Nourishment before more formulas
Begin with regular meals, enough energy and protein, varied plants, and hydration suited to your health. Consider what is missing before layering on products.
Search the whole journal across all categories, or explore the plant library:
01 / The introduction
Nourishing the body that carries the loss.
Nourishing the body that carries the loss.


02 / A note from Dr. Michele
As a naturopathic physician and a widow, I care deeply about the small, practical ways we look after ourselves when life has changed. When meals become irregular, sleep is unsettled, or digestion feels different, the foundations of care deserve attention.
I’ve gathered botanical formulas, nutritional options, and comforting rituals into my personal Grief Medicine edit, so you have a thoughtful place to begin exploring.
03 / Begin with the foundations
Begin with regular meals, enough energy and protein, varied plants, and hydration suited to your health. Consider what is missing before layering on products.
Sleep, daylight, movement that fits your capacity, and supportive relationships belong in the first conversation. Look at the demands placed on your body and the recovery available to it.
Consider relevant exposures, irritants, personal-care products, and the routines shaping your symptoms. Change what is meaningful and practical; an elaborate routine is not the goal.
Review symptoms, current medicines, allergies, pregnancy or preconception plans, and existing results. A test or formula should answer a real question or support a clear need.
04 / Inside the Edit
These are distinct options to consider individually. Explore the preparation before deciding what belongs in your care.
01 / NOURISHMENT & FOUNDATIONS
Individual selections, considered alongside the foundations of care.
02 / EVENING CARE
Individual selections, considered alongside the foundations of care.
03 / BOTANICAL & MICROBIAL OPTIONS
Individual selections, considered alongside the foundations of care.
04 / COMFORTING RITUALS
Individual selections, considered alongside the foundations of care.
05 / The science behind my selections
Ancient Nutrition
The formulation. Current manufacturer/NIH label lists chicken and beef bone-broth protein concentrates.
The context. A savory protein powder that can make nourishment easier when cooking feels difficult.
The evidence. Its practical contribution is food protein. It does not constitute a nutritionally complete meal or establish healing of grief, a leaky gut or joint disease.
Individual considerations. Check animal-protein sensitivities and shared-equipment allergen information. Individualize protein intake with kidney disease or other dietary restrictions.
Manufacturer product description or ingredient list verified; check the package for the current full label.
VIEW PRODUCT ON FULLSCRIPT →Ora Organic
The formulation. The current Ora formula description includes organic pea/rice protein plus cranberry, sacha inchi, amaranth and sprouted quinoa, with other plant ingredients.
The context. An unsweetened plant-protein option for adding nourishment to a smoothie or simple meal.
The evidence. Protein and convenience are the relevant purposes. The name and accompanying greens/enzymes do not prove weight loss, detoxification, superior absorption or emotional recovery.
Individual considerations. Check the current unsweetened label for allergens and digestive tolerance; begin with food needs rather than a weight-control goal during poor appetite.
Manufacturer notes a reformulation. Featured protein sources verified, but the complete current Unsweetened panel should be checked rather than borrowing flavored-version ingredients.
VIEW PRODUCT ON FULLSCRIPT →ProLon
The formulation. A packaged nut-based snack; current manufacturer offerings include Coconut Macadamia and Nuts & Honey, with almonds, coconut, macadamias and pecans flagged as allergens.
The context. Portable food for a day when preparing a snack is difficult; pair it with other nourishment according to appetite and need.
The evidence. Short-term fasting/ketone research is not evidence for grief recovery. This collection should not encourage fasting or meal restriction, especially when intake is already low.
Individual considerations. Contains tree nuts; confirm the exact flavor label and any other allergens. Inulin-containing versions can cause gas in sensitive people.
Exact current flavor names and principal allergen categories verified; complete current flavor-specific ingredients were not transcribed from the label images.
VIEW PRODUCT ON FULLSCRIPT →ProLon
The formulation. A packaged nut-based snack; current manufacturer offerings include Coconut Macadamia and Nuts & Honey, with almonds, coconut, macadamias and pecans flagged as allergens.
The context. Portable food for a day when preparing a snack is difficult; pair it with other nourishment according to appetite and need.
The evidence. Short-term fasting/ketone research is not evidence for grief recovery. This collection should not encourage fasting or meal restriction, especially when intake is already low.
Individual considerations. Contains tree nuts; confirm the exact flavor label and any other allergens. Inulin-containing versions can cause gas in sensitive people.
