Lady's Mantle ... from the past to the present ...
Derived from the Latin word "Alchemilla" related to alchemy. Alchemists believed in the miraculous power of the water drops in its leaves 'heavenly water,' (symbolizing purity and the mystery of nature) which were supposed to help them achieve eternal youth or turn ordinary metal into gold. They devoted much attention to lady's mantle, which led not only to its naming but more importantly to the discovery of its medicinal properties. Today's world relies on the proven health benefits this medicinal plant offers.
Do we need the 'sunshine' vitamin D3 only in winter?
When you feel the sun's rays on your skin, know that your body is creating one of the most important vitamins - D3, which was discovered thanks to centuries of research. The discovery of vitamin D3 became one of the most significant medical achievements of the 20th century, saving millions of lives: It was the year 1650 and in the streets of London, doctors noticed that more and more children were suffering from a strange disease called rickets (their bones were weak and brittle, legs deformed, growth slowed). It wasn't until 1919 that Dr. Huldschinsky exposed children with rickets to ultraviolet light and their bones began to heal! Three years later, biochemist McCollum discovered a substance that prevented rickets and called it vitamin D. Gradually, the existence of the most important form of vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) was discovered.
Cordyceps sinensis with an incredible life cycle
Have you heard about this fascinating fungus with its peculiar appearance and way of existence? The names „Chinese caterpillar, Himalayan gold or mushroom of longevity“ do not reveal much ...
Let Yourself Shine with B2
The “yellow spark” that powers our body is vitamin B2 - riboflavin, (from Latin flavus “yellow”) was first isolated from milk and initially named lactoflavin. Its uniqueness was noticed by scientists due to its natural fluorescence under UV light, which helped them better understand its distribution in nature. But it wasn't just its mysterious light that attracted scientists' attention. It holds the power to transform food into life force. Riboflavin, aka vitamin B2, is not just a pretty fluorescent molecule, but it is important in cellular metabolism.
Ashwagandha - Withania somnifera
„Ashwa“ (horse) „gandha“ (root smell), the name itself points to the plant's ability to provide strength and vitality (animal strength hidden in the root). Known by names „Indian ginseng“ (similar root shape), also „winter cherry“ (fruits resemble cherries). From the small bush with yellow flowers, mainly the root is used in traditional medicine. Given its calming effects, it's appropriately named Withania somnifera, sleepy or dreamy. The Latin name somnifera also reveals its sleep-inducing property.
B9 with a huge impact
If you were to test your diet today, you might find that despite healthy eating, you lack enough vitamin B9 - folic acid. Popular avocado toasts are in vogue, but unlike spinach, lentils, or broccoli, they don't contain much B9. Folic acid was first isolated from spinach, and although it is most commonly associated with pregnancy, its importance concerns each of us.
