suggest getting now for your liver (which, like your kidneys, is likely desperately in need of some attention), is a 2oz bottle of the Liver/GB tincture. I see this is included in the 5 Day Liver Cleanse package, would I need an additional 2oz bottle? For starters, for the first couple of weeks while you're getting accustomed to the IF#1/IF#2 and starting to work on the Kidney Cleanse & juice fasting, you might just want to get the 2oz bottle of the Liver/GB tincture and do the 'tongue drops' every day to start assisting digestion and flow of bile. Then after the Kidney cleanse you could order the 5-Day Liver Cleanses. 

You suggested I do “put 5 drops of the tincture on your tongue 5 times a day.”Does it matter when I do this each day? For example on empty stomach, etc? Since the point of this is NOT to assimilate herbs into the bloodstream, it doesn't matter whether or ot there is food in your stomach. But since it triggers bile production/release, it would be a good idea to do a few drops before every meal.

How long would you suggest I do this for?  It takes most people a 'series' of liver flushes to adequately cleanse their liver - so you'll likely be working on your liver (on & off) for at least 4-5 months. This is a very beneficial, yet cheap & easy way to assist the process...so I suggest 5x daily (3x daily minimum).

This we use as "bitters" (it is VERY bitter). When we put anything bitter on our tongue, our liver is triggered to create/release bile - and getting a good flow of bile established is essential for cleansing & restoring the liver. All you need to do is put 5 drops of the tincture on your tongue 5 times a day (a 2oz bottle will last well over 2 months :) In the meantime, make sure you get a colander and a stethoscope. Being Your Own Doctor - Liver Flushing/Coffee Enemas [posted by Unyquity] Please forgive the 'tone' of that post (I was a bit zealous over some post/pm or another) – No worries at all. Your poop talk reminded me of the people who helped me when I had my colostomy bag. At first I was so grossed out but then at the end of 5 months it was much better. Can’t say I ever loved it but I did get over my poop…lol. YAY!!! (well, not for the colostomy bag of course) - but as you already know, "poop" in general can be a bit tough to learn how to deal with. Around here (like you and the colostomy situation), with all this colon cleansing (and parasites, too), it's something we've just gotta do! It seems like nearly every person I've ever known on CZ has always ended up laughing, saying something like "Who would have ever thought I'd be talking about my poop (or sharing PICTURES of it) on the internet?! At least no one needs to feel like they're the Lone Ranger! :)

also the entire thread has a LOT of good tips (and be sure to check out Listen to your Liver - STETHOSCOPE TUTORIAL [posted by Unyquity] when you get the time)   I will look over it all and in the meantime order a ADC Adscope Lite 609 Professional Stethoscope, sounds like I will need one. I saw one for sale on the ebay link for $16.95 -- That's the one we've always had (going on 10 years)...and it's survived being under a LOT of 'castor oil cloths'). We had to pay almost $30 for it 'back then'...thank heavens some things actually do get cheaper!