$22.00
Overview
100 g (3.53 oz)
raspberry leaf*, lady's mantle leaf**, vitex berries*, peppermint leaf*, black cohosh root**, and skullcap leaf* (*organic/**wildcrafted)
Gluten-Free
Ingredients do not contain gluten.
Eco-Friendly
Everything is handmade. We use minimal product packaging and large quantities for less waste.
Lioness is an herbal blend of raspberry leaf, lady's mantle, vitex berry, peppermint, black cohosh, and skullcap. Lioness herbal blend is for the female reproductive function to reinforce and nourish during the fluctuation of hormones through the menstrual cycle. During times of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), menstruation, endometriosis, active labor and birth, after-birth, post-partum, peri-menopause, menopause, and post-menopause can bring pain, cramping, uterine atony, hot flashes, infertility, night sweats, heavy or irregular periods, and sleeplessness and insomnia (specifically if the sleeplessness is occurring during certain times of the cycle). The herbs extend the activity of each other to nourish the female system for uterine strength and tone. Tone, or tonus, is viewed as a state of tension, but ideally, it is a state of relaxed health with tissue prepared to deal with stress, like a toned muscle or organ. Lioness can be used as a uterine tonic beneficial for strengthening and toning of the uterine muscle fibers, boosting blood flow to the uterus, allaying digestive distress, and easing psychological tension. Red raspberry leaf, in particular, is a uterine tonic herb beneficial for strengthening and toning the uterus muscles, boosting blood flow to the uterus, and strengthening the uterine muscle fibers. Vitex functions to help balance hormones Black cohosh is a beautiful herb for the female function acting both directly on the tissue of the reproductive system and indirectly through the nervous system, acting as a hypotensive and sedative, and the herb is shown to bind with serotonin receptors (mostly on 5-HT7 and 5-HT1A receptors), and is shown to possess selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRIs) activity that could be used to augment and supplement treatment to ease symptoms of mood swings, depression, nervousness, and anxiety. This blend is recommended to be used on a regular monthly basis, and in combination and conjunction with your doctor-prescribed treatment of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), menstruation, endometriosis, active labor and birth, after-birth, post-partum, peri-menopause, menopause, and post-menopause.
Suggested Use
To prepare herbal tea, bring water to a gentle boil – light simmer of small bubbles. Remove the water from the heat. After the simmering settles, the water should be a good temperature to add herbs and begin brewing (205°F / 96°C), but not too hot like a rapid boil (212°F / 100°C). Brew for 10 minutes in a covered teapot, loose-lidded cup, or teacup with a saucer covering tea for maximum herbal potency and retention. Best served fresh. Can store in fridge for 2 to 3 days for highest potency. Teas have a stable shelf life and are packaged in a resealable air-tight bag. They should be stored in a cool dry dark location.
Begin taking around 2 to 10 days before expected menstruation or if PMS or menopause symptoms occur. An escalating daily dose can be taken during the beginning of menstruation or onset of symptoms, with the highest dosage taken on heavier days or when symptoms are at their peak, and then a deescalating dose can be taken as period ends and symptoms subside. Brew 2 teaspoons (1 gram) herbal tea in 6 to 8 ounces (175-235 mL) water. Take 1-4 g per day, as needed.
Supplement Facts
Dosage: 1 g / 2 tsp (100 doses per bag)
Daily Limit: 4 g
| Amount per dosage | |
|---|---|
| Raspberry leaf | 220 mg |
| Lady's Mantle leaf | 200 mg |
| Vitex berries | 170 mg |
| Peppermint leaf | 160 mg |
| Black Cohosh root | 150 mg |
| Skullcap leaf | 100 mg |
The recommended dose varies based on condition, sensitivity, body chemistry, and body weight. Each person will need to experiment to discover what dose works best with a specific tea. The absorption of all herbal compounds of tea varies greatly, as tea is heavily narrowed towards water-soluble constituents. Teas are used as needed. This recognizes that each person finds their constitution and condition in varying degrees, and possibly varying times of day. If you have never used the tea before, it is best to initially take only about 1/4 to 1/2 the recommended dosage, slowly increasing the dosage as needed with each use determining what dosage is best and when.
Safety Considerations
- ♡ This is NOT recommended for anyone who is pregnant because of the stimulant action on the uterus, unless otherwise directed by your health care practitioner during post-term or labor. During pregnancy, drink Mama Bear Tea.
- ♡ If you have never used the tea before, it is recommended to only take a small amount to ensure no allergic reaction occurs. Each product description includes a complete list of ingredients. People with sensitivities to any listed ingredient should not use the product.
- ♡ Herbs are powerful. If you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications, it is recommended to consult with a health care practitioner before using herbs internally.
