What do you think?
Rate this book
Self Heal By Design - By Barbara O'Neill: The Role Of Micro-Organisms For Health
Barbara's experience, knowledge and common sense style of lecturing have made her a popular and sought after speaker in Australia and internationally. This easy to read book is packed with information that enables the reader to intelligently embrace a lifestyle that works with the body's amazing ability to heal itself, when given the right conditions. The body can self heal by its very design, and you can design a program that will enable the body to do the very thing it was made to do- heal itself.
166 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2014
1989 people are currently reading
6373 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
July 4, 2023
If anyone is reading the reviews to find out if this book is worth while, it is. Just read it anyway and make your own conclusion. If you find it a little daunting due to some of the scientific names throughout then back this book up with some of Barbs videos. Love her and this book!
August 12, 2023
After watching quite a few of Barbara O'Neill's presentations on YouTube, I was glad to find she has written a book. It's another testimony of the healing ability of the body when the body is properly cared for. I love the title of the book because it implies that our Creator created our bodies to self heal.
The first third of the book covers yeast (including candida) and fungus and how to control them. There's evidence that the spores of asomycete fungi seem to be involved in the cause of cancer. "The fungal spores in their cell wall and deficient forms inside the human cell are able to incorporate their DNA with the human DNA to create a hybrid or mutated cell. The cell now changes from aerobic (in the presence of oxygen) to anaerobic (the absence of oxygen) respiration. This anaerobic respiration gives off lactic acid, which in turn lowers the pH of the body. Fungus and disease thrive in an acid pH. As the fungal cell is now merged with the human cell, it escapes destruction by the white blood cell because the white blood cell now sees it as a human cell." Yikes! Both cancer and fungus like anaerobic, acidic conditions, and both thrive on sugar. I suspect this is not a coincidence.
This book provides practical advice for alkalizing the body and for bringing fungus and yeast back into balance. There is a helpful 2-stage Anti-Fungal diet (phase 1 lasts 4 weeks). There's a list of foods to eat and a list of foods to avoid. There is also a list of anti-fungal herbs. It should be helpful for anyone who struggles with yeast infections, ringworm, Athlete's foot, etc.
Though this isn't a cancer book per se, it does offer a 6-week Cancer Conquering Diet, one low in glucose to help starve the cancer. There are a few herbal supplements recommended, but nothing too crazy and expensive. She advises following the Cancer Conquering Diet with the Anti-Fungal diet afterwards.
She goes in depth on the acid/alkaline balance of the body and how to restore balance with 8 habits:
Where have I seen these before? More of that Seventh Day Adventist wisdom! Each point is covered fully.
There are great chapters just on how to care for the stomach and for the liver. The end of the book has recipes. All-in-all, a great practical how-to manual for how to take care of the human body; one that is not overwhelming to read or to follow. Good common sense backed with spiritual insight and science, too. Highly recommended!
The first third of the book covers yeast (including candida) and fungus and how to control them. There's evidence that the spores of asomycete fungi seem to be involved in the cause of cancer. "The fungal spores in their cell wall and deficient forms inside the human cell are able to incorporate their DNA with the human DNA to create a hybrid or mutated cell. The cell now changes from aerobic (in the presence of oxygen) to anaerobic (the absence of oxygen) respiration. This anaerobic respiration gives off lactic acid, which in turn lowers the pH of the body. Fungus and disease thrive in an acid pH. As the fungal cell is now merged with the human cell, it escapes destruction by the white blood cell because the white blood cell now sees it as a human cell." Yikes! Both cancer and fungus like anaerobic, acidic conditions, and both thrive on sugar. I suspect this is not a coincidence.
This book provides practical advice for alkalizing the body and for bringing fungus and yeast back into balance. There is a helpful 2-stage Anti-Fungal diet (phase 1 lasts 4 weeks). There's a list of foods to eat and a list of foods to avoid. There is also a list of anti-fungal herbs. It should be helpful for anyone who struggles with yeast infections, ringworm, Athlete's foot, etc.
Though this isn't a cancer book per se, it does offer a 6-week Cancer Conquering Diet, one low in glucose to help starve the cancer. There are a few herbal supplements recommended, but nothing too crazy and expensive. She advises following the Cancer Conquering Diet with the Anti-Fungal diet afterwards.
