Our Herb & Ingredient Guide
If you’re curious about the ingredients we use to make our most potent health supplements, take a look at this guide to learn all about our favorite herbs and botanicals. We’ll talk about the sourcing, origin, and benefits of each ingredient. We’ve also included helpful links that lead you to deeper explanations of the benefits or products that feature each ingredient.
This plant originates in the Middle East but is now grown around the world. Alfalfa can help lower cholesterol and control blood sugar levels because it slows glucose absorption into your intestines. Other potential benefits include increasing breast milk production, reducing inflammation from arthritis, and dissolving kidney stones.
Aloe VeraFound in the American Southwest, including California, Mexico, Arizona, and Texas, aloe vera is well known for soothing inflamed and irritated skin, as well as speeding up wound healing. Aloe vera is also an excellent source of Vitamin C and antioxidants, which can reduce the risk of chronic conditions, like diabetes and heart disease.
Banaba LeafScientifically known as Lagerstroemia speciosa, banaba leaf grows mainly in India and Southeast Asia. The leaves have long been known for their beneficial effects on blood sugar. When taken internally, it can increase the efficiency of insulin uptake. It can also lower cholesterol and help you lose weight.
Beet RootBeets are an amazing source of vitamins and minerals, like manganese, potassium, Vitamin C, iron, and fiber. We use beet root extract in specialty formulations that focus on improving cardiovascular function through lower blood pressure, increased endurance, and better blood flow.
Black Cumin SeedThis is the main ingredient in many of our products because it has such powerful beneficial effects on the body. We source our black seed from organic, non-genetically modified farms in Egypt and Turkey to ensure the highest levels of thymoquinone in our formulations. We use black seed in supplements for everything from supporting your digestive concerns to hair and skincare products.
Buchu LeafAn aromatic herb native to South Africa, buchu leaf (Agathosma betulina) is commonly used in teas. It has been historically used to reduce inflammation, address urinary tract infections, and support digestion. We use buchu leaf extract and powder in detox and liver support products.
Burdock RootThis ingredient is most commonly found in Europe and Southeast Asia. However, it was also a common resource for Native Americans in North America. Since burdock root contains antioxidants and inulin, it can be used in formulations that focus on skin disorders, digestion, and inflammation. We use burdock root for both internal and external applications.
Cayenne PepperA cultivar of Capsicum annum, cayenne pepper comes from French Guiana. You may already be familiar with this botanical, as it’s commonly used in cooking, but you can also enjoy a variety of health benefits, including immune system support and joint pain relief.
ChamomileNative to Africa, Europe, and Asia, chamomile is now also grown in North America. It’s very popular in teas and tisanes, commonly used for soothing the mind and relaxing the body. Chamomile can also benefit people who suffer from muscle spasms, menstrual pain, rheumatic pain, and gastrointestinal disorders.
ChitosanDerived from chitin, which can be found in fungi and algae, chitosan is commonly used in both Western and homeopathic medicine. Taking chitosan regularly can help your body reduce fat and cholesterol absorption from food.
Cacao ExtractThe cacao tree is native to the Amazon rainforest and was used by ancient cultures in ceremonies and medicines. Today, even certain chocolates have been touted for positively impacting human health. Cacao extract in supplements can improve cardiovascular and cognitive function due to its high antioxidant content.
Coconut OilFound in tropical and subtropical regions of the world, coconut oil has long been an ingredient in external and internal supplements. When taken internally, coconut may encourage fat burn, reduce hunger, and increase energy. When applied topically, it has antimicrobial effects that can protect skin and hair.
EchinaceaEchinacea extract comes from a plant native to North America that has been used by native peoples for centuries. It’s still incredibly common today and is frequently used to boost the immune system and reduce inflammation due to its antiviral and antioxidant effects. We use echinacea extract in our honey products for a tasty addition to any meal.
Epimedium GrandiflorumA deciduous tree native to Manchuria, Japan, and Korea, this plant has gained popularity in modern wellness as a way to address joint pain and fatigue. It’s also well-known for assisting with erectile dysfunction.
Flax SeedAs common in food today as it was in the ancient world, flax seed originates in the Mediterranean and offers a variety of health benefits. We use flax seed in two of our formulations, including those for digestive health because of its diuretic effects, as well as our soaps for its skin-soothing properties.
Garcinia Cambogia LeafThis fruit is native to India and Southeast Asia. It is commonly used in weight loss supplements due to its effects on your appetite. Studies also show that garcinia reduces your body’s ability to make and store fat.
GarlicAs far back as the Sumerians, garlic was appreciated for both its flavor and medicinal benefits. It’s packed full of essential nutrients, including Vitamin C, manganese, selenium, and Vitamin B6, which are great for general wellness. Garlic can also improve your cardiovascular health and brain function.
GinkgoAs one of the oldest living species in the world, ginkgo has a long history of medicinal uses — especially in Chinese culture. In ancient times, ginkgo nuts were believed to improve cognitive function so it was used to treat senility. Today, benefits include support for allergies, asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory concerns.
GinsengAnother extract frequently used in Chinese medicine, ginseng originally came from the Shangdang region of China. Historically and today, ginseng is known for its benefits for skincare. It can protect the skin barrier and revitalize its appearance when used internally or topically.