- ♡ These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Red Raspberry
Rubus idaeus
Rosaceae
leaf
Botany. Raspberry, grown largely for its fruit, is native in many parts of Europe. The stems are erect and, shrubby, and biennial while the creeping roots are perennial.
History. Raspberry is found throughout the world but the leaves are used for medicine in Europe, India, China, and the Native Americans.
Constituents. Raspberry leaf contains flavonoids (mainly of kaempferol and quercetin); tannins; volatile oils; and vitamins and minerals (magnesium, calcium, iron, potassium, and B-vitamins.)
Qualities. The leaves are bitter and astringent and can be useful for relaxed or constricted states.
Actions. The herb is considered a containing , , , , , and .
Our red raspberry leaf, Rubus idaeus, is organic, non-GMO, and Kosher. This herb has a long tradition being extremely valuable for the female reproductive system at all stages of life being used for the herb’s soothing relaxant, astringent, and tonic action to strengthen and tone the tissue of the uterus. Red raspberry leaf eases symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), menstruation, endometriosis, peri-menopause, menopause, and post-menopause, including cramps, hot flashes, irritability, night sweats, heavy or irregular periods, and difficulty sleeping. It is naturally high in magnesium, calcium, iron, potassium, and B-vitamins which makes it helpful for nausea, leg cramps, anemia, and improving sleep. It can help fertility, regulate menstrual cycle, and tone and relax the muscles.
The herb's properties in the tannins can help excessive blood loss and lessen hemorrhage, particularly during excessive menstruation (menorrhagia), labor and birth, and irregular bleeding during menstruation and menopause. In addition, this astringent herb tones the mucus membranes throughout the body including the kidneys and urinary tract. As a diuretic, it has been frequently used to relieve urethral and kidney irritation. Its tea can be used as a mouthwash for sores and ulcers, and as a gargle for sore throat. Red raspberry leaf is also beneficial because it can help during the fluctuation of hormones throughout menstruation, childbirth, postpartum period, peri-menopause, menopause, and post-menopause, and sensitivities to the fluctuations could cause a number of problems, including hormonal acne, mood swings, sleeplessness, anxiety, and an erroneous disposition. Certain conditions can develop when hormones become high unregulated, and the herb can be used in combination of treatment of certain conditions, such as in combination with the treatment of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), menstruation, endometriosis, active labor and birth, after-birth, post-partum, peri-menopause, menopause, and post-menopause. These times can bring pain, cramping, uterine atony, hot flashes, infertility, night sweats, heavy or irregular periods, and sleeplessness and insomnia, specifically if it is occurring during certain times of the female month. The herbs extend the activity of each other to nourish the female system for uterine strength and tone. Tone, or tonus, is viewed as a state of tension, but ideally, it is a state of relaxed health with tissue prepared to deal with stress, like a toned muscle or organ. The Lioness herbal blend of red raspberry leaf, lady's mantle, vitex berry, peppermint, black cohosh, and skullcap, is a uterine tonic beneficial for strengthening and toning of the uterine muscle fibers, boosting blood flow to the uterus, allaying digestive distress, and easing psychological tension. This blend is recommended to be used on a regular monthly basis, and in combination with the treatment of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), menstruation, endometriosis, active labor and birth, after-birth, post-partum, peri-menopause, menopause, and post-menopause.
The relaxant properties tend to occur and bring about tonic relaxation of the of the uterus, reducing pain during menstruation, labor, and postpartum. Tone, or tonus, is viewed as a state of muscular tension, but ideally, it is a state of relaxed health with the tissue prepared to deal with stress. A study was shown that if the smooth muscle of the uterus was in tone, raspberry leaf relaxed it, and if the muscle was relaxed, the raspberry leaf caused contractions. The relaxing response makes this herb valuable in aiding childbirth, a use that has been applied for hundreds of years and is recently becoming better known for this in the United States, however, more scientific research is needed using quality herbal preparations and consistent dosages to affirm the traditional use on the scientific level. Traditionally, red raspberry leaf has been used during pregnancy and before delivery to strengthen the uterine tissue, quell nausea and vomiting, ease morning sickness, relax the body, and help with sensitivities during the fluctuations and balancing of hormones. During labor, it can strengthen contractions and encourage safe, easy, and speedy birth, and prevent hemorrhage with its astringent action. There is some scientific evidence of red raspberry leaf that shows it can shorten labor and that it may alleviate interventions and complications with childbirth. A small observational study found that people who drank red raspberry leaf tea later in pregnancy had a shorter first stage labor and a reduced use of forceps and other interventions, as well as a reduction in the likelihood of pre- and post-term labor, however, the results were not statistically significant. Another small study, consisting of 191 people, used raspberry leaf tablets only during the last 8 weeks of pregnancy, and showed that it did not shorten the first stage of labor, though it did shorten the second stage by an average of 9.59 minutes, and found an 11% decreased use of forceps during birth. The results of this study showed that the differences were not statistically significant and prompted consideration of the effectiveness of dosage level, with further research recommended. More record and research needs to be done to fully understand all of red raspberry leaf's applications during pregnancy and labor, with precise dosaging during pregnancy and labor and proper herbal mediums for optimal absorption. The herb is helpful during the postpartum and breastfeeding period by regulating the menstrual cycle, toning the uterus back to size, energizing the body, and boosting milk production.