She goes in depth on the acid/alkaline balance of the body and how to restore balance with 8 habits:
1. Oxygen
2. Sunshine
3. Temperance
4. Rest
5. Exercise
6. Water
7. Salt
8. Mental health
Where have I seen these before? More of that Seventh Day Adventist wisdom! Each point is covered fully.
There are great chapters just on how to care for the stomach and for the liver. The end of the book has recipes. All-in-all, a great practical how-to manual for how to take care of the human body; one that is not overwhelming to read or to follow. Good common sense backed with spiritual insight and science, too. Highly recommended!
June 10, 2019
Amazing book
I love this book, the point of view, the approach, the integrity of all knowledge. The author master the art to describe a complexe information in a very simple and easy way. Bravo, it’s an incredible book that every single person must read.
I love this book, the point of view, the approach, the integrity of all knowledge. The author master the art to describe a complexe information in a very simple and easy way. Bravo, it’s an incredible book that every single person must read.
November 3, 2019
Excellent teacher!
I have watched numerous videos as well as reading this book and it has all been terrific! She is wonderfull teacher of health.
I have watched numerous videos as well as reading this book and it has all been terrific! She is wonderfull teacher of health.
December 16, 2019
Wonderful book
I hated the book ended. Easy to read great information I loved the recipes in the book also. This book should be in everyone’s cellphone.
I hated the book ended. Easy to read great information I loved the recipes in the book also. This book should be in everyone’s cellphone.
October 31, 2021
wonderful
Barbara is an excellent natural remedy lady. It helps me a lot in my thinking. Would like to know more and I love the recipes.
Barbara is an excellent natural remedy lady. It helps me a lot in my thinking. Would like to know more and I love the recipes.
March 9, 2024
Barbara O'Neil's book "Self Heal by Design: The Role of Micro-organisms for Health" is an engaging look at self-help supported by solid scientific data. O'Neil meticulously explores the intricate relationship between microorganisms and our health, offering valuable insights without the constraints of a story narrative. This book serves as an informational treasure trove, providing 10th graders with accessible yet profound knowledge to complement their existing understanding, making it an ideal resource for their educational journey. O'Neil's adept blending of science and self-help empowers readers to apply their newfound knowledge effectively. With its clear and concise presentation, this book offers a refreshing departure from conventional narratives, making complex concepts easily digestible. Whether delving into the microbiome or elucidating the mechanisms behind self-healing, O'Neil's work resonates with clarity and relevance. "Self Heal by Design" is an indispensable guide for young minds eager to explore the fascinating intersection of science and personal well-being.
"Self Heal by Design: The Role of Micro-organisms for Health" by Barbara O'Neil is a scientifically grounded exploration of self-help principles. Perfect for 10th graders, it provides accessible yet profound insights into the connection between microorganisms and human health. O'Neil's clear presentation and evidence-based approach make it an invaluable resource for young readers seeking to enhance their understanding of self-care.
Tithi Mehta, Grade 9
"Self Heal by Design: The Role of Micro-organisms for Health" by Barbara O'Neil is a scientifically grounded exploration of self-help principles. Perfect for 10th graders, it provides accessible yet profound insights into the connection between microorganisms and human health. O'Neil's clear presentation and evidence-based approach make it an invaluable resource for young readers seeking to enhance their understanding of self-care.
Tithi Mehta, Grade 9
April 7, 2025
Loved the ideas introduced here but it left me feeling lacking. We need more from Dr Barbara! I’ll have to read her new book I guess.
August 26, 2024
“The human body has been designed to heal itself. It is a self cleansing, self healing organism. The human body will heal itself, if given the right conditions”
Barbara O’Neill is an amazing woman, who knows her body and how it works and is all too aware of the increase in sickness and disease that we are all witnessing today. We are bombarded with so many things that are detrimental to our health and yet we continue doing what we do and making poor lifestyle choices and turning to the medical system to put us back together, remove our symptoms or give us answers.
Sadly medical professionals have one tool box and are trained in relieving sickness, via symptom suppression; not really about health promotion or disease prevention. Yes a hard pill to swallow for many, and literally so!
