Health & Nutrition

Herbs for cats and dogs can support health, but dosing is tricky—discover simple vet-approved tips to make supplements easier. One common challenge in integrative veterinary medicine is administering multiple herbs, supplements and medications to pets. Unlike food-motivated Labradors, many pets are sensitive to changes in their meals, and animals instinctively avoid strong smells and tastes. As a result, refusal to take herbs and supplements is the most frequent “side effect” reported by frustrated pet carers. Below are some practical tips to make dosing easier. Start slow Introduce one new supplement at a time, increasing the dose gradually over a few days. Many herbs and supplements come in powdered or liquid form, allowing for an easy, step-by-step increase. This method also helps monitor for potential side effects such as vomiting, reduced appetite or soft stools. The “stealth” approach for cats When introducing herbs to cats, start with just a tiny pinch or a drop, gradually increasing the dose over time. Unlike medications, herbs work gradually and are often used for chronic conditions. Taking a month to reach the full dose is perfectly fine. Even small amounts can be beneficial. The goal is for your cat not to notice the herbs in the food. This approach has worked well for my own senior cats, who now willingly consume several herbs and supplements for chronic kidney disease. Mixing herbs into food For many dogs and some cats, herbs and supplements can be mixed into their meals. Avoid doing this with pets with a poor appetite, as it may cause them to refuse their food altogether. For reluctant pets, consider mixing the herbs into highly palatable foods such as: Chicken-flavoured baby food (no onion) Canned cat food (if it’s a special treat) Cream cheese A small amount of anchovy paste Low-fat yoghurt Ground liver Mashed butternut pumpkin with grated cheese For dogs, you can also make a “treat ball” using raw or cooked minced meat and mashed sweet potato. Prepare two, one plain and one medicated, giving the plain treat first, followed by the one containing the herbs. Using powdered herbs Powdered herbs can be mixed into small “pills” using butter or yoghurt, then frozen to make them firmer and easier to handle. Alternatively, you can dissolve powdered or liquid herbs in a flavoured liquid and administer them with a syringe. Suitable options include: Homemade, unsalted, low-fat meat or chicken broth, or bone broth Spring water from canned tuna Water infused with soaked liver treats A small amount of their usual meal blended into a “smoothie” Liquid herbs Some liquid herbal tinctures, such as echinacea, may cause gagging if given directly, so they are best mixed into food. To reduce the alcohol content and improve palatability, try this method: Add the required dose to an egg cup. Pour in one tablespoon of just-boiled water. Let it cool, then mix with food. If giving liquid herbs via syringe, I recommend at least 1:4 dilution and administering slowly to ensure your pet is swallowing and avoiding gagging. Some liquid herbs are glycetracts instead of alcohol. These are sweeter and may be given undiluted. Encapsulated herbs (gelcaps) If your pet needs to take herbal capsules, they often go down more easily when one end is coated with butter. Always follow with a small amount of water or bone broth to ensure the capsule moves smoothly from the oesophagus to the stomach. Other ways to give herbs Your veterinary herbalist may also suggest alternative ways to administer herbs, such as enemas, which can be particularly helpful for pets experiencing vomiting. A veterinarian or vet nurse can perform this procedure and, in some cases, teach you how to do it at home. Herbs can also be applied topically in the form of creams or ointments for skin conditions, certain types of lumps or joint pain. To prevent your pet from licking off the treatment, your vet may recommend using a short-term bandage or keeping them distracted with a walk for about 10 minutes after application. Successfully giving herbs and supplements to pets can be challenging but, with patience and the right techniques, it becomes much easier. Every pet is different, so experimenting with various approaches will help you find what works best. If you encounter difficulties, consult your veterinary herbalist for guidance tailored to your pet’s specific needs. Article featured in WellBeing Magazine 217 Read More

There has been much fanfare in recent years about the vagus nerve (VN), with every podcaster, wellness influencer and yoga teacher preaching its capacity to moderate our wellbeing. But given most of us had probably never heard of the now-trending VN until recently, what exactly is the big deal with this big nerve, and how can we use our yoga practice to harness its power? Parasympathetic nervous system The etymology of the word “vagus” gives us some insight as to its function. “Vagus” comes from the old Latin “wandering”, and this is exactly what the VN does. The VN is a long and complex cranial nerve that meanders through so many parts of the body, it impacts many different aspects of our system. The VN makes up around three quarters of the parasympathetic branch of the autonomic nervous system and therefore plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, including the heart rate, digestion and respiratory rate. Vagal tone indicates how well the vagal nerve is functioning, and a 2010 landmark study found that those with higher vagal tone had better overall heart health, lower levels of inflammation and a profound effect on aspects of wellbeing beyond our physical health. Social and psychological wellbeing In a study by social psychologists Barbara Fredrickson and Bethany Kok, genuine moments of social connectedness between people triggered the parasympathetic nervous system, toned the VN and created positive emotions. Participants also had stronger social bonds and exhibited better emotional regulation. In 2013, further research by Fredrickson and Kok found that practising loving-kindness meditation with yourself and others was the key to turbo-charging this upward spiral of vagal tone. There is an increasing understanding in the world of both psychology and physiology