Lady's Mantle
Alchemilla vulgaris
Rosaceae
leaf
Botany. Lady's Mantle is a perennial plant found in damp places and in dry shady woods in eastern North America, Greenland, Europe, and northern Asia. The stem is about 1 foot high clothed in soft hairs with a slender erect stem and leaves. The mostly basal leaves are rounded, palmate 7 to 9 lobed, and finely toothed. The small green flowers grow in loose panicles from May to October.
History. The plant's leaves collect and preserve droplets of water, resembling a raincoat, lending the name Lady's Mantle. In this way, the herb was known for its ability to regulate fluid and became a female remedy and diuretic.
Constituents. The herbal constituents are largely tannins (ellagitannins, agrimoniin), phenolcarboxylicacids (ellagic, gallic, and caffeic acid) and flavonoids (quercetin and kaempferol, and their glycosides), and salicylic acid (trace amounts).
Qualities. It is dry, astringent, and bitter taste, resembling aspirin, based on the presence of salicylates.
Actions. Lady's Mantle is a and has , , , , and properties.
Our Lady’s Mantle, Alchemilla vulgaris, is , naturally organic, non-GMO, and Kosher. Lady’s Mantle helps reduce pains associated with menstrual periods, ameliorates excessive bleeding, and eases symptoms of menstruation and menopause. As an emmenagogue, it can stimulate proper menstrual flow. Lady’s Mantle is a useful uterine astringent helpful for both menorrhagia (excessive menstrual bleeding) and metrorrhagia (irregular menstrual bleeding between menstrual periods). The astringent properties come from the tannins and can also be helpful with diarrhea. Its tea can be used as a mouthwash for sores and ulcers, and as a gargle for sore throat. It is an effective wound healer and anti-inflammatory. Several studies have shown that the compounds ellegic acid, quercetin, and morin in lady’s mantle has shown to prevent collagen destruction, stimulate collagen synthesis, aid in wound healing, and useful for dermatitis, acne, hives, photoaging, and other skin-related disease. Lady’s Mantle has neuroprotective properties. The herb has many polyphenols (flavonoids, phenolic acids, tannins), which are powerful antioxidants with beneficial effects on brain health. The antioxidants in Lady’s Mantle have been reported to express neuroprotective actions through an ability to decrease oxidative stress, suppress inflammation, and increase the expression of genes that encode antioxidant enzymes, neurotrophic factors, and cytoprotective protein, which protect cells from damage and harmful agents.
Vitex Berries (aka Chasteberry)
Vitex agnus-castus
Verbenaceae
fruit
Botany. Vitex is a deciduous shrub native to the Mediterranean region with leaves opposite, composed of 5 to 7 leaflets that are lance-shaped toothed, and fragrant flowers. The berries, somewhat like peppercorns are dark purple, half covered by sage-green calyces and yellowish within that is aromatic and warm.
History. In medieval Europe, the belief once was the berries secured chastity and was used to decrease sex drive. It was called castus, Latin for clean and pure, and it was used as a "medicine and remedy for such as would willing to live chaste, for it withstandeth all uncleannes, or desire to the flesh...that is to say chaste, cleane, and pure." Its use was for bringing on the menses.
Constituents. The herb contains compounds: iridoid glycosides (aucubin and agnuside); labdane diterpenes (otundifuran, vitexilactone); flavonoids (casticin, vitexin, isovitexin, kaempferol); volatile oil (bornyl acetate, 1,8-cineole, limonene, and α- and β-pinene).
Qualities. The herb is pungent and diffusive, helpful for depressed tissue states.
Actions. Vitex is a uterine tonic with hormone normalizer, and has galactogogue properties.
Our vitex berries, Vitex agnus-castus, are organic, non-GMO, and Kosher. Vitex, also known as chaste tree or chasteberry, is an effective female uterine tonic and hormone normalizer, which is valuable during pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS), menstruation, post-partum, breastfeeding, peri-menopause, menopause, and post-menopause. It is a galactogogue, helping boost breast milk production. It is believed that this action is caused by the herb's compounds that bind to dopamine receptors in the pituitary influencing secretion of prolactin (controls lactation) and luteinizing hormone (promotes progesterone). Vitex berry can help balance hormones, regulate bleeding, hot flashes, night sweats, hormonal acne, headaches, and insomnia that appears during certain times of the cycle.
