Client Stories

PMS, peri-menopause, and allergy symptoms have all greatly reduced

I started working with Adrienne for seasonal allergies in an attempt to stop taking over the counter medications that weren’t helping relieve congestion, sneezing and watery eyes, but were causing painful dryness all over my body. She recommended also working on my peri-menopause symptoms while we were talking about my overall health. Game. Changer! My boyfriend called out my lack of normal PMS symptoms (cramps, bloating, nausea, and mood changes) before I even realized my period was coming soon. And my night sweats and other peri “joys” have greatly reduced. If you’re on the fence about talking to Adrienne about peri-menopause or PMS – do it! You won’t regret it! (Oh, and the seasonal allergy treatment is working great too – no more OTC meds!)

Carrie Wilkie
PA

Adrienne is so knowledgeable…a pleasure to work with!

I reached out to Adrienne mainly for help with exhaustion. That was my primary concern, but thanks to her thorough intake process, I was able to pinpoint a few other concerns as well. These were things I had always taken for granted and thought were just conditions of being me. Exhaustion, persistent negative thinking, intrusive thoughts, even constipation. Adrienne made me laugh and feel comfortable about sharing very personal details of my life! She created a plan for me to start taking some herbs and she checked in frequently to see how things we going. We made a few small adjustments over the next few weeks and I ended up feeling so much better in several areas. The biggest change is in my energy. I went from always needing a three to four hour nap on weekends to just taking a short catnap to recharge my batteries. Adrienne is so knowledgeable so I always reach out to her when new issues or questions arise. She’s a pleasure to work with and I would 100% recommend her services to anyone looking to improve the quality of their life through herbal remedies!

Jane S.
Alabama

I feel like I am able to live my life again!

I had suffered from severe, debilitating menstrual cramps and extreme bloating due to PMS for close to a decade. Doctors prescribed birth-control pills and (unhelpfully) mentioned that they would get better after I had a baby. A couple years after I had my first child, my periods only got worse, along with my PMS symptoms, and I would spend the first few days of my cycle in bed writhing in pain.

Adrienne and I had a long phone conversation, where she listened without any judgment to all my symptoms and asked questions about my health and lifestyle. She came back a few days later with herbal supplements to try. She checked in every month, tweaking the formula and adding supplements that would help everything from my nausea to my constipation.

Now, my periods are much more manageable. They are lighter and my cramps have virtually disappeared. I don’t suffer from an oppressive depression for days before my periods start. Mainly, I feel like I am able to live my life again! Before I felt unable to function for a few days every month. Adrienne has allowed me to find relief!

Raquel L.
Brooklyn, NY

My migraines ceased almost immediately

I began working with Adrienne when my hormonal migraines came back a few years after the birth of my son. She is so thorough and compassionate and working with her was as therapeutic as the herbs themselves! Once I began her recommended herb protocol, my migraines, as well as a few other unpleasant PMS symptoms, ceased almost immediately. It was such an incredible relief and I am so grateful for Adrienne’s care and follow-up support as well.

Kasey W.
New York, NY

Peri-menopause feels much more manageable

I began working with Adrienne when I noticed that my periods had become irregular. Being in my mid-forties, I knew I must be in peri-menopause. Knowing this is a natural progression, I just wanted some support to smooth out my periods and calm the heat in my body – night sweats, occasional hot flashes, and what felt like hormonal anxiety. Adrienne was so thorough – taking the time to inquire about all aspects of my physical, emotional, and mental health. I felt like she was really listening to me and taking seriously my hopes for my own health. She gave me a comprehensive plan to support a healthy peri-menopause – diet suggestions and a combination of herbs that almost instantly made my period regular and healthy again, as well as calmed the heat related issues. Because of Adrienne’s insight and suggestions, peri-menopause feels much more manageable and workable.

Sam N.
Pittsburgh, PA

Working with Adrienne Has Been Transformational

I came to Adrienne with issues including constipation, indigestion, night sweats, and an irregular menstrual cycle. I have seen many different people and tried many different supplements and herbs over the years, and working with Adrienne has been a transformational experience for me and my health.

She listens closely and is so thorough in her work. With each recommendation she explains how and why it works – which, after years of taking particular herbs simply because I thought they were good for me, has given me a new understanding and appreciation for how effective and powerful herbs can be when taken under the right care.

