In traditional medicine, ginger is highly praised for its healing properties. Today, modern medicine and research states that ginger possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity. Therefore, it can assist with liver and respiratory health, reducing joint pain due to rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, and can even positively impact metabolic health that might have been compromised due to obesity or diabetes.

Today, garlic is a familiar household herb, and we often forget its true properties and health benefits. Before the advent of anti-biotics, garlic was one of the herbs often used to assist with many health conditions and diseases. Studies now show that garlic, apart from having potent anti-microbial, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties, can also lower high blood pressure and assist with hyperlipidemia and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

There are three most well-known types of ginseng, but not many know that they differ in their potency. While American ginseng is valued for its calming and anti-stress effects, Siberian ginseng is known for its adaptogenic qualities. Korean ginseng, on the other hand, has proven antioxidant, immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory and heart protective effects.

Echinacea is one of the most popular herbs in use today. Before the arrival of European settlers, it was widely used by the Native Americans for a variety of conditions. Today, studies and research indicate that echinacea can assist with skin and gastrointestinal health, cardiovascular issues, and it has antiviral and antimicrobial properties while being a potent antioxidant.

Ashoka has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for many conditions and has antifungal and antibacterial properties. Studies show that it can assist women with depression, hormone regulation, and menstrual cycles.

Haritaki is one of the three superfruits that are often used in Ayurvedic medicine, either on its own or in different formulations. Current studies suggest that Haritaki can assist with several health issues, and might also be beneficial in controlling the markers of inflammation that shorten our lifespan.

Licorice has been used traditionally for a wide range of conditions and was found beneficial due to its specific compound called glycyrrhizin. Today, studies have shown that licorice has potent antiviral and antibacterial properties and can also assist with healthy memory.

Ginkgo has been used in traditional natural medicine for thousands of years, but its real medicinal value has only been recognised in the last fifty years. Today, in Germany, Ginkgo is approved for the use in treatment for dementia.

Menopause is a natural decline in reproductive hormones experienced by all women in their 40s and 50s. These hormonal changes can bring uncomfortable symptoms, but natural remedies can aid this physiological transition. Holistic approaches and herbal remedies, such as black cohosh and red clover can help reduce stress, balance hormones, and enhance overall wellbeing.

St John’s wort is a common weed found in grasslands, roadsides, and pastures, recognised by bright yellow flowers. However, St John’s wort is also a remedy suitable for all ages and a well-known herb used for reduction and management of depression and anxiety.

Mugwort leaves have been integral to ancient healing practices around the world. In Traditional Chinese medicine Mugwort leaves have been used for digestive support, menstrual regulation, pain, inflammation, and as a calming agent.

Amla is a type of fruit that grows on the tree of the same name. It is considered as one of the main herbs in Ayurvedic medicine, and modern research sees it as one of the most antioxidant rich foods available. This means that amla has several health properties, from which even the healthiest among us can still benefit.