– John Gerard The Herball (1597), page 1388
Vitex is an effective therapeutic herb to normalize the activity of female sex hormones. The herb can stimulate and normalize the pituitary gland function, especially the progesterone hormone levels, and facilitating the most appropriate action required to normalize function no matter what is out of balance. Laboratory research shows that the herb activates the dopamine receptors in the anterior pituitary gland leading to a reduction in release of the hormone prolactin, resulting to an enhanced corpus luteum development and indirectly corrects any progesterone deficiency. The corpus luteum is a gland within the ovary that regulates the menstrual cycle and early pregnancy. It forms each time after ovulation and produces the hormone progesterone that makes for a healthy uterus to support uterine development, implantation, and pregnancy. Unless pregnancy occurs, the corpus luteum breaks down each month once the progesterone is no longer needed. It can help dysmenorrhea, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), fatigue, headache, anxiety, and other disorders related to hormone function. Because progesterone production declines at menopause, vitex is especially beneficial during peri-menopause, menopause, and post-menopause for hormonal balance. Similarly, the herb can help the body regain a natural balance after discontinuation of oral contraceptives.
This herb has been shown to be clinically effective against premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Vitex can not only ease the symptoms of PMS, but over time may actually cure the disorder. The opioid activity of the herb has been demonstrated to weaken PMS. Although the opioid activity from the flavonoids in Vitex is relatively milder compared to the opium poppy, Papaver somniferum, Vitex has been used for centuries without addiction problems and is beneficial to reduce pain symptoms and regulate mood and appetite. PMS has been linked to abnormally high levels of estrogen and can cause a variety of emotional, behavioral, and physical symptoms that occur up to 2 weeks before the onset on menstruation, including irritability, anxiety, fatigue, headache, and cramping. The herb is especially helpful when PMS symptoms disappear when menstruation begins. Positive results can be perceived as early as the second menstrual cycle, but can take up to one year or longer for improvement. The Tea or Tincture of Lioness is helpful for this therapy and will serve best when used on a regular monthly basis.
Vitex is also effective for irregular periods, especially when related to endometriosis. It is also useful for stabilizing the menstrual cycle and re-balancing hormone levels after withdrawal from progesterone-containing birth control pills. With this use, 3 to 4 months of therapy with the herb is recommended. In addition to corpus luteum development and support of implantation and early pregnancy, it can effectively regulate the ovulatory cycle for women who are trying to get pregnant. During post-partum, it can help regulate the cycle, and, as a galactogogue, boosts breast milk production.
Vitex contains the terpene limonene, which is a powerful antioxidant. Limonene compounds have a fresh citrus aroma and flavor. The effects of limonene include neuroprotective effects, including anti-anxiety (anxiolytic) activity, mood and emotional improving, and helpful with depression and insomnia. It is suggested that the consumption of a limonene-rich diet may contribute in limiting neurodegeneration and aid in preserving cognitive function and maintain neuronal integrity. Aside from vitex berry, limonene is also found abundantly in citrus fruit, like lemon, lime, orange, and grapefruit, and it is also found in banana, mango, carrot, dill, fennel, bilberries, black currants, hemp, and lavender.
Safety Considerations. Vitex is not recommended for those taking drugs that contain hormones, including birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy.
Peppermint
Mentha x piperita
Lamiaceae
leaf
Botany. Peppermint is a hybrid plant, a cross between watermint and spearmint. This is indicated by the "x" followed by the genus in the botanical name, in which the plant is a cross between 2 different plant species. Peppermint has an erect, square branching reddish-purple stem with opposite, dark-green, ovate to lanceolate, serrate leaves that are 2 inches or more in length, only slightly hairy underneath with slightly purplish veins and midrib. Axillary and terminal spikes of small, purple flowers bloom July through September.
History. Pliny the Elder mentions that the Greeks and Romans flavored their sauces and wines with Peppermint and crowned themselves with it at their feasts. Peppermint was cultivated by the ancient Egyptians and it is mentioned in Icelandic Pharmacopoeias of the thirteenth century. It came to be used medicinally in Western Europe in the eighteenth century. It was used by the American herbalist, Samuel Thomson, for sickness and promoting perspiration in the nineteenth century.
Constituents. Peppermint contains phenolic acids (caffeic, chlorogenic, and rosmaric acid); volatile oils, (namely menthol, menthone, and menthyl acetate), flavonoids (glycosides of apigenin, diosmetin, and luteolin), and tannins, all which contribute to its numerous and varied use. The entire plant is aromatic, due to the volatile oil present in all parts of the plant and leaves a cooling sensation in the mouth, or topically, caused by the compound, menthol.
