Hyperkeratosis is a thickening of the outer layer of the skin (stratum corneum) due to an overproduction of keratin. This can make the skin appear rough, dry, scaly, or calloused. It can occur in response to chronic pressure, friction, inflammation, or underlying skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, lichen planus, actinic keratosis, or inherited disorders like keratosis pilaris.
It isn’t a disease itself, but a reaction pattern of the skin, and the underlying cause needs to be addressed.

When working with my clients with homeopathy,  I want to know when this started to be a problem, what was going on in life at the time, or in the year or two leading up to it appearing, and what are the symptoms like for the,

Here are 5 of the Top Homeopathic Remedies Often Used for Hyperkeratosis(The choice depends on symptoms and constitution and causal factors, remedies in homeopathy are highly individualised.)

1. Graphites
   • For thick, rough, cracked, or hardened skin.
   • Skin may ooze sticky or honey-like discharge.
   • Often suited to people with dry skin tendencies and eczema.
2. Thuja Occidentalis
   • For warty or thickened skin growths.
   • Useful when hyperkeratosis presents as hard, horny patches or warty excrescences.
   • Often linked with suppressed skin eruptions.
3. Antimonium Crudum
   • For thickened, hard skin, especially on soles and palms.
   • Good for calluses, corns, and painful cracks (may be this type of skin issue on other places on the body)
   • The skin may appear horny or covered with crusts.
4. Calcarea Carbonica
   • For rough, scaly, and unhealthy skin.
   • Often indicated in people who are chilly, overweight, or easily fatigued.
   • Suited when skin lesions are slow to heal.
5. Silicea
   • For deep cracks, fissures, and thickened skin.
   • Works well in chronic, stubborn cases where the skin hardens and becomes brittle.
   • Often chosen for people with delicate constitutions and slow-healing skin issues.
     
     
     

If your hyperkeratosis symptoms do not fit any of the above, do not worry, I have a huge repertory of remedies to work with, and your case may be much more individualised than the examples outlined above.

We are all different, and homeopathy really focuses on the uniqueness of each and every person.

​I do recommend getting a diagnosis from your medical practitioner alongside working with natural remedies with this condition.

Please do get in touch for a free 15 minute pre consultation call if you would like to know more (there is no obligation). 

Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in keeping the body and mind healthy. Unlike many vitamins, B12 is not produced by the body and must be obtained through diet or supplementation. Whilst this vitamin is only required in relatively small amounts, its impact on overall health is enormous.

Why Does Vitamin B12 Matter?
Vitamin B12 supports some of the body’s most critical functions, from energy production to brain health. A deficiency can cause fatigue, memory problems, mood imbalances, and even long-term nerve damage if left untreated. Ensuring adequate levels of B12 is especially important for people who follow plant-based diets, older adults, those with digestive conditions that affect nutrient absorption and, in my opinion, anyone who may have a toxic load (think smoking, vaping, alcohol).

Key Benefits of Vitamin B12
1. Boosts Energy and Reduces FatigueB12 is crucial for converting food into energy. It helps the body produce red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body. Without enough B12, red blood cell production drops, often leading to fatigue, weakness, or anaemia.

2. Supports Brain and Nervous System Health This vitamin protects nerve cells and is vital for producing neurotransmitters that influence mood and cognitive function. Studies suggest that B12 may help reduce the risk of memory loss, support concentration, and protect against age-related cognitive decline.

3. Enhances Mood and Mental Wellbeing B12 contributes to the production of serotonin, the “feel-good” brain chemical. Low levels have been linked to mood disorders like depression and anxiety. Adequate B12 can help support emotional balance and resilience.

4. Promotes Healthy Skin, Hair, and Nails By aiding in cell reproduction, B12 helps maintain the health of rapidly dividing cells, including those that form your skin, hair, and nails. Deficiency may result in skin irritation, brittle nails, or hair thinning.
5. Supports Heart Health Vitamin B12 helps regulate homocysteine levels, an amino acid that, when elevated, can increase the risk of heart disease. Keeping homocysteine in check supports cardiovascular health.

