Improving blood health and circulation can be supported by certain herbs, minerals, vitamins, and essential oils. Many of these natural substances contain antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and other properties that benefit cardiovascular function. However, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider before using supplements or essential oils, as they can interact with medications or have adverse effects, particularly if you have a bleeding disorder or are on blood-thinning medication.

Essential herbs and foods for blood health

Garlic: Contains sulfur compounds like allicin that can help relax blood vessels and may modestly lower blood pressure. It also has antithrombotic (anti-clotting) effects.

Turmeric: The active compound, curcumin, has anti-inflammatory and anticoagulant properties, which can help improve circulation and may prevent blood clots.

Ginger: Possesses anti-inflammatory properties that may help prevent blood clotting by reducing platelet aggregation. It is also known to help lower blood pressure.

Cayenne pepper: Contains capsaicin, which promotes vasodilation (the expansion of blood vessels) and can help lower blood pressure.

Ginkgo biloba: Used traditionally for blood disorders and memory problems, ginkgo contains compounds that may block blood clotting.

Cinnamon: A warming spice that may improve blood flow and act as a mild anticoagulant, though more human research is needed. Excessive intake of the coumarin-rich cassia variety can cause liver damage.

Hawthorn: A traditional heart tonic that contains flavonoid antioxidants, which may dilate blood vessels and support healthy circulation.

Fatty fish: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fish like salmon and mackerel can lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and inhibit platelet clumping.

Pomegranates: High in polyphenol antioxidants and nitrates, pomegranates are potent vasodilators that improve blood flow and oxygenation.

Leafy greens: Vegetables like spinach and kale are rich in nitrates and can be converted to nitric oxide in the body, which helps relax and widen blood vessels. They are also high in vitamin K, which is essential for proper blood clotting.

Key vitamins and minerals

Iron: Essential for producing hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia. Good sources include red meat, poultry, fish, beans, and fortified cereals.

Folate (Vitamin B9) and Vitamin B12: Both are critical for red blood cell synthesis. Deficiency can lead to a condition called macrocytic anemia, which is characterized by larger, less-efficient red blood cells.

Vitamin K: A fat-soluble vitamin necessary for blood coagulation (clotting). It helps activate specific proteins involved in the clotting process. Found in leafy greens, broccoli, and fermented foods.

Vitamin E: This antioxidant can help support vascular health by preventing the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, which can contribute to plaque formation. High doses may act as a blood thinner and should be used with caution, especially with blood-thinning medication.

Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant that is critical for collagen production, which helps maintain the integrity of blood vessels. It also helps the body absorb iron.

Calcium: A mineral that, in conjunction with vitamin K, plays a key role in the blood clotting cascade. It also helps regulate blood pressure.

Copper: Helps the body absorb and use iron properly, assisting in red blood cell formation.

Magnesium: Assists in relaxing blood vessels, which helps regulate blood pressure and is vital for healthy cardiac function.

Zinc: A cofactor for enzymes involved in hemoglobin synthesis and immune function.

Essential oils for circulation

Essential oils are generally recommended for topical use with a carrier oil or for aromatherapy, not for ingestion, unless under professional guidance.

Cypress essential oil: Traditionally used to improve lymphatic drainage and support circulation.

Rosemary essential oil: Rich in antioxidants and compounds that can help boost circulation and reduce inflammation.

Ginger essential oil: Known for its warming and anti-inflammatory properties, it can be massaged into the skin to help improve blood flow.
Black pepper essential oil: When massaged into the skin, it helps dilate blood vessels and improve circulation.

Lemon essential oil: May support lymphatic drainage and improve overall circulation.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement or treatment regimen. Do not use this information as a replacement for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

Female pigs do not have periods in the same way women do; instead, they have an estrous cycle characterized by signs of heat, such as a swollen, reddened vulva, but they do not experience the outward bleeding of the uterine lining that occurs during menstruation. The lining of a pig’s uterus is reabsorbed, a process different from the shedding seen in a menstrual cycle.

What pigs do experience (Estrous Cycle)

Behavioral and physical changes: Pigs enter a period called “heat” (estrus) where they become sexually receptive to mating.