Qualities. It has a highly penetrating camphorescent aroma leaving a cooling sensation topically and in the mouth. Though cooling, it is stimulating and soothing in congested and obstructed states.
Actions. Peppermint is , , pain-relieving (), , , , , , , , antacid, and .
Our peppermint, Mentha x piperita, is organic, non-GMO, and Kosher. The herb provides many properties, enlivening whole body activity, including digestive, circulatory, immune, and respiratory responses. It is highly aromatic, full of volatile oils, leaving a cooling sensation alleviating aches and pain, a soothing action on the digestive system, and a stimulating action by encouraging increased blood flow and circulation. Peppermint can ease muscle spasms and cramps, soothe sore muscles and joints, and alleviate inflammation with injury, digestive distress, sickness, headache, and rheumatism.
With , pain-relieving (), and actions, peppermint helps soothe itchy skin, bug bites, allay inflammation, and relieve topical pain from burns by cooling the affected skin alleviating the burning sensation. For burned or itchy skin, an herb bath with Peppermint Tea or Salve can be used to relieve pain and itching. Its Salve or Tincture can be massaged on sore muscles and joints as a stimulating herbal liniment. The local pain-relieving action of Peppermint is exceptionally strong. Topically with Salve and internally with Tea and Tincture, peppermint also gives an and cooling effect that can ease muscle aches and spasms, relieve throbbing headaches, soothe menstrual cramps, relax sore muscles and joints, alleviate pain from rheumatism, and provide relief from symptoms associated with the common cold and flu. Its Tea can be used as a gargle and mouth rinse for the relief of toothaches and sore throats, treatment of canker sores, and give a minty sweetness to the breath.
In cold, flu, fever, and early indications of sickness, Tea or Tincture of peppermint is helpful. As an , peppermint has the ability to inhibit and kill many different microorganisms (pathogens) that might cause infections, dysfunction in different parts and systems, and affect homeostasis in the body. A few of these bacteria and viruses include: Influenza A viruses; Herpes simplex, the cause of cold sores; mumps virus; Streptococcus pyogenes, causes sore throat, scarlet fever, rheumatic fever, otitis media, cystitis, cellulitis, etc.; Staphlococcus aureus, causes pneumonia, sinusitis, impetigo, and endocarditis, etc.; Psuedomonas acruginose, causes suppurative (pus-causing) sicknesses and infections, and other types of infections; and Candida albicans, opportunistic yeast that can become pathogenic causing candidiasis, also called thrush or candida, and vaginal yeast infection, also called vaginal thrush or vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC). Altogether, more than 30 pathogens have succumb to the influence of peppermint. To further help the body in times of a pathogenic invasion and maintaining homeostasis, peppermint is good to assist in blood flow and circulation, raising internal heat, inducing perspiration, and allaying fever. When body temperature is too high, peppermint helps aid different processes of increased blood flow (vasodilation) and sweat production, which both transfer energy from skin to the environment resulting in a cooling effect. This increase of fresh nutrient-rich blood through the body is helpful in times of fever, headaches, sickness, and muscle or joint inflammation. These actions of the herb are also helpful for palpitations of the heart and feelings of a fluttery or pounding heart, which could be caused by stress, anxiety, excessive exercise, or medications. Peppermint can help painful menstruation (dysmenorrhea), relieving pain and associated tension. The leaf can relax nerves and ease anxiety, bodily tension, and headaches that may associated with muscular tension and indigestion or digestive distress. It suppresses sinus headaches, soothes airways, provides an uplifting effect, clears nasal and chest congestion by providing expectorantExpectorant herbs facilitate or accelerate the removal of excess mucus from the respiratory system by stimulating expulsion, loosening mucus secretions, liquefying mucus to be cleared by coughing or from the nose, or soothing bronchial spasm; often containing alkaloids, saponins, and volatile oils. effects to relieve the respiratory system of excess mucus, and gives symptomatic relief of asthma and chronic bronchitis. It is especially effective for this in combination with its Salve.
Peppermint is an amazing aid to the digestive system. From its stimulating , , and properties of the volatile oils, it can help the digestive system work properly with ease and allay digestive distress. The volatile oils of peppermint can enhance digestive activity by stimulating contractile activity in the gallbladder and encouraging the secretion of bile. The oils also normalize gastrointestinal activity, removing gas, and reducing cramps. It soothes the gut walls with its volatile oils, reduces inflammation in the digestive tract, and helps remove gas. Peppermint can help with upset stomach, abdominal discomfort, dyspepsia and indigestion, heartburn, acid reflux and GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), gas and flatulence, griping pains (sharp sudden pains in the abdomen), bloating, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, colic, morning sickness, motion sickness, sea sickness, and other associated digestive conditions. On account of its anesthetic effect on the nerve-endings of the stomach, it is helpful to prevent morning, motion, or sea sickness. The herb can be taken therapeutically and in combination with treatment to manage long-term chronic digestive conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and their associated symptoms.
