Plants have been used to create herbal remedies for thousands of years around the world. Even the Egyptians were using the healing properties of Frankinsense and garlic over 3,000 years ago.
Today, a quarter of pharmaceutical medication originates from active ingredients in the leaves, roots, flower and bark of plants. Examples can be seen in everyday drugs such as morphine, which comes from the opium poppy, and aspirin, which is derived from willow bark. Synthetic versions of these have been created in laboratories from the isolated single compounds in these plants and trees.
New plant compounds with the potential to fight disease are still being discovered.
Human physiology has evolved in sync with the nutrients and biochemicals provided by plants and they have the power to enhance our mood, boost energy, relax us and to act as a potent healing force for our heart, liver, brain, kidneys, skin, nervous system and blood.
Dandelion is a gentle diuretic which is used to reduce water retention safely and provide the body with relief from swelling from bloating.
Buchu leaf herb comes from an evergreen shrub, Agathosma betulina L. Found mainly in South Africa and South America. It is a powerful antioxidant and diuretic which is utilised to rid the body of excess water retention.
Uva ursi is found in northern, cooler climates and is notable for its distinct red berries. It is used to maintain the functioning of the bladder and urinary tract.
Burdock herb has a traditional use for ‘cutaneous eruptions’ where the skin breaks out in spots or other skin conditions, as well as targeting eczema and psoriasis.
Blue Flag has been used for hundreds of years for its dermatological and anti-inflammatory properties. It is used to treat skin diseases and skin break-outs.
St John’s Wort’s main active compounds are hyperforin and hypericin.
It is understood to work by increasing the uptake of noradrenaline and dopamine, two neurotransmitters that, like serotonin, produce feelings of happiness, pleasure and satisfaction.
It is a powerful herbal medicine and cannot be taken in conjunction with the contraceptive pill and some other prescription medicines.
Milk Thistle is a beautiful, bright purple / pink flowering herb native to Mediterranean countries.
Silymarin is the active compound of Milk Thistle fruit and is commonly used as a natural detoxifier through supporting the liver in expelling toxins, such as alcohol, and helping with liver regeneration.
It is also taken to aid digestion after a large or rich meal.
Echinacea has a long history of medical use for a wide variety of conditions but mainly for infections.
Its current medical use focuses on strengthening the immune system and treatment of the common cold, flu and other upper respiratory tract infections.
Vitamin C is one of the safest and most effective nutrients. It is necessary for the growth, development and repair of all body tissues and involved in many body functions.
It protects against immune system deficiencies but also helps in the formation of collagen, the absorption of iron, wound healing and the maintenance of cartilage, bones and teeth.
Zinc aids the stimulation of over 100 different enzymes in the body. It activates T cells which control the body’s immune response, attacking infected cells. A lack of it can severely impair the immune system and make a person more vulnerable to disease and illness. It helps fight against the common cold and has been seen to reduce the frequency of colds and flu.
It can also help to combat skin conditions such as eczema and acne and supports the production of collagen, which is required for skin repair and growth.
The Vitaberry ® Hi ORAC fruit blend of Wild Blueberry, Wild Bilberry, Cranberry, Tart Cherry, Prune, Raspberry and Strawberry offers a rich source of antioxidants.
These are essential for fighting off free radicals in the body which damage skin cells through oxidative stress.
Also high in antioxidants, grape seed extract helps protect the condition of the skin and it’s ability to replenish new cells by protecting against oxidative stress, tissue damage and inflammation.
The five billion live culture blend supports gut health, which in turn helps keep the skin healthy and less susceptible to breakouts, redness and sensitivity.