Using natural remedies to treat anxiety, depression

Disclaimer: Always consult your doctor first before stopping prescription medications and/or trying new treatments.

Kari Wagner realized the risk of opening a shop during a pandemic, particularly one that sold homeopathic remedies. Even so, she saw the need in the community, and could sense how the uncertainty and isolation of our current reality was causing more people to feel afraid, worried, anxious and overwhelmed.

“So many of these young people right now, especially with all the lockdowns and not being able to interact with friends, you can see the anxiety that they’re experiencing,” Wagner says. “There are so many unknowns right now.”

Against all odds, TapRoots was established, together with co-founders Carolyn Keeling and Dr. Keith Austin. With it, a wellspring of information and resources became available for Lynchburg residents who were looking for a more natural solution for their ailments.

Faced with the option of habit-forming, side effect–laden prescription medications, for many, homeopathic medicine is an attractive alternative.

What is homeopathy?
According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, homeopathy, also known as homeopathic medicine, is a medical system that was developed in Germany more than 200 years ago. It operates on two theories: “like cures like,” the concept that a disease can be alleviated by a substance that creates similar symptoms in healthy people, and the “law of minimum dose,” which surmises that the lower a medication dosage, the more effective it is.

“Homeopathy treats a person as a whole whereas a prescription medicine is going after that one symptom,” Wagner explains. “With homeopathy, all of the medicines are made from plants, minerals, some chemicals, things like that. But when they’re homeopathically prepared, they’re diluted to such a minute amount that there’s not even a molecule left of the original substance—in that little pill.”

For example, in order to treat poison ivy, the poison ivy plant is diluted and used to counteract the poison ivy in the bloodstream, Keeling explains.

At TapRoots, the owners stress that they maintain a network of medical doctors who practice integrated medicine to refer to their customers who may have acute symptoms that need more attention.

Dr. Kimberly Combs of Central Virginia Family Physicians often has patients who are concurrently taking homeopathic remedies for a variety of conditions. Dr. Combs says that she always checks to make sure whatever they are taking is not interfering with what she has prescribed. However, as a proponent of the benefits and uses of CBD (Cannabidiol), she feels it is only appropriate to remain open to the alternative treatments being presented to her.

“I always try to give them a chance. And I would say, you know, ‘What do you think?’ And [the patient says], ‘Well, I would like to try this.’ And I say, ‘Okay, so what do you think the benefits are?’” she says, adding that she and the patient make a decision together about whether the remedy is a good fit.

Dr. Combs says there are situations that necessitate a traditional physician. But since psychiatrists in particular stay so busy with higher risk patients, she understands why some try to circumvent the system with other methods.
“With homeopathy, there are no known interactions and the medicines have been around for over 200 years,” Wagner says. “So you would think if something was going on, we’d know about it right? So it’s safe, it’s effective, it’s affordable and it’s non-habit forming—it’s not a prescription med.”

How does homeopathy heal the mind?
Depression and anxiety are among the most sought after concerns Wagner and her team hear at their new store. They recently held a Facebook Live event featuring 20-year certified homeopath Melissa Crenshaw, who answered commonly asked questions about anxiety and depression treatments and gave some insight into how these remedies work in comparison to an antidepressant.

“A lot of people know about the gut-brain connection.
So, when the gut is damaged, oftentimes, the mind is unwell. Homeopathy can go in and heal the gut, which then helps the mind,” Crenshaw explained. “So, the antidepressants are a manmade chemical that goes in and changes the way you think. And yes, it can help you feel better.”

But she goes on to ask: “When you stop taking that antidepressant, what happens? You go right back. Homeopathy actually uproots the condition so that you don’t have to take the homeopathic medicines anymore.”

Crenshaw said she started using homeopathy because of her anxiety and depression. “I was on a medication,” she said. “And I liked it, it made me feel better. But when I learned that there was a better way that could actually uproot it that wouldn’t have long-term side effects, I wanted to give it a try. And it worked. And I haven’t looked back.”