Black Cohosh
Cimicifuga racemosa
Ranunculaceae
root
Botany. Black cohosh is part of the buttercup plant family, Ranunculaceae, and native to rich forest floors in eastern and central North America. It can be found on hillsides and in woods at higher elevation from Maine and Ontario to Wisconsin, Georgia, and Missouri. The creeping, knotty root produces a stem up to 9 feet high with toothed leaves that are ternate, then pinnate and sometimes more divided, and small white musty flowers growing in long racemes.
History. Black cohosh is also known as Black Snakeroot. It is an American Indian female remedy, and much used by them in rheumatism, snake bites, and facilitating childbirth. The herb has traditional use in the management of rheumatism, malaria, sore throats, colds, and complications associated with childbirth. In the nineteenth century U.S., it was used for typhoid fever, scarlet fever, measles, smallpox, and exanthematous fevers.
Constituents. The herbal constituents are: triterpene glycosides (actein, cimicifugoside, cimifugine, racemoside, cimiracemosides), isoferulic acid, salicylic acid, volatile oil, phenols, flavonoids, tannins, and alkaloids.
Qualities. The herb is sweet, earthy, pungent, and bitter. It is cool and useful for constricted states and tension.
Actions. The herb has many actions: , , , , and stimulating .
Our black cohosh root, Cimicifuga racemosa, is , naturally organic, non-GMO, and Kosher. Currently, the herb is widely used to manage menstrual and menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats, sleep disturbances, insomnia, vertigo, nervousness, mood swings, pain, and vaginal dryness associated with postmenopause. Although known for its benefits for the female system, black cohosh may be effective against rheumatic pain of rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and muscle problems. It is helpful for neurological pain, including sciatic and neuralgia. The exact way in how black cohosh delivers the actions and with which compounds is not entirely known. Many studies seem to point to its nervine effects on serotonin pathways and working as a selective estrogen receptor modulator. What is clear is that studies indicate there are a number of actions that could be the result in the positive effects in which the herb has been used.
– Dr. Samuel Thomson, The Thomsonian materia medica (1841), page 643
Black cohosh is a beautiful herb for the female function acting both directly on the tissue of the reproductive system and indirectly through the nervous system. Many studies confirm the herb does not contain an estrogenic compound, rather it has -like activities which positively benefit the female function. Black cohosh acts as a selective estrogen receptor modulator. They act on the estrogen receptors, blocking estrogen in some areas of the body, but activating it in others. Nervine herbs (and drugs) that act on nerve receptors can be agonists, modulators, or antagonists. Agonist herb compounds occupy receptors and activate them. Antagonist herb compounds occupy receptors but do not activate them and block receptor activation by other agonists. Modulator herb compounds balances and adjusts, modifying the message as needed. Black cohosh has tissue-specific action that acts as an estrogen agonist in certain tissues and an estrogen antagonist in other tissues. Black cohosh behaves as an estrogen in the bone and brain but does not act the same in the uterus and breast. The benefits of the herb's biological activity is shown through this ability to respond as needed.
The herb exhibits and properties by producing a fall in blood pressure with no effect on respiration. It influences circulation by vasodilation (dilating) of peripheral veins through the central nervous system. Serotonin is a that carries signals and messages between nerve cells. It plays a major role in neuro-vegetative functions of the body, such as appetite, sleep, memory and learning, temperature regulation, mood, behavior (including sexual and hallucinogenic behavior), cardiovascular functions, muscle contraction, and endocrine regulation. Black cohosh is shown to bind with serotonin receptors (mostly on 5-HT7 and 5-HT1A receptors), and is shown to possess selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRIs) activity that can ease symptoms of mood swings, depression, nervousness, and anxiety. SSRIs increase serotonin. Serotonin is typically reabsorbed by nerve cells (reuptake), and SSRIs block (inhibit) reuptake to allow more serotonin to be available to pass messages further between nerve cells. This rise in serotonin levels can improve symptoms and help in times of need.