Thanks to Adrienne, my night sweats have drastically decreased and my menstrual cycle is regulated. My digestive health has greatly improved and is stabilized with biannual check-ins to readjust and tweak my regimen when necessary.

I come away from each conversation with Adrienne, who is easily accessible and highly responsive with communication, feeling listened to, well cared for, and informed.

A. Adams
Pittsburgh, PA

Adrienne is Skilled and Highly Knowledgable

I initially came to Adrienne when I was experiencing acute pain as a result of hemorrhoids and constipation that had plagued me most of my life. This was my main issue but Adrienne also helped me with fatigue, and suggestions for how to fuel myself as someone who runs quite a bit.

Adrienne was so thorough. She listened deeply and after our initial conversation came back to ask me follow-up questions after researching. I have worked with her for several years now and her style and communication continue to impress me.

I know Adrienne to be extremely knowledgeable, but I did not have previous experience with herbs. Since working with Adrienne I have been able to stop using stool softeners such as Metamucil, and wipes such as Preparation H. My bowels have become more regular, and as a result of Adrienne recommending herbs and other products I was able to reduce constipation and inflammation. The herbs she initially recommended also addressed my fatigue.

Adrienne changed my life by suggesting I eat a larger breakfast which I will forever be grateful for. I am not constantly hungry anymore!

Adrienne is a skilled, and highly knowledgeable professional. You will feel listened to and learn new things from her. I will continue to work with Adrienne for the rest of my life and will continue recommending her. Thank you Adrienne!

V.F.
Pittsburgh, PA

Adrienne Was Super Responsive and Helpful

I reached out to Adrienne as I was really resistant to starting traditional prescription anti-anxiety medication, but definitely needed some help in this area. Adrienne developed an herbal formula that managed my anxiety really well and on top of that, she also addressed muscle tension issues I was having. The herbs gave me no side effects and I am so happy with how well they are working. Adrienne was super responsive and helpful any time I had a question or need to adjust my dosage. I’ve recommended her to multiple friends who have also been pleased with the results.

Beth T.
San Francisco, CA

Adrienne Has Changed My Life

Adrienne has actually changed my life. For the first time ever, I began experiencing some digestive and gastrointestinal symptoms. After a few weeks of trying to adjust my eating to compensate, I felt helpless and reached out to Adrienne. Her care was so thorough and thoughtful. I have struggled with eating disorders in the past, and so conversations about food can be very fraught for me. Adrienne was exceptionally sensitive to this and made me feel seen, cared for, and most of all, she created an herbal and food plan that have reversed all of my symptoms. She is truly a godsend.

Christine L.
Philadelphia, PA

The Herbs Made a Big Difference

I came to Adrienne for longtime tinnitus, both high-pitched and a thrumming sound. After taking her recommended herbal formula for several weeks, the high-pitched sound was much fainter and the thrumming was gone. Though my symptoms came and went over the next year, I noticed what a big difference the herbs made in taking the edge off. I now use the herbs when my tinnitus flares up, and I get relief after a few days of usage. I recommend Adrienne to people whenever they tell me they are struggling with tinnitus.

 

Maddie Tieman
Pittsburgh, PA

I Cannot More Strongly Recommend Adrienne

Adrienne has treated both my daughter and myself for issues related to attention, depression, anxiety, and worry.  She provided thoughtful plans of action to address symptoms after extensive research and consideration of existing pharmaceutical medications.  Her follow-up process is authentic, caring, and reliable. After trying Adrienne’s herb protocol, I feel much less anxiety and worry. My daughter has also noted less anxiety, and more control over her thoughts.

While my daughter and I both appreciate Adrienne’s knowledge and recommendations with herbal treatments to amend other remedies, we both most value Adrienne’s kind approach, her willingness to listen, and her ability to sympathize and empathize with her patients.  I cannot more strongly recommend Adrienne as a practitioner who is a true guardian of human care.

Sarah K.
Pittsburgh, PA

I Feel Validated and Heard

I really love working with Adrienne. I came to her for symptoms of Hashimoto’s Hypothyroid, Celiac, and low iron. Adrienne listens well and gives thorough and well thought out feedback. She definitely sees the whole picture. She created a custom herbal formula that has helped me a lot. The herbs lighten my mood, and have eliminated my throat sensitivities. Adrienne’s compassion and empathy are so refreshing. Every time we talk I feel validated and heard. Thank you, Adrienne!

