Menstruation

Vitamin A plays a crucial role in various biochemical and physiological processes in cells. It binds to retinoid receptors, which activate or deactivate genes involved in cell specialization.
Ascorbic acid is the pure form of vitamin C. People generally tolerate buffered forms of ascorbic acid better due to the lack of gastrointestinal complaints. Vitamin C is essential for the body.
Although our skin can produce vitamin D, this is often insufficient. Vitamin D supplementation is therefore often necessary, because this vitamin plays a role in various body processes.
Zinc is available in various forms, with zinc bisglycinate having excellent bioavailability.

Lucerne (Medicago sativa), also known as alfalfa, is a perennial plant that can live between five and twelve years, depending on the variety and climate. With a height of up to one meter and clusters of small purple flowers, the plant resembles clover. The plant has a deep and powerful root system that can extend up to 4.5 meters.

Lucerne is native to Europe and is grown worldwide as animal feed. In the Netherlands, alfalfa is mainly dried artificially for the production of protein-rich animal feed.

The angelica (Angelica archangelica), also known as archangelica, belongs to the umbellifer family (Apiaceae). This plant thrives in moist, very nutrient-rich soil along water edges, such as the IJsselmeer, river banks and in osier banks. In addition, the angelica is also grown in gardens.
Historically, angelica is known for its medicinal properties. The plant is still grown locally from central Germany to Turkestan. A sweet-smelling oil known as angelica oil is extracted from the seeds and roots, which is used in the cosmetic industry, liquor distilleries and bakeries. In addition, the stems and petioles are often candied because of their sweet and fragrant taste.

Anise seed has a naturally sweet, warm taste reminiscent of licorice. It is a versatile seasoning that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. All over the world, anise seed is used in confectionery, and it is also often added to liqueurs, such as Ouzo.
You can add anise seeds to bread, pastries, cookies, fruit and gingerbread. In Indian cuisine, anise is indispensable in curries and fish dishes, and it gives a delicious flavor to vegetables such as pumpkin and carrot. In the Netherlands it is a tradition to use anise seed on rusk with mice at birth.
Anise seed tea can help with a feeling of heaviness after meals, because it has a soothing and relaxing effect.

In Ayurvedic medicine, ashwagandha is known as a 'rasayana', meaning it is used to support both physical and mental health. It has a calming effect and is used to sleep better and promote a balanced mind. In India, where this herb originates, it is believed to support male potency and female health, often compared to the strength and vitality of a horse.

In Ayurvedic medicine, ashwagandha is known as a 'rasayana', meaning it is used to support both physical and mental health. It has a calming effect and is used to sleep better and promote a balanced mind. In India, where this herb originates, it is believed to support male potency and female health, often compared to the strength and vitality of a horse.

Asian pennywort also known as Gotu kola(Centella asiatica), is a plant that thrives in Southeast Asia and plays a central role in Ayurvedic medicine. Due to its diverse active substances, Asian pennywort is widely used in herbal medicine. It is known for supporting cognitive functions such as memory, concentration and learning, and it is also used to promote healthy blood circulation and vascular function.
Asian pennywort is a delicate plant with creeping stems and small, rounded leaves, often accompanied by white or pink flowers. The main bioactive compounds in Asian pennywort are triterpene glycosides, alkaloids and essential oils.

Astragalus, also known as Fleshy Locust (Astragalus membranaceus), is a plant native to Asia. It has been used for 2000 years in traditional Chinese herbal medicine to strengthen the immune system. In addition to this property, astragalus has many other benefits. According to Chinese tradition, it strengthens the life force, or 'qi', as it is called in China, when ingested. It is known as a powerful antioxidant and is especially valued for its ability to support the immune system.

Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a plant from the Lamiaceae family. The name basil is derived from the Ancient Greek word 'basileus', meaning king, which is also reflected in the alternative name king herb. Basil originally grows in the regions between Central Africa and Southeast Asia.
In some pharmacopoeias and traditional medicine, basil is recommended for the treatment of arthritis, bronchitis, colds, fever, influenza, stomach ulcers, rheumatism, earache, epilepsy, heart disease, malaria, sinusitis, snakebites, abdominal pain and vomiting.
Scientific research has shown that basil has antioxidant, antiviral and antimicrobial properties.

Black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa), has been used in North American herbal medicine for centuries. The roots of this plant have been used for centuries by northern Indian tribes, where it is known as "squawroot" (where 'squaw' refers to 'Indian woman'). Black cohosh is best known as an herb specifically aimed at women and is becoming increasingly popular in the Netherlands. It provides support for menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and irritable feelings.

Blackberries are not only delicious, but also extremely nutritious. They are packed with essential nutrients and dietary fiber. These dark purple treats are a rich source of vitamins C, E, K, folic acid and manganese, making them an important contribution to a healthy diet.
The intense purple color of blackberries is caused by anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that protect our cells against harmful external influences. But it goes further than that. Blackberries are particularly rich in phenolic acids, which also have antioxidant properties. These acids, which include anthocyanins, ellagic acid, rutin, gallic acid, quercetin, cyanides, p-coumaric acid and cinnamic acid, provide numerous health benefits.

The genus Blackberry (Rubus) belongs to the rose family and has more than 1400 species worldwide. More than 200 of these species grow in the Netherlands and Belgium.
Blackberries are prized primarily for their fruits, which range in color from red to dark blue. They have a sweet taste and can be eaten fresh or processed into jam, for example.
The leaves of the blackberry can be used to make herbal tea. After picking, the leaves should be dried in a dry and airy place, after which they can be used to make tea.