Exact current flavor names and principal allergen categories verified; complete current flavor-specific ingredients were not transcribed from the label images.
VIEW PRODUCT ON FULLSCRIPT →CellCore
The formulation. CellCore describes a broad vitamin, mineral, antioxidant and cofactor supplement.
The context. A multi-nutrient option to consider when dietary intake is inconsistent, after reviewing what is actually missing.
The evidence. Filling a nutritional gap is different from proving cellular repair, detoxification or improved grief outcomes. It cannot replace the energy, protein and fiber in meals.
Individual considerations. Compare all supplements to prevent duplicate vitamin/mineral intake; review medicines and kidney or thyroid conditions with a clinician.
Product identity and broad formulation class verified. Supplement Facts is image-based in the retrieved page; no exact quantities or ingredient-level claims are asserted.
VIEW PRODUCT ON FULLSCRIPT →Protocol for Life Balance
The formulation. High-potency cholecalciferol (vitamin D3), labeled 5,000 IU per unit.
The context. Vitamin D supports calcium handling and bone health; supplementation is most useful when intake or status warrants it.
The evidence. Correcting deficiency is not the same as treating grief or depression. More vitamin D does not automatically improve mood or immune function.
Individual considerations. The named 5,000-IU strength exceeds the usual adult daily upper limit of 4,000 IU. Use requires an individualized plan; excess can cause hypercalcemia and kidney harm.
Manufacturer product description or ingredient list verified; check the package for the current full label.
VIEW PRODUCT ON FULLSCRIPT →Codeage
The formulation. Codeage Instantfood blend of vegetable powders, including broccoli, spinach and kale.
The context. A capsule-based plant ingredient supplement for someone exploring nutritional support.
The evidence. Capsules do not supply the food volume, meaningful meal energy or fiber of eating vegetables. No evidence was established that this formula replaces produce or improves grief outcomes.
Individual considerations. Check botanical sensitivities and the label; persistent low intake should prompt practical meal support and assessment rather than reliance on capsules.
Manufacturer product description or ingredient list verified; check the package for the current full label.
VIEW PRODUCT ON FULLSCRIPT →Thorne
The formulation. Magnesium bound to glycine, sold by Thorne as a lightly sweetened powder with NSF Certified for Sport status.
The context. Magnesium participates in normal nerve, muscle and metabolic function; this is an oral nutrient source.
The evidence. Nutrient adequacy matters, but sleep benefit is not guaranteed. NSF certification addresses product testing, not proof that it treats insomnia or grief.
Individual considerations. Can cause diarrhea or bloating. Kidney disease increases toxicity risk; magnesium can interfere with absorption of certain antibiotics and bisphosphonates.
Manufacturer product description or ingredient list verified; check the package for the current full label.
VIEW PRODUCT ON FULLSCRIPT →Integrative Therapeutics
The formulation. A standardized oral Lavandula angustifolia flower-oil preparation, Silexan, in a softgel.
The context. A defined oral lavender preparation studied for anxiety-related symptoms; it is not the same as an aromatherapy oil.
The evidence. Randomized trials suggest anxiety-symptom benefit with Silexan in selected adults. These trials do not establish treatment of bereavement or justify replacing mental-health care.
Individual considerations. May cause aromatic burps or digestive upset. Manufacturer advises against pregnancy, nursing and use under age 12; review medicines. Do not swallow non-oral essential oils.
Manufacturer product description or ingredient list verified; check the package for the current full label.
VIEW PRODUCT ON FULLSCRIPT →Integrative Therapeutics
The formulation. Original formula contains Sensoril ashwagandha, L-theanine, magnolia bark, epimedium and soy-derived phosphatidylserine.
The context. A multi-ingredient stress/sleep supplement. The original and allergen-free variants should not be treated as identical.
The evidence. Some ashwagandha studies show short-term stress/sleep effects, but ingredient data do not prove the full blend normalizes cortisol. Grief symptoms alone do not diagnose a cortisol disorder.
Individual considerations. Contains soy. Ashwagandha warrants pregnancy avoidance and caution with thyroid/autoimmune disease, sedatives and other medicines; rare liver injury is reported.
Manufacturer product description or ingredient list verified; check the package for the current full label.
VIEW PRODUCT ON FULLSCRIPT →Gaia Herbs Pro
The formulation. Gaia PRO describes a botanical/mushroom formula featuring cordyceps and ashwagandha.
