Turmeric, and its active ingredient, curcumin, may be the most effective nutritional supplement in existence. Many high-quality studies show that it has major benefits for your body and brain (4Trusted Source, 5Trusted Source, 6Trusted Source). It’s a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant and may also help improve symptoms of depression and arthritis.
Elderberry is one of the most commonly used medicinal plants in the world. Traditionally, Native Americans used it to treat infections, while the ancient Egyptians used it to improve their complexions and heal burns. It’s still gathered and used in folk medicine across many parts of Europe. Elderberry is rich in vitamin c, phenolic acids, flavanols and like cherry juice, anthocyanins which give the fruit its characteristic dark black-purple color and are a strong antioxidant with anti-inflammatory effects (4, 6Trusted Source).
The reishi mushroom, also known as Ganoderma lucidum and lingzhi, is a fungus that grows in various hot and humid locations in Asia (1Trusted Source). For many years, this fungus has been a staple in Eastern medicine (1Trusted Source, 2Trusted Source). Within the mushroom, there are several molecules, including triterpenoids, polysaccharides and peptidoglycans, that may be responsible for its health effects (3Trusted Source). While the mushrooms themselves can be eaten fresh, it is also common to use powdered forms of the mushroom or extracts that contain these specific molecules.
Research has found that lion’s mane may protect against dementia, reduce mild symptoms of anxiety and depression and help repair nerve damage. (5Trusted Source, 6Trusted Source, 7Trusted Source, 8Trusted Source). It also has strong anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immune-boosting abilities and been shown to lower the risk of heart disease, cancer, ulcers and diabetes in animals.
Chamomile tea is a popular beverage that also offers a variety of health benefits. Chamomile is an herb that comes from the daisy-like flowers of the Asteraceae plant family. It has been consumed for centuries as a natural remedy for several health conditions.
Cordyceps is a genus of parasitic fungi that grows on the larvae of insects in the wild. Supplements and products containing Cordyceps extract have become increasingly popular due to their many purported health benefits. Cordyceps are thought to increase the body’s production of the molecule adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is essential for delivering energy to the muscles. This may improve the way your body uses oxygen, especially during exercise (1Trusted Source, 2).
Strawberries are bright red, juicy, and sweet. They’re an excellent source of vitamin C and manganese and also contain decent amounts of folate (vitamin B9) and potassium. Strawberries are very rich in antioxidants and plant compounds, which may have benefits for heart health and blood sugar control (1Trusted Source, 2Trusted Source).
Chaga mushrooms have been used for centuries in Siberia and other parts of Asia as a medicine to boost immunity and improve overall health (1). By promoting the formation of beneficial cytokines — specialized proteins that regulate the immune system — chaga stimulates white blood cells, which are essential for fighting off harmful bacteria or viruses (5Trusted Source, 6Trusted Source).