Also known as devil’s claw, the Hárpago has been used for millennia by several African tribes and was one of the first medicinal plants that saw its composition being investigated in Europe, still in the century. XIX.

It is rich in iridoids with anti-inflammatory action, namely in the process of inflammation and destruction of cartilage.

It also contains other phytochemicals, such as betasitosterols, which inhibit the formation of prostaglandins.

This plant is indicated for the treatment of osteoarticular pain, low back pain, cervical pain, bursitis, epicondylitis, fibrositis, headache and rheumatoid arthritis. It is a good alternative to anti-inflammatory drugs and does not have the adverse effects of these. In the mechanism of inflammation (inflammatory cascade of arachidonic acid), it does not inhibit COX 1, as do most NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).

Consequently, it does not cause gastric and duodenal ulcers.

Its added value at the anti-inflammatory level is the inhibition of 5-lipoxygenase and inflammatory cytokines, a mechanism of action that NSAIDs do not have.

Stimulates liver function, improving dyspepsia and appetite. It is also an adjunct in the treatment of fevers and allergies.

Coming from the fern (plant considered a “living fossil”, since it has no “relatives”), the extract of Ginkgo Biloba is perhaps the most used supplement in the difficulty of memorization, in all ages.

Ginkgo Biloba is a tree that can live up to a thousand years and its effects have long been known since since 2600 BC, descriptions of benefits in asthma and bronchitis have been found.

There are more than 40 compounds described, but the effects are essentially due to the flavonoids and terpenoids present in the leaves.

flavonoids as antioxidants protect nerve cells, heart muscle, blood vessels and retinal cells;

terpenoids improve blood circulation by dilating blood vessels (vasodilator) and are an inhibitor of the platelet activating factor contributing to the reduction of blood viscosity.

The extract of Ginkgo Biloba promotes increased blood flow to the extremities. This mechanism of action may explain its effects on memory and mental faculties.

This plant has been shown in several studies to have positive effects on concentration, retention and memorization.

Ginkgo , in addition to improving the cerebral circulatory process, is also a potent antioxidant capable of helping brain functioning (Vesper and Hansgen – 1994).

The German Commission E recognized its benefits in cases of memory problems, disturbances in concentration, depressed emotional condition, dizziness, vertigo, ringing in the ear and headache.

The use of Ginkgo Biloba with aspirin, ticlopidine, antiplatelet agents and anticoagulants is contraindicated due to the potential risk of bleeding. It can enhance the action of the MAOIs.

It is a plant of the crassulaceae family, adaptogenic, which grows in the cold regions of the world (Arctic), mountainous areas all over the world: Central Asia, Europe (Alps, Pyrenees), Scandinavia, Iceland, Great Britain and Ireland.

Rhodiola Rosea is a plant native to Arctic Siberia, internationally known as Golden root, golden root or Arctic root (Kelly, 2001).

Rhodiola roots have been used by Eastern European and Asian cultures to improve physical stamina, decrease recovery time after intense exercise and work performance, longevity, resistance to diseases caused by high latitudes, and to treat fatigue, depression, anemia, impotence, gastrointestinal upset, infections and disorders of the nervous system. (Richard, 2002).

As an adaptogen, it helps to resist / adapt to physical, chemical or emotional stress without disturbing the normal functioning of the body.

Regulates heart rate and improves memory.

Much sought after also for its antidepressant, anxiolytic and immunostimulating effects.

The extracts of Rhodiola appear to protect cells from external damage and interfere with the production of neurotransmitters and the production of ATP (energy).

Eleutherococcus senticosus is a small shrub in the family Araliaceae native to Northeast Asia (China, Japan and Russia). It is often known as Siberian Ginseng (forbidden name in the USA), eleuthero or Ciwujia.

Eleutherococcus has a history of over 2000 years of use in traditional Chinese medicine, where it is known as CI Wǔ AIJ.