that working with the mind-body connection through body-based practices is the most effective way to address both physical and mental health issues. Polyvagal theory Polyvagal theory (PVT) offers a framework for understanding one way this mind-body connection plays out. PVT expounds how the autonomic nervous system, especially the VN, dictates our behaviour and overall health. We can either respond with calm and switch on the ventral vagal complex (VVC), which is associated with social engagement and feelings of safety. Or we may be mobilised, when the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) is triggered, stimulating the fi ght-or-fl ight response. Or immobilised via the dorsal vagal complex (DVC), which is related to our “shutdown” responses. These neural circuits are activated in response to what happens around us, our environmental cues and how safe we feel. The gunas Another framework we see embodying this mind- body connection, one of the yoga physiology models, is that of the gunas. Yoga philosophy says the gunas are fundamental qualities that constitute all of nature. Sattva represents clarity, harmony and balance. Rajas denotes activity, energy and movement. And tamas signifies inertia, darkness and stagnation. According to yoga, the interplay of the gunas influences an individual’s physical, mental and emotional states. The mental state will impact the physical and vice versa. Polyvagal theory meets the gunas The similarities between PVT and the gunas lie in these parallel structures. Sattva and the relaxed VVC are both associated with states of social connection and calm wellbeing. Rajas and the mobilised SNS both relate to activation and energy. Tamas and the immobilised DVC both correspond to withdrawal and conservation of energy. Understanding this connection between the gunas and PVT provides a comprehensive perspective on how yoga practices can influence our nervous system and therefore our overall wellbeing. PVT suggests self-regulation and social connection are key in promoting relaxation and reducing stress, and yoga is a tried-and-tested way to foster these qualities. Yogic practices Awareness of imbalances in the gunas and the associated neural circuits allows us to choose practices that restore balance. For example, calming, yin-based yogic practice may help bring you back into a sattvic state. Conversely, activating yang practices may help reawaken your system. Ultimately, all yogic practices are aimed at bringing you back to a sattvic state, where the VN is toned and the nervous system is purring like a kitten, rather than roaring like a hot V8 engine in overdrive. Yogic tools for the VN Asana (physical poses), Drishti, meditation and mindfulness cultivate awareness and clarity, reinforcing sattva and facilitating a harmonious autonomic state. Pranayama (breathwork) stimulates the VN, activating the calm VVC and supporting sattvic qualities. Research has found that controlled breathing patterns, characterised by slow, deep inhalations and extended exhalations, directly stimulate the VN. This stimulation enhances parasympathetic tone, promoting a state of relaxation and counteracting stress responses. Chanting activates the vocal chords, stimulating the VN at a vibrational level. Integrating these tools and practices supports emotional regulation, stress reduction and greater resilience. The beauty of all this is that we can work with the VN in lots of different, practical ways as we become more conscious and mindful. Taking regular breaks, exercising, stretching and gentle massage are all helpful. Reflexology, short-term exposure to cold temperatures like cold plunges or ending showers with cold water, as well as fostering feelings of awe through music, nature or meaningful experiences have also been shown to stimulate the VN. Practice This holistic sequence targets the main areas through which the vagus nerve travels (neck, chest and belly) using tools shown to support vagal tone and keep you sattvic — so you can carry on. Cat-cow Set yourself on all-fours, shoulders over wrists, hips over knees. On an inhale, slide shoulders away from the ears, shoulder blades down the back and tailbone up. Exhale reverse, pulling pubic bone towards ribs, arching the back and pressing the earth away. Repeat for a few rounds. Neck stretch Seated comfortably, supporting the buttocks if you need to be grounded, reach your right arm overhead and place right hand on left ear. If your neck is well, gently reach left fingers down to the earth as you reach the skull up and over to the right. Gently move the chin slowly forward and back to

Mary Jane’s coming out from pot parties and into mainstream medical practice. Though cannabis has valid therapeutic benefits, it’s not Puff the magic drug. Users need to be aware of weed warnings before getting too hemp happy. Hashish history “We are only beginning to understand how cannabis works. The potential benefits are enormous.” Dr. Raphael Mechoulam  Marijuana has undergone more makeovers than Madonna. Today, the tide’s turned towards greater acceptance, which some welcome and others are wary of. Many form their perspective from personal experience. My GP client swears he can walk with less pain due to his daily dose, while a psychiatrist friend says he’s seen serious disassociation and psychosis linked to cannabis. Powerful substances tend to have the potential to heal or harm. Love it or loathe it, weed is a budding business that’s flourishing faster than lantana. Let’s track the growth of this herb from an ascetic seed to a flourishing trillion-dollar cash crop. Many Eastern cultures valued cannabis for healing, recreation and rituals. As far back as 2737 BCE, Emperor Shen Nong prized marijuana for health issues, including arthritis. Scythians in the 5th century used ceremonial cannabis smoke. Hashish was popular in the 10th century in Middle Eastern artistic circles. Sufis in the 11th-12th century valued hashish for heightened spiritual states. Ancient ayurvedic medicine prescribed cannabis as an analgesic, anti-diarrhoeal, aphrodisiac, appetite stimulant, euphoric, expectorant and sedative. It’s included in classical preparations such as Jatiphaladi Churna for malabsorption and respiratory