6. Vital for Pregnant Women and Foetal Development During pregnancy, B12 is essential for foetal brain and nervous system development. Deficiency in expectant mothers can increase the risk of birth defects and complications. Check your pregnancy supplements have B12 as part of the formula.

Natural Sources of Vitamin B12
​Vitamin B12 is primarily found in animal-based foods such as:
Meat (beef, lamb, poultry)
Fish and shellfish (salmon, tuna, clams)
Eggs
Dairy products (milk, yoghurt, cheese)
If you are following a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle, fortified foods such as plant-based milks, breakfast cereals and nutritional yeast are valuable options. Supplements are also widely available in tablets, sprays or injections if additional support is needed.
Who May Need Extra B12?Vegans and vegetarians (as dietary sources are limited)
Older adults (as reduced stomach acid can impair absorption)
People with digestive conditions (such as Crohn’s or coeliac disease)
Individuals on certain prescribed medicines.
Individuals with a poor diet or negative lifestyle factors (for example, smoking / drinking / vaping / eating junk food / takes outs etc)
 
B12 is essential for many functions in our body. If you are unsure if you need supplementation, please do get in touch for an appointment. If you would like to purchase B12, Biocare has excellent quality supplements. Please find out more about their range, and also how to receive a discount when you order here. 

Please note, This article does not replace medical advice

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When you want to lose weight, eating right, drinking lots of water, and getting plenty of rest, fresh air and exercise are essential. Additionally, herbs can support your body with letting go of the weight.

Here are 10 herbal teas that may support weight loss naturally by boosting metabolism, aiding digestion, reducing appetite, and improving fat oxidation. Remember, tea alone won't lead to significant weight loss without healthy eating and exercise, but it can be a great addition to your routine:

1. Green Tea

• Benefits: Rich in catechins (especially EGCG) that boost metabolism and fat burning.
  
• How it helps: Increases energy expenditure and helps break down fat, especially during exercise.
  

2. Oolong Tea

• Benefits: A partially fermented tea that combines the benefits of green and black tea.
  
• How it helps: Enhances fat oxidation and boosts metabolism.
  

3. Peppermint Tea

• Benefits: Suppresses appetite and improves digestion.
  
• How it helps: Reduces cravings and bloating, making it easier to stick to healthy eating.
  

4. Ginger Tea

• Benefits: Aids digestion, boosts metabolism, and has thermogenic properties.
  
• How it helps: Encourages fat burning and reduces inflammation that can lead to weight gain.
  

5. Hibiscus Tea

• Benefits: Contains enzymes that help break down sugars and starches.
  
• How it helps: May lower fat absorption and promote a healthy metabolism.
  

6. Rooibos Tea

• Benefits: Caffeine-free and rich in antioxidants.
  
• How it helps: Contains aspalathin, which may help reduce stress hormones that trigger hunger and fat storage.
  

7. Dandelion Tea

• Benefits: Natural diuretic and liver detoxifier.
  
• How it helps: Reduces water weight and supports digestive health.
  

8. Cinnamon Tea

• Benefits: Regulates blood sugar and reduces insulin spikes.
  
• How it helps: Helps control cravings and supports stable energy levels.
  

9. Fennel Tea

• Benefits: Eases bloating, aids digestion, and may suppress appetite.
  
• How it helps: Helps you feel full and comfortable after meals.
  

10. Matcha

• Benefits: A concentrated form of green tea, rich in antioxidants and chlorophyll.
  
• How it helps: Boosts thermogenesis and energy, ideal before a workout
  
  
  Tips for Use
• Drink 1–3 cups daily depending on caffeine sensitivity.
  
• Choose organic, high-quality teas without added sugars.
  
• Combine with a healthy diet and physical activity for best results.
  
• Do get in touch if you need an appointment to support your weight loss journey. Emotions, trauma and underlying nutritional imbalances and health conditions can be underlying obstacles to achieving your desired outcome.
  