If you value your health and want to feel empowered and willing to do some reading and work, then this book contains much valuable information that you may wish to consider.
Barbara is a controversial figure and has been vilified by certain institutions in her home country of Australia. Despite this attempt to shut her up, she has a very large following of people that are wanting to take responsibility for their own well-being . She is becoming increasingly popular worldwide and gives talks to people outside her own country where she has been banned from sharing her extensive knowledge.
This book is easy to read and understand. Maybe I say this as a once ‘health care professional’ who studied anatomy & physiology and worked in the ‘health care system’, so I understand the role of the liver and digestive etc, However, Barbara O’Neill gives the reader a chapter by chapter approach to understanding what our bodies are designed to do and the battles it has to fight to maintain wellness.
Chapters cover: ( not the names of chapters)
Fungi ( not the mushroom kind) and mycotoxins in foods.
The role fungus plays in human disease.
The link between fungus and cancer.
Genetics and disease.
Herbs , minerals,
Macro nutrients
Candida
Acid and alkaline balance - body pH
Foods that affect the pH of your body.
Hydrochloric Acid
The Liver and its function.
Liver cleanse
Recipes - 33 of them.
Barbara trained and worked as nurse, she also studied naturopathy and nutrition.
She is now in her early 70s and has a wealth of knowledge in the field of health. This is a way of reaching out to the people and sharing that information.
4/5
Barbara O’Neill is an amazing woman, who knows her body and how it works and is all too aware of the increase in sickness and disease that we are all witnessing today. We are bombarded with so many things that are detrimental to our health and yet we continue doing what we do and making poor lifestyle choices and turning to the medical system to put us back together, remove our symptoms or give us answers.
Sadly medical professionals have one tool box and are trained in relieving sickness, via symptom suppression; not really about health promotion or disease prevention. Yes a hard pill to swallow for many, and literally so!
If you value your health and want to feel empowered and willing to do some reading and work, then this book contains much valuable information that you may wish to consider.
Barbara is a controversial figure and has been vilified by certain institutions in her home country of Australia. Despite this attempt to shut her up, she has a very large following of people that are wanting to take responsibility for their own well-being . She is becoming increasingly popular worldwide and gives talks to people outside her own country where she has been banned from sharing her extensive knowledge.
This book is easy to read and understand. Maybe I say this as a once ‘health care professional’ who studied anatomy & physiology and worked in the ‘health care system’, so I understand the role of the liver and digestive etc, However, Barbara O’Neill gives the reader a chapter by chapter approach to understanding what our bodies are designed to do and the battles it has to fight to maintain wellness.
Chapters cover: ( not the names of chapters)
Fungi ( not the mushroom kind) and mycotoxins in foods.
The role fungus plays in human disease.
The link between fungus and cancer.
Genetics and disease.
Herbs , minerals,
Macro nutrients
Candida
Acid and alkaline balance - body pH
Foods that affect the pH of your body.
Hydrochloric Acid
The Liver and its function.
Liver cleanse
Recipes - 33 of them.
Barbara trained and worked as nurse, she also studied naturopathy and nutrition.
She is now in her early 70s and has a wealth of knowledge in the field of health. This is a way of reaching out to the people and sharing that information.
4/5
April 6, 2025
Has good information but could use some editing to make the book more coherent.
November 7, 2023
More practical knowledge than years of college!
Thank you Barbara for this simple and easy to understand eye opening book! Now I WANT and am ready to make better choices regarding my health because I understand what is truly happening in a way I never could before. God bless you for sharing this important information!!
Thank you Barbara for this simple and easy to understand eye opening book! Now I WANT and am ready to make better choices regarding my health because I understand what is truly happening in a way I never could before. God bless you for sharing this important information!!
October 30, 2022
the design to heal
Using natural laws and biblical wisdom, Barbara shows how the body works, and how to help it heal itself, naturally.
Using natural laws and biblical wisdom, Barbara shows how the body works, and how to help it heal itself, naturally.
