Tag: mood enhancer

A medication or natural remedy that helps to improve mood and emotional well-being.

Bergamot: The Citrus That Balances Body and Mind

June 19, 2025 / Michael

If you’ve ever sipped on a cup of Earl Grey tea, you’ve already experienced the soothing aroma and flavor of
bergamot. But did you know this citrus fruit offers much more than just a fragrant cup of tea? In natural
medicine, bergamot has been used to support mood, cholesterol balance, and even metabolic health.
Let’s take a deep dive into this citrus gem-what it is, how it works in the body, and when it might not be the
right fit for everyone. What is Bergamot? Bergamot (botanical name: Citrus bergamia) is a small, green-yellow citrus fruit that looks like a cross
between a lime and an orange. It has a tart, slightly bitter flavor and is prized for its fragrant essential oil. Where Does Bergamot Grow?
Bergamot is primarily grown in a narrow stretch of coastal land in Calabria, southern Italy. While small-scale cultivation also occurs in France, Turkey, and the Ivory Coast, Calabrian bergamot is the gold standard. What Part of the Plant is Used? The most commonly used part in natural medicine is the rind (peel), where the essential oil is extracted. Herbal supplements may also use the fruit pulp and peel in standardized forms. Active Constituents in Bergamot
Bergamot is rich in:
– Flavonoids: Naringin, Neoeriocitrin, Neohesperidin, Rutin
– Essential oil components: Linalool, Limonene, Citral, Citronellal
– Polyphenols: Powerful antioxidants
Biochemical Pathways Affected by Bergamot
1. Cholesterol and Lipid Metabolism:
– Inhibits HMG-CoA reductase (like statins)
– Lowers LDL, raises HDL, balances triglycerides
2. Inflammation and Oxidative Stress:
– Neutralizes free radicals
– Helps in cardiovascular, metabolic, and autoimmune support
3. Mood and Stress Response:
– Regulates cortisol and supports serotonin/dopamine balance
Common Uses of Bergamot
– Aromatherapy (mood and anxiety support)
– Cholesterol support (oral extract)
– Antimicrobial (topical use)
– Digestive aid (teas and bitters)
Contraindications and Cautions
– Photosensitivity: due to bergapten
– Medication interactions: especially statins, antidepressants, blood thinners
– Avoid during pregnancy/breastfeeding unless advised
– Not recommended for children or pets
Safe Ways to Use Bergamot
– Earl Grey tea (gentle and tasty)
– Diffused essential oil (for mood)
– Standardized supplements (under supervision)
Summary
– Botanical Name: Citrus bergamia
– Grown in: Southern Italy
– Used Part: Peel and fruit
– Key Compounds: Flavonoids, Linalool, Limonene
– Actions: Antioxidant, calming, lipid-lowering
– Pathways: HMG-CoA, oxidative stress, neurotransmitters
– Cautions: Photosensitivity, drug interactions, pregnancy
Final Thoughts
Bergamot is one of those rare herbs that supports both body and mind. Whether you’re seeking natural
cholesterol balance or simply want a moment of calm, bergamot might be your new favorite ally.
For personalized herbal support, visit us at naturopathylane.com. Let’s explore how nature can help you feel
your best!

Jasmine: The Ancient Herb with Modern Benefits

March 20, 2025 / Michael

Jasmine is a genus of flowering plants that includes over 200 species, commonly known for their beautiful fragrance and sweet smell. The most common type of jasmine grown for its fragrant flowers is Jasminum grandiflorum, which is native to China but has since been cultivated in many parts of the world.

In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), jasmine is believed to have numerous health benefits and is often used as a herbal remedy for a variety of conditions, including insomnia, anxiety, menstrual cramps, and digestive issues. In TCM, jasmine is considered to have warming properties and is used to tonify the heart, liver, and spleen meridians. It is believed to strengthen the blood, improve circulation, and promote the flow of qi throughout the body. In Auvedia, jasmine is commonly used as a natural remedy for skin problems such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. The active ingredients in jasmine include jasmonoids, flavonoids, and essential oils such as benzyl benzoate, linalool, and geraniol. The biochemical pathway that these compounds effect is not yet fully understood, but they are believed to have a range of biological effects, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties.

The contraindications of using jasmine include individuals who are allergic to ragweed or other members of the chamomile family, pregnant women, and children under the age of 12. It is also not recommended for those with high blood pressure, glaucoma, or hormonal imbalances.

Jasmine has a long history in traditional medicine and continues to be used as a herbal remedy for various conditions. The active ingredients in jasmine are believed to have numerous health benefits, but further research is needed to fully understand their effects on the body. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before using jasmine or any other natural remedies to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Saffron: The Expensive Spice with Numerous Health Benefits

February 27, 2025 / Michael

Saffron is a spice derived from the flower of the saffron crocus, a small flowering plant native to regions such as Iran, India, and Spain. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine practices around the world and is known for its high cost, making it one of the most expensive spices in the world. In this blog post, we will explore the active constituents in this herb, their mechanism of action on specific biochemical pathways, and their potential health benefits.

Saffron contains several bioactive compounds that have been shown to possess health benefits. The most notable are: Crocin, Crocetin, and Other plant compounds such as safranal, picrocrocin, and lycopene. Saffron has been shown to have a wide range of biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, mood-enhancing, and potential cancer-fighting properties. The active compounds in saffron, particularly crocin and crocetin, are responsible for many of these effects by modulating various biochemical pathways involved in inflammation, oxidative stress, and cellular signaling. Saffron contains various antioxidants that help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. The active compounds in saffron have been shown to inhibit the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and prevent oxidative stress-induced cellular damage. Saffron has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties, likely due to the presence of crocin and crocetin that can inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-alpha and IL-6.

Saffron has been shown to have mood-enhancing effects, which may be due to its active compounds, such as safranal, that can interact with serotonin receptors in the brain, promoting feelings of well-being and happiness.The active compounds in saffron may have potential cancer-fighting properties by inhibiting the growth and spread of cancer cells through various mechanisms.

Saffron has been used for centuries in traditional medicine practices around the world, particularly in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. It has been used to treat a variety of health conditions, including menstrual issues, impotence, depression, and even as a cosmetic ingredient. Its high cost, however, may limit its widespread use.

Saffron is a spice with numerous potential health benefits that can be attributed to its active constituents, particularly crocin and crocetin. Whether you’re looking to reduce inflammation, protect against oxidative stress, improve mood, or potentially fight cancer, saffron may be worth considering as part of your natural health regimen. However, its high cost may make it a less accessible option for some individuals.