August 2021
A Force of Nature
Nature reigns supreme as the world’s best chemist, and we are only beginning to understand the untapped power found in the earth’s medicine cabinet. Natural compounds discovered all over the planet to treat various ailments, enhance beauty and promote health are the foundation for many products we use. Look at our pharmaceuticals, in which nearly seventy percent of products have roots in the abundance found in nature. The Pacific Yew tree provides Taxol which is used to fight cancer, Quinine to combat malaria and babesiosis came from the Cinchona Calisaya tree in South America, and the leaves and bark of Willow trees eventually gave us aspirin.
Perhaps we should take a closer look at the plants, roots, and herbs we can use to naturally enhance our well-being.
Passionflower: This plant can treat certain health conditions, reducing symptoms of anxiety, epilepsy, and insomnia. Research continues to show promising treatment of sleep disorders, and emerging evidence shows passionflower’s effectiveness for skin aliments including dry skin and acne. A climbing vine native to South and Central America, Passionflower calms anxiety before surgery, relieves muscle spasms and even reduces symptoms of attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The extract is used as flavoring for foods and beverages.
Ashwagandha: An herb used in Ayurveda, (traditional Indian medicine) for reliving stress and promoting relaxation, some studies show Ashwagandha slowing the growth of cancer cells, treating diabetes, joint pain, and fatigue. Grown in Asia and Africa, Ashwagandha in mostly consumed via tea and food. Recent data found chemicals in the herb to boost the immune system, lower blood pressure, slow aging and help the body resist physical stress.
Siberian Ginseng: Also known as Eleuthero, this root has origins mainly in China and Russia and is a powerhouse for protecting the immune system. Eleuthero is known as an “adaptogen,” a non-medical term for a substance that defends against physical and mental stress, Siberian Ginseng can increase energy and stave off colds and the flu. Longevity and vitality are associated with Siberian Ginseng since it increases mental alertness, athletic performance, and memory. You may have seen tea, liquid extracts, powders, and capsules of Siberian Ginseng, all derived from the root of the small woody shrub Eleuthero. This powerful root has chemicals known to fight off some bacteria and viruses, balance hormones and protect the immune system.
Maca: This root is also known as Peruvian Ginseng, native to the Andes region of Peru. You will find Maca mainly ground into powder, a dynamo used for over three thousand years to increase energy and libido. Typically added to oatmeal, juices, soups, and smoothies, you may also see it added to chocolate and coffee. Maca has been embraced by those seeking to reduce symptoms of menopause, hair loss and depression, and it may play a role in cancer prevention. The nutrient rich profile of Maca is shown to elevate mood, reducing male infertility, and may even reduce Prostate size.
As our awareness grows around natural approaches to improving our health, longevity, and overall wellness, we can easily consume more compounds found in nature. Free Rain beverages developed a way to incorporate Nature’s remedies for consumption, crafting an enhanced sparkling water. Without added sugar and caffeine, Free Rain blends natural ingredients of bourbon vanilla, ginger, blackberry, tart cherry, pink grapefruit, blood orange and cinnamon extract into their water. Beverages are consumed for the goal of feeling more calm, focused, and energized. Now more than ever it is time to look to Nature for what we need. www.freerain.com