What is heat rash?
Heat rash, also known as prickly heat and miliaria, is a skin rash that occurs when sweat is trapped in the skin. It is common in hot and humid climates. Symptoms can range from small blisters to deep, inflamed lumps, and some forms of heat rash are very itchy. Heat rash is not dangerous, but it can make parts of your skin feel prickly or sting due to overheating.
 
Natural Remedies
1. Cool Compress
Apply a clean, damp, cool washcloth to the affected area for 5–10 minutes.
 
Repeat several times a day to reduce inflammation and itching.
 
2. Oatmeal Bath
Add 1 cup of colloidal oatmeal to a lukewarm bath.
 
Soak for 15–20 minutes. Oatmeal soothes itching and reduces redness.
 
3. Aloe Vera
Use fresh aloe vera gel or 100% pure bottled gel.
 
Apply directly to the rash to reduce heat, soothe irritation, and prevent infection.
 
4. Coconut Oil
Acts as an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial agent.
 
Apply a thin layer after cleansing and drying the skin.
 
 
5. Nettle Tea
Bath with nettle tea to help soothe the skin. Repeat several times a day.
You can also make a cup of nettle tea to drink, nettle tea supports the body with allergies
 
6. Homeopathic Urtica Urens
Urtica Urens is made from Nettle, this is a great remedy for nettle rash and also heat rash. Use a 6c potency up to 3 times a day.

Mouth ulcers can be painful and irritating, but natural remedies can help speed up healing and reduce discomfort. Here are some effective options:

1. Saltwater Rinse

• Mix 1 teaspoon of salt in warm water and rinse your mouth for 30 seconds.
• Repeat 2–3 times a day to reduce bacteria and promote healing.

2. Honey

• Apply raw honey directly to the ulcer.
• Honey has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and heal.

3. Coconut Oil

• Dab a little coconut oil on the ulcer for its antimicrobial and soothing effects.
• Repeat multiple times a day.

4. Aloe Vera

• Apply fresh aloe vera gel to the sore for pain relief and faster healing.
• Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial benefits.

5. Baking Soda Paste

• Mix baking soda with a little water to form a paste.
• Apply to the ulcer for a few minutes before rinsing off.
• Helps neutralize acids and reduce irritation.

6. Clove Oil

• Dab a small amount of clove oil on the ulcer using a cotton swab.
• Clove oil contains eugenol, a natural pain reliever and antiseptic.

7. Chamomile Tea

• Brew chamomile tea and use it as a mouth rinse or place a cooled tea bag on the ulcer.
• Chamomile has anti-inflammatory and healing properties.

8. Liquorice Root

• Soak liquorice root in warm water and use it as a mouth rinse.
• It forms a protective barrier and reduces inflammation.

9. Vitamin B12 & Iron

• Deficiency in B12 or iron can cause recurrent mouth ulcers.
• Increase foods rich in these nutrients, like leafy greens, nuts, and eggs, or take supplements if needed.

10. Avoid Triggers

• Avoid spicy, acidic, and rough-textured foods that can worsen irritation.
• Reduce stress, as it can contribute to ulcers.

Mouth ulcers can represent underlying immune issues, or gastric issues. If the ulcer persists for more than two weeks or worsens, consult a healthcare professional. Please do reach out if you would like to work with me.

7 Dietary Tips to support a slow thyroid
 
If you have a slow-functioning thyroid (hypothyroidism), your diet can play a significant role in supporting thyroid function and overall well-being. Here are 7 key diet tips to help:
 
1. Get Enough Selenium
Selenium supports thyroid hormone metabolism. Good sources:
 
Brazil nuts (2-3 per day is enough)
Eggs
Tuna, sardines
Sunflower seeds
 
 
2. Avoid/ keep minimal goitrogen foods.
Goitrogens can disrupt thyroid hormone production by interfering with iodine uptake.
 
Cruciferous veggies (broccoli, kale, cabbage, cauliflower)
Soy products (tofu, soy milk)
Peanuts & millet
NOTE - Cooking these foods reduces their goitrogenic effects.
 
