Lipase helps break down fats and lipids which play an important role in the absorption of fat-soluble nutrients including vitamins A, D, E and K, many of which are found in dairy products.
Dandelion Root increases bile flow, which aids digestion because bile is required for the digestion of both fats and fat-soluble vitamins, and a lack of bile can cause indigestion and other digestive issues like bloating.
Lactase is an enzyme that breaks down lactose into glucose and galactose. A lack of this enzyme may result in adverse reactions to milk and other dairy products.
L-Theanine is an amino acid clinically proven to reduce the amount of time it takes to fall asleep as well as the frequency of sleep disturbance. L-Theanine works by modulating the body's sympathetic nervous system, reducing feelings of anxiety.
Passionflower is an herb clinically proven to promote longer, quality sleep. It works via the modulation of the body's GABA system. Chrysin, a flavonoid in passionflower, provides the plant's sedative as well as anxiety-reducing qualities.
Zinc is an essential mineral that has been found to support immune health through a number of preclinical and clinical studies. Being classified as an 'essential mineral' means that we need it in our diets to stay healthy.
Zinc plays a role in many bodily functions including immunity, cell division, the reproductive system, and cognitive development. It is most commonly used to support immune health.
Magnesium is an essential mineral, meaning your body needs it to perform essential functions. Many people are deficient in Magnesium (a majority of people in the US alone), which can lead to head tension and migraines. Magnesium Glycinate is one of the easiest types of Magnesium for the body to absorb.
Boswellia is a lesser-known known herb produced by Boswellia serrata trees native to Africa and the Middle East. It is a multi-faceted plant, used in essential oils, incense, and for its medicinal properties. Boswellia contains naturally occurring triterpenoids, called ‘boswellic acid’, which is a compound that can reduce inflammation. It is most often used to relieve occasional head tension.
Feverfew is an herb that promotes cytokine balance (the interaction between the brain and the immune system). Feverfew reduces head tension, as well as reduces sensitivities to triggers like light and noise.
Artichoke Leaf Extract is a digestive bitter that relieves occasional heartburn. Digestive bitters like Artichoke Leaf Extract aid digestion because the digestive tract contains special taste-sensors, which respond to the bitter taste of the herb and play an important in maintaining blood sugar balance and modulating the digestive process.
Andrographis is an herb with a demonstrated ability to reduce discomfort and symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection (i.e., nasal discharge, cough, and expectoration, as well as fatigue, cough and throat symptoms). Part of the herb's impact on the respiratory tract is due to its immunostimulant activity--it stimulates an immune response. It is also known to be a “drying” herb in traditional medicine systems.
Saccharomyces is fermented yeast, which is an anti-inflammatory with an immune-modulating effect. Fermented yeast has also been shown to reduce nasal congestion.
Butterbur helps with a healthy sinus response. In clinical studies, Butterbur has been shown to support healthy nasal pathways, as well as decrease nasal inflammation and congestion. It is most commonly used to support the body's response to seasonal allergies.
Tinospora has been shown in clinical studies to stimulate macrophages, which have been shown to support the immune system and the body's ability to respond to seasonal transitions. Tinospora has antioxidant effects, and has been shown to decrease sneezing, nasal discharge and an itching, stuffy nose. It is most commonly taken in a capsule, and acts as a go-to for many with sinus issues.
Spirulina is part of the blue-green algae family. The list of health benefits brought about by Spirulina long: it’s a great source of protein, an essential fatty acid, and contains various minerals: beta-carotene, and gamma linolenic acid. Spirulina is also used as an immune booster, and to improve kidney, and liver function.
When it comes to sinus health and things like seasonal allergies, Spirulina is an excellent source of antioxidants, and has inflammation fighting properties. It has has also been found to reduce nasal inflammation — which can minimize allergy symptoms.
Nettles have been found to contain antihistamines which are a critical defense against the body’s natural response to pollen and other allergens. Additionally, their high nutritional value is part of what has made them such a popular food source—Nettles are a great source of iron, calcium, Vitamin C, folic acid, potassium, manganese, and carotenoids. Dried Nettle leaves are also sometimes used in teas for expectant or nursing mothers.
Coconut water hydrates the body, helping soothe the stomach. Coconut water is packed with electrolytes like sodium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, which contribute to its hydrating effect. Staying hydrated is crucial to keeping the digestive tract operating smoothy.
Amla is an Ayurvedic rejuvenative remedy. It is a gastroprotective herb, which means that it helps to calm and protect the digestive tract. It is particularly restorative for alcohol-induced depletion of stomach wall mucus. Amla is a potent antioxidant, and is high in Vitamin C.
