The Natural Doctor - Dr Jess

07/05/2026

Sometimes medical terms sound far scarier than they really are.

“Osteoarthritis” is one of those words that people often hear and immediately panic about. But in many cases, it’s really describing wear and tear in a joint rather than telling us why it’s happening in the first place.

That’s the more important question for me, why has that joint become overloaded, inflamed, or worn down? Is it posture, movement patterns, previous injury, inflammation, muscle imbalance, stress on the body?

Our bodies are constantly adapting to how we use them, and understanding the root cause is where real support begins.

Have you ever been given a diagnosis that sounded frightening until someone properly explained it to you? I’d love to hear your experience.

🎧 Listen to the full podcast episode for more conversations around joint health, pain, and understanding what your body is really trying to tell you.

06/05/2026

Health is never about being perfect. It’s about leaning into balance and making consistent choices that support your body, mind and spirit. 🌿

What’s one healthy choice you made today that you’re proud of? Share it with me in the comments 👇

05/05/2026

Did you know Vitamin D isn't just for your bones? It plays a vital role in your immune system, mood, energy levels, hormone balance, and even your ability to fight off infections. Yet so many of us are unknowingly deficient, especially in the UK, where sunshine is in short supply! 🌥️

I’ve written a full blog on why Vitamin D is essential for your health and how to make sure you're getting enough of it; naturally and safely.

Read it here: https://drjess.co.uk/why-you-need-vitamin-d-health-benefits-2/

If you are an indoor worker, or wear high-factor sunscreen you may wish to consider taking the supplement year-round.

04/05/2026

One of the most controversial things I say to patients is this:

A normal test result does not always mean everything is fine.

So many people are told they are healthy because nothing obvious has shown up on paper, and yet they are exhausted, anxious, bloated, burnt out, inflamed, not sleeping properly, or struggling with symptoms that are very real.

That disconnect matters.

Because health is not just the absence of disease.
It is how you actually feel in your body.

If you do not feel like yourself, I do not think that should be dismissed simply because your results fall inside a broad reference range.

I want to understand the full picture.
Your symptoms.
Your stress levels.
Your gut.
Your hormones.
Your sleep.
Your nutrient status.
Your daily habits.

That is where the deeper work begins.

01/05/2026

At this time of year, I love encouraging people to slow down just enough to actually notice the season changing. New buds, blossom, birdsong, longer evenings, that first bit of warmth in the air, it all matters more than we think.

Here is how to try it:
On your next walk, choose to notice just one sign of spring
It could be blossom on a tree, daffodils coming up, lighter evenings, birdsong, or fresh green leaves appearing
Pause for a moment instead of rushing past it
Take one slow breath and let yourself really register it

Why this can help:
It gently brings you out of your head and back into the present moment
It supports the nervous system by helping you notice safety, beauty and change
It encourages a sense of connection with the natural world
It is a very simple way to feel more grounded without needing a big wellness routine

I think healing is often found in these tiny moments of noticing. Spring reminds us that things can soften, shift and begin again.
Will you notice one sign of spring on your next walk?

30/04/2026

Are you mindful of your coffee consumption? ☕️

29/04/2026

So often, we underestimate the wisdom of the body. With rest, nourishment, movement and calm, your body knows how to restore balance. 🌱

Which of these four, rest, nourishment, movement or calm, do you need more of in your life right now? Tell me in the comments 👇

28/04/2026

✨ Feeling run-down or just looking for a natural health boost? 🌿

Discover why astragalus, a powerful Chinese adaptogen also known as Huang Qi—could be your new go-to herb for immune and gut support!

In this blog post, I explore how this ancient root helps stimulate white blood cells, rebuilds resilience after illness, and enhances overall wellbeing.

Curious how it works and if it’s right for you? 🌱 Dive into the full article to learn:

✅ The science-backed benefits of astragalus
✅ Who can benefit the most
✅ Safe ways to include it in your daily routine

👉 Read more here: https://drjess.co.uk/why-astragalus-could-be-your-new-herbal/

It’s a wonderful restorative and energising herb that I have seen have great results for fatigue, preventing infection and helping the immune system.

27/04/2026

Some of the things I say in clinic can sound controversial, especially in a world where so many symptoms have been normalised.

But common does not mean healthy.

It is common to feel exhausted.
It is common to have digestive issues.
It is common to have hormonal symptoms brushed off.
It is common to rely on quick fixes just to get through the day.

That does not mean any of it should be accepted as your baseline.

I am not interested in telling people to put up with symptoms that are clearly asking for attention.

I want to know why your body is struggling.
What is driving the inflammation?
What is affecting your hormones?
What is draining your energy?
What is happening in the gut?
What has been overlooked for years?

For me, good medicine is not just about suppressing symptoms.
It is about listening properly, joining the dots, and helping the body get back into balance.

24/04/2026

Try This Naturally: Make A Simple Spring Herb Steam

As the seasons change, I love using warm herbal steam as a gentle way to support the face, sinuses and senses. It feels incredibly soothing at this time of year, especially when winter still lingers but spring is beginning to show itself.

Here is how to try it:

-Boil some water and pour it carefully into a heatproof bowl
-Add a few fresh herbs such as rosemary, mint or thyme
-Sit comfortably, lean over the bowl and place a towel loosely over your head
-Close your eyes and breathe in the steam gently for a few minutes
-Keep a comfortable distance so it feels warm and soothing, never too hot

Why this can help:

-The warmth can feel calming and comforting
-It helps you slow down and take a few deeper breaths
-Herbs like rosemary, mint and thyme bring a fresh, spring-like feel
-It creates a lovely seasonal self-care ritual without needing anything complicated

Do be careful with hot water, and avoid this if steam tends to aggravate your skin or breathing. Keep it gentle and stop if it feels too intense.

I love how simple this is. Just warmth, herbs and a few quiet minutes to reset.

Will you try a spring herb steam this week?

23/04/2026

Sometimes the most powerful remedies are the simplest ones, straight from nature.

In this clip, we’re talking about using herbs like St John’s wort, comfrey, yarrow, and calendula to support healing. These plants have been used for generations for things like nerve repair, circulation, and wound healing.

What I love about this approach is how immediate the body’s response can be. When you bring together the right natural ingredients and apply them in a supportive way, the body often knows exactly what to do.

It’s a beautiful reminder that healing doesn’t always have to be complicated.

Have you ever used herbal remedies like this for healing or recovery? I’d love to hear what’s worked for you.

🎧 Listen to the full podcast episode for more natural approaches to pain, injury, and supporting the body’s healing process.