issues. The Atharva Veda has mixed reviews about marijuana. It’s exalted as one of the five most sacred plants but is also classified as a mild toxin that must be purified. Ayurveda warns that extensive use can cause agitation, anxiety, apathy, confusion, dehydration, delusions, overheating and more. The Sanskrit for cannabis is bhaṅgā which translates as break. In this sense it can break one’s identification with the mind/body, offering temporary respite from overreacting and overthinking. Marijuana wafted to the west where it was taken primarily for pain. Famous users include Queen Victoria whose physician Dr John Russel Reynolds prescribed it for dysmenorrhea. The US joined the joint revolution in the 1900s – 1930s, using it for anxiety, insomnia and pain. A reefer madness campaign claiming whacky tobaccy turns smokers into sex maniacs led to its prohibition in America in 1937. However, until 1942 it was listed in the US pharmacopoeia as a treatment for many conditions including neuralgia. Sixties hippies revived the green dream as a way to tune out and turn on to transcendental experiences. Rastafarians including Bob Marley felt marijuana “reveals you to yourself.” They exalted hemp as a sacramental substance for rituals and “reasoning sessions.” Modern day Churches of Cannabis (Colorado) and Church of Ubuntu (Newcastle) hail hemp as a superior healing herb. Legal limbo After a long war on weed, pot propaganda is subsiding with marijuana’s medicinal merits re-emerging along with its conditional legal use in many regions. However, countries still largely prohibit the cultivation and use of hemp including Indonesia, Japan, Nigeria, Russia, Singapore, UAE and Saudi Arabia. The US revolution came in 2018 with the Farm Bill declaring it legal to produce hemp that contains less than 0.3% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Hence low THC cannabis is readily available in the USA in an amazing assortment of strains and forms including edible “Girl Scout Cookies.” There are countless places in the US you can get over the counter cannabis beverages, edibles, oil, patches, suppositories, tinctures, topicals, vapes and old school bud. In Australia and New Zealand hemp is legal for food and industrial use but restricted to prescription only for medicinal use. This may shift as 80 per cent of people felt personal use of cannabis should be decriminalised in the Australian 2022-2023 National Drug Strategy Household survey. The ACT is leading the way to change when in 2020 it declared it legal for over 18’s to have up to 50gms cannabis for personal use and to grow two hemp plants at home per person with a maximum of four plants per household if kept and used in a place not visible to the public. The Nimbin Hemp Embassy, hempembassy.net, is campaigning for cannabis freedom in Australia. CBD containing less than 0.01 per cent THC is legal in Australia for adults up to a maximum of 150 mg/day to be supplied over-the-counter by a pharmacist without a prescription however there doesn’t appear to be any TGA approved products meeting this criteria currently, most likely due to the cost of product registration. According to ABC news, “Expert clinical groups including physicians, psychiatrists, the Australian Medical Association and Australasian Society of Clinical and Experimental Pharmacologists and Toxicologists opposed the down-scheduling, citing the lack of safety data, lack of efficacy data, issues with product labelling and the potential for interactions with prescription medicines.” Only some doctors in Australia are approved through the TGA to prescribe cannabis via the Special Access Scheme or Authorised Prescriber Scheme. The cost of prescribed cannabis can be higher than illegally purchased cannabis because it’s a relatively new and niche treatment, not covered by Medicare or private health insurance. However, some may be eligible for clinical trials on medicinal cannabis. Search “cannabis” on the Australian/New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry to access a list of all Australian medicinal cannabis clinical trials. Drug driving Considering THC can affect driving skills even drivers on prescribed cannabis face penalties if THC is detected. Penalties may include demerit points, fines, license suspension and criminal charges. Money trees After Australia legalised the use of prescribed medical marijuana in 2016 the hemp harvest is estimated to earn 1 billion by 2025. Australians purchased a whopping $400 million on medicinal cannabis in the first half of 2024 according to a report by the Pennington Institute.  According to the National Drug Strategy Household Survey 2022–2023 (NDSHS), “In 2022–‍2023, 3.0 per cent of people in Australia had used cannabis for medical purposes in the previous 12 months, equating to around 700,000 people.” The study revealed 49 per cent of users suffered

Prunes are high in phenolic compounds such as chlorogenic and neochlorogenic acids, sorbitol and both soluble and insoluble dietary fibre (seven per cent). This fibre contains a significant amount of the prebiotics inulin and pectin. Prunes are high in potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds (anthocyanidins), giving them the highest antioxidant capacity of any dried fruit, and provide a range of vitamins (particularly vitamins B6 and K) and minerals (potassium, manganese, boron and magnesium). Prunes have been used for many years as a mild laxative and digestive normaliser due to their fibre content as well as natural sorbitol (a sugar alcohol that, by not being absorbed, can act as an osmotic agent, resulting in a laxative effect). Prunes have been shown to be more effective than psyllium husks to relieve constipation. Preventing constipation (it has been estimated that 14 per cent of the global population suffers from constipation) with safe functional foods such as prunes helps to prevent long-term bowel problems such as diverticulitis and bowel cancer. Chlorogenic acid, a compound found in prunes, is metabolised by specific gut microbes into compounds that may support the growth of beneficial bacteria such as bifidobacteria, which play a key role in bowel health. Considered a safe, effective functional food and play a significant