What are the remedies for mental health issues?
Crenshaw says sepia is what changed her outlook on homeopathy 20 years ago, and highly recommends the remedy for both acute and chronic anxiety.

Wagner says they have a few other tried-and-true remedies they share with their customers: Aurum metallicum: For those who have an exaggerated sense of duty combined with feelings of guilt and anxiety about perceived failings. Treats severe depression and chronic insomnia.

Lycopodium: Can help those who lack confidence, feel intimidated by people they perceive as powerful, fear failure and experience intense, vivid fears.

Gelsemium: Relieves apprehension accompanied by weakness, trembling, dizziness, headaches and difficulty to focus. Often effective for people who feel inadequate.

Ignatia amara: Helps with grief or loss and mood swings.

Phosphorus: Thought to be good for social people with anxiety. When anxious or vexed, their thoughts get scattered and they have a difficult time focusing or getting things done.

With all of the available remedies to be had, homeopathy can be an overwhelming venture for those looking to dig in. But, Wagner says there are ways to safely and correctly find the appropriate remedy.

“You connect yourself with like-minded people, you find a doctor who’s open to integrative medicine, you plug into whether it’s online groups, or coming into a place like TapRoots,” she says. “And you share stories, you do your research.”

Keeling believes that homeopathy can be empowering. “There is a kind of power that you feel when you realize that you can come in, you can find the solution or the remedy, you’re not having all these copays, and you’re able to help self-diagnose, and self-treat. And you have these kind of incredible results.”

Blind Billy Update
We have received so many positive comments about our feature, “Blind Billy’s Beacon,” found in the November/December issue of Lynchburg Living. Reader Linda Marion wrote us to say, “This story truly warmed my heart.”

The article focused on a painting by local artist Kevin Chadwick of Blind Billy, a beloved fifer and slave in Lynchburg who died a free man after members of the community purchased his freedom. The painting was part of a live auction at the Art for Achievement virtual event to benefit Lynchburg Beacon of Hope. Organizers tell us the painting sold for $14,500 to a “syndicate” of individuals who plan to hang it at E.C. Glass High School. Overall, the nonprofit made an astounding $86,000 at the event to fund scholarships and other resources for high school students.

“The event was just amazing! Truly. Thank you so much for everything you did to help us, Shelley,” Beacon of Hope Executive Director Laura Hamilton wrote to editor Shelley Basinger.

You’re Welcome
After seeing our article about The ETC Shop, a nonprofit consignment store benefiting the Lynchburg Junior Woman’s Club, Susan Kidd sent us this kind thank you:
“We are so excited to have this recognition and share space in the magazine with so many other wonderful groups! Thank you so much! Reaching this milestone has been such a blessing and this is the icing on the cake!”

We Want To hear From You!
Send us an e-mail to shelley@lynchburgmag.com. Correspondents must identify themselves; names may be withheld on request. Lynchburg Living may edit or condense.

Need to whip up an easy, yet healthy, appetizer? This recipe is for you.

Avocados are an excellent source of healthy fats such as omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial to your brain and skin. They are also an excellent source of vitamins C, E, K and B-6, as well as folate, magnesium and potassium. Better yet? Homemade guacamole is a winter-friendly dish. Avocados are typically available year-round, thanks to the hard work of growers in Mexico and parts of South America.

Gluten Free
Paleo | Vegan

Ingredients:
3 avocados, peeled, pitted and diced—dicing gives it a chunkier texture
1 lime, juiced
1 teaspoon sea salt
1 large jalapeño, diced (seeds removed)
1/4 cup of fresh cilantro, chopped
1 teaspoon minced garlic
(or garlic powder)

Directions:
Mix the ingredients together in a bowl (yep, that’s it!) and enjoy with chips or over your favorite tacos or tortilla soup—but do so quickly, because it will go fast!

April Likins lives in Forest and is an Institute for Integrative Nutrition- and Duke Integrative Medicine-trained health coach. Learn more at aprillikins.com.

The Results Are In. Thousands of you visited our website last year to vote in our 2021 Best Of Lynchburg contest.

