The Best Natural Alternatives to The 12 Most Prescribed Drugs

Both these drugs work in the same way; they inhibit the production of cholesterol.

Doses ranges from 2.5 mg to 80 mg, and they reduce plasma cholesterol by 20% to 55% (it is dose-dependent).

Below is a list of the substances that lower cholesterol the most. Not all are necessarily safe to use, and may not be my first choice. The fact of the matter is that most heart attack sufferers have normal cholesterol at the time of the event. Cholesterolisn’t deposited at the arteries’ wall to form plaque, unless it becomes damaged from free radicals (from various toxins, seed oils, etc.), regardless of whether it is low or high.

To prevent a cardiovascular event, I believe that it is better to measure inflammatory markers (like hs-CRP & ESR) and markers of clotting (Fibrin, D-Dimer). Those markers predict a heart attack or a stroke more accurately than cholesterol.

Moreover, it may be valuable to consider side effects that may result from taking cholesterol-lowering medications, which may include muscle pain and weakness, increased risk for diabetes changes in memory and mood, changed and reduced organ function (kidneys and liver) among others.

Niacin, a form of vitamin B3, has been shown to lower total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol by a range of 5% to 25% when taken at the dose of 1g-3g daily. Additionally, It can lower triglycerides by 25% and raise HDL by up to 30%. However, It may cause uncomfortable flushing and itching of the skin. Therefore, should be taken under a doctor’s supervision.

Red Rice Yeast, the natural inspiration for the pharmaceutical cholesterol drugs, has been shown to lower total and LDL cholesterol by 15 to 30% at doses ranging from 1200 mg to 2400 mg. These doses contain the active constituent monacolin, ranging from 1.2% to 4.8%. While considered safer than pharmaceutical drugs, this substance can cause muscle pain in 10% of users.

Moderate reductions in cholesterol level can also be achieved through the use of garlic, plant sterols, and fiber sources such as oat bran, which are considered safer alternatives!

Levothyroxine is a synthetic version of T4, the less active form of the two main thyroid hormones, the other being T3, the active form.

There are no natural equivalents, other than desiccated thyroid which is a preparation extracted from a small portion of the thyroid gland extracted from an animal, typically a pig or cow. Standard extracts of desiccated thyroid provide both T4 and T3, typically in a ratio of 4:1 or 5:1 ratio. Desiccated Thyroid still requires a prescription, but because it provides both T4 & T3, it may be a better option for many.

As for natural options, there is a nutrient that plays a crucial role in conversion of T4 (levothyroxine) to T3, which is the active form of the hormone, and that nutrient is Selenium. Small doses of supplemental selenium (50mcg to 300mcg) may aid in the optimal functioning of Levothyroxine.

Supportive nutrients to the production process of the thyroid hormone are zinc, copper, iron, vitamin D & A.

Medicinal plants that have been shown to raise thyroid hormone levels in studies include Ashwagandha, Guggul, and Bacopa and rhodiola rosea. These plants are available as health supplements in stores, so it is important to follow the label instructions for more appropriate dosages.

Furthermore, eliminating factors that hinders thyroid function, such as polyunsaturated fatty acids, herbicides (particularly roundup), chlorine, fluoride, heavy metals, gluten or other “antinutrients”, and other chemical, physical and psychological stressors, can aid in improving thyroid function.

I think anyone taking Metformin needs to become aware of its long-term detrimental effects on the liver and intestines. Additionally, Metformin has the potential to increase lactic acid levels in cells which can contribute to premature aging and worsen the condition.

The most effective natural compounds for the reduction of elevated glucose levels in type 2 diabetes according to the medical literature are Cinnamon (1 to 6 grams), Berberine (1 to 3 grams) and Gymnema (200mg to 800mg).

Lasting recovery from type 2 diabetes requires addressing common causes including stress, inflammation, nutritional deficiencies, toxins and other factors. Personally, I advise against low carb diets as they do not address the root cause and, in the long run they make matters worse.

Long term use of Pantoprazole has been associated with several potential risk including bone loss, gastric and esophageal cancers, lower life expectancy & heart failure. It works by reducing the amount of acid producing in the stomach.

It is a misconception that acid reflux is caused by excessive stomach acid. However, often too little acid can cause symptoms too. However, the primary underlying cause of acid reflux is often inflammation.

Medicinal plants including Ginger, Chamomile, citrus peel (such as orange, tangerine or lemon), Marshmallow, Slippery elm and Aloe vera gel have long history of successful use in reducing gastrointestinal inflammation.

