Dear Friends,

Happy May to all of you! This month holds a special place in my heart this year as my daughter, Brianna, whom many of you have watched grow up, is graduating from high school. Like many of you navigating your own family milestones, end-of-school activities, wedding seasons, or other celebrations, I’m experiencing firsthand how May can bring both immense joy and considerable overwhelm.

The calendar seems to fill up overnight with events and obligations—each wonderful in isolation, but collectively creating a whirlwind that can leave us feeling stretched thin. During these intense seasons of life, I’ve found that homeopathy is extremely valuable.

Homeopathy for Times of Overwhelm

When life’s pace accelerates and demands multiply, our bodies and minds respond in unique ways. Here are some great homeopathic medicines that could be of help.

• Gelsemium can be remarkably helpful for anticipatory anxiety with weakness, trembling, and a feeling of heaviness—particularly before performances or important events
• Kali phosphoricum offers support when mental fatigue sets in, bringing nervousness and irritability from prolonged mental exertion
• Phosphoric acid can be helpful when mental exhaustion sets in after prolonged periods of activity and commitment, leaving you feeling drained
• Nux vomica may support those who become irritable and hypersensitive when pushed beyond their limits
• Argentum nitricum often helps with the anticipatory anxiety that comes before important events, especially with racing thoughts and digestive upset
• Ignatia can be beneficial for emotional fluctuations that arise during significant life transitions and celebrations

Remember that the best remedy always matches your specific symptoms—the exact way your body expresses stress. If you’re feeling particularly challenged this month, consider scheduling a quick check-in so we can find the right support for your situation.

Finding Presence in Busy Seasons

In preparing for my daughter’s graduation, I’ve been reminded of something important: these milestone moments pass quickly, and our presence in them matters deeply. When we’re caught in the whirlwind of planning, organizing, and executing events, we can miss the profound moments unfolding right before us.

I’m challenging myself (and inviting you) to practice intentional presence this month. For me, this means:

• Taking a few deep breaths before entering each new situation
• Setting aside dedicated time each day for quiet reflection
• Noticing the details—the expressions, the words, the feelings—that make each moment unique
• Acknowledging the full range of emotions that come with transition and celebration

This practice of presence isn’t just spiritually nourishing—it has tangible physical benefits. When we slow down enough to be fully present, we activate our parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes healing, proper digestion, and immune function. It’s a powerful remedy in itself.

As we navigate this busy month, remember that the goal isn’t just to survive the whirlwind, but to truly experience the significant moments that make this season meaningful. Whether you’re attending a graduation, planning a wedding, finishing a school year, or simply trying to enjoy the spring blossoms, I encourage you to take a breath, look around, and fully inhabit each moment as it comes.

I’m here to support you this month and beyond—both with homeopathic guidance and as a fellow traveler on this journey of navigating life’s beautiful complexities.

Much Love! Dr. Amerine

Homeopathy ER

Kali Phosphoricum

Kali phosphoricum (Kali phos) is one of our most valuable remedies for states of nervous exhaustion and mental fatigue. The essential character of this remedy is one of profound weariness that affects both body and mind, often resulting from overwork, prolonged stress, or excessive mental exertion. Think of the ambitious, hard-working individual who has gone beyond their limits—the exhausted mother caring for children, the overworked business professional, the student after intensive exam preparation, or anyone experiencing burnout from prolonged responsibility. The Kali phos patient typically appears tired with a sad, care-worn expression and often dark circles under the eyes.

The mental state includes irritability, hypersensitivity, and a peculiar nervousness that makes the person fidgety and restless. These patients are easily startled and often hypersensitive to noise and light. Despite physical exhaustion, they may struggle to sleep due to racing thoughts or persistent worries, particularly about financial matters, health, or the future. When children need Kali phos, they often present with night terrors, whining, irritability, and sleeplessness. There’s a tendency to make “mountains out of molehills” and to feel overwhelmed by even minor challenges when in this depleted state.