Nicole Clark
CT

Adrienne Has Been a Blessing

Working with Adrienne has been a blessing for my husband and me. I came to Adrienne for overall wellness and mild anxiety. Bobby came for depression with insomnia, and anxiety with panic attacks.

Adrienne was very easy to talk to, and listened to us both without judgment. She guided us through the initial assessment easily, working her magic from there.

Since beginning the herbs Adrienne recommended, I have been able to wind down at night easier. And I am sleeping better throughout the night. The herbal formula also improved my digestive health. When I became pregnant, Adrienne altered my herbal regimen for the safety of me and my baby.

Since Bobby began his recommended herbs, he has seen dramatic differences in his mental health. His mood swings have stabilized. And he is sleeping! Sleep was one of the areas of his life most affected. He noticed these improvements in the first few weeks of taking the herbs. And over the past year, he has made Adrienne’s recommended adjustments as his symptoms change.

The best part of working with Adrienne is that she is there to help along the way. She will answer questions and offer adjustments to your health regimen as needed. She is just an email away; this convenience is key. Because of Adrienne’s dedication to her clients, she makes it easy for us to take care of ourselves.

Tiffany and Bobby Powell
Pittsburgh, PA

I Am Thankful for Adrienne

I came to Adrienne for help with lifelong allergies that regularly cause upper respiratory issues. I started taking the herbs Adrienne recommended and noticed changes right away. My morning sinus congestion and drainage would normally make me sick to my stomach, but that stopped within the first two days of taking the herbs. My eyes and scalp are also much less itchy. These tips plus the diet and lifestyle changes Adrienne recommended have been so helpful. I am definitely continuing to notice the positive effects of the regimen…like magic. I have not taken any of my regular allergy medications since beginning the herbal formula. I am thankful for Adrienne’s help, time, expertise, and patience. I am a grateful girl!

 

Amber N.
Pittsburgh

I Appreciated Her Systematic Methods

What I love most about working with Adrienne is her extremely thorough and practical approach. She has a healthy respect for conventional Western medicine, and she is firmly rooted in data, science and results, not myths and trends. In other words, she’s never going to tell you to take an herb because Gwyneth Paltrow is obsessed with it. She’s going to tell you to take an herb after she talks to and interviews you in depth, gathering all of the information about your overall health and lifestyle that she needs, and only when the research clearly shows that the herb has worked for similar ailments in the past and that nothing about your particular situation would pose a problem. And if something in your particular situation would pose a problem, she will work tirelessly to find a substitution and come up with a custom formula just for you.

I presented Adrienne with a tricky scenario, because I am on a blood thinner that interacts with literally everything I ingest, including food and herbs. Yet I was desperately seeking a non-invasive remedy for the pain being caused by a ganglion cyst deep inside my wrist, and all the orthopedic doctors could offer me was steroid injections or surgery. I also experience constant minor injuries and aches and pains from some of the more extreme physical activities in which I participate, but I am not allowed to take anti-inflammatories like Advil because of the blood thinning medication.  So I gave Adrienne the additional task of finding me an “herbal Advil” that I could take on an as-needed basis to reduce inflammation and relieve pain, and that would be safe to take with the blood thinner.

Adrienne was definitely up for the challenge! As an attorney, I greatly appreciated her systematic methods and careful research.  She literally left no stone uncovered!  The pain from the cyst is now almost non-existent. I have yet to try my “herbal Advil” but I am so excited to have it in my medicine cabinet! Thank you, Adrienne!

E.N.
Pittsburgh

I Dropped My Blood Glucose Level Over 12 Points

I came to Adrienne to address some of my hormonal related issues: fatigue, mental fogginess, sleep disruption, sugar cravings, hot flashes, and mood swings. Adrienne’s approach was caring and comprehensive; she put me very much at ease. She took great care and time in listening to and collecting all of my information.

As a result of making Adrienne’s diet and lifestyle changes, along with adding the herbal formula, many of my symptoms improved within a month and have continued to improve over the course of several months. I have more energy and more mental clarity. I also dropped my blood glucose level over 12 points in a period of 6 months and have stopped taking one of my prescription medications.