To promote healing of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), it is crucial to identify and eliminate the stressors that contribute to the condition. Some examples of stressors may include consuming food fried in seed oils, consuming grains contaminated with herbicides, consuming poorly cooked grains and legumes that are hard to digest food, eating too quickly, experiencing excessive worry and being exposed to high level of general stress

All these medications constitute various classes (types) of blood pressure medications that operate through different mechanisms.

Beta blockers are the ones that pose the greatest risk, when used long- term, including risk for organ failure, diabetes and premature death. Following beta blockers, calcium channel blocker are associated with long-term unfavorable effects. Additionally, diuretics deplete minerals like magnesium and potassium, which paradoxically, play a crucial role in blood pressure control.

Nutrients that can lower high blood pressure to varying degrees include Magnesium (250mg to 800mg,

Co Enzyme Q10 at 100mg and above, Vitamin C at 500mg and above, Potassium at 500mg and above are all important. It is also essential to ensure adequate intake of Calcium, preferably from diet, and, maintain sufficient levels of Vitamin D, which should be tested annually.

By the way, most of these nutrients along with others, are conveniently available in my supplement Dr. Klein’s Healthy Heart Plus, which can be found in most Canadian health stores an online.

When it comes to medicinal plants, Mistletoe has shown potent effects, but the dosage depends on how it is prepared. (It is best to consult a practitioner). Hibiscus, when consumed as tea, typically ranges from 1.5g to 2.5g. Garlic on the other hand, is usually taken at a dosage of 600mg to 1200mg. In the terms of effectiveness, these plants are likely to rank in order of Mistletoe, Hibiscus and Garlic.

Having said that, there are three or four general causes for high blood pressure that need to be addressed for proper treatment. They are:

Lorazepam is one of several medications known as Benzodiazepines. It acts to enhance the effect of GABA, a neurotransmitter with “inhibitory” properties on the nerve cells. These inhibitory properties result in a range of effects, from relaxation to sedation, lethargy, and dizziness, as well as tremors. However, the drug can sometimes have the opposite desired effect, leading to agitation. Additionally, it can potentially cause psychological and physical dependence.

Natural substances that enhance GABA’s activity, generally without producing significant side effects, or with fewer side effects, include GABA itself as a supplement (although its absorption may be limited), as well as Valerian, Passionflower, Lemmon Balm, Kava Kava L-theanine and Niacin amide.

Based on current research Kava Kava appears to be one of the most effective substances for depression. Additionally, there are plants whose effect on GABA hasn’t been thoroughly evaluated, but they may work in other ways (alleviating stress form example). These include Ashwagandha, Saffron and Rhodiola rosea.

All of these are available as over-the-counter supplements and you just need to follow the instructions on the bottle. A practitioner familiar with these substances can further guide you with dosing, when necessary.

Incidentally, I formulated a supplement kit, consisting of two formulations, called Rhoziva AM & Ashwagandha PM (with L-theanine, magnesium and B vitamins as well). The kit is set to launch in health retail stores in September of 2023.

Lastly, the thing you need to know about treating anxiety successfully (and depression), is that it is often caused by fatigued brain and nervous system cells. That cellular “fatigue” needs to be addressed, generally with nutrition, lifestyle, stress reduction and the balancing of hormones.

Citalopram is one of several drugs that aimed at treating depression by raising serotonin levels. The problem with that is that by now there have been numerous studies demonstrating that the opposite is true about serotonin with higher levelsare being associated with depression rather than low levels. The drug’s side effects are reminiscent of a state of chronic state and may include weight gain, increase in blood glucose, mental fatigue, digestive issues, fatigue, tremors, & more.

As I mentioned in the section above about anxiety, the physiological state or cause of depression is fatigued brain and nervous system cells. Therefore, the same measures used to treat anxiety should be directed towards treating depression as well.

Natural Alternatives to antidepressants are substances that increase the energy in the brain and nervous system cells. Studies have shown favorable effects of magnesium (500 mg), Co enzyme Q10 (200mg to 500 mg), Zinc (25 mg), and high-dose vitamin D (50,000IU, but it is recommended to test and consult a practitioner). Promising medicinal plants include Rhodiola rosea (200 mg– 400mg), saffron (30mg) and Curcumin (500mg).

You could consider looking into supplement Rhoziva, which contains Rhodiola rosea, Zinc and magnesium.

Again, it is important to note that this resource does not constitute treatment. If you would like to explore and implement a comprehensive approach to your health, one that involves relevant tests, a deep dive into your health history, nutrition and lifestyle, reach out through www.drkleinhealth.comor message me if you got this resource on social media.

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(link www.asknd.ca)