Our Ingredients

Recent research on Lion's Mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) demonstrates a growing body of evidence supporting its benefits for cognition, neurogenesis, and mood regulation. Controlled human trials have shown that standardized extracts can produce acute cognitive and mood improvements, particularly in younger adults.

A 2024 systematic review concluded that Hericium erinaceus supplementation consistently improves memory, cognitive flexibility, and mood across populations with mild cognitive impairment and healthy subjects alike. Mechanistically, Lion's Mane promotes nerve growth factor (NGF) synthesis, fostering neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity.

Further, it exhibits neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects, potentially mitigating cognitive decline and supporting recovery in mild cognitive impairment cases. Broader analyses have highlighted Lion's Mane as a promising neuroregenerative compound, with implications for ADHD, age-related decline, and mood stabilization.

Collectively, these findings suggest that Hericium erinaceus supports neurogenesis, cognitive enhancement, and emotional balance, though larger-scale, long-term human trials are still required to validate its full therapeutic potential.

Rhodiola rosea is a well-researched adaptogen with a strong evidence base for reducing mental fatigue and supporting cognitive performance during stressful conditions. Its active compounds — rosavins and salidroside — act on the HPA axis, helping regulate the stress-response system.

Clinical trials have demonstrated that Rhodiola supplementation reduces self-reported fatigue, improves attention and processing speed, and enhances overall mental performance during cognitively demanding tasks. Effects are typically noticeable within days of starting supplementation.

Research also indicates mood-supporting properties, with studies showing reductions in burnout symptoms and improvements in emotional wellbeing. Its dual action on both energy and stress makes it a particularly versatile adaptogen.

Rhodiola is generally well-tolerated and considered safe for most adults when taken at standard doses (200–600mg of standardized extract daily). It is best taken in the morning as it can be mildly stimulating.

Recent scientific interest in Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum / Holy Basil) has produced a growing body of evidence supporting its adaptogenic, stress-modulating, cognitive, and wellness-related properties. A comprehensive review of human clinical studies found favorable outcomes across multiple domains — including metabolic health, immunity, stress reduction, and neurocognitive function.

Clinical research includes randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies demonstrating that supplementation with standardized Tulsi extracts over 6–8 weeks can reduce subjective and objective measures of stress and improve self-reported sleep quality in adults experiencing stress.

Mechanistically, biochemical constituents such as eugenol, ursolic acid, rosmarinic acid, flavonoids, and terpenes are thought to contribute to Tulsi's antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuromodulatory activities. These compounds may modulate key pathways involved in stress signaling, inflammatory responses, and neuronal resilience.

Collectively, the current research suggests that Tulsi supports stress adaptation, emotional well-being, and cognitive clarity, and may offer complementary benefits for immune and metabolic health.

Bacopa monnieri is a traditional Ayurvedic herb extensively studied for its cognitive-enhancing and neuroprotective properties. Often called 'Brahmi,' it has been used for centuries to support memory, learning, and mental clarity.

Multiple systematic reviews and meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials have demonstrated that Bacopa monnieri supplementation significantly improves various aspects of cognitive function, including attention, working memory, information processing speed, and learning rate. These effects appear to strengthen with continued use, typically becoming more pronounced after 8–12 weeks.

The primary bioactive compounds in Bacopa are bacosides, which enhance synaptic communication, promote dendritic branching, and support the synthesis of proteins involved in long-term memory formation. Bacopa also exhibits antioxidant properties, protecting neurons from oxidative stress.

Research suggests that Bacopa modulates neurotransmitter systems including acetylcholine, serotonin, and GABA, contributing to its effects on cognition and mood. It has shown promise in reducing anxiety and stress while simultaneously enhancing cognitive performance.

Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) has a long history of use in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine as a 'brain food' and longevity herb. Modern research has begun to validate these traditional uses, particularly its effects on cognitive function and cerebrovascular health.

Clinical studies show that Gotu Kola improves memory, attention, and information processing, with some research suggesting it enhances working memory and reduces mental fatigue. Its cognitive benefits may be partly attributable to improvements in cerebral blood flow and microcirculation.

The triterpenoid compounds in Gotu Kola — particularly asiaticoside, madecassoside, and asiatic acid — exhibit neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds support collagen synthesis and may protect against neurodegeneration.

Unlike many cognitive enhancers, Gotu Kola combines mental clarity effects with a calming, grounding quality, making it suitable for use throughout the day without causing overstimulation. It is particularly valued for supporting focus during meditation and contemplative practices.

Cordyceps is a functional mushroom with a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine to support energy, stamina, and longevity. Modern research has confirmed several of these traditional uses, particularly its effects on energy metabolism and physical performance.

The primary active compound, cordycepin (3'-deoxyadenosine), supports ATP production at the cellular level — the fundamental unit of energy currency in the body. Research shows that Cordyceps supplementation can increase cellular energy production without the side effects associated with stimulants.

