Healthy Salty Tidbits
[March 2025]

Xiao Yao San (XYS), also known as “Free and Easy Wanderer,” is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) herbal formula with a long history of use for emotional (anxiety), hormonal (PMS), and physical (digestive) symptoms. Here’s a breakdown of key information:

Traditional Use

• XYS is primarily used in TCM to harmonize the Liver and Spleen, and to regulate Qi (vital energy). It’s secondary functions are to resolve Dampness and nourish Blood. 
• It’s often prescribed for conditions related to Liver Qi stagnation, which can manifest as emotional (anxiety), hormonal (PMS), and physical (digestive) symptoms.

Common Applications

• Emotional Health: It’s frequently used for stress, anxiety, irritability, and mood swings.
• Women’s Health: XYS is often used to address premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), infertility, and menopausal symptoms.
• Digestive Issues: It is also effective for digestive discomforts caused by mental-emotional stress.
• Mental health: There are studies that have shown that XYS can be helpful in treating depression, sometimes used in conjunction with western medicine.

Ingredients

• The formula typically includes the following medicinals;
  • Bupleurum root (Chai Hu)
  • Angelica sinensis (Dang Gui)
  • White peony root (Bai Shao)
  • Atractylodes rhizome (Bai Zhu)
  • Poria cocos (Fu Ling)
  • Ginger (Sheng Jiang)
  • Mint (Bo He)
  • Licorice root (Gan Cao)

Variations

• There are variations of the formula, such as Jia Wei Xiao Yao San (or Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San), which may include additional herbs to address specific symptoms, such as heat, and Hei Xiao Yao San which includes herbs to support the nourishing of Blood. A knowledgeable TCM doctor will understand your unique needs and modify the formula accordingly.  

Important Considerations

• It’s crucial to consult with a licensed TCM practitioner before using Chinese herbal medicine.
• XYS can be used alone or in combination with antidepressants. 
• Studies suggest that XYS is safe and effective when used to treat anxiety in combination with Western medicine. 

In summary, Xiao Yao San is a traditional herbal formula used for a range of conditions, particularly those related to stress, mood, and women’s health.

The concept of a “spring liver cleanse” aligns with the traditional idea of supporting the body’s natural detoxification processes, particularly as we transition from the heavier foods and potentially more sedentary habits of winter. While the liver is a self-cleaning organ, certain dietary and lifestyle choices can support its healthy function.  

Here’s a breakdown of how to approach a spring liver-supporting approach, combining dietary and lifestyle considerations:

Dietary Recommendations

Focus on Seasonal Produce

• • Spring greens like dandelion, arugula, and asparagus are rich in chlorophyll and other beneficial compounds.  
  • Artichokes stimulate bile production, which aids in fat digestion and detoxification.  
  • Beets support liver detoxification pathways.  
  • Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts) enhance the liver’s ability to process toxins.  

Increase Fibre Intake

• • Fibre helps bind toxins and promote their elimination.  
  • Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet.

Hydration

• • Drink plenty of water to help flush out toxins.  
  • Adding lemon to water can further support liver function.  

Eliminate Processed Foods, Sugar, and Alcohol

• • These substances can burden the liver.  
  • Take a break from (or completely eliminate) consumption of fried foods, sugary drinks, and alcohol.

Liver supporting foods

• • Garlic, and onions. These allium vegetables contain compounds that help the liver produce detoxification enzymes.  
  • Turmeric, this spice has anti-inflammatory properties, and supports liver health.  

Lifestyle Recommendations

Regular Exercise

• • Physical activity promotes healthy circulation and supports detoxification.  
  • Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.

Adequate Sleep

• • The liver performs its detoxification functions primarily during sleep.
  • Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night.  

Stress Management

• • Chronic stress can negatively impact liver function.  
  • Practice stress-reducing activities like meditation, yoga, or spending time in nature.
  • Load your life with things that make you smile!

Emotional well being

• • Since traditional Chinese medicine ties the liver to emotional health (particularly anger), focusing on healthy emotional habits can be beneficial.  

By adopting these healthy dietary and lifestyle habits, you can support your liver’s natural detoxification processes and promote overall well-being.