September 12, 2023
Multi-dimensional book
What is so interesting about this little book is that despite of its relatively small number of pages, it aims to give a wider, more comprehensive, all-inclusive advice on the physical body’s aches, pains and illnesses, together with the ways to manage them, or even eliminate them. And it is all done through the deepest knowledge of, and the appropriate use of all God’s given plants - herbs, vegetables and fruit. Excellent (and very much down-to-Earth) doable advice on the causes and treatment of many ailments. A thorough look at the reason some of these ailments occur, and how to eradicate them. Pre- and post-infection advice given without too much delving into the scientific analyses which could render the book unapproachable. But as it is, it’s a very interesting and hugely useful read for everybody, even for people who are indifferent to science but would like to stay healthy through a well-chosen diet. A true converter to a healthier approach towards natural, plant-based food. Tasty vegetarian and vegan recipes.
What is so interesting about this little book is that despite of its relatively small number of pages, it aims to give a wider, more comprehensive, all-inclusive advice on the physical body’s aches, pains and illnesses, together with the ways to manage them, or even eliminate them. And it is all done through the deepest knowledge of, and the appropriate use of all God’s given plants - herbs, vegetables and fruit. Excellent (and very much down-to-Earth) doable advice on the causes and treatment of many ailments. A thorough look at the reason some of these ailments occur, and how to eradicate them. Pre- and post-infection advice given without too much delving into the scientific analyses which could render the book unapproachable. But as it is, it’s a very interesting and hugely useful read for everybody, even for people who are indifferent to science but would like to stay healthy through a well-chosen diet. A true converter to a healthier approach towards natural, plant-based food. Tasty vegetarian and vegan recipes.
November 8, 2023
Something about the presentation over all kinda bothered me, but I can't put my finger on it. The book was very informative and allows a person the knowledge they need to take a more active role and responsibility for their body. Very informative for those who are tired of a medical community that throws pills at symptoms rather than addressing the underlying causes of illness.
Take charge of yourself.
Take charge of yourself.
September 22, 2024
This is an excellent book that reminds us how awesome the human body is, and of what we can do to help our body heal! There is some detail to wade through, however it does provide understanding about how lifestyle and diet affect your health. I was glad to see what foods might not be great with arthritis, too! I should mention there are imposters online pretending to be Barbara O’Neill, usually claiming to be a doctor, but this author is not a doctor. This author is never on Facebook.
June 10, 2025
I was so excited to read this book by a woman I admire based on YouTube videos of teachings I’ve seen. She’s very intelligent and cares about how healthy people are.
The book was a huge disappointment. The information was good, but it doesn’t appear that anyone edited it before it was published. It was embarrassing to read through so many mistakes. If I hadn’t seen her in videos before, I wouldn’t have finished the first chapter. To top it off, the book was printed badly with pages messed up.
The book was a huge disappointment. The information was good, but it doesn’t appear that anyone edited it before it was published. It was embarrassing to read through so many mistakes. If I hadn’t seen her in videos before, I wouldn’t have finished the first chapter. To top it off, the book was printed badly with pages messed up.
September 30, 2025
Must read if you care about your health
The book is everything I hoped it will be. Haven listened to many podcast by Barbara O'Neill. The book is very well written and well researched with the quotation listed. The advices are practical. I liked the fact that it describes how to cook many of the dishes she mentioned in the book. I highly recommend this book to everyone serious about taking charge of their health
The book is everything I hoped it will be. Haven listened to many podcast by Barbara O'Neill. The book is very well written and well researched with the quotation listed. The advices are practical. I liked the fact that it describes how to cook many of the dishes she mentioned in the book. I highly recommend this book to everyone serious about taking charge of their health
December 9, 2023
Fascinating Must-Have for the Health Enthusiast
Dr. Barbara O’Neill’s humble, practical, faith-filled approach to health is highly appreciated in her YouTube videos, and can still be felt throughout this book. However, buckle up! This is packed with fascinating scientific information about the ins and outs of our bodies’ cells and how micro-organisms play a crucial role in the disease/healing process.
After laying this foundation, she goes on to discuss different major health concerns- including cancer- and includes opinions of other reputable doctors.
After reading the e-book, I consider this a must-have for every home and will be purchasing a print copy.