From your favorite spots to eat to your preferred medical providers, this list shows you who
Central Virginians recommend.

Flip through to see who earned gold, silver, bronze and honorable mention in numerous categories—and congratulations to this year’s winners!

Imagine waking up and sipping your morning coffee while taking in this picturesque view of downtown Lynchburg.
The Krise on Ninth Street was built in 1907 as the city’s first skyscraper. After renovation and restoration work, the impressive architectural building has been converted into luxury loft-style apartments.

Take a virtual tour at www.thekriseluxurylofts.com.

Take everyday dishes up a notch this holiday season
Photos by Jenna McKenney

While very much beloved, those old faithful side dishes can often get the short end of the stick in terms of our creativity. As we prepare to gather around the table with friends or family this time of year, consider spicing up that stuffing or adding a little pizzazz to those mashed potatoes. On the following pages, The Virginian Hotel Catering Team shares four of their tasty favorites.

Cranberry-Apple Cornbread Stuffing

INGREDIENTS:
1/2 cup butter
2 cups celery, chopped
1 yellow onion, chopped
3 medium tart apples, cored and chopped
6 ounces dried cranberries
6 cups dry, unseasoned cornbread cubes
14.5 ounces chicken broth
8 ounces apple juice
1 teaspoon: parsley, rosemary, and thyme, chopped

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add celery and onion. Cook until softened (~5 minutes). Add apple, cranberries, parsley, rosemary, and thyme.
2. Place bread cubes in a large bowl. Add the mixture, broth, and juice. Toss to combine.
3. Place mixture in a greased casserole dish, cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
4. Remove foil, bake for 20 more minutes until heated through and lightly browned.

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Topped with Toasted Pumpkin Seeds

INGREDIENTS:
One 3 lb butternut squash
(or 4 cups peeled and diced)
2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
1-2 shallots, minced
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons ginger, freshly grated
1/8 teaspoon cayenne
1 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt to taste
2-3 cups vegetable stock
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 dash maple syrup
Heavy cream (to finish)
Pumpkin seeds (toasted)

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Slice squash vertically and remove the seeds. Place the halves cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Rub the outside with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Bake for 30 minutes, or until tender.
2. Allow squash to cool. Peel and dice into cubes.
3. In a large stockpot, heat the remaining oil over medium-high heat. Sauté shallots 2-3 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté until lightly browned. Add the nutmeg, salt, ginger, and cayenne. Cook for 1 more minute.
4. Add 2 cups of stock, brown sugar, maple syrup, and squash. Bring to a boil. Cover and reduce heat. Simmer for ~10 minutes (until very tender).
5. Puree with a stick blender, traditional blender, or food processor. Add heavy cream to reach desired consistency. (Use the remaining stock to thin if necessary.)
6. Top with toasted pumpkin seeds, if desired.

Smoked Gouda Mashed Potatoes

INGREDIENTS:
5 lbs Russet potatoes, peeled
and cubed
1 lb butter
1 pint heavy cream
1 pint half and half
1/2 lb smoked gouda, shredded
2 teaspoons white pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Dash of cayenne pepper
Salt, pepper, & garlic powder to taste

Directions:
1. Peel and dice the potatoes. Boil or steam until fork-tender.
2. In a separate pot, melt butter, add half and half and heavy cream. Mix in cayenne and paprika.
3. Mix in shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Mash the potatoes in a large bowl. Pour in gouda mixture in small batches, mixing until absorbed.
5. Season with white pepper, salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste. There should be a strong smoky and garlic flavor.