role in managing gastrointestinal health, as part of a general dietary plan. The high phenolic content of prunes reduces the oxidative damage to lipid (fat) molecules. These phenolics inhibit the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, helping prevent damage due to abnormal cholesterol levels. In cholesterol metabolism, it’s not necessarily the LDL level specifically that can potentially cause problems; it’s the oxidation of LDLs and the carrying of fat-soluble chemicals by them that are more an issue. Research has shown that prunes inhibit LDL oxidation, thus potentially acting as a preventive agent against chronic illness such as heart disease and cancer. The high potassium level is also useful to maintain cardiovascular health. The soluble fibre level helps to lower cholesterol by absorbing excess bile in the intestine and so helping excrete it. This encourages the liver to produce more bile from cholesterol, thus reducing the amount in circulation. Endocrine Prunes provide a sweet hit with low calories and the soluble fibre in prunes assists in the regulation of blood sugar levels as it slows the rate at which food leaves the stomach and therefore slows glucose absorption into the bloodstream. With a glycaemic index of 29, unsweetened prunes have a lower glycaemic index than many other fruits despite their relatively higher sugar content. This also assists in the prevention of diabetes by regulating blood sugar management. Bone health Interestingly, prunes have been shown through research to assist in the prevention of osteoporosis by strengthening bones. Prunes downregulate osteoclast (catabolic or breaking-down bone), while upregulating osteoblast (anabolic or building-up bone) activity, thus not only protecting against but actively reversing bone loss. Prunes improve bone mineral density, trabecular bone microarchitecture and biomechanical properties (strength and stiffness), largely due to their polyphenol content. While dried apricots and grapes have shown lesser ability to protect bone, prunes are the only fruit to have an anabolic (bone-building) effect, particularly in the spinal vertebrae. The high content of boron in prunes also plays a role in the prevention of osteoporosis. A serving of 100g of prunes gives 2–3mg of boron, the daily requirement for bone health. Antioxidant The antioxidant components of prunes have the property of upregulating glutathione activity, thus improving antioxidant status in the body. Glutathione has also been shown to be involved in the suppression of bone resorption (even when associated with an oestrogen deficiency). Conclusion Overall, prunes are a delicious and healthy way to maintain health, a functional food that helps to prevent many of the chronic illnesses plaguing our Western society. One word of caution: unfortunately, prunes can contain acrylamide (a potential neurotoxin) formed during the processing if dried at high temperatures, so be careful of dosage. The potential dosage to have this effect is calculated to be 500 times an average daily dosage, so this is not usually an issue. References available on request. Article featured in WellBeing Magazine 217 Read More

Discover how finding your passion, the right course, and relevant experience can lead to a fulfilling, successful career with ACS. People today change jobs, even industries, more than ever before. In the past, most of us would do one apprenticeship, diploma or degree, driven by a passion for our chosen profession. Then spend a lifetime growing our knowledge and expertise in that industry. Increasingly, people today stumble into jobs they don’t particularly like, then frequently take right turns to study or work in something totally different. We all want to experience the most from life, but perhaps in trying to experience more, we are actually diminishing these experiences. What makes a career satisfying and successful? Working in something you have passion for. Passion at work keeps you motivated, happier and always learning. Motivated workers are more productive — leading to more opportunities. Take the blinkers off How aware are you of what your career passion might be and what opportunities are possible? We meet a lot of people who express a passion for the environment and ask about our courses, but don’t really have a realistic understanding of the hundreds of different career pathways that relate to that passion. Use our free counselling service The best way to build a career that fits with the best version of you is: First, determine your passion. Second, learn more. Acquire knowledge and skills that are valuable for work in jobs related to your passion. Part of that can be taking a course, but it needs to be a good course, and the right course for you. Third, get experience. If you can’t get a job at first, start volunteering. Paid work comes more easily to people with relevant experience, even unpaid experience. Fourth, network. Make friends and build relationships with people who have shared interests. We can help Email admin@acs.edu.au and start a dialogue with one of our staff who can help you with all four of the above steps. Our school offers more than 800 different courses covering many disciplines including Psychology, Health, Fitness, Trade skills, Horticulture, Pets, Wildlife, Hospitality, Writing, Business and more. See www.acs.edu.au. What makes a good course? More people than ever are studying multiple certificates, diplomas and degrees. But our time on this earth is limited and spending it studying something you’re not truly interested in can be just as unproductive as studying with the wrong course provider — even if it’s in a subject you care about. Many accredited courses today are becoming shorter and more superficial. In Australia especially, there’s often a greater emphasis on assessment than on the learning itself. This shift is unsustainable — it prioritises ticking boxes over meaningful understanding and leaves students with qualifications that don’t always translate into real-world knowledge or skills. A good learning program needs to keep “learning” as the top priority. It should revisit key content in different ways throughout the course to help learners remember and understand better. A good