One of the misconceptions I had about herbal medicine was that there would be a goal to quit all prescription medications. That fear was quickly put to rest because Adrienne is so knowledgeable and responsible with her holistic approach. Now, I actually have a better understanding of one of the prescription medications I have been taking for years, and feel more comfortable continuing with it.

Adrienne is truly gifted in her field and I would highly recommend her care and consultation to anyone looking for a more comprehensive and holistic approach to their health!

P. Pellegrino
Pittsburgh, PA

Adrienne Was Kind and Reasonable in Her Approach

I met Adrienne online several years ago in yoga forums we frequented. I noticed her critical thinking skills and became interested in how those might help me. I tend to have a low appetite and trouble falling asleep. I was also struggling through a deep grieving process which was exacerbating my symptoms to the extent that I needed support. 

Adrienne was both kind and reasonable in her approach to my condition and concerns. I started the regimen she recommended in January 2019, starting with herbs to increase my appetite and smooth out my digestion. Within a couple weeks, and assuredly by one month, I was noticing a marked increase in my appetite and improvement in my digestion.

In February, I added herbs to help with sleep and to soothe my nervous system. The sleep herb was immediately effective. And I started noticing more steadiness in my cognition/emotional affect after about a month.

Adrienne was also an excellent support in figuring out what was going to work within my budget, helping me prioritize my needs based on her expertise. I feel much, much better, to say the least.

Kerry Porter
AL

I Notice a Significant Improvement in My Mental Health

Working with Adrienne was a unique and positive experience. I approached Adrienne for help after receiving a bipolar 2 diagnosis from my psychologist. After researching various western medicines used to treat bipolar disorder, I was equally scared about potential side effects as I was with the diagnosis.

Adrienne understood that I wanted a more gentle approach, and started me on an herbal formula. Then, upon follow-ups with both Adrienne and my psychologist, we added a second formula and increased the dosages. With these two formulas I notice a significant improvement in my mental health. The herbs lessen the intensity of my moods and limit the duration of my mood swings.

Adrienne thoughtfully listens and customizes her approach to meet you where you are. Compared with a treatment determined by an insurance company, this approach is a less stressful and ultimately less expensive solution.

Brad P.
Pittsburgh

I’m Feeling Like Myself Again!

I came to Adrienne for help with depression and anxiety. Since starting her herbal recommendations, I feel more alert, and less groggy.  My energy and motivation have improved. And I’ve been feeling the desire to do activities I used to enjoy.

My anxiety and insomnia have also reduced. When I do feel anxious thoughts start to come, I’m able to let them pass much more quickly and not get dragged down into a spiral. I don’t feel tense and irritable all the time anymore. It’s been so long since I haven’t felt like that, and it’s amazing. I’m feeling like myself again!

Suganya S.
Pittsburgh

I Felt Supported and Heard

I came to Adrienne after a long spring of stress and grief. She was thorough in her questions and kind in her approach. I felt supported and heard throughout our first meeting. Within a few days, she created a whole health plan – including herbs, foods, and other supports – that I quickly put into place. Within a few days of that, I could feel my heart and mind relaxing. I am grateful for my work with Adrienne and will definitely turn to her in the future with my health concerns. 

Rebecca B.
Utah

I Felt Like a Partner

Adrienne Totino is the consummate professional. She asked extensive questions about my health, then listened carefully to my concerns. I felt like a partner in the process.

My specific problems were sleep, and anxiety about sleep. The herb Adrienne recommended worked immediately, the first time I used it. I no longer need to use allergy drugs that left me groggy. Now, I frequently sleep through the night; if I happen to wake up, a second dose will help me drift back.

I will return to Adrienne if I have other concerns, as it was a pleasure to work with her. I was something of a skeptic about herbalists, but now I am a believer, especially in this one.

Pam Morrison
Pennsylvania

Adrienne Has Given Me My Life Back

I can honestly say that Adrienne has given me my life back.

She worked with me to find relief for my daily nausea and constipation, chronic conditions I have dealt with my whole life. I have a confirmed medical diagnosis and have sought help from gastroenterologists along with other medical professionals. Many trials of medications and doctors’ recommendations have not brought me relief. Through Adrienne’s coaching in yoga and meditation I had found a little help, but not until I worked with her in finding herbal remedies have I found so much relief.

