What a Naturopath Really Buys at the Pharmacy

You probably expect that when a naturopath walks into a pharmacy, her basket is filled with exotic powders, hard-to-pronounce herbs, and the latest “miracle” supplements.

But honestly?
It’s usually the opposite.

Over the years, I’ve learned that the less you experiment with trendy launches and gimmicky formulas, the better your long-term results tend to be. Your body doesn’t need novelty, it needs consistency, simplicity, and nutrients it actually recognises and knows how to use.

As a naturopath in Bayside Melbourne, I focus on foundations. These are the things I personally buy, use, and come back to again and again.

Why I Don’t Fall for “Miracle” Supplements

Most “miracle” supplements are just clever marketing. Fancy names, long ingredient lists, bold claims, and very little evidence that your body can absorb or utilise what’s inside.

Your body is intelligent, but it’s also practical. When you overwhelm it with unfamiliar compounds, poorly absorbed forms, or unnecessary combinations, you’re not supporting it, you’re confusing it.

That’s why I prioritise the basics. Not because they’re boring, but because they work.

What You Won’t Find in My Pharmacy Basket

You won’t find:

• Trendy “detox” powders
• Supplements with 20+ ingredients “just because”
• Products promising overnight transformations

Health doesn’t work like that, and your body deserves better than shortcuts.

The Supplements I Actually Buy as a Naturopath

When I stand in the supplement aisle, I’m not looking for the newest launch or the loudest claims on the label. I’m looking for products that support the body’s core needs, nutrients that are well-researched, well-absorbed, and genuinely useful in daily life.

These are the supplements I personally buy and use. They’re not exciting or trendy, but they form the foundation of how I support my own health, and they’re often where I start with my patients too.

1. Magnesium: My Non-Negotiable for Calm, Sleep & Nerves

Magnesium is one of the first things I reach for, both personally and professionally. It supports:

• Relaxation and stress regulation
• Quality sleep
• Nervous system balance
• Muscle recovery

Most people are deficient, especially if they’re stressed, not sleeping well, or exercising regularly. A good magnesium can make a noticeable difference to how your body unwinds at the end of the day.

2. Vitamin D: The Foundation for Immunity, Mood & Hormones

Vitamin D isn’t just about bones, it’s a hormone-like nutrient that influences almost every system in the body. I use it for:

• Immune support
• Mood and mental wellbeing
• Hormonal balance

If you don’t get regular sun exposure (and most of us don’t in Melbourne), supplementation can be essential.

3. Probiotics: Supporting the Gut (and Everything Connected to It)

Your gut affects far more than digestion. Skin health, immunity, mood, and inflammation all start there. A quality probiotic supports:

• Digestive function
• Gut barrier health
• Skin clarity
• Immune resilience

This is another staple I return to regularly, especially during times of stress or after illness.

4. Omega-3: For the Brain, Heart & Inflammation Control

Omega-3s are foundational fats that many people simply don’t get enough of. They support:

• Brain function and focus
• Heart health
• Inflammation regulation

This is one supplement I consider essential, not optional.

5. Creatine: Not Just for Athletes — Why I Use It

Creatine often surprises people.

Yes, it supports strength and muscle recovery but it also plays a role in:

• Cellular energy production
• Brain health
• Overall physical resilience

It’s not just for bodybuilders. It’s for anyone who wants better energy at a cellular level.

6. Electrolytes: Hydration, Minerals & Mental Clarity

Hydration isn’t just about drinking water, it’s about mineral balance. Electrolytes help with:

• Proper hydration
• Muscle function
• Mental clarity and focus

If you’re active, stressed, or drinking lots of caffeine, electrolytes can make a real difference.

The Rule I Follow When Choosing Supplements

Here’s my simple rule: If your body doesn’t recognise it, it can’t use it.

I look for:

• Well-researched nutrients
• Bioavailable forms
• Simple formulas without fillers or hype

Consistency over complexity will always win.

My Final Advice as a Naturopath

If there’s one thing I want you to take from this, it’s this: health is built on foundations, not fads.

When you support your body with nutrients it understands and actually needs, it responds quietly, steadily, and sustainably.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by supplements, unsure what you actually need, or tired of guessing, this is exactly what I help my patients with. Every body is different, and the right support should always be personalised.

You’re welcome to book an appointment with me if you’d like guidance tailored to your body, your lifestyle, and your health goals.