Grapefruit ExtractGrapefruit is believed to have originated in Barbados when they crossed pomelos and sweet oranges. The new variation is high in Vitamin C, which is great for the immune system. It also has antibacterial and antioxidant qualities that are good for your skin.
Green TeaGreat for overall wellness, green tea originates in Japan and China. It was used to improve alertness, relieve digestive distress, mitigate headaches, and enhance metabolism. Green tea has many of the same uses today and is often combined with other botanicals to enhance its capabilities.
Juniper BerryJuniper bushes are native to the northern areas of Asia, Europe, and North America. Archeologists have even found evidence of juniper in Egyptian tombs. Research shows that juniper extract can be used for intestinal support, relief from arthritis, and managing diabetes.
MacaMaca root comes from the Peruvian Andes and can be taken in liquid or powder form to improve overall wellness. It’s also been used to enhance stamina, endurance, and energy. This plant is also rich in sterols, which can affect fertility and sex drive.
Milk Thistle SeedAn herbal remedy derived from Silybum marianum, milk thistle extract can be used to support liver function. It can reduce inflammation in the liver and enhance functionality — especially when combined with turmeric.
Moringa LeafOur moringa leaf extract comes from the highest quality leaves of the Moringa oleifera plant. When you take moringa leaf supplements, you’re adding to your potassium, Vitamin C, protein, iron, and calcium intake. It also has antioxidants and amino acids to help build muscle, prevent cell damage, and support your red and white blood cell counts.
OatmealOatmeal is an incredibly popular breakfast in many places worldwide, but it’s also useful as a gentle exfoliant for your skin. We use oatmeal in our soaps to improve skin roughness, increase firmness, and preserve cell integrity.
OreganoKnown as a superfood, oregano can flavor your food and improve your general health. It’s a potent antioxidant with antibacterial and antiviral properties. Oregano is a powerful part of protecting your gut health, defending it against parasites, pathogens, and undigested food.
Palm OilWhile palm oil has been linked to reduced risk of heart disease, it also has many benefits for skin and hair. When used in skin and hair care, palm oil can restore hydration to dry skin and prevent dryness by sealing in moisture.
Pumpkin SeedYou can eat pumpkin seeds to enjoy their benefits, like blood sugar management and better heart health, or you can supercharge its potency by taking it in higher concentrations. When pumpkin seed extract is used in supplements, it increases your zinc intake to protect your immune system and your prostate.
Raw HoneyRich and decadent, honey is good for more than just sweetening your tea! It has a ton of health benefits due to enzymes that strengthen your immune system and antioxidants that protect you from free radicals. Honey is also a humectant, so it helps keep you hydrated and moisturized.
Red Clover FlowerA wild plant that’s part of the legume family, red clover has been used medicinally for years. It can help combat respiratory problems and skin inflammation, like eczema and psoriasis. Red clover can also mimic estrogen due to the isoflavones (a type of phytoestrogen) it contains.
RosemaryCommon along the Mediterranean Sea and other sub-Himalayan areas, rosemary is a hardy herb that’s popular in many dishes. Rosemary extract is commonly used for headaches, insomnia, and mood stabilization.
Shea ButterShea butter is derived from the Shea tree, which is most commonly found in Ghana, Africa. It’s often used in cosmetics because it has antioxidants and nutrients that can moisturize hair and skin, ease irritation and swelling, and protect you from sun damage.
ThymoquinoneMainly found in black cumin seed, thymoquinone is a compound with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects. We use black cumin seeds in powder, honey, capsules, and oil supplements to ease respiratory conditions, support the immune system, and reduce inflammation.
Tongkat AliFound in Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia, Tongkat Ali is derived from a small shrub called Eurycoma longifolia. It’s most commonly used for improving male libido and addressing erectile dysfunction. Tongkat Ali supplements can also enhance muscle and bone health to improve fitness and stamina.
TurmericTurmeric is a spice that has a 4,000-year history, ranging from India and China to Africa and Jamaica. The natural compound in turmeric that makes it so good for you is called curcumin — an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. These effects make it a good choice for formulations that address digestive disorders, joint pain, respiratory infections, liver disease, and allergies.
Uva Ursi LeafThis trailing evergreen shrub is a slow-growing plant that can be found in many alpine forests around the world. The tannins in the uva ursi leaf have astringent effects that help reduce inflammation and fight infection.
White Willow BarkWillow bark has been used since 400 BC to reduce fever and inflammation. People used to chew the bark to enjoy its beneficial effects. Today, we know that acetylsalicylic acid and flavinoids are responsible for the anti-inflammation and pain relief.
Yerba MateA caffeinated herb found in the forests of South America, yerba mate is generally brewed into a tea that’s designed to control cholesterol and weight. It can also support your heart and reduce the risk of cancer. We use yerba mate in our specialty products to enhance your metabolism.
Yucca RootYucca root comes from a non-flowering plant in the Amazon basin that’s already used in many prescription medications that address osteoarthritis, colitis, diabetes, and gallbladder disorders. You don’t need a prescription for yucca root and you can find it in a variety of supplements to support your health.
Discover More at Amazing HerbsLooking for more details about the ingredients we use in our products? Check out our blog for articles that explore health and wellness trends, emerging research into unique ingredients, and the best benefits you can expect from our products.