Roasted & Stuffed Delicata Squash

INGREDIENTS:
6 small delicata squash
(~1lb each)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 medium onions, diced
1 bunch of red kale (~1lb), trimmed and chopped
6 ounces whole-grain bread, cut into 3/4-inch cubes (~3 cups)
1/2 cup crumbled bleu cheese
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup pecans, rough chop
2 tablespoons maple syrup
2 tablespoons chopped parsley for garnish

Directions:
1. Heat oven to 425°F. Cut one inch off of the top and bottom of the squash. Scrape out the seeds. Sprinkle the inside with salt and pepper and stand upright on an oiled baking sheet.
2. In a large saucepan melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. When the butter begins to foam add onions and sauté until softened and translucent (~6-8 minutes). Add kale and continue to cook, tossing until kale begins to wilt (~5 minutes). Remove from heat and place in a large bowl.
3. Toast bread cubes on a sheet pan until they begin to crisp (~7-9 minutes). Add to the bowl with the vegetable mixture, then add bleu cheese and cranberries. Mix until combined.
4. Put pecans over medium heat in a dry sauté pan. Heat and toast nuts until they become fragrant (~4-6 minutes). Add syrup and cook for 1 minute, scrape into the veggie mixture and stir to combine. Taste and season the mixture.
5. Lower oven to 400°F. Divide the mixture between the squash. Cut the remaining butter into 6 pieces and top each squash. Roast for ~45 minutes (until the skin of the squash is tender and easily pierced with a fork).
6. Slice stuffed squash into one-inch rings to serve.
7. Sprinkle with parsley.

Financial investments, in-kind donations, mentoring programs—there are numerous ways that local businesses contribute to the overall betterment of the greater Lynchburg region.
To complement our Giving Back Awards, the Lynchburg Living Community Impact Appreciation feature is a way to give local businesses a pat on the back as well. This year, we selected eight businesses to recognize for their outstanding efforts behind the scenes.

Apocalypse Ale Works

How does your business impact the community?
When the COVID-19 pandemic first hit in March, the service industry was abruptly decimated. Not only did that affect our own livelihood, but it also affected all of our friends within the restaurant and service industries as well. We quickly partnered with Sysco for a food drive for all furloughed workers. We have continued collecting non-perishable foods to help support our community. Additionally, we have been working closely with local officials on improving infrastructure and have already committed another $24,000 on a project that will help dozens of local businesses in our area. Finally, this November will be our Apocalypse Helps Give Back Month, where we will partner with a different local charity every Saturday and help raise money, food, and clothing for our local neighbors.

Why does your business choose to focus on these causes? 
Our goal is to help move our community forward. Big box stores provide jobs and goods to our community, but we strive to be more than that. Whether it’s providing food, hosting fundraisers for families in need, or helping our local infrastructure grow, a rising tide floats all ships.

Founded: 2012
Located: 1257 Burnbridge Road, Forest
Number of Employees: 9

Beacon Credit Union

How does your business impact the community?
Beacon Credit Union understands the importance of giving back to the community. We have sponsored events and campaigns that have raised awareness and more than $57,000 for our nonprofit organizations. In addition, we understand that our employees want to serve in the community as well, so we award PTO hours to our employees who volunteer at approved charities. Beacon also believes in the investment of children and their futures. Each year, we award six scholarships, $12,000 total, to students in our community to assist them in their educational journey.

Why does your business choose to focus on these causes? 
Ultimately, it is our responsibility as human beings to care for one another. It’s an honor to be part of this community, and we want to pay it forward. We believe that a charitable focus is imperative to any business organization and that it brings both the community and employees together for a common goal.

Founded: 1939
Located: Branches in Lynchburg, Madison Heights, Bedford, Danville, Buena Vista
Number of Employees: 80

Brownstone Properties, Inc.

How does your business impact the community?
Since our company’s beginning, we have supported programs and events focused on children and education. This past year, we sponsored the Bedford Hills Elementary School Carnival and Linkhorne Middle School Color Run. These events helped raise funds to support the PTO at each school and also provide assistance to teachers for programming needs. We also were the title sponsor of The Optimist Club of Lynchburg Oratorical Contest. This contest was created to encourage middle and high school students to participate in public speaking as part of a global competition through Optimist International.

Why does your business choose to focus on these causes? 
Our company set a goal to support local causes very early. Over the years, as our owners got involved with their own children’s schools, education became a recurring cause. Through personal involvement it was impossible to ignore both the financial need and the need to encourage and engage these young people to be their best. In addition, we have supported various athletic, band, and theatrical programs of local schools because we also recognize the importance of extracurricular activities in the development of our youth.