3. Choose Complex Carbs Over Simple Sugars
Refined carbs and sugar can lead to weight gain and blood sugar spikes. Instead, eat:
 
Sweet potatoes
Quinoa & brown rice
Legumes & beans
Whole grains (oats, barley)
 
4. Increase Omega-3 Fats
Omega-3s help reduce inflammation and support thyroid function. Include:
 
Fatty fish (salmon, sardines, trout). Keep this to about once or twice a month if your thyroid is slow.
Chia & flaxseeds
Walnuts
Algal oil (vegan option)
 
5. Stay Hydrated & Reduce Caffeine
Dehydration can slow metabolism. Drink plenty of water and reduce excess caffeine, which may interfere with thyroid function. Herbal teas and lemon water are good alternatives.
 
6. Avoid Ultra-Processed Foods & Excess Sugars
Packaged and processed foods can cause inflammation and weight gain. Avoid:
 
Fast food
Sugary cereals
Soda & energy drinks
Refined snacks (chips, pastries, biscuits)
 
7. Monitor Gluten & Dairy Sensitivity
Some people with thyroid issues (especially Hashimoto’s) may benefit from reducing or eliminating:
 
Gluten (wheat, barley, rye)
Dairy (milk, cheese, yogurt, butter)
Try an elimination diet to see if symptoms improve.
 
I generally recommend testing to see what the nutrient requirements of the body are, to support the body.
 
If you would like to know more about the testing services I offer, and how I work, please do get in touch for a FREE 15 minute call.
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Our immune system is our body's natural defence against infections, viruses, and diseases. A strong immune system helps us stay healthy, recover faster, and can even prevent chronic illnesses. In this post, I will share some practical natural ways to boost immunity.  

1. Prioritize Nutrition The food we eat plays a major role in immune health. A diet rich in whole, nutrient-dense foods provides the vitamins and minerals our body needs to function optimally. Consider using:

• Vitamin C-rich foods: Citrus fruits, bell peppers, and strawberries help enhance immune function.
• Zinc sources: Nuts, seeds, beans, and lean meats support immune cell function.
• Antioxidant-rich foods: Berries, dark leafy greens, and colourful vegetables fight inflammation and oxidative stress. Make sure you eat a rainbow of natural-coloured foods in your diet.
• Probiotics and Prebiotics: Yogurt, kefir, fermented foods, garlic, and onions promote gut health, which is closely linked to immunity.

2. Get Plenty of Sleep:  Sleep is essential for immune function. During deep sleep, our body repairs itself and produces infection-fighting molecules like cytokines. To support immunity:

• Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night.
• Create a bedtime routine with minimal screen time before sleep.
• Maintain a consistent sleep schedule to regulate your body's circadian rhythm.

3. Exercise Regularly Moderate exercise enhances immune function by promoting good circulation, reducing inflammation, and lowering stress levels. However, balance is key:

• Engage in 30-45 minutes of moderate activity like walking, cycling, or yoga most days of the week.
• Avoid excessive, intense workouts, as they can temporarily weaken immunity if you are not used to them, or if you are feeling off colour.

4. Manage Stress Effectively Chronic stress weakens the immune system by increasing cortisol levels, which suppress immune responses. Try these stress-reducing techniques:

• Meditation and deep breathing exercises (you can sign up to my FREE meditation course here).
• Engaging in hobbies and activities that bring joy.
• Spending time in nature and practicing mindfulness.

5. Stay Hydrated Water is vital for overall health and plays a role in immune function by helping flush toxins from the body. Tips to stay hydrated:

• Drink at least 8 glasses (64 oz) of water per day.
• Consume herbal teas and water-rich foods like cucumbers and watermelon.
• Limit sugary, alcohol and caffeinated drinks that can cause dehydration.

6. Get Enough Sunlight (or Vitamin D) Vitamin D is crucial for immune health, yet many people are deficient. Natural ways to boost Vitamin D levels include:

• Spending at least 15-30 minutes in the sun daily.
• Consuming foods rich in Vitamin D, such as fatty fish, eggs, and fortified dairy products.
• Consider a Vitamin D supplement, if necessary, especially in winter months.