The context. An adaptogen-focused blend marketed for stamina; traditional adaptogen language describes a proposed stress-response role.
The evidence. Evidence from selected ashwagandha preparations does not establish that this exact blend restores energy after loss. Persistent fatigue can have nutritional, sleep, medication or medical causes.
Individual considerations. Review mushroom allergy and medicines. Ashwagandha needs caution with thyroid/autoimmune disease and liver symptoms; avoid in pregnancy.
PRO product identity and featured cordyceps/ashwagandha verified; exact full current PRO label not transcribed. Do not silently substitute the renamed retail Ashwagandha & Cordyceps formula.
VIEW PRODUCT ON FULLSCRIPT →Gaia Herbs Pro
The formulation. Gaia PRO identifies saffron, lemon balm and spearmint as featured ingredients in its cognitive-support blend.
The context. A botanical option marketed for concentration. Sleep disruption and mental overload can also affect attention during grief.
The evidence. Small studies of individual botanical extracts cannot establish this product treats grief-related brain fog or prevents cognitive disease.
Individual considerations. Check the full current label before use; some versions include ginkgo, making bleeding risk and medication review relevant. Do not use a nootropic to delay assessment of new cognitive symptoms.
Featured herbs verified on the PRO page. Full current label is not exposed as text, so ginkgo is flagged for label confirmation rather than assumed across versions.
VIEW PRODUCT ON FULLSCRIPT →Thorne
The formulation. Meriva curcumin in a sunflower-derived phospholipid complex, in the NSF Certified for Sport version.
The context. The phospholipid preparation changes curcumin exposure and distinguishes it from culinary turmeric.
The evidence. Some curcumin studies suggest benefit for osteoarthritis symptoms; evidence is preparation- and condition-specific. This is not evidence that it treats grief or that greater absorption guarantees a better outcome.
Individual considerations. Review sunflower allergy, gallbladder/bile-duct problems, anticoagulants and cancer treatment. Rare supplement-related liver injury is recognized, including with more bioavailable preparations.
Manufacturer product description or ingredient list verified; check the package for the current full label.
VIEW PRODUCT ON FULLSCRIPT →Thorne
The formulation. A five-part blend of trans-resveratrol, trans-pterostilbene, green-tea phytosome, curcumin phytosome and quercetin phytosome.
The context. A concentrated polyphenol supplement; each component has different metabolism and research questions.
The evidence. Antioxidant chemistry and laboratory aging mechanisms do not establish longer life, reversed aging or recovery from grief in humans using this blend.
Individual considerations. Review medicines, liver conditions and pregnancy. The manufacturer specifically flags curcumin interactions with some chemotherapy agents; avoid unsupervised combination with cancer treatment.
Manufacturer product description or ingredient list verified; check the package for the current full label.
VIEW PRODUCT ON FULLSCRIPT →Ritual
The formulation. Ritual combines LGG and BB-12 probiotic strains, a PreforPro bacteriophage blend and tributyrin.
The context. A three-component gut-health product; a bacteriophage blend is different from the dietary fiber usually called a prebiotic.
The evidence. Benefits must be judged by the exact strains, preparation and digestive outcome. Gut–brain research does not establish this product treats grief or emotional distress.
Individual considerations. Gas or digestive changes can occur. Severe illness or immune compromise calls for clinician review before taking live microorganisms.
Manufacturer product description or ingredient list verified; check the package for the current full label.
VIEW PRODUCT ON FULLSCRIPT →Natura Health Products
The formulation. Organic powdered greens/fruit blend with coconut milk/water, leafy greens, berries, pomegranate/acerola, vegetables and microalgae.
The context. A plant-food powder that can be stirred into an existing meal or smoothie.
The evidence. Plant compounds are a nutritional rationale, not proof of genetic repair, detoxification or recovery from grief. It does not replace adequate meals and varied whole foods.
Individual considerations. Check coconut and other ingredient sensitivities and medication compatibility. The current manufacturer page carries a California lead/reproductive-harm warning; consider this in product selection.
Manufacturer product description or ingredient list verified; check the package for the current full label.
VIEW PRODUCT ON FULLSCRIPT →White Egret
The formulation. Magnesium sulfate heptahydrate bath salts; White Egret offers plain and essential-oil variants.
The context. A warm bath or foot soak can serve as a comforting pause in the day.