Signs of heat: You may observe a swollen, reddened vulva, mucus discharge, restlessness, vocalization (like high-pitched whining), mounting other pigs, or a “standing” reflex where the female stands rigid and immobile when mounted.

Key differences from human menstruation

No outward bleeding: A significant difference is the lack of visible bleeding from the vulva.

Internal process: In female pigs, like other mammals that don’t menstruate, the uterine lining is reabsorbed internally at the end of the reproductive cycle.

Menstruation is rare: True menstruation, with visible bleeding, is a relatively rare phenomenon found primarily in primates and a few other specific species.

Immediate veterinary care is needed for a sow that is still bleeding weeks after giving birth. A small to moderate discharge in the first few days after farrowing is normal, but prolonged or heavy bleeding is a serious symptom of an underlying medical problem.

Potential medical causes
Prolonged postpartum bleeding can be a symptom of several conditions, including:

Retained afterbirth or fetus: If part of the placenta or a mummified piglet remains inside the uterus, it can cause infection and persistent bleeding.

Uterine infection (metritis): Bacteria can enter the uterus during farrowing, causing an infection that results in large amounts of foul-smelling discharge, which may include blood. Metritis is often accompanied by fever, lethargy, and a loss of appetite.

Vulval or uterine trauma: The vulva or uterus can be injured during a difficult or assisted birth. A severe vulval hematoma (blood-filled swelling) can occur, and if it ruptures, it will cause heavy bleeding.

Uterine prolapse: Though usually happening within hours of farrowing, a prolapse can sometimes occur later. This is a life-threatening condition where the uterus turns inside out and protrudes from the body, causing significant blood loss.

Cystitis (bladder infection):

Infections of the bladder or kidneys can lead to blood or pus in the urine, which may be mistaken for a vaginal discharge.

What to do immediately
Contact a veterinarian immediately. Prolonged bleeding is a serious issue that requires a professional diagnosis and treatment. In some cases, it can be life-threatening.
Monitor the sow closely. Take note of her behavior and any other symptoms, as this information will be vital for the vet.

Appetite: Is she eating and drinking normally?

Energy level: Does she appear lethargic or weak?

Fever: Is she unusually warm to the touch? A fever can indicate a severe infection.

Milk production: Is there a drop in milk production? Reduced milk supply is often an early sign of a problem.

Piglets: Are her piglets showing signs of being underfed, such as weakness or diarrhea?

Provide supportive care. Keep the sow in a clean, quiet, and comfortable environment to minimize stress and prevent further infection.

Do not attempt manual intervention. Unless you are a vet or experienced in such a procedure, you risk causing further injury, shock, or infection.

You can generally keep two miniature cows per acre, or even three on very good pastures, but the exact number depends on pasture quality, management practices like rotational grazing, rainfall, and the specific miniature breed. A rule of thumb for calculating pasture needs is about 3/4 to 1 acre per “cow unit” (a 1,000 lb animal), so using this for miniature breeds is a good starting point.

Factors that influence stocking rates:

Pasture Quality:

Higher-quality pastures with good grass growth will support more animals than unimproved or wooded pastures.

Rainfall:

Adequate rainfall is essential for grass to grow and recover, impacting how many cows an acre can sustain.

Management Practices:

Rotational grazing, where you move cows between different pasture sections, allows the land to recover and can significantly increase the number of animals you can keep.

Breed:

Different miniature breeds have varying nutritional needs and sizes, affecting the land required.

Supplementation:

If your pasture is not sufficient, you may need to provide supplemental hay or feed, especially during the winter or dry periods.

Tips for small acreages:

Consult your County Extension agent:

They can provide specific advice tailored to your local conditions and pasture types.

Consider rotational grazing:

Dividing your pasture into smaller sections and rotating your cows through them is the best way to manage land and keep the pasture healthy.

Monitor your pasture:

Keep an eye on the grass height to ensure it doesn’t get too bare, which can harm the pasture and the animals.

To make a tree stump rot faster, you can use a combination of drilling, moisture, and additives like Epsom salt or high-nitrogen fertilizer to accelerate decomposition. The process creates a hospitable environment for the fungi and bacteria that naturally break down wood.