Bladderwrack (Fucus vesiculosus) is a type of brown algae belonging to the genus Fucus. It thrives along the northern coasts of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, and in the North Sea and Baltic Sea, often found in kelp forests. This seaweed is characterized by air bladders that serve as a floating organ, although there are also variants without these bladders.
Like other brown algae, bladderwrack is rich in a specific class of polyphenols called phlorotannins, which possess powerful antioxidant properties. In addition, these phlorotannins have antibiotic, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties.

Cat's claw (Uncaria tomentosa) is a climbing plant that is native to the Amazon region of Brazil and Peru. It is highly valued in the Peruvian Amazon and is among the protected species. This plant is often called the 'sacred herb of the rainforest' because of its significance. The name 'cat's claw' or 'cat's claw' is derived from the small claw-like thorns at the base of the leaves, which resemble a cat's claws. These claws help the vine to wrap itself around trees and climb up to a hundred meters high!

Cat's claw (Uncaria tomentosa) is a climbing plant that is native to the Amazon region of Brazil and Peru. It is highly valued in the Peruvian Amazon and is among the protected species. This plant is often called the 'sacred herb of the rainforest' because of its significance. The name 'cat's claw' or 'cat's claw' is derived from the small claw-like thorns at the base of the leaves, which resemble a cat's claws. These claws help the vine to wrap itself around trees and climb up to a hundred meters high!

Single herbal tincture made with dried bark of Uncaria tomentosa (Cat's Claw).
Although the West has only recently discovered the benefits of this herb, many cultures native to the Amazon rainforest have been using cat's claw for centuries. It is known for its ability to keep joints flexible and to support the human body's immune system. The active ingredients of cat's claw are alkaloids, tannins and various other phytochemicals. Research has shown that some of these alkaloids can support the immune system.

Cat's claw (Uncaria tomentosa) is a climbing plant that is native to the Amazon region of Brazil and Peru. It is highly valued in the Peruvian Amazon and is among the protected species. This plant is often called the 'sacred herb of the rainforest' because of its significance. The name 'cat's claw' or 'cat's claw' is derived from the small claw-like thorns at the base of the leaves, which resemble a cat's claws. These claws help the vine to wrap itself around trees and climb up to a hundred meters high!

Centaury, also known by the scientific name Centaurium (synonym: Erythraea), includes about fifty species of herbaceous plants belonging to the gentian family (Gentianaceae). The genus may have been named after the centaur Chiron from Greek mythology, who was known for his knowledge of medicinal herbs and reportedly treated his wounds with this herb. An alternative explanation for the botanical name is derived from the Latin 'centum' (= one hundred) and 'aurum' (= gold).
In North America, the European centaury is sometimes cultivated as a medicinal plant and has been partly introduced as an exotic plant. The herb contains various bitter substances, glycosides, flavonoids, essential oils, valeric acid and xanthones.

True chamomile, also known as Matricaria chamomilla or Matricaria recutita, is native throughout Europe and widely cultivated in countries such as Hungary and Eastern Europe. The ancient Egyptians revered chamomile as the flower of the sun god Ra. The herb is known for its supportive effect on the immune system, soothing effect on the respiratory tract and promoting digestion. Additionally, chamomile is often used as a natural sedative and to promote restful sleep.

True chamomile, also known as Matricaria chamomilla or Matricaria recutita, is native throughout Europe and widely cultivated in countries such as Hungary and Eastern Europe. The ancient Egyptians revered chamomile as the flower of the sun god Ra. The herb is known for its supportive effect on the immune system, soothing effect on the respiratory tract and promoting digestion. Additionally, chamomile is often used as a natural sedative and to promote restful sleep.

Single herbal tincture made with dried flower of Matricaria recutita (True Chamomile).
True chamomile, also known as Matricaria chamomilla or Matricaria recutita, is native throughout Europe and widely cultivated in countries such as Hungary and Eastern Europe. The ancient Egyptians revered chamomile as the flower of the sun god Ra. The herb is known for its supportive effect on the immune system, soothing effect on the respiratory tract and promoting digestion. Additionally, chamomile is often used as a natural sedative and to promote restful sleep.

Chia, also known as Salvia hispanica, is a plant from the Lamiaceae family, originally from central and southern Mexico and Guatemala. The Aztecs cultivated this plant even before Columbus discovered America, and chia seeds were used as currency to the rulers. Today, chia is still prized in Mexico and Guatemala; the ground seeds are used in dishes, while whole seeds are often added to nutritious drinks.
The main purpose of growing chia is for its seeds, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. About 25-30% of the seed contains vegetable oil, including alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). Chia seeds are small and oval, about 1 mm in diameter, and have a color palette of brown, gray-black and white.

Chlorella, a single-celled green algae belonging to the green algae family, thrives in lakes and rivers of Southeast Asia. This microscopic organism is a veritable treasure trove of nutrients, including proteins, vitamins, trace elements and omega-3 fatty acids.
Its versatility is reflected in supporting the immune system and promoting liver detoxification. Chlorella also contributes to healthy digestion and supports normal intestinal function. The name 'chlorella' has its origins in the Greek words 'chloros' and 'ella', which mean 'green' and 'small' respectively.

Chlorella, a single-celled green algae belonging to the green algae family, thrives in lakes and rivers of Southeast Asia. This microscopic organism is a veritable treasure trove of nutrients, including proteins, vitamins, trace elements and omega-3 fatty acids.
Its versatility is reflected in supporting the immune system and promoting liver detoxification. Chlorella also contributes to healthy digestion and supports normal intestinal function. The name 'chlorella' has its origins in the Greek words 'chloros' and 'ella', which mean 'green' and 'small' respectively.