Its roots have stimulating, anxiolytic and adaptogenic properties, (stimulates the central nervous system, increases physical and intellectual performance). It strengthens immunity by stimulating the body’s defenses and attenuates the toxicity of certain antimitotics (chemotherapy). It enhances the resistance of brain cells to the effects of ischemia. It increases mental acuity and physical endurance without the disadvantage that accompanies caffeinated products.

In Chinese herbal medicine Eleutherococcus is used by people with bone marrow suppression caused by chemotherapy or radiation, angina, hypercholesterolemia and neurasthenia with headache, insomnia and poor appetite.

Eleutherococcus ‘s ability to increase endurance has led Soviet Olympic athletes to use it to improve their performance. Explorers, divers, sailors and miners use eleutherococcus to avoid stress-related illnesses. After the Chernobyl accident, it was given to many Russian citizens, to counteract the effects of radiation.

In Germany Commission E approved eleutherococcus as a tonic in case of fatigue and weakness, when the capacity for work or concentration is in decline, and during convalescence. Other uses for eleutherococcus are for chronic inflammatory conditions and traditionally for functional asthenia (Bruneton, 1995).

The results of Eleutherococcus pharmacological investigations were summarized in a book by IV Dardymov and E. l. Khasina (1993).

It is a phospholipid vital to the brain (a fat component of the cell membrane) created by the body, which performs vital functions, such as moving nutrients to cells and pumping waste products out of them.

In the past, this nutrient was removed from the brain of cattle, which was banned after the “mad cow” disease.

The plant-based nutrient used as a food supplement (obtained from soy lecithin), can improve cognitive function and increase various activities at the brain level, such as memory.

Based on the evidence it is suggested that Phosphatidylserine may help to reduce mental confusion and depression in the elderly and is widely used for this purpose in Italy, Scandinavia and the rest of Europe. It has also been marketed as a “brain stimulant” for people of all ages and is said to sharpen memory and increase thinking.

It has recently been used as a sports supplement to help elite bodybuilders and athletes build bigger and stronger muscles.

The FDA accepts the claim that Phosphatidylserine can reduce the risk of dementia in the elderly and can reduce the risk of cognitive dysfunction in the elderly “.

The ginseng (Panax sp.) of the Araliaceae family, is a plant used in Chinese medicine for more than 5000 years to increase longevity and quality of life. Panax ginseng is the most studied and commercially available species of this plant. Another species, Panax quinquefolius (American ginseng), is grown in the western United States and exported to China.

The name ginseng is derived from a Chinese word meaning “root-man”, because the root has a shape similar to a man’s legs.

The medicinal part of the plant is its slow-growing root, harvested after four to six years, when its overall ginsenoside content – the main active ingredient in ginseng – reaches its maximum.

There are thirteen ginsenosides in all. Panax ginseng also contains panaxanes, substances that can lower blood sugar (glucose) levels and polysaccharides, complex sugar molecules that strengthen the immune system.

“White” ginseng consists simply of the dehydrated root, while “red” ginseng consists of the steamed and dehydrated root.

In general, Panax Ginseng is used as a herbal medicine and the actions manifested by this medicinal plant led to the creation of a new group of drugs called adaptogens. These products are characterized by being able to slowly normalize the organism, when it is under stress or with natural resistance reduced by infections, or even when there is loss of physical and intellectual vitality due to aging.

Helps to stimulate brain function and fight anxiety and depression associated with menopause.

Its activities are also described: antiviral, anti-aggregating and antioxidant and cardiac tonic.

The German Commission E recognized the benefits of Panax Ginseng as an invigorating and strengthening tonic in situations of fatigue and weakness, in diminished physical capacities as well as in convalescent situations.

It should be used with caution in people with uncontrolled high blood pressure. It is not recommended during pregnancy, breastfeeding or for people with breast cancer.

Paullinia cupana Kunth, commonly called guaraná , guaranazeiro and uaraná, is a vine native to the Amazon. Used by the Indians of the Amazon for thousands of years, it grows spontaneously in this place.