The presence of microplastics in our environment and their potential impact on human health is a growing area of concern and active research. One that I can only assume most Salt Springer’s are already aware of. For those of you who want to understand more about this topic, here’s a summary:  

What are Microplastics?

• Microplastics are tiny plastic particles, typically less than 5 millimeters in size.  
• They originate from the breakdown of larger plastic debris, as well as from manufactured products like microbeads in cosmetics and fibers from synthetic clothing.  
• Nanoplastics, even smaller particles, are of particular concern due to their ability to penetrate cells.  

How Do Microplastics Enter the Human Body?

• Ingestion: Through contaminated food and water, particularly seafood.  
• Inhalation: Through airborne microplastic particles.  
• Dermal absorption: through contact with microplastics in products like cosmetics.  

Potential Health Impacts:

• Research is ongoing, but studies suggest potential health risks, including:
  • Inflammation: Microplastics can trigger inflammatory responses in tissues.  
  • Oxidative stress: Exposure may lead to cellular damage.  
  • Chemical exposure: Microplastics can carry harmful chemicals, such as phthalates and BPA, which can leach into the body.
  • Cardiovascular issues: Recent studies have shown correlation between microplastics in blood vessels, and increased risk of heart attacks, and strokes.  
  • Disruption of the gut microbiome: Microplastics may alter the balance of bacteria in the gut.  
  • Other potential issues are:
    • Respiratory problems.  
    • Endocrine disruption.  
    • Immunotoxicity.  

Key Concerns

• The widespread presence of microplastics in the environment means that human exposure is nearly unavoidable.  
• Nanoplastics, due to their small size, can potentially cross biological barriers and accumulate in organs.  
• The long-term effects of microplastic exposure are still largely unknown.  

What Can You Do?

It’s important to take steps to reduce your exposure whenever possible;

• Reducing plastic waste through responsible consumption and recycling.  
• Supporting policies that limit plastic production and promote sustainable alternatives.
• Improving wastewater treatment to reduce microplastic release into waterways.

Healthy political discourse is a core feature of a well-functioning democracy. It can help to deliver many benefits to society, whereas unhealthy discourse has the potential to inflict great damage.

There is no definitive blueprint for what healthy discourse looks like. That said, I believe we all would agree, that in recent times, the quality of political discourse is poor and that contemporary challenges, including polarisation and the influence of modern media, are placing it under increasing strain.

Navigating a world with extreme political views requires a conscious and consistent effort to practice kindness. Here’s a breakdown of how that can be approached:

Understanding the Challenges

Polarization

• • Extreme views often create deep divisions, making it difficult to find common ground.
  • Emotional intensity can escalate interactions, hindering productive dialogue.

Dehumanization

• • “Othering” those with opposing views can lead to a lack of empathy and compassion.
  • This can justify harsh words and actions.

Information Bubbles

• • Echo chambers reinforce existing beliefs, limiting exposure to diverse perspectives.
  • This can create a distorted view of reality and fuel intolerance.

Strategies for Practicing Kindness

Empathy and Active Listening

• • Try to understand the underlying values and concerns that drive opposing views.
  • Listen actively, even when you disagree, to foster a sense of being heard.

Respectful Communication

• • Avoid personal attacks and inflammatory language.
  • Focus on the issues, not the individuals.
  • Seek to engage in constructive dialogue, rather than trying to “win” an argument.

Finding Common Ground

• • Look for shared values and goals, even when political views differ.
  • Focus on areas of agreement to build bridges and foster cooperation.

Practicing Self-Care

• • Protect your mental and emotional well-being by setting boundaries.
  • Limit exposure to toxic online environments.
  • Engage in activities that promote peace and relaxation.

Promoting Civility

• • Encourage respectful discourse in your communities and online spaces.
  • Support initiatives that promote dialogue and understanding.
  • Recognize that kindness does not mean agreement. It is possible to have very strong disagreements with people, and still treat them with human dignity.

Focus on Human connection

• • Reminding yourself that those with opposing political views, are still people, with human experiences, and emotions.

The Importance of Kindness

Kindness can help to de-escalate tensions and create a more peaceful environment.
It can foster empathy and understanding, even in the face of deep divisions.
It can promote a sense of community and belonging, which is essential for social cohesion.

In a world filled with political strife, kindness can be a powerful force for positive change.