Goji Berries (Lycium barbarum)
Also known as wolfberries, fructus lycii and gougizi. They have been used in Chinese medicine for many centuries.
These little berries have gained popularity in recent times and are often promoted as a superfood. Goji berries are often eaten raw or consumed in juice form or herbal tea. Goji berries contain high levels of antioxidants, that include lycopene and lutein. It also contains high levels of polysaccharides and as much Vitamin C as fresh lemons and oranges.
Goji berries are rich in copper, iron, selenium and zinc. In addition they provide 11 essential amino acids.
Goji berries may boost energy levels, may help boost immune function, may help prevent glycation and therefore slow down the ageing process.
Goji berries may interact with some medication. If you take warfarin, you may want to avoid them. Goji berries may interact with diabetes and blood pressure medication, so it is advised that you consult your health professional prior to consumption.
Passionflower
Also known by other names such as Passiflora Incarnata, Apricot Vine, Water Lemon and Wild Passion Flower. It is a climbing vine that is native to the US, Central and South America. It is said to have a calming effect and has been used to manage stress, aid sleep and may calm anxiety and manage hot flushes in menopausal women.
If you are on blood pressure medication do not take passionflower. Passionflower may increase the amount of time blood needs to clot, so it could make the effects of blood-thinning medications stronger and increase the risk of bleeding. Do not take passionflower with medications that cause drowsiness. If you are pregnant consult your health care professional.
Lemon balm
Also known as Melissa Officinalis, Balm Mint, Sweet Balm, Sweet Mary and Honey Plant. It is a lemon-scented herb from the mint family. It is a native to Europe, North Africa and West Asia, but is grown the world over. Lemon Balm has traditionally been used to improve mood, anxiety, stress and ease digestive issues. It may have a calming and sedative effect.
Lemon balm may cause drowsiness so do not take with sedative medication. Lemon balm may cause blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. Do not use lemon balm when taking thyroid medication without contacting your health care professional.
Rhodiola Rosea
Also known as Artic Root, Golden Root, Rose Root, King’s Crown. Rhodiola is often used as an “adaptogen”, to help the body adapt to and resist physical, chemical, and environmental stress. It may help anxiety, stress and
Do not use rhodiola without contacting your health care professional if pregnant or breast-feeding.
If you have any health issues, contact your health care professional prior to use.
Withania Somnifera
Also known by other names such as Ashwagandha, Ayurvedic Ginseng, Indian Ginseng, Winter Cherry. It is a small evergreen shrub with yellow flowers that grows in India, the Middle East, and parts of Africa. The root and berry are used for medicinal purposes. Withania Somnifera is classified as an adaptogen, meaning that it is often used to help the body adapt to many conditions including stress and anxiety. These health benefits are due to the high concentrations of withanolides, which may reduce inflammation.
Certain individuals should check with their healthcare provider prior to taking especially pregnant and breastfeeding women.
People with autoimmune diseases should also avoid unless authorised by their healthcare provider. This includes people with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, and type 1 diabetes.
Additionally, those on medication for thyroid disease should consult with their healthcare provider before taking withania somnifera, as it may increase thyroid hormone levels in some people.
It may also decrease blood sugar and blood pressure levels, so medication dosages may need to be adjusted if you take it.
Curcuma Longa
Also known by names such as turmeric root, Indian saffron, rhizome curcumae longa, curcuminoids
It is yellow-orange in colour, and is a member of the ginger family and grows in tropical Asian countries and in India. It used extensively in foods as well as medicinally. Curcumin inhibits an anti-inflammatory action. It is used for gastrointestinal problems, inflammatory conditions, even for hot flushes, night sweats and mood swings.
Do not use curcumin if you have gall stones. It may reduce blood clotting, so do not use if you have bleeding disorders or if on medication for blood thinning. Curcumin may also reduce blood sugar levels in diabetics. Check with your healthcare provider prior to taking curcumin if any of these apply to you.
Elderberry
Refers to several different varieties of the sambucus tree. Sambucus nigra is the most common type also known as the European elderberry. Although native to Europe, it is widely grown in many other parts of the world as well. Elderberries have been used for their health-boosting properties for many years.
The dark purple berries are high in flavonoids(anthocyanins) which give them antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. They help protect healthy cells from free radical damage. They are also rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin C and are an excellent source of fibre. Elderberries have been used for centuries as a remedy for cold and flu.
Do not use elderberry if pregnant, lactating before talking to your healthcare provider. If on immuno-suppressants, consult with your healthcare provider before use.
Papaya
Is a tropical sweet fruit of the carica papaya plant, native to Mexico and the Caribbean. It is also known as paw paw and is a rich source of minerals thiamine, potassium, niacin, zinc and iron. Also antioxidants including vitamins C and A, carotenoids that neutralise free radicals, and the papaya enzyme papain that aids digestion.
The process of fermenting papaya promotes the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.
