Herb Library

Sambucus nigra (standardized extract)

Standardized elderberry extract — clinical evidence for reducing flu duration by 4 days and cold duration by 2 days. Contains anthocyanins (cyanidin-3-glucoside) and lectins. Blocks viral hemagglutinin. The #1 immune supplement in America.

Sambucus nigra (homemade syrup)

Homemade elderberry syrup — simmered berries with ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and raw honey. The most popular DIY herbal remedy. Recipes all over the internet.

Sambucus nigra (alcohol tincture)

Elderberry extracted in alcohol — more potent and longer-lasting than syrup. No added sugar. Drop dosing allows precise adjustment. 30-60 drops 3x daily.

Sambucus nigra + Zinc picolinate

Elderberry extract + 15mg Zinc in capsule — the convenient immune duo. Daily for prevention, every 2-3 hours with zinc lozenges during acute episodes.

Sambucus nigra + Zinc

Combination of elderberry extract with zinc — two of the most evidence-based immune support ingredients. Zinc lozenges alone can reduce cold duration by 33%.

Zingiber officinale (tea bag)

Pre-packaged ginger root tea bags — the most convenient ginger format. Look for brands using real ginger root, not just flavoring. Steep 5-10 minutes.

Ginkgo biloba (EGb 761)

THE specific standardized extract used in 400+ clinical trials. 24% flavone glycosides, 6% terpene lactones, <5ppm ginkgolic acids. Gold standard for cognitive support.

Crataegus monogyna

The berry specifically — rich in OPCs and flavonoids. The most studied form of hawthorn for cardiovascular support and blood pressure.

Chamomile + Passionflower + Valerian + Lavender

Classic sleep tea blend — the four most popular sleep herbs combined. Take 30-60 minutes before bed. The ritual of making tea contributes to the calming effect.

Hibiscus sabdariffa (cold brew)

Cold-brewed hibiscus — retains more anthocyanins than hot-brewed. The preferred preparation for blood pressure support (3+ cups daily in studies). Delicious over ice.

Hibiscus sabdariffa (tea)

The ruby-red flower tea enjoyed worldwide — Mexican Agua de Jamaica, West African Bissap, Egyptian Karkade. Clinical evidence for blood pressure support (3 cups/day).

Ferrous bisglycinate

The gentlest form of supplemental iron — chelated for better absorption and fewer GI side effects. Often recommended alongside iron-rich herbs.

Pinus pinaster

Patented antioxidant (Pycnogenol) — OPCs similar to grape seed but with unique compounds. For venous insufficiency, ADHD, asthma, diabetes, and skin aging. 400+ published studies on Pycnogenol brand. Expensive but well-researched.

Multi-strain probiotic + FOS/Inulin

Probiotic bacteria combined with prebiotic fiber (FOS/inulin) that FEEDS the probiotics. The synbiotic approach — more effective than probiotics alone for gut health.

Lactobacillus/Bifidobacterium species

Live beneficial bacteria for gut health. Not herbs but essential in herbal protocols. Different strains have different effects. 10-50 billion CFU typical dose.

Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 + L. reuteri RC-14

Specific probiotic strains for vaginal and urinary health — GR-1 and RC-14. The most studied strains for BV and yeast prevention. 2 billion CFU daily.

Curcumin + Boswellic Acids

The two strongest evidence-based anti-inflammatory herbs combined. Curcumin (COX-2) + Boswellia (5-LOX) = dual pathway inflammation support. The joint health standard.

Curcuma longa (BCM-95)

BCM-95 patented extract — combines curcumin with essential oils from turmeric for 7-8x better absorption than standard curcumin without needing piperine.

Reduced Coenzyme Q10

The reduced/active form of CoQ10 — better absorbed than ubiquinone, especially for people over 40. Essential for mitochondrial energy and heart health.

Pelargonium sidoides

Zulu respiratory remedy — EPs 7630 extract is a German registered medicine for acute bronchitis. Name means "heavy cough" in Zulu. Clinical evidence for reducing bronchitis duration by 2 days. Contains gallic acid and umckalin.

Valeriana + Humulus

The most clinically studied sleep herb combination. Ze 91019 extract shown to improve sleep quality comparable to benzodiazepines without morning hangover.

B1+B2+B3+B5+B6+B7+B9+B12

Complete B vitamin complex — essential cofactors for energy, mood, nerve function, and methylation. Critical for anyone under stress, vegetarians, and elderly.

Lactobacillus bulgaricus + Streptococcus thermophilus

Traditional fermented milk — the original probiotic food. Contains L. bulgaricus and S. thermophilus. Some brands add additional strains. Look for "live active cultures."