Clinical and pre-clinical studies demonstrate improvements in physical endurance, oxygen utilization (VO2 max), and recovery from fatigue. These effects make Cordyceps particularly valuable for supporting sustained energy and engagement throughout the day.

Beyond physical energy, Cordyceps also shows adaptogenic properties, helping the body maintain homeostasis under various stressors. Research suggests additional benefits for immune function and anti-aging, with β-glucans and polysaccharides contributing to its immune-modulating effects.

Raw cacao (Theobroma cacao — 'food of the gods') contains a unique blend of neuroactive compounds that have been used for thousands of years in ceremonial and medicinal contexts. Modern pharmacology has begun to explain its mood-elevating and focus-enhancing properties.

Theobromine, the primary methylxanthine in cacao, produces smooth, sustained stimulation through vasodilation and mild CNS activation — supporting both physical and mental energy without the sharp peaks and crashes of caffeine. Phenethylamine (PEA), often called the 'love molecule,' triggers release of dopamine and endorphins, contributing to cacao's mood-lifting effects.

Flavanols in cacao — particularly epicatechin and catechin — improve cerebral blood flow, with studies showing enhanced cognitive performance, including attention and memory. These compounds also support cardiovascular health and have antioxidant properties.

Magnesium content in cacao supports muscle relaxation and nervous system balance, while anandamide (the 'bliss molecule') and its potentiation by N-acylethanolamines contribute to feelings of ease and emotional openness traditionally associated with ceremonial cacao use.

Schisandra chinensis — the 'five-flavour berry' of traditional Chinese medicine — is a potent adaptogen used for centuries to support vitality, mental performance, and longevity. Its unique phytochemical profile affects multiple body systems simultaneously.

Active lignan compounds, particularly schisandrin, schisandrin B, and gomisins, have demonstrated hepatoprotective, adaptogenic, and nootropic effects in both pre-clinical and clinical research. Studies show improvements in attention, coordination, and endurance under stress.

Schisandra supports adrenal function and helps regulate cortisol, making it particularly valuable during periods of sustained stress or high cognitive demand. It also supports liver detoxification pathways, which may indirectly benefit overall energy and cognitive clarity.

Its unique combination of energizing and calming effects makes Schisandra a true bidirectional adaptogen — supporting performance when energy is needed and promoting calm when stress is high. This makes it a valuable complement to other adaptogens in energy-focused blends.

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) — revered as the 'mushroom of immortality' in traditional Chinese medicine — has one of the most extensive research profiles of any functional mushroom. Its triterpene and beta-glucan content underpin a broad range of documented effects.

Clinical research demonstrates significant anxiolytic effects, with studies showing reductions in fatigue, anxiety, and depression in patients with various conditions. Reishi modulates the HPA axis and supports parasympathetic nervous system activity, helping shift the body from stress-reactive states toward calm and restoration.

Multiple randomized controlled trials confirm improvements in sleep quality, particularly sleep efficiency and subjective sleep experience. The triterpenes appear to modulate GABA-A receptors, offering a mechanism for both anxiolytic and sedative effects without the dependency risks of pharmaceutical agents.

Beta-glucans in Reishi support immune homeostasis — neither over-stimulating nor under-activating immune responses but helping calibrate appropriate immune function. This makes Reishi particularly valuable during periods of chronic stress when immune regulation is often compromised.

Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) has a long history of use as a gentle anxiolytic and sleep-supportive herb in European and Indigenous American traditions. Modern pharmacology has confirmed its interaction with the GABAergic system — the same pathway targeted by pharmaceutical anxiolytics.

Clinical trials have demonstrated that Passionflower extract reduces anxiety symptoms with efficacy comparable to some pharmaceutical agents, but with significantly fewer side effects. Studies specifically show reductions in occupational anxiety, pre-procedural anxiety, and generalized anxiety symptoms.

For sleep, research shows that Passionflower improves sleep quality, sleep onset, and subjective sleep experience. Unlike sedative pharmaceuticals, Passionflower appears to support natural sleep architecture rather than suppressing it.

The active compounds — vitexin, isovitexin, chrysin, and harman alkaloids — appear to modulate GABA-A receptors, increasing inhibitory neurotransmission and reducing neuronal excitability. This translates to a calming of mental chatter and physical tension without heavy sedation.

Blue Lotus (Nymphaea caerulea) was sacred in ancient Egyptian culture — depicted throughout temple art and associated with creation, the sun, and altered states of consciousness. It was used in ceremonial contexts to support introspection, dream states, and spiritual awareness.

The primary bioactive compounds — nuciferine and apomorphine — interact with dopamine receptors (particularly D2 and D4), producing mild psychoactive effects described as gentle euphoria and enhanced inner awareness. Apomorphine has also been studied for its effects on consciousness and motor systems.