Founded: 1998
Located: 3720 Old Forest Road, Lynchburg
Number of Employees: 18

CloudFit Software

How does your business impact the community?
CloudFit exists to generate funding for nonprofits including KidFit and JobFit. KidFit provides mentoring and opportunities via athletics for all youth whether they can pay or not. KidFit trains youth in Lynchburg in speed, strength and agility as well as enables athletic camp and travel ball opportunities for youth. JobFit enables students and career changers to get real training and real experience, including paid internships, to lower the barrier to entry for great IT careers. CloudFit employees get to volunteer a number of hours per year as PTO for CloudFit.

Why does your business choose to focus on these causes?
CloudFit was literally founded to enable KidFit and other charities—the company bylaws require that CloudFit support KidFit and other charities. CloudFit’s founders believe that their mission on earth is to change the industry through CloudFit, but more importantly to use CloudFit to generate revenue that will help change lives through KidFit, JobFit and beyond. CloudFit is headquartered in Lynchburg because of a desire to help the Lynchburg region by providing hope and game-changing job opportunities for the wonderful people in this region.

Founded: 2018
Located: 300 Lucado Place, Lynchburg
Number of Employees: 140

I Scream You Scream

How does your business impact the community?
This has been a difficult year for all, but we did not want our local nonprofit groups to suffer or be unable to continue their great causes, so we continued our Community Give Back program. Our program started in 2016 with the goal to help local nonprofits, organizations, and individuals in need. This year we have donated a percentage of sales to local schools, church groups, humane societies, sports organizations for individuals with disabilities, a local fire department and other organizations.

Why does your business choose to focus on these causes? 
We believe we all have the privilege and responsibility to use our talents and gifts to help others. Reflecting on our business, we feel we had a platform and opportunity to help and connect people, businesses, and organizations by giving financially, using our large social media following to advertise the efforts of local nonprofits, and provide a place for these groups to connect with the families of our community. Communities are stronger when people are united and working together for the betterment of all. Loving people is what it is all about.

Founded: 2012
Located: 13955 Wards Rd. Lynchburg
Number of Employees: 17

Jersey Mike’s Subs

How does your business impact the community?
• Month of Giving Fundraiser, raised $7,087.89 for The Habitat for Humanity of Greater Lynchburg
• Three times per year, Meals on Wheels Fundraiser generates $12,000+ in donations
• COVID Donations
• Donated 850 subs to feed both hospitals
• Donated 150 subs to feed the Lynchburg Police Department
• Donated $6,176.03 to local schools through Spirit Fundraiser Nights
• Donated 1,100 Free Sub Coupons to local teachers
• Donated $3,576 to local organizations through our BOGO Fundraiser Coupons
• Donated 115 lunches to the Boys and Girls Club Golf Tournament

Why does your business choose to focus on these causes? 
Jersey Mike’s Subs as a company has a long-standing tradition of giving back and supporting the community that supports us. Our mission is Giving… Making a difference in someone’s life. We believe that making a great sub sandwich and making a difference can be one in the same. It gives us great pride to know that we have been able to make such an impact on the Lynchburg community since opening our first store in 2008.

Founded: 2008
Located: 3919 Wards Road, Lynchburg; 3901 Old Forest Road, Lynchburg
Number of Employees: 40-45

Sentry Equipment & Erectors, Inc.

How does your business impact the community?
Sentry makes a community impact through working with the youth of Lynchburg. Our engineers and shop team have welcomed many students into our facility to demonstrate first-hand how our equipment is designed and assembled. Last fall, Sentry hosted Ross Learning Academy’s STEM program students, during which our team gave students thought-provoking, hands-on exercises and a tour of the facility. Additionally, our engineers often visit Lynchburg City Schools to explain how our Electrical Engineering group brings our systems to life.

