Information Library

 Jasminum sambac 

Common Names: Arabian Jasmine, Gift from God, Jasmine

From aromatherapy to reproductive support, Jasmine flowers have a long history in cultural uses and topical applications. The jasmine plant parts used include its flowers, leaves and roots. 

Herbal Energetics: alterative, analgesic, anodyne, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antidepressant, astringent, calmative, cooling, nervine

Jasmine affects the following body systems: nervous (brain, spinal cord and nerves), reproductive (female, male and intersex reproductive organs, hormones, and functions), and the integumentary (skin, hair, nails and glands).

Here are a few ways to incorporate Jasmine flower benefits into your life: essential oil aromatherapeutic diffuser, diluting jasmine essential oil into a carrier oil like coconut oil for topical application as a self-care body oil for stress and anxiety relief or a bedtime ritual oil for sleep, or abdominal massage for relief from menstrual cramps, aches and pains. Last but not least, growing a Jasmine plant will grant you access to its fresh flowers and leaves when cared for in the right conditions. Harvest from your plant to make homemade teas and infusions, herbal tinctures and cordials, or DIY skincare products.

Arnica montana

Common Names: Arnica, Mountain Arnica, Leopard’s Bane 

Arnica belongs to the sunflower family. This anodyne herb helps to dull the sense of pain making it a great choice for minor pain management support and normal inflammation responses. It is often used topically as an ointment or cream. The Arnica plant parts used are its flowers and sometimes the rhizome. Traditionally, Arnica was applied as a compress or salve for bruises, swelling and injuries, and to soothe sore feet in foot baths. In European Folk Medicine, Arnica was believed to protect people from harm and to bring good luck. Native American Traditions brewed teas from the plant to heal both the body and the spirit. 

Herbal Energetics: Vascular and circulatory stimulant, rejuvenative. neutral.

Arnica contains flavonoids, carotenoids, volatile oils and sesquiterpene lactones (the key compound of Arnica’s healing properties). This plant is most effective as a topical application such as a cream, gel, oil or roll on. Gently massage a small amount of the product onto the affected area. When applied topically, Arnica is absorbed through the skin where bioactive compounds target inflammation and provide localized relief. 

Contraindications: Arnica is generally considered safe for most people when used topically as directed. Arnica contains helenalin that is toxic when ingested in large amounts. Consult your healthcare provider before taking Arnica orally. Before using Arnica be aware of side effects for topical and oral use: skin irritation, allergic reactions, avoid use on open wounds or broken skin, use diluted arnica oil or a product specifically formulated for sensitive skin to avoid irritation. Oral side effects: toxicity, gastrointestinal distress, cardiovascular effects, nervous system effects, organ damage, allergic reactions for those allergic to plants in the Asteraceae family.  

Do not take Arnica if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

 Lepidium meyenii

Common Names: Maca, Peruvian Ginseng

A cruciferous vegetable related to broccoli, rutabaga and turnips (to name a few), Maca’s root has been traditionally used for its health benefits. Maca was cultivated and consumed by the Inca civilization as a valuable commodity for healing and currency. The people of the Andes traditionally consume Maca in rituals and ceremonies to invoke blessings and protection believing Maca to be a source of energy, strength and fertility. 

Maca is a source of essential vitamins and minerals that can be a valuable addition to the healthy diet. Maca’s potentials health promoting properties include:

Hormonal Balance support that alleviates PMS or menopause related symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings and irregular menstrual cycles; Boosts Energy and Stamina; Enhances Mood by supporting the production of mood regulating neurotransmitters that reduce anxiety and depression symptoms; Supports Bone Health with its calcium and magnesium rich properties; Skin Health benefits are due to Maca’s antioxidant properties that help protect skin from environmental pollutants and sun rays; Recent research suggests Maca’s potential mental clarity, brain health and blood sugar level regulation.

Contraindications: digestive issues, insomnia, restlessness, increased heart rate, allergic reactions. Not recommended for children. May interact with medication and drugs such as hormone-related medications, blood pressure medications, diabetes medications, anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs. Excessive consumption can cause side effects. Avoid use if pregnant or breastfeeding. Generally safe for short-term use. Continuous use for extended periods without breaks may cause side effects.

 Scutellaria lateriflora

Common Names: American Skullcap

Skullcap is well known for its stress and anxiety relief without causing much drowsiness. Great for acute situations and can be taken over time. Known to treat menstrual disorders, nervousness, digestive, withdrawal and kidney problems.

Parts used: aerial portions.

Herbal Energetics: bitter and cool, relaxing nervine, clear heat, anodyne, and antispasmodic. 

Skullcap is commonly used for stress, anxiety, pain, muscle spasms, insomnia, panic attacks, seizures, twitching, teething. This mild anodyne herb is suited to relieving pain due to muscle tension including toothaches and menstrual pain, and irritability by the pain of teething. 

Native to North America, Europe and Asia, Skullcap was traditionally used for its calming effects and as a remedy for nervous tensions and insomnia. Chinese Skullcap is referred to in Traditional Chinese Medicine for its anti-inflammatory and immune enhancing properties. American Skullcap and Chinese Skullcap contain bioactive flavonoids, polyphenols and tannins which provide for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects.

Contraindications: Generally considered safe, but may not be well-tolerated by everyone. It is advisable to start with a lower dose and monitor the body’s response for individual sensitivity to it. Should you experience any adverse reactions, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional. Skullcap can induce drowsiness and sedation. Avoid activities that require mental alertness. Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding. If you have known allergies to specific plants or herbs or take drug medications, exercise caution and consider consulting with a healthcare professional to determine. Excessive or prolonged dosage and duration may lead to side effects. Adhere to recommended dosages and usage durations or consult with a healthcare professional. Pay attention to your body’s signals and work closely with a healthcare professional to determine your individual responsiveness and the most suitable herbs and dosages for your specific needs.

Humulus lupulus 

Common Names: Hops

The mature female flower cones of Hops are dried and used in beer production for centuries. The first mention of hops in beer was 822AD. Hops has also been used in sleep support, stress support and to help promote relaxation. Cooling and calming, Hops is native to Western Asia, Europe and North America. Traditionally, Hops’ vines were used to make rope, and its leaves and strobiles were used as a dye plant. 

Herbal Energetics: bitter, cooling, drying, nervine, antispasmodic, alterative, diuretic.

Hops supports nervous tension, digestive distress, insomnia, pain or muscle spasms, and muscle tension including intestinal cramping and menstrual cramps. Studies into the relaxing nervine properties of hops suggests that it decreases stress during stressful situations as well as being useful for people with difficulty sleeping. Hops’ bitter property provides for digestive aid. Historically, it was used to rid one of worms in the digestive tract and to relax intestinal cramping. The polyphenolic substances in hop strobiles have been shown to reduce inflammation, cholesterol and support heart health. Using hops to clear damp heat from skin such as eczema and acne is another great medicinal benefit of hops for the skin. 

Contraindications: avoid taking hops with pharmaceutical sedatives, hypnotics or anti-depressants. Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding. Take caution during depression as well.