course engages students through varied methods and settings — both in and out of the classroom — using discussion, reading and multimedia to inspire and motivate their passion for learning. Why is avoiding frequent career changes better? Becoming a jack of all trades and master of none isn’t sustainable for anyone’s mental health, self-worth or overall life fulfilment. In the bigger picture, sticking to a career path you’re passionate about — and seeing it through — not only reduces skill shortages in society but also leads to a greater sense of fulfilment and mental stability in life. Staying longer in careers builds deeper expertise and a more skilled workforce. Stability improves productivity and work outcomes. Job satisfaction increases, promoting a positive workplace and overall wellbeing. How do we achieve more satisfying careers? Start by identifying and encouraging your passion. Expand your awareness of the possibilities that match that passion. Ensure people get onto more suitable career paths that do not keep being abandoned. Engage with, motivate and support new entrants to any industry. Successful careers are everyone’s responsibility Employers, bosses, workers, teachers, students and careers officers all have a part to play in forging more successful career paths. Connect with ACS today. Telephone:+61755621088 Website: acs.edu.au Website: studyacs.com Email: admin@acs.edu.au Read More

Discover Stressfree Management, a holistic Sydney clinic offering 40+ years’ experience in healing, courses & personal growth. Stressfree Management is an innovative clinic run by Jenetta Haim in Sydney’s western suburbs. The clinic caters to a multitude of modalities to assist healing on all levels. Jenetta offers more than 40 years of experience in a holistic program specifically designed for what you need. Do you require help with diet and nutrition? Or would you like to change negative habits with cognitive behaviour therapy, hypnotherapy, counselling or NLP? Do you need help finding causes for your inflammation and allergies? Maybe you’d like to quieten your mind and emotions with meditation and mindfulness? Perhaps you’d like to learn more about house clearing and feng shui? Or would you like to balance your energy with body scanning, crystal healing, reiki, Theta healing, colour therapy, spiritual counselling or psychic healing? It’s all there for you, plus much more. Available courses Jenetta offers courses one-to-one or in class. You can choose in-person or online. Short one-day courses or longer courses are available, all with a certificate at completion. • Stress Management • Personal Development • Meditation and Mindfulness • Nutrition and Health • Reiki (all levels) • Expanding your Intuition • Feng Shui • Psychic Development • Crystals, Colour and Energy Healing • Body Scanning • Goal Setting, Life Plans and Time Management Corporate courses, tailored to company needs • Developing Teamwork and Communication • Increasing Productivity • Staff Health and Welfare • Goal Setting and Time Management Connect with Stressfree Management today. Telephone: +61 414 680 713 or 02 9609 4881 Website: stressfreehealthmanagement.com Email: info@stressfreehealthmanagement.com Subscribe Subscribe to a newsletter to receive latest post and updates Jenetta Haim Jenetta Haim runs Stressfree Management at 36 Gipps Road, Greystanes, and specialises in assisting your health and lifestyle in all areas by developing programs on either a corporate or personal level to suit your needs. Jenetta has just published a book called Stress-Free Health Management, A Natural Solution for Your Health available from your favourite bookstore or online. For more information and to get in touch, visit her website at Stressfree Management. Read More

ATMS supports students’ natural medicine career with free membership, CPE, advocacy & resources to grow their careers. As you near graduation — or if you have just completed your studies — it’s natural to feel overwhelmed by the decisions ahead. Whether you’re planning to open your own clinic or join an established practice, there’s a lot to navigate: attracting clients, meeting their needs and understanding the demands of running a business. One of the most effective ways to set yourself up for success is by joining a professional association that’s genuinely invested in your career. Doing so provides access to the latest resources, expert guidance, a network of like-minded professionals and an organisation working to strengthen individual practices and the broader natural medicine industry. The Australian Traditional-Medicine Society (ATMS) is proud to support its members and celebrate their significant contributions to natural medicine and the health of Australians. Through a wide range of benefits, ATMS helps practitioners at every stage thrive in their careers. ATMS’ free student membership offers you the opportunity to build strong career foundations and to access a community of your fellow practitioners. Here’s how ATMS can support you throughout your career in natural medicine. ATMS offers a robust Continuing Professional Education (CPE) calendar featuring a variety of events tailored to different modalities, including Bodywork, Ingestive Therapies and Chinese Medicine. Start your career strong with Transition to Practice & Optimise Your Business, an in-person themed weekend, designed to support your move into practice or business ownership. ATMS also offers exclusive business training with the ATMS. Biz Club — a year-long CPE program offering fortnightly online sessions to grow your business know-how. From webinars to hands-on workshops and symposiums, each event is led by experienced presenters and grounded in evidence-based practice. The ATMS Webinar Library also houses on-demand recordings from previous events, an invaluable resource for flexible learning. Past attendees of Transition to Practice said: “The whole day was perfect and well-paced. The information and interactive parts were good. Very professional presentation.” “I’m a teacher and I’ve been in practice a long time. I will advise all my students to attend this day. It’s terrific.” Gain recognition as an accredited practitioner ATMS recognises the depth of knowledge and