Dr. Barbara O’Neill’s humble, practical, faith-filled approach to health is highly appreciated in her YouTube videos, and can still be felt throughout this book. However, buckle up! This is packed with fascinating scientific information about the ins and outs of our bodies’ cells and how micro-organisms play a crucial role in the disease/healing process.
After laying this foundation, she goes on to discuss different major health concerns- including cancer- and includes opinions of other reputable doctors.
After reading the e-book, I consider this a must-have for every home and will be purchasing a print copy.
January 3, 2024
I learned much from this book especially about the role of digestion and why drinking or eating calories all day isn’t good aka small meals often or drinks with minimal calories. Your stomach never gets to rest or properly digest your food. Probably a duh for some people, but I like how Barbara discusses science in layman’s terms.
March 7, 2024
I’m just beginning to learn from Barbara O’Neill
I found this book and I’m a bit overwhelmed and intimidated about changing so many bad habits I have formed over my lifetime.
I have hope and faith to believe this book will be ah huge influence in my life going forward.
May God continue to protect and bless this humble woman.
I found this book and I’m a bit overwhelmed and intimidated about changing so many bad habits I have formed over my lifetime.
I have hope and faith to believe this book will be ah huge influence in my life going forward.
May God continue to protect and bless this humble woman.
March 31, 2024
If you want to learn how to heal yourself, without the help of Big Pharmaceuticals, which is where the money is, this tells you how to heal your body with natural remedies. Gives you an insight on what they don't want you to know. Learn about fungus and what you don't know about cancer. Well worth a read.
June 19, 2024
Heal by Design is a quick but informative read that is packed with valuable information on the right foods that our bodies need to thrive. The book also includes some great recipes to help readers incorporate these healthy foods into their diets. Overall, a highly recommended read for anyone looking to improve their health and well-being.
February 16, 2025
This book was filled with plant processes & discussed the human body at the cellular level. I had difficulty understanding some of the terms, as they were biology or chemistry terms (not my strong suit). Lots of information on how to create the right situation in where our bodies could heal itself. Overall a good read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 2, 2023
Just incredible
Such an educational book. Barbara has given me understanding, knowledge, and power to help me begin my own health journey to recovery. This book is worth it’s weight in gold. If you are looking for answers, this book is for you!
Such an educational book. Barbara has given me understanding, knowledge, and power to help me begin my own health journey to recovery. This book is worth it’s weight in gold. If you are looking for answers, this book is for you!
November 25, 2023
what should be essential reading in highschool
This is basic knowledge that seems to have been lost as the era of fast food developed. Very happy that this writer chose to publish this information so I can steer my family back to healthy eating.
This is basic knowledge that seems to have been lost as the era of fast food developed. Very happy that this writer chose to publish this information so I can steer my family back to healthy eating.
December 4, 2023
Great read
Most informative about healthy living and eating. The author gives very specific information based on science. Great instruction on healing the stomach. Love the recipes.
Most informative about healthy living and eating. The author gives very specific information based on science. Great instruction on healing the stomach. Love the recipes.
January 9, 2024
Micro biology for Lay persons
As a nurse practitioner I found the book a terrific review. I did learn quite a few new facts. As a follower of a whole food plant based diet everything she claims seems to be true and very useful, if you follow the advice.
As a nurse practitioner I found the book a terrific review. I did learn quite a few new facts. As a follower of a whole food plant based diet everything she claims seems to be true and very useful, if you follow the advice.
January 20, 2024
I can’t get enough of her wisdom, common sense, knowledge and faith in our good and wise Creator ! She talks about the effects of mould, antibiotics , toxins , the natural remedies and short anecdotes that makes everything so pleasant and easy to digest.
June 9, 2024
I have no words, I’m sure you’ve seen Barbara O’ Neill on TikTok and this is her amazing book ready to heal you. I can’t explain all that this book helps you with but she teaches you about what to eat to heal your body.
June 18, 2024
Really great book, straight to the point, concise and backed by references. Really a great resource for understanding a less pharmaceutical means of healing.
Barbara’s book and YouTube videos really explain the concepts well. It’s a a short read but a lifetimes gain.
Barbara’s book and YouTube videos really explain the concepts well. It’s a a short read but a lifetimes gain.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews