A herb that may enhance sleep, promote relaxation, reduce anxiety and mood swings. Valerian is often referred to as 'Natures Valium', it had been used since the Middle Ages century to treat sleep disorders, used widely in natural medicine as far back as the time of Ancient Greece. Valerian promotes falling asleep but does not reduce night awakenings. Certain compounds in valerian can act on GABA receptors in the body. GABA is a chemical messenger that helps regulate nerve impulses in your nervous system. Compounds in Valerian may also inhibit an enzyme that destroys GABA. Compounds found in valerian may also interact with serotonin and adenosine which regulate mood and sleep.

Interactions with medication: Valerian has serious interactions with at least sixty-seven different drugs; it is important to check with your healthcare provider before taking any supplements.

Used in herbal remedies for thousands of years to help to increase sexual arousal and stamina in men and used to regulate menstruation and menopause symptoms in women. Damiana was traditionally used as an aphrodisiac, some believe it may support women to regulate their hormones, supporting with vaginal dryness, managing stress, anxiety and potentially regulate menstruation. How does damiana support women’s health? Damiana contains compounds that contribute improved blood flow, relaxing and mood enhancing effects and combating oxidative stress. Overall, the mixture of compounds can bolster digestion, support sexual function, reduce anxiety and contribute to a balanced mood.

Interactions with medication: medication for diabetics interacts with damiana, lowering the insulin level further.

Traditionally used to relieve stress, anxiety, and depression. Human studies indicate that it may improve brain function in older adults and heart health. Oats are used in beauty products, foods and drinks, health products and the plant itself is used to feed horses. Oats have a variety of benefits. Oats are an excellent source of manganese which is important for bone health, are used in moisturises due to their hydrating benefits on skin. Oats can also help lower low-density lipoproteins (cholesterol). Oats have also been used by women through the ages to alleviate symptoms of menopause. Oats contain phytoestrogens, compounds that mimic the effects of oestrogen which can reduce some menopausal symptoms.

Interactions with medication: medication for diabetics interacts with oats, lowering the insulin level further.

Black Cohosh is a herbal remedy that is commonly used to alleviate various female health issues, particularly menstrual cycles, and menopause. It has been suggested that Black Cohosh could reduce hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms. Black cohosh is also known to have a positive effect on uterine fibroids.

Interactions with medication: Black cohosh has been linked to some interactions, it is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, those with a history of breast cancer, those that take medication for clotting and interactions with birth control medication. It is advisable to speak with a medical professional before taking any new medication or supplements.

Used in to reduce anxiety and insomnia. Reduces anxiety by stimulating gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that helps calm nerves.

Interactions with medication: Taking blue skullcap with sedative medications might cause breathing problems and/or too much sleepiness.

Gingerol, the main bioactive compound in ginger. A potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, that prevent stress and damage to your body's DNA.

Interactions with medication: Ginger has blood-thinning properties and can interact with medications like warfarin, aspirin, and other blood thinners. Ginger can lower blood sugar and taking it with diabetes medications may cause blood sugar to drop too low. Taking Ginger with medications for high blood pressure or heart disease may cause your blood pressure to drop too low or lead to an irregular heartbeat.

Shown to help with stress and anxiety, joint pain and commonly used to treat amenorrhea and menopausal hot flushes.

Interactions with medications:
• acetaminophen (Tylenol);
• leflunomide, teriflunomide;
• methotrexate;
• an antibiotic, antifungal medicine, sulpha drug, or tuberculosis medicine;
• birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy.
• heart or blood pressure medication.
• cholesterol-lowering medications--Crestor, Lipitor, Pravachol, Simcor, Vytorin, Zocor, and others.
• gout or arthritis medications (including gold injections);
• HIV/AIDS medications.
• medicines to treat mental illness.
• an NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug)--ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), celecoxib (Celebrex), diclofenac, indomethacin, meloxicam, others.
• seizure medication--carbamazepine, phenytoin, and others; or
• steroids (prednisone and others).