We first tackled the nausea. Adrienne was incredibly thorough in her intake questioning. She really listened, taking note of everything I said and never projecting her ideas on me. It was apparent she wanted to understand the full picture of my condition. When I started feeling relief quickly, I thought maybe I was imagining it. But as time has gone on I have considerable and consistent lack of nausea.

We recently turned to addressing my constipation. Upon Adrienne’s recommendation the herbs I have added to my daily routine have already given me some relief from the cramping and bloating. As we adjust the dosage my constipation continues to improve.

Adrienne has been my yoga instructor for quite a few years. She has always been aware of my conditions but did not let her prior impressions influence her evaluation of me. I feel she was as professional and thorough as she would be with a new acquaintance.

This has been a life changer for me. I will be forever grateful for her knowledge, dedication, and kindness.

Jane Koburger
Florida

I Could Not Be Happier

I could not be happier with the thorough, compassionate, and effective care I received from Adrienne Totino. I sought treatment for anxiety, and the herbs she prescribed after our consultation had an almost immediate and very pronounced impact. I am currently nursing, and the time, research, and consideration she gave to my recommendations made clear her commitment to the well-being of her clients. My anxiety has become so manageable that I barely even think about it in day to day life, which is the first time I have felt that way in over fifteen years. I cannot recommend Adrienne’s services enough.

Rachel W.
New York

Professional, Thorough, and Efficient

Adrienne was professional, thorough, and efficient to work with. We worked on PMS symptoms (irritability, skin break-outs, cramps) and she was able to quickly provide me with herbs and dietary advice to decrease these symptoms. The recommendations worked quickly, and I no longer have these symptoms.

Allison B.
Pittsburgh

Trustworthy and Knowledgable

Adrienne was trustworthy and knowledgeable discussing a difficult and private health issue. She helped me feel comfortable talking about my symptoms of PTSD. I sought help with insomnia, nightmares, anxiety, night sweats, and panic attacks. Adrienne quickly provided herbal suggestions, along with meditation and breathing techniques. I started taking herbs quickly after our consultation and I was able to sleep that same night. Within a few days, I no longer had nightmares or night sweats. My anxiety and panic attacks became manageable, too. I’m so grateful for her help and trust!

Lindsay Rogers
Pittsburgh

My Symptoms Are Much Improved

I found Adrienne very knowledgeable and professional during our session, and I appreciated her thorough follow-ups. I have suffered from sinus congestion and seasonal allergies for years. Over-the-counter products were not effective. Since beginning Adrienne’s treatment (herbs, dietary changes, and nasal spray), my symptoms are much improved. Recently, I was exposed to the common cold virus from two family members. Adrienne’s recommendations for boosting immunity allowed me to avoid catching a cold.

Patti McAuley
Pittsburgh

Adrienne Provided Me a Proactive Preventative Plan

Over the past few years, I’ve experienced increased sinus and allergy issues. Unfortunately, OTC remedies have become less effective for me. When I met with Adrienne, her intake questions were extremely detailed, and she was able to identify a few additional areas where herbs would be beneficial. Since beginning Adrienne’s recommended herbal and dietary regimen, I have had less sinus pressure and drainage. One part of the formula she created also addresses some of my peri-menopausal symptoms, including frequent night sweats which I’m happy to report have not occurred since I started taking the herbs. I am glad I started the process well in advance of springtime when my allergy symptoms fully kick in, and am grateful to Adrienne for providing me with a proactive, preventative plan.

Reenie Kuhlman
Pittsburgh

I Have Consistent Normal Stools

My whole life, I have struggled with a sensitive gut. About 6 years ago, I stopped eating gluten – in part because my father and brother realized they were gluten intolerant. It helped but did not resolve my consistent loose stools.

After a very thorough intake and some trial and error, Adrienne has helped me find the diet, activity level, and herbs that work best for me. For the first time in my life, I have consistent ‘normal’ stools.

I recently learned that many of my cousins have very similar digestive issues. It is really liberating to be more stable. Adrienne’s process and care in discovering what worked best for me – not some set of general rules – really made a difference for me. I also so appreciate her body positivity and balanced view of what is possible.

E.M.
Pittsburgh