experience its members bring to their fields. That’s why it developed the trademarked ATMS Accredited Practitioner logo, used across public-facing materials to promote the value of seeing qualified practitioners. Members receive updated logos annually to reflect their current status, while student members are provided with badges that signal their commitment to professional standards and ongoing learning. Championing the industry through advocacy With its broad, multi-modality membership base, ATMS actively engages with government bodies, health funds and industry stakeholders to raise awareness of the diversity and value of natural therapies. One of its major initiatives is Natural Medicine Week, an annual campaign highlighting the work of accredited practitioners and the role of natural medicine in improving Australians’ health and wellbeing. This national campaign initiative features events, blogs and recipes via the website: naturalmedicineweek.com.au. Year-round, ATMS raises awareness of the benefits of natural therapies through its Friends of Natural Medicine community newsletter and social channels. Find out more: atms.com.au/friends-of- natural-medicine. ATMS actively promotes members through its Find a Practitioner online tool to encourage consumers to search for an accredited practitioner: atms.com.au/find-a-practitioner. Stay informed with research and industry insights ATMS is committed to evidence-based practice and ensures its members have access to the latest, most trusted research in the field of natural medicine. Members have access to advanced clinical tools, including: EBSCO – Access a comprehensive research database with 1600+ full-text journals and evidence-based clinical summaries to support your practice. eMIMSplus – A dynamic platform offering seamless access to the most current and relevant medicine-related information to support safe and informed prescribing. IMgateway – A trusted source of evidence-based content, providing in-depth information on conditions, herbs, supplements and the latest integrative medicine research. nPOD – A powerful resource designed to assist clinical decision-making, offering evidence-backed insights to ensure your clients receive the most reliable and up-to-date treatment options available. Student members can also access these resources to support their academic and clinical development. Members also receive a digital version of the Journal of the Australian Traditional-Medicine Society (JATMS), a respected peer-reviewed publication released quarterly and have access to private member community groups via Facebook. Celebrating excellence across the profession Each year, ATMS hosts the Natural Medicine Awards to acknowledge practitioners and clinics delivering outstanding care. Traditionally, the awards include categories for Practitioner of the Year, Clinic of the Year, and Student of the Year. In 2024, ATMS introduced a new category: Lecturer of the Year. Beyond the awards, ATMS supports its members through two grant programs: The Research Grant – Offering up to $10,000 for accredited members conducting major research in natural medicine. The Simon Schot Education Grant – Providing 10 annual recipients with $500 to help cover study-related costs. Join the ATMS community today If you’re ready to take the next step in your natural medicine journey, consider joining the ATMS community. Student members can upgrade to an accredited membership for only $100 and gain full access to a wide array of resources, tools and opportunities. Joining a professional association ensures you’re held to high standards, including ongoing education and adherence to a strict code of conduct — one that defines professional behaviour towards clients, colleagues, the profession and the public. Together, we can build greater recognition for natural medicine, promote its diverse benefits and elevate the standard of care across the industry. Connect with ATMS today! Tephone: 1800 456 855 Website: atms.com.au Read More

Discover 5 key health trends shaping 2025 — from proven supplements to AI, women’s health, fitness personalisation & weight care. Consumers today think differently about 5 key health and wellness than they did between 2010 and 2020. The 2010s were all about following advice from influencers, fad diets and trends. From 2021 onwards, consumers have shown a stronger preference for products and guidance recommended by professionals. Here are five current trends that are likely to stick around for some time. 1. Proven health supplements There is a growing demand for clinically proven supplements over unverified natural remedies. More people are opting for products recommended by their doctor or healthcare professional rather than relying on products lacking scientific backing. This shift is encouraging, as it helps protect consumers from being misled by unqualified influencers who promote health products without proper expertise. 2. Influence of AI Artificial Intelligence is here to stay. It is increasingly shaping the way we access and understand health information. While not without risks, it also has potential to support decision-making. The key lies in using these tools alongside qualified guidance, not in place of it. 3. Women’s health Women’s health, which has often been overlooked or shoved under the carpet, is finally getting the attention it deserves. Women are spending more on products that help them with menopause, ageing and sound sleep. 4. Personalised fitness Personalised fitness is normally only accessible for people who can afford it. Now, thanks to AI, there are apps which can take the data you provide about your health and fitness and spit out a very personalised fitness plan. 5. Weight management With evidence showing a healthy weight may significantly improve various health conditions, it is even more important to maintain a healthy weight. It’s now more achievable with the accessibility of weight loss of medication prescribed by doctors and lifestyle changes. At Health Academy Australia, all courses are written by health professionals who are highly qualified in their fields. The content is based on conventional medicine and health, which provides the foundational knowledge to make informed decisions or can be used for career and professional development to consult with clients. Contact Health Academy Australia today. Telephone: 07589 1500 Website: healthcourses.com.au Email: admin@healthcourses.com.au Read More