7. Avoid Harmful Habits Certain lifestyle habits weaken the immune system. Be mindful of:

• Reducing alcohol consumption, as excessive drinking weakens immune defences.
• Avoiding smoking, which damages lung health and lowers immunity.
• Cutting back on processed and sugary foods that contribute to inflammation.

8. Keep your air clean. Use pure essential oils in a reed diffuser or oil burner to help keep the air free of pathogens.

• Pine for
• Tea Tree oil for

9. Start the day with a ginger, turmeric and lemon shot
Juice apples, carrots, lemon, orange, ginger and turmeric for a shot of natural goodness to lift your immunity each day.  


10.Have house plants that purify your air
Spider plants release oxygen and also help clear toxins from the air. Having a few spider plants in the house not only bring life and a pop of colour into the house, they also help you have extra oxygen and cleaner air.
 
 
Boosting your immune system naturally is about making consistent, healthy choices. By eating a nutrient-rich diet, prioritizing sleep, exercising regularly, managing stress, staying hydrated, getting enough sunlight, and avoiding harmful habits, you can enhance your body’s defence system. Remember, small daily actions add up to big health benefits over time. Your future you will appreciate all of those little steps!
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Meditation is a practice with numerous scientifically-backed benefits for mental health. Here are some of the key ways it can enhance mental well-being:
 
1. Reduces Stress
Meditation helps lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Techniques like mindfulness meditation encourage focusing on the present moment, which reduces rumination and helps the mind release stress-inducing thoughts.
 
2. Alleviates Anxiety
Regular meditation can help reduce symptoms of anxiety by promoting relaxation and encouraging a non-judgemental awareness of thoughts and emotions. This practice helps individuals respond more calmly to stressors.
 
3. Improves Emotional Regulation
Meditation strengthens emotional resilience by enhancing awareness of emotions without reacting impulsively. This leads to improved mood stability and reduced mood swings.
 
4. Enhances Focus and Concentration
Meditation trains the brain to sustain attention and avoid distractions. Techniques like focused attention meditation improve cognitive control, which can help with tasks requiring sustained mental effort.
 
5. Boosts Self-Awareness
Practices like mindfulness meditation encourage introspection and help people gain insight into their thought patterns and behaviours, fostering greater self-understanding and personal growth.
 
6. Supports Better Sleep
By calming the mind and reducing stress, meditation can improve sleep quality. Specific practices, such as body scan meditations, help relax the body and prepare it for rest.
 
7. Reduces Symptoms of Depression
Meditation can enhance feelings of well-being and reduce depressive symptoms by promoting positive thinking and reducing negative thought patterns. It may also increase levels of serotonin, the "feel-good" neurotransmitter.
 
8. Decreases Emotional Reactivity
Meditation teaches individuals to observe their thoughts and emotions without immediate reaction, helping them approach situations more thoughtfully and with less emotional intensity.
 
9. Improves Overall Mental Clarity
Regular meditation can enhance cognitive function and memory, providing a sense of mental clarity and reducing feelings of being overwhelmed.
 
10. Encourages Compassion and Connection
Loving-kindness meditation (Metta) fosters feelings of empathy, kindness, and connection to others, which can improve social relationships and reduce feelings of loneliness.
 
Incorporating meditation into daily life, even for a few minutes a day, can lead to significant improvements in mental health and overall well-being. Have you meditated before, do you struggle with it. My FREE mini course, the Gift of Meditation, is available for you to access here. The course is broken down into really simple bite-size steps, with video guidance. There is also a short 6 minute meditation that you can use every-day if you want to, and it is child-friendly. If you want longer, meditations, that help your with deeper mindfulness practise, then please do come along to my on-line Monday meditation classes, or for even better value, and access to the replays, join my Meditation portal, accountability always help us to achieve our goals.
You have nothing to lose, and everything to gain by meditating.

Try it.