Black cohosh has and uterine contractile activity as an . It is said to traditionally be used to contribute to quick, easy, and uncomplicated deliveries. The beauty of herbs is the and strengthening with the contractile action in the uterine and stimulating menstrual flow. This activity can help treat delayed menstruation. Black cohosh can be used to induce post term labor, assist birth, and help with relief of after-pains and allaying the general excitement of the nervous system after labor. Because of the contractile activity, black cohosh promotes uterine involution (shrinkage) and recovery, which can help after birth and during menopause for healthful restoration of the uterus. The herb can be therapeutically used to alleviate minor neurovegetative complaints associated with menstruation and menopause, such as hot flashes, sweating, mood swings, and sleep disturbances. It helps pain associated with menstruation, premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and menopause accompanied with muscle and joint pain associated with rheumatism. It is helpful for irritability, restlessness, and promotes and restores healthy menstrual activity. It soothes irritation and pain of the uterus, cervix, and vagina. The herb can relieve pain, menstrual cramping, and cramping associated with ovulation. A study of menopausal individuals, half treated with a placebo and the other half treated with black cohosh for 8 weeks, and the treated group showed significantly more improvement than the control group in many symptoms, including vasomotor, psychiatric, physical, and sexual symptoms. The study scored the individuals on the Green climacteric scale (GCS) which is used to assess the symptoms of menopause and is a comprehensive validated tool consisting of 21 parts with 11 assessing psychiatric symptoms, including anxiety and depression, 7 assessing physical aspects, 2 vasomotor symptoms, like hot flashes and night sweats, and 1 considering sexual desire or loss of interest in sex and vaginal dryness. Black cohosh reduced the GCS scores during their 8 week daily treatment of the herb's extract, approximately 1 mL of our Tincture, which was taken every night after dinner. Black cohosh can help ease the physical and mental changes associated with perimenopause and menopause. Clinical studies have shown that black cohosh can help treatment of menopause symptoms, such as hot flashes, headache, vertigo, heart palpitations, ringing in ears, and a range of psychological symptoms, including irritability, sleep disturbances, sleeplessness and insomnia, and depressive moods. It has also been shown to help hormonal deficits resulting from ovariectomy or hysterectomy, with clinical trials showing at least 8 weeks post-operation treatment required to alleviate symptoms. A low daily dosage could be 1 mL of Tincture or 1 cup of Tea.
Safety Considerations. Because of the stimulating action on the uterus, black cohosh is not recommended for anyone who is pregnant. It may be helpful during post-term, labor, delivery, and after-birth only at the advisement of a medical professional. Black cohosh should not be taken by those who have or have had liver or kidney disease or those with poor liver or kidney function, or current or previous alcohol abuse.
Skullcap
Scutellaria lateriflora
Lamiaceae
leaf
Botany. Skullcap is a North American perennial plant. It has a fibrous yellow rootstock producing a branching stem 1 to 3 feet high with opposite, ovate, serrate leaves, and the axillary two-lipped flower is pale purple or blue that blooms from July to September.
History. Skullcap has been used for convulsions, hysteria, and irritability of the nervous system. It was used as a female remedy for treatment of dysmenorrhea, menorrhagia, and other female disorders.
Constituents. The compounds consist of volatile oils (namely scutellarin), flavonoids (baicalein, baicalin, scutellarin, chrysin, and wogonin), iridoids (including catalpol), and tannins.
Qualities. Skullcap is a bitter herb with sedative properties, good for over-thinkers and tension of any kind, mind or body.
Actions. The herb a with , , , , and muscle relaxant properties.
Our skullcap, Scutellaria lateriflora, are organic, non-GMO, and Kosher. Skullcap is a mild sedative, relaxant, and powerful nervine that effectively soothes nervous tension while rejuvenating the central nervous system. The nervine qualities act in multiple ways throughout the body. Skullcap can ease the body and mind and useful for symptoms of muscle cramps and spams, muscular tension, headache, stress, irritability, nervous tension, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), menstruation, menopause, insomnia, anxiety, and depression.