SFI Health raises the bar with gold-standard formulations, bridging complementary & clinical care without compromise. The complementary medicine space can be incredibly complex and often difficult to navigate for both practitioners and patients. Practitioners face the challenge of distinguishing between products that may appear similar on the surface, due to permitted indications and claims, but vary significantly in formulation, evidence and efficacy. Patients, meanwhile, often rely on marketing or online reviews without the necessary tools to evaluate therapeutic dosage, standardised extracts or excipient profiles. This can lead to poor outcomes, not because of the modality itself, but because the chosen product was subtherapeutic or inappropriate for their needs. The sheer volume of information, and misinformation, available online compounds this issue, making it harder for patients to make informed decisions and highlighting the need for expert guidance. How do similar-looking products produce vastly different clinical outcomes? One of the major challenges in complementary medicine is the illusion of equivalence between products. Since permitted health claims are not dose-dependent, two products can carry the same indication, such as “supports relaxation” or “relieves mild stress”, despite having vastly different formulations. For instance, a magnesium supplement containing a bioavailable form at a clinically effective dose may deliver strong results, while another with a poorly absorbed form at a low dose might not. Similarly, in herbal medicine, one product might use a standardised extract from a specific plant part, while another relies on an unstandardised version with limited therapeutic relevance. Despite these differences, both products can legally make the same claim. As a result, many products appear similar, but only some deliver meaningful outcomes. Practitioners must look beyond labels and assess formulation quality, standardisation and dosing to ensure clinical relevance and patient safety. With so much self-selection happening online, why are naturopaths more essential than ever? Today’s patients are more proactive than ever, often arriving at clinic after trying several over-the-counter products with mixed or sometimes no results. Unfortunately, self-selection based on marketing, influencer content or general symptom matching can lead to poor outcomes or even harm. Naturopaths play an essential role in demystifying this category, educating patients and translating clinical evidence into real-world, individualised care. Their expertise ensures the right product, in the right form and dose, is selected, maximising benefit and reducing risk. Practitioner-led protocols begin by identifying what is truly happening within the body, considering the whole person rather than focusing solely on symptoms. Through thorough assessment, testing, and clinical reasoning, practitioners prioritise which issues to address first and develop a clear, structured plan targeting underlying causes. Whereas patient-led approaches often focus on symptom relief alone, relying on trial and error with popular products. While symptom improvement is important, this method risks missing root causes, leading to incomplete or temporary results. Practitioner-led care offers more targeted, effective outcomes because it addresses underlying imbalances, reduces the risk of inappropriate product use, and supports long-term health rather than quick fixes. How does SFI Health bridge the gap between naturopathy and clinical healthcare? SFI Health plays a vital role in aligning naturopathic principles with clinical standards by ensuring all products are research-backed, formulated with therapeutic intent and compliant with regulatory requirements. We collaborate closely with practitioners to provide education, evidence-based support and access to high-quality, standardised extracts. This not only strengthens clinical outcomes but also helps naturopaths integrate more seamlessly within the broader healthcare system, fostering mutual respect and understanding between disciplines. How does SFI Health help educate practitioners on product quality? SFI Health prioritises transparency, clinical integrity and evidence-based formulation. We focus on using standardised extracts where available, ensuring therapeutic dosages, and avoiding unnecessary excipients that may affect patient outcomes. By clearly communicating the science and rationale behind each formulation, we empower practitioners to identify what truly matters: therapeutic intent, clinical relevance and patient safety. We also provide tools and education to help practitioners evaluate products critically and confidently. Standardisation ensures each dose of a product contains a consistent amount of the active constituents that have been clinically researched. This consistency gives practitioners confidence when prescribing, as it supports the expectation of outcomes observed in clinical trials. Without standardisation, variability in active ingredient levels can lead to unpredictable efficacy. What does SFI Health offer to help practitioners stay up to date in a rapidly changing field? The complementary medicine landscape evolves quickly, with new research, regulatory updates and shifting consumer trends continually emerging. SFI Health is committed to supporting practitioners through our dedicated healthcare professional-only website, which offers continuing education, clinical resources and access to our internal naturopaths. From webinars to evidence summaries, we equip practitioners with timely, trustworthy information they can confidently apply in the clinic. Education topics are selected through a multifaceted approach. We keep a close eye on industry developments and emerging clinical issues to ensure our content remains relevant and evidence-based. Practitioner feedback plays a crucial role, as listening to the challenges and questions raised in clinical settings allows us to address real-world needs effectively. We also align our educational focus with our key pillars: the microbiome, cognitive health and women’s health, areas key to our heart but also areas experiencing significant growth and patient demand. To enhance learning, we engage respected key opinion leaders who provide expert insights and clinical pearls of wisdom, enriching our educational offerings and helping practitioners deepen their expertise. What should practitioners look for when recommending complementary medicine products? Selecting the right product starts with understanding What quality looks like. Here are a few key considerations practitioners can use to make confident, clinically relevant decisions: Standardised ingredients: Look for products that use standardised extracts or forms shown to be effective in research. This ensures consistency in active constituents and supports reliable clinical outcomes. Therapeutic dosages: Check that ingredients are included at doses that align with published evidence or traditional use. Subtherapeutic amounts may not deliver the intended benefit. Excipient list: All excipients in listed medicines are available to the public via the TGA website, allowing practitioners to assess their appropriateness for individual patients. TGA-listed

Supporting your professional journey Embarking on a degree or career in natural therapies is an exciting and rewarding path — one that calls for passion, dedication and the right professional support. Having a trusted association by your side from the beginning can make all the difference. The Australian Natural Therapists Association (ANTA) is proud to offer support for students and new graduates. From free student membership and professional accreditation to ongoing learning and a connected community, ANTA is here to guide you every step of the way. For over 70 years, ANTA has been one of Australia’s largest professional associations representing highly qualified natural therapy practitioners across disciplines including acupuncture, naturopathy, clinical nutrition, herbal medicine, myotherapy, remedial massage and Chinese medicine. Becoming an ANTA-accredited practitioner plays a vital role in helping clients, peers, and the public identify professionals who have met clear, evidence-based professional standards. From the moment you join, ANTA accreditation supports essential aspects of clinical practice — facilitating access to professional insurance, private health fund recognition and a range of other benefits. Celebrating the profession: The Natural Therapists’ Symposium (2025) A highlight of ANTA’s calendar is The Natural Therapists Symposium (2025) to be held on the Sunshine Coast on October 10-11. This national event brings together students, practitioners, educators, researchers, industry exhibitors and key stakeholders for connection, learning and inspiration over two days. Delegates will enjoy access to expert speakers, live panel discussions, practical workshops and invaluable networking opportunities. More than just a professional development event, the Symposium is a celebration of ANTA’s shared commitment to and investment in the profession’s future. As part of ANTA’s 70-year celebrations, this year’s Symposium exemplifies its continued leadership in the natural therapies space, bringing together some of the most respected and innovative practitioner voices from across natural therapy disciplines. What unites all the Symposium speakers is that they are not only leaders shaping the future of natural medicine, but also dedicated professionals who generously support their peers by sharing real-world insights and evidence-based strategies. As part of an extensive, multi-modality curated program of immersive sessions, workshops and discussion forums, the Symposium will feature a diverse lineup of highly respected and innovative voices across natural therapy disciplines, including: Tammy Guest: Naturopath, author, mentor, educator, entrepreneur: From Reflection to Action: Shape Your Practitioner Future with Purpose Bodine Ledden: Soft tissue therapist, director, educator – Manual Therapy & the Predictive Brain: Rethinking Pain Modulation in Manual Therapy Dr Kate Levett: Acupuncturist, epidemiologist, educator, maternal health research specialist – Frameworks for Integrative Models of Care Tara Nelson: Naturopath, herbalist, nutritionist, author, mentor, educator, thyroid specialist – The Thyroid-Gut Connection – How the Microbiome Impacts Thyroid Health ANTA is also excited to be joined by two inspiring, expert keynote speakers across the two-day event, with Mark Bunn presenting a transformative talk on “The Daily Habits of ‘Healthy’ High Achievers” and Dr Jodi Richardson sharing empowering insights for practitioners to “Elevate Your Wellbeing for a Thriving Practice”. As a significant new milestone, the Symposium will also feature the ANTA Professional Excellence Awards recognising the outstanding achievements of practitioners, mentors, educators, innovators and entrepreneurs. Whether you’re looking to expand your clinical knowledge, enhance your therapeutic approach or simply want to feel more connected and inspired, this is a must-attend event on your professional calendar. CPD that inspires and informs ANTA takes pride in offering high-quality Continuing Professional Development (CPD) opportunities that are accessible, relevant and free to ANTA members. The ANTA Lunch & Learn Webinars provide expert insights, clinical themes, business guidance and practical advice across ANTA-recognised modalities and the broader natural therapies landscape. ANTA also hosts exclusive Practitioner Roundtable Webinars, offering enhanced application-based learning through topical, expert-led Q&A panels facilitated by ANTA Branch Chairs and guest panellists. Ready to take the next step? Join a community of passionate, skilled professionals who are helping to shape the future of natural therapies in Australia. Whether you’re a student, recent graduate or experienced practitioner, ANTA is here to support you in thriving professionally, ethically and resiliently. Visit the website to learn more or to apply for a free student membership today. Connect with ANTA today. Telephone: 1800 817 577 Website: anta.com.au Read More