The University of Northumbria conducted, in 2007, a study that confirmed an increase in cognitive performance and a reduction in mental fatigue in 129 healthy adults (between 18 and 24 years of age) who took a supplement with guarana, vitamins and minerals.

It is one of the richest plants in caffeine. It also contains theobromine and theophylline, other alkaloids in the group of xanthines that, like caffeine, stimulate the nervous system, increase the secretion of gastric juices (improving digestion) and are bronchodilators and diuretics. It also has catechins and epicatechins with antioxidant and antiplatelet action.

It is a tonic, regulating the body’s energy. It is part of the composition of many energy drinks. It stimulates the nervous system, being used to prevent fatigue in athletes (increasing performances).
Helps to increase energy levels for an immediate response, helps to reinforce the body’s resistance to stress and fatigue and improves reactivity and surveillance.

Precautions – They are the same as coffee. It should be used with caution in people with high blood pressure, palpitations, nervous disorders or insomnia problems.

It is a root cultivated by the indigenous peoples of the Andes of Bolivia and has been cultivated in the Andes for thousands of years.

It is extremely nutritionally rich and contains 31 different elements: B vitamins, vitamin C and E, calcium, zinc, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, as well as amino acids, antioxidants, alkaloids and sterols. The amino acids L-Aspartic Acid and L-Arginine are of fundamental importance for cellular metabolism, participating in the Krebs cycle vital for energy production.

Maca thrives in conditions where almost no other plants can survive, at altitudes above 4,000m, with freezing winds and scorching heat. This resilience may help to explain its beneficial and energetic properties.

Beneficial properties of Maca – Increases libido and improves sexual function – Promotes hormonal balance in men and women – Relieves symptoms of menopause – Increases resistance against diseases and strengthens immunity – Increases energy, stamina and vigor – Reduces stress and improves sleep quality.

For Man : The indigenous peoples of Bolivia and Peru have used Maca for thousands of years to improve libido and their reproductive capabilities. < / p>

Since being “rediscovered by modern science”, Maca , and maca supplements, have become popular as a safe and natural way to improve sexual vitality, desire and performance.

For Women : The native peoples of Bolivia use the root of Maca to treat a variety of female health problems, from infertility to menstrual disorders and problems associated with menopause .

In North America, some naturopaths and doctors suggest that Maca is a safe alternative to TSH (Hormone Replacement Therapy), for hormonal balance and to improve sexual function.

O Lúpulo (Vinha do norte) é uma trepadeira europeia da espécie Humulus lupulus, da família Cannabaceae. É um herbáceo perene, volúvel, vivaz, originário da Europa, e mais conhecido como o principal ingrediente da cerveja. No calor do cozimento da mistura, o lúpulo libera as suas resinas de sabor amargo, dando à cerveja sabor característico.

Tem uma história longa e comprovada de uso como planta, sobretudo devido aos seus efeitos sedativos, calmante e ligeiramente antidepressivo a nível do corpo e da mente.

As propriedades medicinais que se destacam no lúpulo são: Anafrodisíaco, antibacteriano, antiespasmódico, diurético, emenagogo, hipnótico, relaxante muscular e sedativo.

Pesquisas mostram que o Lúpulo pode actuar como um fito estrógeno (um produto químico natural conhecido por imitar a acção do estrogénio). Como os níveis de estrogénio diminuem durante a menopausa, algumas mulheres tomam lúpulo, a fim de aliviar os sintomas da menopausa. De fato, um estudo de 2006, descobriu que a ingestão diária de lúpulo ajudou a aliviar os sintomas da menopausa (como as ondas de calor). O estudo envolveu 67 mulheres na menopausa, o tratamento durou 12 semanas.

Uma recente pesquisa japonesa (2013) demonstrou que compostos do lúpulo são capazes de inibir a multiplicação do vírus respiratórios, contribuindo com a protecção contra a pneumonia, gripes e constipações.

Juntar lúpulo com valeriana pode ajudar a tratar a insónia, de acordo com uma pesquisa de 2010, publicada no Australian Family Physician. A pesquisa incluiu 16 estudos previamente publicados, 12 dos quais descobriram que o uso de valeriana por conta própria ou em combinação com Lúpulo ajudou a melhorar a qualidade do sono e diminui a quantidade de tempo que leva para adormecer.

Pode causar sonolência, e diminuir a libido.

Valeriana L . is the name of a genus of perennial herbaceous plants of the Valerianaceae family, native to Europe and North Asia – but widely distributed throughout the planet. It includes more than 200 species.

valerian has been used as a medicinal plant at least since the time of the ancient Greeks and Romans. Hippocrates described its properties, and later Galen prescribed it as a remedy for insomnia.

It is widely used for insomnia; improves many aspects of sleep and does not create dependency. Provides therefore, a natural sleep, with quality, without habituation .

Studies show that valerian not only reduces the time to fall asleep, but also the number of times you wake up during the night, thus causing a longer and deeper sleep, without causing a feeling of disorientation upon awakening. It is especially useful for people who are so hyperactive that they cannot relax.

Valerian soothes all types of stress, but does not interfere with the power of concentration, which is why many students use it during the exam period.

For some people it may take 2 to 4 weeks before they notice improvements in sleep patterns and mood.

In addition to the sedative effect, it also has a calming, antispasmodic, relaxing sleeping, anti-seizure effect.

Due to its calming effect, some pharmacopeias and traditional medical systems also indicate its use as a digestive aid and in cases of abdominal cramps with a nervous background.

Valerian can dangerously increase the effects of barbiturates, alcohol and anti-anxiety drugs.

The chamomile-vulgaris , chamomile or German chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is a plant in the Asteraceae family of European origin and grows mainly in mild climates.

Rich in flavonoids and coumarin, chamomile has healing, antispasmodic and calming action.

The medicinal property best known of chamomile is linked to the alleviation of any condition of the organs of the digestive system. It is especially good for improving digestion, promoting the expulsion of intestinal gases, relieving stomach pain, preventing nausea or vomiting and for the treatment of other diseases such as colic, gastritis, gastric ulcers, etc.

This plant also works as an anti-allergic to the skin (allergies, dermatitis, eczema, insect bites), eyes (conjunctivitis) or allergic rhinitis.

Its sedative properties are mild but help to relieve some of the symptoms produced by depression or stress.

Chamomile active ingredients:

• Bisabolol (with anti-inflammatory, anti ulcerative, antibiotic and antifungal action) and camazulene (antioxidant and anti-leukotriene)
• Apigenin, an anti-inflammatory, antihistamine and antispasmodic flavonoid
• Salicylic acid with anti-inflammatory action
• Fatty acids and quercetin with antiallergic action

A study published in the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry demonstrated that chamomile decreases stomatitis (inflammation of the gums) in patients who were undergoing chemotherapy

The Gilbardeira (Ruscus aculeatus L.) from the Liliaceae family is a perennial shrub common in the Mediterranean Europe area, and is also present in Southwest Asia and North Africa.

Gilbardeira contains rutoside, a venotonic that favors the contraction of veins and, therefore, return circulation; steroidal saponosides which are vasoconstrictors, diuretics and anti-inflammatory drugs; also containing flavonoids, potassium salts and essential oil.

Rhizomes and roots have the highest concentration of ruscogenins , which are the parts of the plant used for medicinal purposes.

Medicinal properties : astringent, anti-seborrheic, depurative, antiseptic, aromatic, healing, disinfectant, diuretic, stimulating, laxative, lipolytic, sweating, tonic.

Gilbardeira is traditionally used to treat venous insufficiency and its manifestations, such as varicose veins, phlebitis, capillary fragility, and hemorrhoids.