The evidence. Relaxation from bathing is not proof that meaningful magnesium is absorbed through skin or that a soak corrects deficiency, removes toxins or treats grief.
Individual considerations. External bath use here, not an oral supplement. Avoid excessive heat, broken skin and fragrance allergens; use care with reduced sensation, dizziness or fall risk.
Manufacturer confirms plain and aromatic variants; confirm which one the approved product listing supplies.
VIEW PRODUCT ON FULLSCRIPT →Premier Research Labs
The formulation. Bath-salt blend with several sea salts, red alaea clay, Atlantic kelp, green-tea extract and clove ingredient.
The context. An external mineral/botanical soak for a restorative bathing ritual.
The evidence. Cleanse is part of the product name. There is no established evidence here that this bath draws internal toxins out, corrects mineral deficiency or treats grief.
Individual considerations. External use; avoid eyes, ingestion and broken skin. Kelp/clove or other botanicals may irritate; keep water comfortably warm and prevent slips.
Manufacturer product description or ingredient list verified; check the package for the current full label.
VIEW PRODUCT ON FULLSCRIPT →
Make something gentle · a DIY botanical ritual
Some days, care can begin with the kettle. This is my blend of oatstraw, lemon balm, holy basil, and chamomile: a warm cup, a familiar scent, a few minutes with nothing to accomplish.
Let the water warm.
Let the herbs open.
You can simply be here.
01 / Blend a small jar
Use dried, food-grade herbs. “Parts” are measured by volume. Mix gently and store in a clean, dry, airtight jar away from heat and light.
02 / Make one warm cup
Notice the scent before your first sip. Feel the cup in your hands. Nothing needs to be solved in this moment.
Oatstraw: the grassy, earthy base of this blend, with a longstanding place in Western herbal traditions.
Lemon balm: bright and softly citrus-scented, traditionally used for mild stress, sleep, and digestive comfort.
Holy basil: aromatic tulsi, cherished in Ayurvedic tradition, bringing a warm, spicy note to the cup.
Chamomile: floral and apple-scented, familiar in evening tea rituals.
These traditional uses offer context for the plants. Research on individual preparations does not establish this particular blend as a treatment for grief.
For adults. Avoid this blend during pregnancy, while trying to conceive, or while breastfeeding. If you take medicines, have thyroid or blood-sugar concerns, or are preparing for surgery, seek individual guidance before use. Avoid ingredients you are allergic to; chamomile can trigger reactions in people allergic to related plants such as ragweed.
Botanical reading: EMA · Lemon balm · NCCIH · Chamomile · MSK · Holy basil · Holy basil · Safety
06 / Functional laboratory testing
Grief is a lived experience, not a laboratory diagnosis. When exhaustion, sleep disruption, appetite changes, or other physical symptoms persist, testing can help investigate contributing conditions while support remains central.
01 / NOURISHMENT
Changes in appetite and routine may prompt a nutritional review. Blood counts or selected nutrient tests are considered when the history suggests a specific deficiency or medical cause.
02 / THYROID & METABOLISM
Clinically indicated thyroid or glucose assessment may help distinguish overlapping causes of fatigue or weight change. These results do not measure the depth of grief.
03 / SLEEP & STRESS PHYSIOLOGY
Begin with sleep pattern, daily light, food, medications, and support. Cortisol measurements vary with timing and context; commercial stress profiles do not diagnose 'adrenal fatigue' or prolonged grief.
04 / SYMPTOM-LED CARE
Choose further evaluation from the symptom, not from an assumption that grief explains everything. Emotional and physical care belong together.
07 / Shop the Edit
Fullscript shows the current formulation, price, availability and account offer. Review the label and select individual products; the collection is not intended to be taken in its entirety.
SHOP THE COLLECTION08 / The physician behind the Edit
09 / Related reading & collections
No product removes the experience of loss. Food, rest, connection, psychological support, and care for persistent symptoms remain central. The collection offers individual nutritional and daily-care options.
No. Their place here is accessible nourishment when planning or preparing meals feels difficult. They are not a reason to restrict food during grief.
When symptoms, history, or changes in nourishment suggest a specific clinical question. There is no laboratory test that measures the depth of grief.
10 / Research & references
Individual preparation references appear with each selection. Traditional uses and laboratory findings are distinguished from human clinical evidence. These educational collections do not establish a physician–patient relationship. Purchases through the Fullscript links may financially support my practice.