HERB GLOSSARY

A quick guide to roots, flowers, and leaves — and how they nourish our bodies to health

  • Ashwaganda

    Ashwaganda

    (Root)

    Popularly used for boosting immunity, anti-ageing, joint pain and insomnia. Due to its active ingredient called withanolides, Ashwagandha is also used as an “adaptogen” to help the body cope with daily stress, as a general tonic and for improving thinking ability.

  • Astragalus

    (Root)

    Traditionally used to support colds and enhance the immune system. Reduces inflammation, anti-viral and promotes endurance.

    Also used to help treat heart conditions, kidney disease and more.

  • Black pepper

    (Fruit)

    Digestive support. In Ayurveda, Black Pepper is traditionally considered to be a hot, pungent herb that stimulates agni, or digestive fire. Black Pepper’s most active constituent, Piperine, has been found to support the absorption of other herbs, specifically the Curcumin found in Turmeric. One study found that combining Turmeric and Black Pepper increased the bioavailability of Turmeric by 154%.

  • Brahmi

    (Flower)

    Memory, nerve rejuvenation, cognitive function, potent antioxidants, focus, protection against cognitive function.

  • Burdock

    (Root)

    Powerhouse of antioxidants, removes toxins from the blood, improves digestion. The root contains 50% of the compound inulin, which assists with strengthening the immune system.

  • Calendula

    (Flower)

    Anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial, soothes eczema and relieves itching.

  • Cat's Claw

    (Plant)

    Promotes a healthy immune response due to anti-inflammatory properties through the alkaloids present.

  • Chaga

    (Mushroom)

    An anti-ageing, immunity-boosting powerhouse, is packed-full of beta glucans, adaptogenic betulinic acid, high levels of antioxidants and skin-protecting melanin.

  • Eyebright

    (Flower)

    Anti-inflammatory components aid strained eyes, soothe sinuses and fights against colds and allergies.

  • Garlic

    (Plant)

    Powerful medicine that is anti-bacterial and anti-viral. Promotes immunity and heart support. Reduces blood sugar, blood-pressure and cholesterol.

  • Ginger

    (Root)

    Anti-inflammatory, aids in a healthy immune response, circulation and digestion.

  • Ginkgo

    (Plant)

    Improves clarity and memory due to the high levels of flavonoids and terpenoids, which are antioxidants that provide protection against oxidative cell damage from harmful free radicals. Increases cerebral circulation and blood flow.

  • Ginseng

    (Root)

    The plant is mostly used in traditional medicines as an adaptogen, a compound that helps the body better handle and adapt to stress. Also acts as a stimulant, increasing nervous system function. Do not take if pregnant.

  • Gotu kola

    (Herb)

    Assists the body to maintain healthy neurotransmitter function, whilst also promoting normal levels of mental alertness and a sound memory. Gotu Kola also supports the body’s inherent ability to acclimate to temporary stress.

  • Licorice

    (Root)

    Widely used for digestive support. Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-microbial properties.

  • Lions mane

    (Mushroom)

    Brain and nerve protection. Improves cognitive function and boosts digestive health.

  • Maca

    (Root)

    Hormonal balancing, increased libido, sexual function, fertility, anti-depressant.

  • Motherwort

    (Plant)

    Supports stress, the female reproductive system and problems of the heart. Not to be used by those on heart medication.

  • Mugwort

    (Plant)

    Digestive, stress and sleep support.

  • Nettle

    (Plant)

    Because of its nourishing, diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties, nettle is a natural beautifier to skin and hair. It has been shown to clear acne and eczema as well as encourage thicker, shinier hair and new hair growth.

  • Reishi

    (Mushroom)

    Regarded in China as the mushroom of immortality, promotes a healthy stress response, brain function, and immune support.

  • Rosemary

    (Plant)

    Memory enhancer. Boosts immune and circulatory system.

  • Shatavari

    (Plant)

    Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, reproductive health, anti-anxiety.

  • Skullcap

    (Plant)

    Restores the nervous system, bringing stress and sleep back into balance. Support for those that are mentally and physically exhausted.

  • Tulsi

    (Plant)

    Adaptogen for life stressors to maintain equilibrium, anti-inflammatory

  • Turmeric

    (Root)

    Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant containing curcuminoids that get rid of free radicals in the body that build up in the body through everyday stressors, supports immunity

  • Turkey tail

    (Mushroom)

    Used by Taoists to cultivate a robust immune system that is able to combat pathogens, supporting bone health, toning the liver and improving gut health.

  • Valerian

    (Plant)

    Stress and sleep support. A herbal sedative.

  • Yarrow

    (Plant)

    Anti-inflammatory, lowers blood pressure, improves digestion and protects the liver, stimulates blood flow in the pelvic area (good for menstrual cycle), reduces anxiety and promotes sleep. Do not take if pregnant.