What makes Kali phos particularly useful during busy, demanding periods is its relationship to timely restoration. The patient typically experiences improvement from gentle movement (though is worse from prolonged exertion), from pleasant diversion that takes their mind off worries, from warmth, and from eating. They tend to feel worse when alone or quiet with their thoughts, from cold, and from continued mental strain. The remedy addresses not just the mental fatigue but also the physical symptoms that accompany this state—headaches that improve with warm applications, digestive disturbances from stress, and the overall sensation of being “worn out” that comes from pushing beyond one’s capacity during demanding times.

Bodywork Services with Nicki

We’re excited to announce that talented massage therapist Nicki will now be offering services at her Lafayette location! Nicki specializes in integrative massage using a variety of techniques, providing medium to firm pressure customized to your needs. She also offers manual lymphatic drainage.

Spring Schedule

• May: Saturday, May 24th and May 31st (both 10am-3pm)

Weekday appointments may be added based on interest – stay tuned!

Services & Pricing

• 60-minute session: $120
• 90-minute session: $160
• 2-hour session: $225

Ready to experience Nicki’s “better way” approach to bodywork? Visit ​formedbodywork.com​ to schedule your appointment at her Lafayette location.

May Blog Feature

Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)

Approximately 60 to 70 million people in the United States are affected by digestive diseases each year. This category includes constipation, diverticular disease, gallstones, heartburn, ulcers, infections, hemorrhoids, inflammatory bowel syndrome/disease, and more. One study found that in those who had GI complaints and underwent a breath test, over 30% were diagnosed with SIBO. In those who have other bowel diseases such as irritable bowel syndrome, one out of two people may have SIBO. The true prevalence of SIBO is unknown, but it is more common than most people think.

What is SIBO?

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) was discovered in 1939 but wasn’t brought to the forefront of medicine until 2000. It is caused by bacteria from the large intestine getting into the small intestine. Symptoms that might point to abnormal bacterial growth include bloating, flatulence, or chronic watery diarrhea. General abdominal discomfort combined with bloating, excess gas, or chronic watery diarrhea may indicate SIBO. There can also be fatty stools and weight loss due to malabsorption.

Having enough stomach acid and digestive enzymes prevents this dysbiosis from occurring. Also, having an intact ileocecal valve (separates the small and large intestine), and adequate peristalsis (food moving through the GI system) is protective against GI concerns. SIBO is more likely to occur in those who have irritable bowel syndrome, intestinal motility disorders, and chronic pancreatitis. It is also more common in females and elderly people. Additionally, if you have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and use PPI (proton pump inhibitor) therapy, you are at a higher risk of developing SIBO.

Do You Have SIBO?

First, see your doctor to have your symptoms professionally evaluated. Currently, there is no gold standard diagnostic test. Having a positive carbohydrate breath test and symptoms makes SIBO very likely. A breath test is easy, fast, and inexpensive. An upper endoscopy can be used to test the bacterial concentration in the small intestine, but it is expensive and invasive. A biopsy is rarely needed. Overall, testing for SIBO can be extensive if there are no specific risk factors for SIBO. Labs checking for vitamin deficiencies, abnormal GI motility, pancreatic insufficiency, and immune dysfunction, as well as endoscopies and imaging, can be performed to rule out other causes.

What Do You Do If You Have SIBO?

Conventionally, the first-line therapy is antibiotic use to eliminate the excess bacteria in the small intestine. If the breath test results indicated more hydrogen-producing bacteria, rifaximin for two weeks is typically an effective treatment choice. If methane-producing bacteria are more dominant, then neomycin is combined with rifaximin, again for two weeks. Another tool used conventionally is the elemental diet. This diet can be difficult and isn’t recommended for everyone; it doesn’t taste great, is high in carbohydrates, and can cause detox symptoms. It provides essential nutrients in a predigested form to starve the bacteria while letting the gut rest. Some companies offer it premixed, or it is available in powder form.

Natural SIBO Support

Here are a few options to consider to support your gut health naturally.

Nutrition. It’s important to make sure you eat a well-rounded diet full of vitamins and minerals. SIBO can cause vitamin deficiencies, including iron, B vitamins, and vitamin K and E. You can reference the low FODMAP diet if you are looking for specific foods that may help reduce symptoms.

Herbal Therapy. Some small studies indicate that herbal therapy may be as effective as antibiotics in managing SIBO. Several different options on herbs and herbal supplements may be helpful including herbs like goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis), garlic (Allium sativum), milk thistle (Silybum marianum), echinacea (Echinacea purpurea and Echinacea angustifolia), and black walnut (Juglans nigra). See a qualified holistic health practitioner for specific recommendations.

Abdominal/Visceral Manipulation. Currently, research is ongoing to determine if physical therapy or visceral manipulation is helpful for functional digestive disorders. Manual therapy may help improve intestinal motility and reduce any fascial tension in the abdominal cavity.

Most importantly, work with your doctor or holistic health practitioner to help find the best options to support your health goals. SIBO can be debilitating for some people, so professional evaluation is crucial. Never add supplements or change your lifestyle without seeking advice from your doctor first.

Recipe

Greek FODMAP Meatballs with Cucumber Dill Sauce

Filled with flavor, these Mediterranean-inspired meatballs are protein packed and low FODMAP. Serve them with this Tzatziki inspired Cucumber Dill Sauce to bring the flavor to the next level!

Total Time: 40 minutes, Yield: 20 Meatballs

Ingredients:

Greek Meatballs

• 1 egg
• 3 Tablespoons almond milk (unsweetened, or lactose-free milk subs well here)
• 1/2 cup quick-cook oats
• 2 tablespoons green onion tops (use only the green parts)
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill (chopped)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon zest (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 lb. lean ground beef (or lamb) {If you are vegan or vegetarian consider using canned and drained black beans, which are much lower in FODMAPs than regular black beans}

Cucumber Dill Sauce

• 1/2 cup low FODMAP mayonnaise (or use plain lactose-free yogurt)
• 1/4 cup shredded cucumber
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed if you can manage)
• 2 teaspoons fresh dill (chopped)
• Salt
• Black pepper

Directions:

• Whisk the eggs in a large mixing bowl. Add milk and oats. Stir. Allow to rest for 5-10 minutes.
• While the oats rest, preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Use parchment paper to line a large baking sheet.
• Once rested, stir green onion tops, dill, oregano, cumin, lemon zest, salt and pepper together.
• Add in the meat and hand-mix. Avoid over-mixing.
• Scoop out the mixture and form it into a ball. Be sure to roll all of them to the same approximate size. Place on the baking sheet.
• Bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
• While the meatballs are in the oven, combine all sauce ingredients in a small mixing bowl. Add salt and pepper as needed.
• Remove meatballs from the oven and serve with approximately 1 1/2 tablespoons of sauce.

Notes:

• To prevent the meatballs from sticking to your hands while you roll them, dip your fingers into cold water before rolling each meatball.
• If you are unsure if your meatballs are cooked, check them with a meat thermometer. The thickest part of the meatball is fully cooked once it reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
• When storing, store the meatballs and sauce separately. Leftovers can be stored for up to three days.

Interested in Become a Patient?

Thanks so much for your interest in Pure Homeopathy! We are a naturopathic team of homeopathy experts, offering virtual care around the globe. We also offer a variety of supportive health services at our clinic in Lafayette, Colorado.

Are you interested in becoming a patient? Book a complimentary call with one of our doctors. You can do this by calling 303-665-2423. Our team will answer all your questions and get you scheduled for the service that makes sense to you. We can’t wait to support you with natural approaches that address the root cause and get you to feel better and stay there.

We can’t wait to help get you whole healthcare for life!

Thank You For Your Sharing!

It is because of you that this practice is successful. I would appreciate it if you could forward this newsletter to anyone you feel would be interested! I would also like to thank you very much for all of the referrals that you have given me.

Your pets can benefit from holistic healthcare too!

Naturally And Effectively Address Root Causes Rather Than Just Treating Symptoms

With over 70 years of combined experience integrating conventional research-based veterinary medicine and holistic pet care, Dr. Jeff Feinman and Dr. Christina Chambreau are dedicated to guiding pet parents through the journey of optimizing pet health care.

​Learn​ how holistic care and conventional veterinary medicine can work together, with a Premium or All Access membership to ​Holistic Actions​!

For less than a bag of conventional pet food per month, you can learn to foster a healthier, happier lifestyle for your pets.