Tests have shown that ruscogenin would not only act on vascular resistance, but that it would be related to a joint action of this substance and flavonoids, determining a vitamin P effect, which allows it to perform two functions : reduce capillary permeability and increase its resistance (Weindorf N., et al., 1987).

If tissue toning, with the consequent improvement in venous circulation (Van Houtte, 1986; Bouskela E. et al., 1994), we add its mild diuretic effect (Margelon C., 1988; Berg D., 1992 )., its success in the treatment of cellulite is explained.

ESCOP and the German Commission E recommend the Gilbardeira rhizome as an adjunct in the treatment of symptoms associated with chronic venous insufficiency, namely heavy, tired and painful legs.

Vitis vinífera is the vine species (Vitis sp.) of the Vitaceae family, originally from Asia, grown in all temperate regions and the most used for wine production in Europe.

Contains tannins and vitamin P (rutin): they provide greater resistance to venous walls and decrease the permeability of capillaries, preventing the formation of edema (swelling).

Vitis vinifera extract is standardized on 95% proanthocyanidins, in addition to being composed of anthocyanins and resveratrol.

The proanthocyanidins of red vine provide beneficial effects on the human body having a potent antioxidant effect that acts against free radicals and acts in the treatment and prevention of cardiovascular diseases linked to lipid metabolism, particularly in the production of HDL and inhibition of oxidation of LDL low density lipoproteins and inhibiting platelet aggregation.

Vitis vinifera has unquestionably confirmed the venoprotective effect probably related to its antioxidant effect. The results of this study demonstrated an improvement in renal function associated with reduced levels of lipid peroxidation, strengthening the hypothesis regarding the antioxidant effect of Vitis vinifera. It is ideal for treating heavy and tired legs and varicose veins.

The extracts of different varieties of grapes used have an antioxidant action superior to vitamin C, due to the presence of tannic and flavonoid compounds in these extracts.

The birch (Birch) or Betula pendula ., is the name of a genus of trees in the family Betulaceae, whose trunk is covered by a silvery-white bark, which can be used as a medicinal plant due to its properties (stimulating and purifying). It is native to Europe and Asia.

The birch serves to assist in the treatment of renal colic, cystitis, urethritis, jaundice, muscle pain, skin irritation, psoriasis, gout, baldness, dandruff, hair growth and to purify the blood . From the 12th century onwards, it started to be mentioned as a healer.

The birch has antirheumatic, antiseptic, anticonvulsant, depurative, diuretic, healing, sweating, anti-seborrheic, laxative, tonic and digestive stimulant properties.

The leaves have diaphoretic and diuretic properties (promoted by saponins and especially by flavonoid glucosides). The diuresis obtained is characterized by an increase in the elimination of water and not of salts.

The leaves help in the presence of rheumatism, gout, renal lithiasis and in preventing the formation of lithiasis.

Useful in cellulite, as it helps in its disappearance and in the appearance of connective fiber nodules, in addition to an action to eliminate uric acid and cholesterol.

Evening Primrose Oil is extracted from the seeds of the Evening Primrose plant, a wild plant found in North America, Europe and some parts of Asia.

The value of evening primrose oil is that it is rich in polyunsaturated essential fatty acids (also known as vitamin F). Such acids are fundamental in our nutrition, since they perform the most varied functions in the human body (they are an integral part of the structure of each cell), and are therefore important for all metabolism. In fact, our body cannot produce them, obtaining them only through food.

The evening primrose oil consists essentially of linoleic acid (about 70%) and gamma-linolenic acid or GLA (Omega 6), as it is also known, (between 7% to 10 %).

Taken for centuries to promote health, we now know that GLA promotes good cellular activity.

Evening Primrose Oil helps maintain the natural balance of hormones by helping menopause, improving skin health, preventing and fighting joint pain, rheumatoid arthritis and limb numbness, to treat memory deficiencies, skin dryness and hair loss.

