Editor's note: Barbara O'Neill and Dr. Sebi were not licensed medical practitioners. The habits below work alongside medical care, not instead of it. Talk to your doctor before starting herbs, especially if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medication.
Both Barbara O'Neill and Dr. Sebi taught that the body is built to heal itself when given the right conditions. It's an empowering idea, and much of the daily routine they recommend is genuinely good for you. The part to be careful with is treating it as a replacement for medical care. Here's the routine, with what holds up.
The Everyday Habits Both Teachers Recommend
Water. O'Neill recommends 8 to 10 glasses a day, starting with two on waking; Dr. Sebi insisted on spring water. Staying hydrated is good advice for most healthy people. People with kidney disease or heart failure are often told to limit fluids, so follow your doctor if that's you.
Diet. Both favored plant-based whole foods and fewer processed foods and additives. Eating more vegetables, fruit, beans, and whole grains is well supported. The "alkaline" theory behind it isn't — food doesn't meaningfully change your blood's pH — but the plate it leads to is a healthy one.
Movement. Regular exercise supports circulation, mood, sleep, and skin. It's one of the best-supported habits on the list.
Rest. Good sleep matters for skin repair and nearly everything else.
Stress management. Chronic stress can worsen conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Reducing it helps.
Gentle external care. A mild cleanser that doesn't strip your skin, and fewer harsh products.
The Herbs — With Cautions
Their protocols include burdock root, yellow dock, and sarsaparilla for skin, dandelion for the liver and kidneys, cascara sagrada for the colon, and valerian and chamomile for stress and sleep. Evidence for most is limited, and several carry real risks:
- Cascara sagrada is a stimulant laxative. The FDA removed it from over-the-counter laxatives because its safety wasn't established, and regular use can harm the bowel and throw off electrolytes.
- Yellow dock is also a laxative and high in oxalates, a concern for anyone prone to kidney stones.
- Dandelion acts as a diuretic and can interact with medications.
- Valerian causes drowsiness and adds to the effects of alcohol and sedatives.
A Straight Answer About Our Soap
Our bars are soap: they clean. They aren't a treatment for eczema or any other condition, and they won't do the work of the habits above. What they can be is the gentle part of a daily routine. Browse our bar soaps.
Beyond Clean, Beyond Ordinary.