Just Ask Terry

Terry is happy to provide his opinion on diet and nutrition, supplements and lifestyle choices. This information is for educational purposes only. It is not meant to replace the advice of your physician and is not to be considered medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Should you have any concerns please contact your physician directly.

Q. Dear Terry, “I recently had an ovarian cyst removed and was diagnosed with endometriosis. I am not a fan of taking drugs for extended periods of time and was wondering if you could recommend any natural treatments for preventing excess endometrial tissue from returning and forming cysts. (I am currently taking a vectorized omega 3 supplement from salmon bound to phospholipids, vitamin D and a daily multivitamin). Thank you for your time!” —Alyssa B., Denver, CO. A. Dear Alyssa, After checking with your healthcare practitioner to make sure that using supplements to address these issues are right for you, I would suggest using proven herbs that greatly reduce inflammation and support healthy cellular development. The formula that is the best is a blend of curcumin, boswellia, DLPA and nattokinase. Curcumin (from turmeric) and boswellia are two Indian plants that exhibit very effective anti-inflammatory properties. However, plain curcumin 95% is very poorly absorbed and basically is trapped in the intestinal tract. Recently, an Indian company developed a new high absorption curcumin that is up to 1000% (10 times) better absorbed than plain curcumin 95%. This is a micronized curcumin with turmeric essential oils blended back into the powder, along with some natural plant phospholipids. Boswellia should be standardized to at least 18% AKBA, which is a potent anti-inflammatory boswellic acid in the herb, and have reduced (less than 5%) levels of beta-boswellic acid, which is pro-inflammatory. DLPA works to sustain the effects of the body’s own natural pain killers, called endorphins and enkephalins, and nattokinase increases microcirculation and balances fibrinogen levels in muscle tissue. You can find formulas such as this at quality health food stores in your area. I’d start with two capsules of this blend 3 times a day. Allow 4-6 weeks for a good saturation of the key components of this formula. Then for long-term use, I would suggest cutting the dose in half. Best of Health to you!