Step 1: Cut and drill the stump
First, cut the stump as low to the ground as possible to minimize the amount of wood that needs to decompose. Then, use a large drill bit (at least 1 inch wide) to bore several deep holes into the top of the stump.

Drill holes 8 to 10 inches deep, spacing them a few inches apart.
Drill additional holes into any major surface roots you can expose.

This process increases the surface area exposed to moisture and additives, and creates channels for them to penetrate deeper.

Step 2: Add an accelerating agent
Fill the drilled holes with one of the following agents.

Epsom salt

This is a popular and relatively safe DIY method. The magnesium sulfate in Epsom salt draws moisture out of the stump, dehydrating and killing it, while also accelerating decay.

Fill the holes with Epsom salt.
Add just enough water to saturate the salt.

Cover the stump to prevent rain from washing away the salt and to keep moisture in.

Reapply the salt every few weeks.
High-nitrogen fertilizer
This method feeds the microbes that break down the wood.

Use a high-nitrogen fertilizer, such as ammonium sulfate or ammonium nitrate.

Fill the holes with fertilizer granules.
Pour hot water over the stump to help the fertilizer dissolve and penetrate.

Cover the stump with a high-nitrogen material like compost or horse manure to add more microbes and keep it moist.

Potassium nitrate

Commercial stump-removal products often contain potassium nitrate, which provides more oxygen for the bacteria that decompose wood fiber.

Fill the drilled holes with potassium nitrate granules.

Pour hot water into the holes.
Follow the product’s instructions for additional steps.

Step 3: Maintain moisture
Keeping the stump consistently damp is crucial for the microbial activity that causes decomposition.
Cover the stump: After adding your agent, cover the stump with a plastic tarp and weigh it down with rocks, bricks, or mulch.

Keep it wet: Water the stump regularly, especially during dry spells, to maintain the damp conditions needed for fungi and bacteria to thrive.

Use mulch: A layer of organic mulch or compost on top of the stump also helps retain moisture and introduces more beneficial microbes.

Step 4: Add fire (optional, if local laws permit)

If burning is allowed in your area, you can accelerate the process once the stump has dried out from a salt treatment.

Once the stump is sufficiently dry, you can ignite it to burn out the remaining wood.

Exercise extreme caution and check with your local fire department for regulations.

Consider the stump type
The time it takes for a stump to rot depends largely on the type of wood.

Softwoods like white pine or Douglas fir decompose faster.
Hardwoods such as oak can take much longer to decay naturally.

Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum) has a long history of traditional use for treating symptoms associated with fevers, colds, and flu, but it should be approached with caution due to safety concerns. The name boneset comes from its use in treating “breakbone fever,” an old name for dengue fever, which caused severe muscle and bone aches. While traditional applications focus on stimulating the immune system and promoting sweating, modern scientific evidence is limited and recommends careful use.

Disclaimer: Due to potential toxicity and the presence of liver-damaging alkaloids, Boneset is not recommended for internal use without expert medical supervision.

Traditional and historical uses
Historically, boneset was used by Native Americans and early American settlers for a variety of conditions, often prepared as a hot, bitter tea.

Fever and flu: As a diaphoretic, it was used to induce sweating to “break” fevers and alleviate the aches and pains associated with influenza and dengue fever.

Respiratory ailments: It was used as an expectorant to help loosen mucus and clear congestion in the chest and sinuses.

Immune stimulation: Early herbalists used boneset as an immune stimulant to help the body fight off minor viral and bacterial infections.

Digestive aid: Its bitter properties were traditionally thought to stimulate digestion, though large doses were known to cause vomiting.

Modern scientific perspective
Scientific evidence for the safety and effectiveness of boneset is limited, and most studies are either lab-based (in vitro) or preliminary.

Antiviral and immune properties: Some in vitro studies suggest that boneset may stimulate immune cell function and inhibit influenza viruses by preventing them from attaching to host cells.

Anti-inflammatory effects: Preclinical studies indicate that certain compounds in boneset may have anti-inflammatory effects.

Lack of clinical evidence: There are insufficient clinical trials to confirm the effectiveness of boneset for treating colds, flu, or other conditions in humans.

