Green Tea is on nearly every list of superfoods and healthy ingredients. It is famed for its high levels of antioxidants which help to prevent cell damage and protect against disease.
One of the key anti-oxidants that is found in green tea is EGCG (Epigallocatechin Gallate), a catechin which belongs to a group of phytonutrients called flavanoids that have been linked to a variety of health benefits. The catechins in green tea may inhibit the growth of bacteria and some viruses.
Green tea also contains caffeine and L-Theanine (an amino acid that we use in our Stress Relief product - and discuss in this list separately) which can have synergistic effects. The combination of the two has a potent effect on brain function.
The green tea that we use is a high quality matcha, a powder made from the newest tea leaves.
Green Tea is found in our Refresh & Revitalise: Raspberry & Green Tea product.
The hibiscus flower has been used in tea form in traditional medicine for centuries. Hibiscus can help keep your cholesterol levels in check and your heart and blood vessels healthy and is known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties.
Hibiscus tea is also full of phytochemicals like polyphenols and anthocyanin. These compounds can help lower inflammation in the body, which, when elevated can increase your risk of developing cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and arthritis.
In addition, hibiscus is a good source of minerals including calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, and zinc. It also contains B-vitamins, like niacin and folic acid, and is rich in ascorbic acid (Vitamin C).
Hibiscus features prominently in our Vitality: Red Berries and Hibiscus product.
Elderflower is the flower of the elder tree which grow in masses and hang in sprays. The flowers develop into purple elderberries later in the summer.
The flowers are a favourite with foragers who like to use them in cordials or to make elderflower champagne.
They have a sweet fragrance that is perfectly captured in the elderflower extract that we use in our Stress Relief: Apple & Elderflower product.
Originating from China, ginger has been a popular ingredient in cooking and medicine for centuries.
Ginger is a well known digestion aid and its ‘warming’ properties means it has a settling effect on the system. This is believed to be due to its beneficial effects on key digestive enzymes, trypsin and pancreatic lypase.
The health benefits of ginger are attributed to gingerols, a component with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
Ginger features prominently in our Cleanse & Detox: Ginger and Lemon product.
Ginseng is probably the most recognised plant used in traditional medicine, having been used medicinally for more than 2,000 years. The name Panax derives from the Greek word for "all healing".
In addition to a range of other health benefits, panax ginseng has been shown to help fight fatigue and promote energy.
Panax ginseng has been used in our Refresh & Revitalise: Raspberry & Green Tea product.
Ashwagandha is an adaptogen (meaning that it supports your body's physiological processes) that humans have used for over 3,000 years as a natural Ayurvedic remedy.
This small woody plant with yellow flowers is believed to help your body to manage stress better and modern science has linked it to reduced stress and anxiety, improved blood sugar levels, mood and memory.
Originally from India and North Africa, Ashwagandha is in our Stress Relief: Apple & Elderflower product.
Dandelion Root has a long history of use by Native American, European, and Asian herbalists to enhance digestion, and support liver and gallbladder function. Dandelion root has many naturally occurring compounds including inulin, sesquiterpenes, and phenolic compounds such as flavonoids, minerals, and phytosterols.
Dandelion root has been shown to stimulate the production and release of bile, helping to break down fats and aid digestion. As a bitter, dandelion stimulates the digestive process helping to break down all foods more efficiently and thus prevent their stagnation.
We have used dandelion root in our Cleanse & Detox: Ginger & Lemon product.