Research on nuciferine suggests antispasmodic, anxiolytic, and mild sedative properties. Its mechanism differs from classic sedatives, supporting a state of relaxed alertness rather than heavy sedation — conducive to meditation, breathwork, and contemplative practices.

Blue Lotus occupies a unique space in the botanical pharmacopoeia: not strongly sedating, not stimulating, but supporting a quality of quiet presence and inner depth. It is typically used in the evening or during intentional practice rather than as a daytime supplement.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is one of the most extensively researched adaptogens in modern science, with a robust clinical evidence base spanning stress reduction, hormonal balance, cognitive enhancement, and sleep improvement.

Multiple randomized controlled trials have confirmed that standardized Ashwagandha extracts (particularly KSM-66 and Sensoril) significantly reduce serum cortisol levels, perceived stress scores, and anxiety symptoms. Effect sizes are consistently meaningful, with some studies showing 20–30% reductions in cortisol.

For cognitive function, research demonstrates improvements in memory, attention, processing speed, and executive function — with some studies suggesting benefits for both healthy adults and those experiencing cognitive decline. These cognitive benefits appear related to reduced stress burden and direct neuroprotective effects of withanolides.

Sleep research shows improvements in sleep quality, sleep onset, and sleep efficiency. The herb's name translates roughly as 'strength of horse' and 'that which makes sleep' — reflecting traditional recognition of both its vitality-supporting and sleep-promoting properties.

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is among the most widely studied botanical anxiolytics, with evidence supporting its effectiveness through both inhalation and oral supplementation. Its calming effects are well-documented across multiple clinical contexts.

Oral lavender oil (standardized preparations such as Silexan) has been evaluated in multiple double-blind RCTs showing significant reductions in generalized anxiety, with effect sizes comparable to benzodiazepines but without dependency, sedation, or withdrawal effects.

Mechanistically, linalool and linalyl acetate — the primary terpenoids in lavender — modulate voltage-gated calcium channels and interact with serotonin receptors, contributing to anxiolytic and mood-stabilizing effects. Linalool has also been shown to increase GABAergic neurotransmission.

Beyond anxiety, clinical research supports lavender for improving sleep quality, reducing physiological stress markers including heart rate variability, and supporting emotional regulation. Its safety profile is excellent, making it suitable for long-term use.

Rose (Rosa damascena) has been used in traditional medicine across Persian, Ayurvedic, and European herbal traditions for its gentle mood-lifting and nervine properties. Modern research has begun to characterize the mechanisms behind these long-observed effects.

The primary aromatic compounds — geraniol, citronellol, and rose oxide — modulate the central nervous system through olfactory and oral routes. Research shows reductions in sympathetic nervous system activity, lower cortisol responses to stress, and improvements in mood following rose extract supplementation.

Clinical studies have demonstrated anxiolytic and antidepressant-like effects, particularly relevant for emotional sensitivity and grief processing. Rose appears to gently support emotional openness — reducing defensive tension while maintaining clarity.

The flavonoid content of rose petals, particularly quercetin and kaempferol, contributes anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. These compounds may indirectly support mood by reducing neuroinflammation, increasingly recognized as a contributor to mood disorders.

Damiana (Turnera diffusa) is a traditional botanical from Central America and Mexico, long used by indigenous cultures for its mild euphoric, relaxing, and emotionally opening properties. It occupies a unique niche as an embodiment herb — supporting somatic awareness and present-moment experience.

The primary active compounds — apigenin, arbutin, and various terpenoids — interact with benzodiazepine receptors and progesterone receptors, contributing to its relaxing and mild euphoric effects. Apigenin in particular binds to GABA-A receptors, explaining its anxiolytic and muscle-relaxing properties.

Research suggests Damiana enhances sensory awareness and somatic presence rather than inducing sedation. This makes it particularly valuable in blends intended for body-centered practices like movement, breathwork, or intimate connection.

Its traditional use as an aphrodisiac has some pharmacological basis — improved circulation, reduced anxiety, and enhanced somatic awareness all contribute to increased sensory presence and relational openness.

St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) is one of the most extensively studied botanical medicines for mood support, with a clinical evidence base that places it firmly in evidence-based practice for mild to moderate depression.

Meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials consistently find that standardized St. John's Wort extracts are significantly more effective than placebo for mild-to-moderate depression, and comparable in efficacy to standard antidepressants — with a more favourable side effect profile in most comparisons.

The primary active compound hypericin and the flavonoid hyperforin are understood to inhibit the reuptake of serotonin, dopamine, and noradrenaline — a mechanism similar to conventional antidepressants. This broad monoamine reuptake inhibition likely contributes to its sustained mood-lifting effects.

Important note: St. John's Wort significantly interacts with many prescription medications by inducing CYP450 liver enzymes, which can reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives, anticoagulants, antiretrovirals, and other drugs. It should not be combined with prescription antidepressants.