Fennel has been shown to reduce occasional cramps in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. It is rich in essential oils, which when combined with other carminative herbs, such as peppermint, caraway, or lemon balm, can calm the digestive tract.
Elderberry is rich in antioxidants, which fight free radicals and support the immune system. The body of clinical research on elderberries is growing and many studies point to the positive role that the herb plays in the improvement and reduction of cold and flu symptoms.
In traditional use, Licorice has been used more broadly for hormonal issues, gut and throat issues, respiratory support, and fatigue. However, Licorice shines in particular for soothing inflammation in the digestive tract and suppressing acid.
Deglycyrrhizinated (DGL) Licorice has been well-studied to promote digestive comfort. DGL means that the glycyrrhizin has been removed, which makes it safe to consume. Scientific investigation into the mechanism of DGL shows that it is an antispasmodic (i.e, helps to relax the intestinal wall) to provide relief of indigestion symptoms, while it also repairs the mucosal lining of the digestive tract to promote its overall integrity.
Preclinical research shows that the mucilaginous nature of marshmallow root can form a protective coating on the mucosal lining of the stomach, which acts as a shield from irritants. This helps reduce occasional upset stomach, indigestion, and heartburn.
Chamomile is an antispasmodic herb, meaning it can calm the digestive tract by relaxing the muscles in the intestine. Chamomile relieves gas and occasional heartburn by sedating and soothing the mucous membrane of the digestive tract, while the natural sedative properties can also help relax the body, which helps digestion as sometimes discomfort is caused by stress.
Goji Berry is a natural prebiotic for Bifidobacterium Lactobacillus, which supports the body's gut microbiome. Goji Berry is also gastroprotective, showing soothing benefits for those dealing with GI upset. Other prebiotics may cause gas and bloating, but Goji Berry is not associated with those effects.
Lemon Balm is an herb that helps relax the gastrointestinal (GI) system, especially when it is as a result of stress or emotional tension. When combined with Fennel, Chamomile, or Mint, it has been shown to reduce bloating and occasional indigestion.
Peppermint is a well-known herb for gastrointestinal upset and digestive support. The aromatic leaf is rich in oils that have been shown to calm the digestive tract and reduce bloating, possibly through the reduction of calcium influx. In clinical studies, Peppermint has been shown to reduce bloating and flatulence.
Caraway is a carminative (gas-reducing) herb. It is an aromatic seed that is used for its ability to relax the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The seeds are rich in essential oils, which have been the focus of a number of clinical studies that show it has direct benefit when combined with peppermint for those suffering from bloating and occasional indigestion.
Anise is an antispasmodic herb, meaning it helps calm the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. It is most commonly used for gas + bloating. It is a GI relaxant that calms the digestive tract by breaking up intestinal gas.
Ivy Leaf Extract has been clinically shown to help soothe the throat and support respiratory health. It is an herb that has been used for thousands of years, both topically and as a tincture.
Turmeric is an herb that is used to support the immune and respiratory systems. Use of the herb dates all the way back to 2500 BCE. Most if it's health benefits can be traced to curcumin, one of the active compounds in turmeric that is both a strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent. There are over 12,500 peer-reviewed articles published that support the medicinal properties of turmeric, specifically calling out the healing effects curcumin has in the body.
Echinacea has been shown to stimulate macrophages (a type of white blood cell) and other cells of the innate immune system. Macrophages are important for immune support because they are part of the body's defense system, fighting against microbes in the body.
Ginger is a powerful herb that has been used for centuries to calm the digestive tract and support the immune system.
The most frequent use of ginger is for symptoms of upset stomach, occasional acid reflux and heartburn, general nausea and vomiting. Several controlled studies have reported that ginger is effective as an antiemetic—meaning it alleviates nausea.
Ginger has also been recommended as an expectorant (clearing mucus and often used to relieve coughs) and it is traditionally used in teas or soups to treat colds or bronchitis. When mixed with hot or cold water, it can exhibit its anti-inflammatory properties as well and help soothe your coughing and general inflammation.
Camu Camu is a fruit that is particularly rich in Vitamin C: a single serving delivers 3575% of daily value. Vitamin C is a free radical scavenger, and acts as a cofactor for a number of enzymes in the body that are responsible for maintaining immune health. Camu Camu’s collection of antioxidants helps the body maintain its defense against bacteria and viruses.
The most frequent use of Willow is for symptoms of pain and occasional headaches. Several controlled studies have reported that White Willow is effective as an anti-inflammatory, meaning it reduces inflammation and pain before entering your bloodstream.
The household staple, Aspirin, is actually derived from chemical compounds found in White Willow Bark.