Safety concerns and precautions
Due to its chemical composition, boneset carries significant health risks and should not be used without medical consultation.

Liver damage: Boneset contains potentially toxic compounds called pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs). While some sources claim the levels are minimal in Eupatorium perfoliatum, others warn that PAs can cause serious liver damage, especially with long-term use.

Gastrointestinal issues: Ingesting large doses can cause severe diarrhea and vomiting.

Allergic reactions: Individuals with allergies to plants in the Asteraceae/Compositae family, such as ragweed, daisies, and marigolds, may experience an allergic reaction.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Boneset is considered possibly unsafe for pregnant or breastfeeding women and should be avoided.

Drug interactions: Boneset may interact with medications broken down by the liver. Consultation with a healthcare provider is essential.

The past 30 years I’ve been chasing the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow; it wasn’t till about 5 years ago, that I finally figured out, that I’ve been doing everything backwards.

When I was little, I had a whole bunch of ideas; but my father always said they were dumb ideas. While growing up, I saw other people making millions off of the same ideas!?! Once I became an adult, I decided that I would not let any of my ideas go to waste anymore; I’ve been broke ever since.

But it’s not all gone to waste. Around 2020; I finally figured it out, not all, but most, of what I was doing wrong. So the last 5 years, I’ve been regrouping and reorganizing. So far, as of 2025, I’ve already been approximately 15% more successful… & I’m almost dept free.

Therefore; I’m now liquidating everything that has not been giving me a return on my investment, and reinvesting it, in this new direction. So if you’re interested in buying me out, of any of my old investments; let me know… it’s probably for sale. Hopefully you can do better at it than I did.

Thank you, thank you, thank you very much; CainO

David Michael Cain ODougherty

For those looking to support adrenal health, particularly in cases of stress-related fatigue, a diet of nutrient-rich whole foods and targeted herbal supplements is often recommended. Adrenal glands are responsible for producing hormones like cortisol, which helps the body manage stress.

Foods for adrenal support
Focus on fresh, unprocessed foods that provide essential vitamins and minerals.

Vitamins and minerals:

Vitamin C: Found in high concentrations in the adrenal glands and needed to produce cortisol. Foods include bell peppers, citrus fruits, strawberries, and broccoli.

B Vitamins: Essential for energy production and managing stress. Sources include leafy greens, eggs, organ meats, and lentils.

Magnesium: Helps calm the nervous system and improves sleep. Found in dark leafy greens, avocados, nuts, and seeds.

Zinc: Involved in hormone production and immune function. Good sources are oysters, pumpkin seeds, and grass-fed beef.

Selenium: An antioxidant that supports adrenal and thyroid function. Brazil nuts are an excellent source.

Iodine: A trace mineral found in seaweed and seafood.

Sodium: Mineral-rich salt, like Celtic sea salt, can help with low blood pressure that sometimes accompanies adrenal issues.

Macronutrients:

Healthy Fats: Vital for hormone production. Eat avocados, olive oil, nuts, and fatty fish like salmon.

Quality Protein: Helps stabilize blood sugar, reducing stress on the adrenals. Choose lean meats, fish, eggs, and legumes.

Complex Carbohydrates: Provide sustained energy to prevent blood sugar crashes. Opt for whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, and oats, as well as starchy vegetables like sweet potatoes.

Herbs (adaptogens) for adrenal support
Adaptogens are herbs that help the body manage and adapt to stress.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): An Ayurvedic herb that may help regulate cortisol levels, improve energy, and reduce anxiety.

Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea): May boost energy, enhance mental clarity, and decrease stress-related fatigue.

Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum): Also known as Tulsi, this adaptogen may help balance cortisol and support a healthy inflammatory response.

Eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus): Historically used to improve stamina, endurance, and overall resistance to stress.

Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra): Can help sustain cortisol levels. Use this herb cautiously and with medical guidance, as it can raise blood pressure.

Maca Root: A Peruvian plant used to support hormonal balance and increase energy.

Reishi Mushroom: Used in Eastern medicine to increase resilience to stress and promote a sense of calm.

Foods and substances to avoid
To reduce stress on the adrenal glands, consider limiting or avoiding the following:

Refined sugars and processed carbs: These cause blood sugar spikes and crashes, forcing the adrenals to work harder.

Excessive caffeine: Can overstimulate the adrenal glands and disrupt sleep.

Alcohol: Interferes with hormone balance and can disrupt sleep patterns.

Processed and fried foods: These are often low in nutrients and high in unhealthy fats, adding to bodily stress.

Disclaimer: Before making significant changes to your diet or adding new supplements, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or take medication, it is important to consult a qualified healthcare professional. Some of these recommendations, such as the use of licorice root, require particular caution.

A diet that combines elements of both carnivore and vegetarian diets is often referred to as a flexitarian diet or a plant-forward diet. This approach emphasizes plant-based foods but allows for occasional inclusion of meat, poultry, or fish. It’s a more flexible way to eat, allowing for a mix of both animal and plant-based sources of nutrition.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

Flexitarian/Plant-forward:

This is the most common way to describe a diet that blends the two. It means prioritizing plant-based foods while still incorporating some animal products.

Pescatarian:

This diet includes fish and seafood but excludes other meat, making it a vegetarian diet with the addition of fish.

Carnivore Lite:

Some people who primarily follow the carnivore diet may incorporate small amounts of low-carb vegetables like leafy greens or sweet potatoes for added nutrients and fiber. This is not a true combination of both diets, but rather a modification of the carnivore diet.

Yes, pigs can potentially become infected with Johne’s disease, also known as paratuberculosis, from sheep and goats. While Johne’s disease primarily affects ruminants like sheep, goats, and cattle, the bacterium causing the disease, Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP), can be transmitted to other species, including pigs.

Key points on Johne’s disease transmission

Primary Transmission Route: The main route of infection is fecal-oral, meaning animals ingest the bacterium from feed or water contaminated with infected feces.

Contaminated Environments:

Infected animals shed MAP in their manure, contaminating the environment, including pastures, feed and water sources, and housing areas.

Young Animals Most Susceptible: Newborns and young animals are particularly vulnerable to infection.
Potential for Cross-Species Transmission: Studies indicate that the infection can spread from one ruminant species to another (e.g., cattle to goats or sheep).

Pigs as Atypical Hosts: While pigs are not the natural hosts, there have been reports of MAP infecting them, and even causing illness, according to the Johne’s Information Center.

Important notes

Johne’s disease is not the same as Crohn’s disease in humans: While some researchers explore a potential connection between MAP and Crohn’s disease, the majority of gastroenterologists do not believe there is a direct causal link.

Prevalence in Pigs: Compared to ruminants, the occurrence of Johne’s disease in pigs is less common, but the possibility of transmission and infection exists, especially in environments where pigs share housing or pastures with infected sheep or goats.

Biosecurity Measures:

Implementing strong biosecurity measures, such as proper manure management, cleaning and disinfection of facilities, and preventing co-housing of pigs with ruminants from unknown health status, can help reduce the risk of transmission.

If you suspect Johne’s disease in your animals, consult with a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and advice on prevention and control strategies.

Yes, goats can contract Johne’s disease, also known as paratuberculosis, from sheep.  Johne’s disease is a chronic, contagious bacterial infection that affects the intestines of various ruminants, including sheep, goats, and cattle. It is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP).

Here’s why goats can get it from sheep:

Transmission:

Johne’s disease is primarily spread through fecal-oral transmission, meaning animals can become infected by ingesting the bacteria present in the feces of infected animals.

Shared Pastures:

Goats can contract the disease by grazing on pastures previously used by sheep infected with Johne’s.

Species-to-Species Transmission:
Johne’s disease can be transmitted between different ruminant species, including sheep and goats, according to www.nj.gov.

Key points about Johne’s disease in goats:

Clinical Signs: In goats, the most consistent sign of Johne’s disease is chronic weight loss, even with a good appetite. Diarrhea may also occur, though it’s less common than in cattle.

No Cure: There is no cure for Johne’s disease.

Prevention: Maintaining a closed herd, purchasing animals from Johne’s-tested herds, and avoiding shared grazing with infected animals are crucial preventative measures, according to the American Dairy Goat Association.