Clinical studies have shown that Evening Primrose Oil , taken during the second half of the cycle, decreases premenstrual syndrome by acting on its manifestations: depression, irritability, breast tension, abdominal pain, retention of liquids, headache.

Evening Primrose Oil is also beneficial at the cardiovascular level, as it helps to regulate cholesterol levels and improve blood circulation.

This plant, which reached the European continent in the 15th century, was known as the Plant that heals the King, as it was often used by royal courts to solve the most diverse problems that arose.

A Soja (Glycine max) vem do japonês shoyu, é originária da China e do Japão, pertence à família Fabaceae (leguminosa).

As provas mais antigas de uso da soja provêm da China, datando de há cerca de 4000 anos, pelo menos. A soja também é mencionada no livro Pen Ts’oa Kong Mu, que data do ano 2838 aC. Nesse livro, escrito nessa época pelo Imperador da China, a soja é mencionada como um dos cinco deuses vegetais.

Os componentes bioactivos da soja são: aminoácidos, péptidos, fibra e isoflavonas.

As isoflavonas são os fitoestrogénios que mais possuem acção estrogénica.

Nos países asiáticos, onde existe maior consumo de soja, há menor incidência de osteoporose e cancro o que leva a pensar que uma alimentação à base desta leguminosa pode ajudar no controle e na prevenção de doenças.

As isoflavonas podem diminuir os sintomas da menopausa, tanto em intensidade quanto em frequência e podem ainda reduzir os níveis do colesterol e melhorar o rácio do LDL para o HDL.

Estas observações são constatadas a partir de estudos epidemiológicos feitos em regiões de alto consumo de soja, como no Oriente, já que mulheres japonesas apresentam 20% menos ondas de calor, quando comparadas às europeias.

As Isoflavonas de soja não são recomendadas para pessoas com deficiências na função da tiróide; a ingestão elevada deste suplemento não é recomendada durante a gravidez.

Passionflower or Passionflower incarnata L., also known as passion fruit flower, belongs to the Passifloraceae family and is originally from Mexico.

Contains flavonoids and alkaloids that have calming properties, solving problems of anxiety, nervousness, stress, anguish and insomnia, giving the individual back emotional control. Unlike classical hypnotics, it is not addictive.

This medicinal plant has a relaxing and anti-depressant, analgesic, antispasmodic, hypotensive and sedative action.

It is used for anxiety, concentration difficulties, depression, nervousness, muscle relaxation, childhood hyperactivity, premenstrual syndrome, and gastrointestinal spasms of nervous origin, childhood hyperactivity.

The licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra; from the Greek γλυκὑῤῥιζα), of the legume family and of the genus Glycyrrhiza, is a wild plant, but is currently cultivated on a large scale, due to the value of its root. It is common to find it in Southeast Europe and Asia.

One of the most common uses of this plant is as a sweetening agent, as it has a sweetening power 50 times greater than sucrose (sugar). Hence the origin of its name, Glycyrrhisa, from the Greek glykys which means sweet and riza, root.

It is a herbaceous with a long history of use for digestion and immune support.

The root of licorice is used in approximately one third of Chinese plant formulas and most of these formulas address female reproductive problems. This is an indication that this plant has enormous versatility. The licorice root contains not only hormonal precursors, but also stimulates the production of estrogen. This has been shown to reduce symptoms associated with hormonal fluctuation in menopause.

The licorice can also benefit in cases of respiratory infections, such as bronchitis, cough, bronchial infections, pharyngitis, laryngitis and hoarseness. This plant works by facilitating the expectoration, calming the cough and deflating the airways. It has an antibiotic action against bacteria that affect the bronchi.

Recently, numerous studies have been carried out on this plant as to its possibility of helping the treatment of viruses (namely HIV, hepatitis B and herpes) and also of cancer, namely of the prostate. According to some authors, licorice is still useful in tobacco detox cures because it helps to regenerate respiratory mucous membranes.

It is not recommended during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or for use by people with cancer.