Why does your business choose to focus on these causes? 
Sentry’s passion is to ignite the young minds of Lynchburg. We love our community and hope to help the next generation get excited about their education in a hands-on environment. Here at Sentry, our team takes great pride in the work that they do, and to share that with the youth of Lynchburg is an honor.

Founded: 1980
Located: 13150 E Lynchburg Salem Turnpike, Forest
Number of Employees: 221

The Water Dog

How does your business impact the community?
Since opening our doors in Downtown Lynchburg, we have made it a priority to give back to the organizations around us, including the Downtown Lynchburg Association, Riverviews Artspace, Lynchburg Humane Society, Miller Home for Girls and many others. We also enjoy bringing our community together through a variety of events such as Pints After Pedals, Oktoberfest, and TWD Runner’s Club. In 2019, we reinvested in Downtown Lynchburg by purchasing The Glass House and have made an economic impact with that venue by donating a portion of our proceeds from the events we hold.

Why does your business choose to focus on these causes?
At face value, what we try to do is pretty simple: bring together great craft brews and tasty food with an awesome environment and some pretty rad people. But on a deeper level, we are passionate about connecting with the people and organizations around us that call Downtown Lynchburg home.

Founded: 2016
Located: 1016 Jefferson Street, Lynchburg
Number of Employees: 50

PHOTO BY National D-Day Memorial Foundation/Ryan Anderson

A bird’s-eye view of the National D-Day Memorial shows just how breathtaking the grounds are at the base of the Peaks of Otter. The Memorial officially opened on June 6, 2001, and stands in honor of those who died on June 6, 1944 in the Allied invasion of Normandy, France.

Most of the Memorial’s events in November and December will be virtual this year, with the exception of the Flames of Memory luminarias display December 4-6.

For a full calendar of events and other information, visit www.dday.org/events.

Long Distance Inquiry
We were delighted to hear from a reader in Newport News! Charlie Rhodes, who told us he is in his upper 70s, sent us a letter. He was born in Lynchburg and still has many family members and friends who live in the area. He and his wife receive Lynchburg Living by mail and say they enjoy every issue! Charlie also wrote to us to get more information about the elderberry products mentioned in our September/October article “Natural Cold Cure?”. Thank you for your letter, Charlie. It made our day, and we were happy to help!

You’re Welcome
We were close to approving our September/October issue when we learned about an art show for Inez Blanks, a well-known local artist who passed away this past summer. Inez’s husband, Norris, sent Editor Shelley Basinger an email: “I want to say a huge thank you for the wonderful article you engineered and crafted at the last moment for Inez. I was so delighted and heartened to see it and felt immediately uplifted by your generosity in making it a reality on such short notice.”

Ellen Dorman, whose Campbell County home was featured in our September/October issue (“A Warm Welcome”), sent Editor Shelley Basinger a kind message:
“A sincere THANK YOU for the amazing feature! Charlotte’s words are absolutely beautiful and Heather’s photographs are stunning! Great work by all involved.”

Correction
In our Bridal Buzz section of the September/October issue, we accidentally omitted several credits to vendors on the Trend Alert page. We have included that page here with the appropriate mentions and hope you will consider reaching out to these local businesses if you are planning a wedding or event.

CLOCKWISE:
Hanging floral display featuring Happily Ever After Event Rentals, Castle Lighting and Fox Grape Designs for florals.
A Little Party Events. Photo by Laura Bryan Photography.

Purple Door Catering at Sierra Vista. A Little Party Events.

Purple Door Catering.

Balloon display by FLOCK Designs at The Glass House.

Reception hall décor at Sierra Vista featuring Love is in the Air florals, Happily Ever After Event Rentals.
A Little Party Events.
Photo by Sam Stroud Photography.

Best Of Buzz
Our readers once again came out in force for our annual Best Of Lynchburg Readers’ Choice Awards—we logged a total of 43,360 votes! Look for the full list of results in our January/February issue!

Send us an e-mail to shelley@lynchburgmag.com. Correspondents must identify themselves; names may be withheld on request. Lynchburg Living may edit or condense.