Brad Parkinson Naturopath

17/06/2026

When I am working with autoimmune patients, we always look at gut healing and the microbiome, but managing systemic inflammation right away is just as crucial. That is why I consistently utilise specific herbs that have heavy clinical evidence behind them.

One of these herbs is Boswellia serrata. Specifically, its active boswellic acids make it one of the most well-researched anti-inflammatory tools we have in natural medicine. Multiple randomized controlled trials show that Boswellia directly inhibits an enzyme called 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX).

Why does that matter? 5-LOX drives the production of inflammatory molecules called leukotrienes. By blocking this pathway, Boswellia helps cool down the fire responsible for joint pain, gut inflammation, and neuroinflammation.

Bringing the body back into balance requires a dual approach: fixing the root cause in the gut while safely down-regulating these inflammatory cascades. 🌿

15/06/2026

When we look at autoimmune disease, we often get caught up in just managing the daily symptoms. But if you want to protect your future health, we have to strip it back and address why the immune system started misbehaving in the first place.

There are three main root causes driving autoimmunity: intestinal permeability (or leaky gut), gut dysbiosis (an imbalance in your microbiome), and molecular mimicry, where your immune system gets confused and attacks your own tissue.

To turn this around, we use a targeted protocol. We combine gut-healing herbs like marshmallow root, slippery elm, and DGL licorice to repair the gut lining. Then we layer in antimicrobial herbs to clear out the dysbiosis, use specific dietary changes to interrupt that molecular mimicry, and add systemic anti-inflammatory support with boswellia and ashwagandha.
It is all about building a solid foundation so your whole system can come back into balance.

If you are navigating an autoimmune condition, what has your gut health journey been like? Let me know below.

28/05/2026

If you have an autoimmune disease, the most important question you can ask isn't "how do I manage my symptoms"... it's "why is my immune system attacking my own tissue in the first place?"

In this video I break down the three root cause mechanisms behind autoimmune disease; intestinal permeability, gut dysbiosis, and molecular mimicry. I also give you the clinical herbal and nutritional protocol used to address each one.

What's covered:
• Why leaky gut is found in virtually every autoimmune condition
• How gut dysbiosis drives systemic immune dysregulation
• The molecular mimicry mechanism and why gluten triggers immune attacks on your own tissue
• Gut-healing herbs & nutrients including demulcents and specific form of zinc and a probiotic.
• Antimicrobial herbal support.
• Systemic anti-inflammatory herbs.
• What happens when root causes go unaddressed

Whether you're managing rheumatoid arthritis, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, lupus, IBD, psoriasis, or another autoimmune condition, this protocol applies.

If you have an autoimmune disease, the most important question you ...

18/05/2026

Now, when we feel things like anxiety or persistent fatigue, it’s so easy to feel like our bodies are failing us, isn’t it? But what if we shifted our perspective? This insight is incredibly empowering because it suggests that by learning to listen to your "second brain"... that’s your gut and its microbiome, you can actually regain a sense of control over your first brain. It’s a move away from "mind over matter" and toward a "body informs mind" strategy. This is a core tenet of how we practice integrative medicine: understanding that your physical balance deeply influences your emotional state.

16/05/2026

While science provides essential insights, treating the whole person is key, especially for conditions like Crohn's disease. Stress, in particular, plays a significant role in exacerbating symptoms. Exploring both traditional wisdom and research-backed interventions can offer a more comprehensive approach to managing this condition.

14/05/2026

Oxidative stress? Free radicals? Turmeric acts as a potent antioxidant, neutralizing them at the cellular level. It also positively influences gut microbiota composition, a key player in downstream inflammation. Research shows it can help combat cellular damage and support a healthy gut environment. Traditional medicine has long recognized the benefits of Turmeric which can support the body's natural defenses against free radicals and inflammation. Understanding the connection between gut health and inflammation is crucial for maintaining balance. Turmeric’s ability to modulate gut microbiota composition offers a promising avenue for supporting systemic health.

13/05/2026

Experiencing brain fog? Try this! Research shows NAC and ALC support cognitive enhancement. Research also shows Creatine can improve cognitive function. All three supplements can be taken individually or potentially together in powder form for targeted brain support.
Creatine is widely recognized for its role in energy metabolism, particularly in the brain, supporting ATP production. Research indicates that creatine may also play a role in neurotransmitter function and offer neuroprotective benefits. When combined with NAC and ALC, which are known for their anti-inflammatory and mitochondrial support properties, the potential for enhanced cognitive function and reduced brain fog is significant. This trio could be particularly valuable for individuals seeking to optimize mental clarity and focus through evidence-backed nutritional strategies.

12/05/2026

Your gut and brain share a profound connection, impacting mood, cognition, and long-term brain health. Nurturing your gut microbiome through diet, lifestyle, and targeted herbal support is a crucial step for enhancing brain function and overall wellness.

11/05/2026

NAC, or N-acetylcysteine, is a highly effective nutrient for respiratory health. It significantly boosts glutathione levels in the lungs, acting as a potent antioxidant. This is particularly relevant when discussing conditions like COVID-19, where managing cytokine storms is crucial. NAC can directly impact these inflammatory responses. Furthermore, its mucolytic properties help thin mucus, making it easier to expel and improving overall respiratory function. For those seeking an effective treatment to support their lungs, NAC offers a compelling option backed by its multifaceted benefits.

09/05/2026

Experiencing persistent fatigue and brain fog after COVID-19? In clinic, we're seeing significant struggles with focus, short-term memory loss, and a noticeable impact on cognitive performance, particularly for those in demanding work environments. These symptoms often go hand-in-hand with gut health issues, presenting a complex challenge for many. While good and bad days are part of recovery, understanding these common post-COVID effects is the first step towards managing them effectively.