– Grover Coe, M.D., Concentrated Organic Medicines (1862), page 345
Skullcap is a powerful sedative that can calm that body. Skullcap's calming nervine properties are partly due to the volatile oil, scutellarin, and the flavonoid, chrysin. These properties result from the herb’s effect on nerve function and balance in the brain. Clinical trial has also demonstrated that the herb is anti-anxiety (anxiolytic) due to the flavonoid interactions with the neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). A neurotransmitter is a messenger that sends information between nerve cells (neurons) and other cells in the body through a synapse. These messengers can act in predictable ways but also be affected by medications, disease, and other messengers. Neurotransmitters communicate in 3 ways: excitatory, inhibitory, or modulatory. Excitatory neurotransmitters have excitatory effects on the neuron and the likelihood that the neuron will fire an action potential is increased. Generally, when you are aroused, ready for action, your body produces excitatory chemicals, such as epinephrine (adrenaline), glutamate, histamine, and dopamine, to stimulate muscles, increase heart rate, and allow your body to take action. Inhibitory neurotransmitters have inhibitory effects on the neuron and the likelihood that the neuron will fire an action is decreased. During rest and relaxation, your body produces inhibitory chemicals, such as GABA and serotonin, to allow your body to rest, digest food, sleep, recover from stress and injury, and heal. Modulatory neurotransmitters can affect a number of neurons at the same time and influence the effects of other chemical messengers. The system works in opposition at times and complements each other in other times. If you stay in a prolonged state of arousal, the constant presence of excitatory chemicals (including adrenaline) can do damage in the body, such as hypertension, ulcers, headaches, and insomnia. It is crucial for normal brain function for the balance between excitatory and inhibitory nerves. Events and triggers of depression, anxiety, insomnia, and other disorders in the central nervous system can affect the balance between chemical excitation and inhibition. In many nervous disorders, the active excitability of the local nerve circuits is altered, meaning there may be an unbalance of synaptic excitation, inhibition, or both. The unbalance of excitation or inhibition result in altered excitability and impaired nerve processing of incoming information. The balance means that the excitation and inhibition nerve cells are at the right concentrations, in the right places, and at the right time. Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is an amino acid that serves as a primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain and a major inhibitory neurotransmitter in the spinal cord. Being an inhibitory neurotransmitter, the GABA receptor calms nerves and is the body’s natural relaxation receptors that are produced by the brain to promote sleep, pain-relief, and relaxation. The body forms GABA from glutamate, although their roles are opposite in the nervous system, as glutamate is considered an excitatory neurotransmitter and GABA an inhibitory neurotransmitter. The imbalance of these neurotransmitters play a role in various pathways of disease. Various neurological and psychiatric diseases and conditions have been associated with low levels of GABA, including generalized anxiety, schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorder, major depressive disorder, seizures, and epilepsy. GABA binds to two major receptors, the GABAA and GABAB receptors. The receptors are also referred to as benzodiazepine receptors. Nervine herbs (and drugs) that act on nerve receptors can be agonists, modulators, or antagonists. Agonist herb compounds occupy receptors and activate them. Antagonist herb compounds occupy receptors but do not activate them and block receptor activation by other agonists. Modulator herb compounds balances and adjusts, modifying the message as needed. Many sedative herbs, as well as anxiety medications, antidepressants, or benzodiazepines, work similarly by interacting with the GABA receptor. It is important that although GABA concentrations may be altered in these types of conditions and states of mind, treatment using GABAA receptor agonists are not the only treatment and therapy, however, it may benefit in times of need, like during times of anxiety, before sleep, and before anticipated stress, such as a speech or presentation. Skullcap enhances the effect of GABA at the GABAA receptor, resulting in sedative, anti-anxiety, hypnotic, and muscle relaxant properties. Research has shown that the flavonoid, baicalin, can produce neuroprotective effects and can protect nerve cells from damage in conditions of stress. The flavonoid, chrysin, gives anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) actions being an agonist of the benzodiazepine GABA receptors. Many anxiety and depression medications work similarly to Skullcap by interacting with the GABA (benzodiazepine) receptor, often referred to as "benzodiazepines." Herbal therapy for anxiety and depression involves a balance in all aspects of whole health, and skullcap can be incorporated in the treatment for anxiety and depression.
Skullcap can boost mood. It can stimulate the release of endorphins, relieve tension, and generally balances mood. Skullcap has been associated with increased activity in the liver significantly boosting the efficiency of the liver reducing toxin levels in the body and blood, thereby improving overall health and wellness. Skullcap can help mental alertness by removing the nervous tension that often interferes with learning, recall, logical thinking, and memory formation. Through strong hypotensive action, skullcap stabilizes and normalizes blood pressure, which can help muscular and nervous tension. It relaxes muscles, cramps, twitching, and spasms. Skullcap has anti-inflammatory effects. The flavonoids have been shown to reduce inflammation in the body by binding and interrupting chemokines, which are critical proteins secreted by cells during inflammation and infection. During headache and migraine, it can help calm the body, relieve muscular tension, ease throbbing, and painful aura. Skullcap is helpful for irritability, stress, anxiety, depression, hysteria, nervous excitability, agitation, restlessness, neuralgia, and other nervous ailments. It can ease premenstrual tension and relax muscles during menstruation. Skullcap is a good remedy for inducing sleep and helping insomnia and sleep disorders, while helping some of its underlying causes. The ability to ease physical symptoms as well as underlying psychological tension is one of the greatest benefits of herbs in stress, anxiety, headaches, pain, and depression.
Repurpose
ALL packaging and shipping materials can be repurposed and reused.
Recycle
ALL packaging and shipping materials can be recycled after use.
Compost
Tea bags and brewed-out herbs can be composted. Bags compost in 12 months.
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