Herb Library

Atractylodes macrocephala

TCM Spleen qi tonic — dries dampness and strengthens digestion. One of the most prescribed herbs in Chinese medicine. Key ingredient in Si Jun Zi Tang (Four Gentlemen). For fatigue, poor appetite, loose stool, and edema. Mild and safe.

Bertholletia excelsa

The richest natural source of selenium — 1-2 nuts provide daily requirement. Used for thyroid support, antioxidant protection, and immune health.

Ziziphus jujuba (fruit)

TCM qi and blood tonic — harmonizes formulas and moderates harsh herbs. For fatigue, poor appetite, and emotional instability. The most commonly used "assistant" herb in TCM formulas. Sweet and nourishing. Eaten as a snack throughout China.

Protease + Lipase + Amylase + plant enzymes

Broad-spectrum plant-based digestive enzymes — breaks down protein, fat, carbs, fiber, and dairy. Take with meals. Not an herb but essential in digestive protocols.

Eucalyptus + Menthol (lozenge)

Eucalyptus and menthol cough drops — the classic sore throat and congestion remedy. Provides cooling relief and mild antimicrobial action. OTC standard.

Phyllanthus amarus

Siddha lithotriptic for kidney stones and hepatoprotective for jaundice and hepatitis B; extremely important in Tamil medicine.

Leptospermum scoparium (lozenge)

Lozenges made with genuine Manuka honey — provides direct MGO antimicrobial action to the throat. Check for UMF/MGO rating on product. Delicious and effective.

Olea europaea (18-25% oleuropein)

Standardized olive leaf — 18-25% oleuropein. Broad-spectrum antimicrobial for colds, flu, and chronic infections. Also lowers blood pressure and blood sugar. Herxheimer (die-off) reactions common when starting — start low. More potent than eating olives.

Picrorhiza scrophulariiflora

Tibetan and Chinese medicinal plant — substitute for the endangered P. kurroa. Used for liver protection, fever, and digestive complaints. Contains picroside I-IV with hepatoprotective and anti-inflammatory activity. Sustainable alternative to Indian kutki.

Olea europaea

Unani prophetic medicine oil for constipation, gallstones, skin conditions, and cardiovascular health; also used as a vehicle for other remedies.

Xysmalobium undulatum

South African anti-diarrheal — German registered medicine (Uzara). Contains uzarin (cardiac glycoside with anti-motility effect). For acute non-specific diarrhea. One of the most successful African traditional medicines commercialized in Europe.

Hamamelis virginiana

A widely used astringent herb, primarily topical, for skin toning, hemorrhoids, and minor skin irritation.

Hamamelis virginiana (distillate)

Distilled witch hazel — the classic natural skin toner. Alcohol-free versions (Thayers) are gentler. Used for acne, oily skin, and as a post-shave tonic.

Polyporus umbellatus

TCM diuretic mushroom — promotes urination without depleting potassium. For edema, UTIs, and as cancer adjuvant (clinical use in China). Part of Zhu Ling Tang (Polyporus Decoction) for UTI with blood in urine. Immune-modulating polysaccharides.