Liver and Gallbladder Balm - Dandelion
Dandelion (in Slovak, 'púpava', Latin, Taraxacum officinale, also known as milkweed, smotánka, májik) is a well-known and ubiquitous weed (especially when it randomly appears overnight on a perfectly manicured lawn, even sprouting through cracks in asphalt), but foremost, it is a healing plant with a long history of use in herbal medicine. The milky tubes contain white sap that hardens in the air andleaves colorful stains on hands. Dandelion seeds can travel kilometers. It is among the longest-blooming plants, wholly edible, albeit having a not very pleasant bitter taste.
Choline and Inositol
Choline and Inositol - two words you probably haven't heard before. In the world of dietary supplements, however, they are an important combination of B vitamins, which are actually not vitamins. They are substances very similar to vitamins which support liver function and lipid metabolism - that is, fat metabolism. Choline is a water-soluble vitamin analogue. It is found in lecithin, which is common in many plant and animal tissues. Choline is a precursor for the neurotransmitter (i.e., carrier) acetylcholine - which is involved in many memory and muscle functions.
B-complex
From childhood, I remember the word "békomplex" very well and I basically never knew what it was. For younger generations, the word might recall drum&bass, as B-Complex is the stage name of Slovak DJ and producer Matúš Lenický (hit Beautiful Lies). If we are strictly scientific, then B complex is a group of vitamins B1 to B12.
B5 - Guardian of Vitality and Beauty
“Is it just another vitamin... or?” one might think, but the more we learn about pantothenic acid, the more it fascinates us. Vitamin B5 plays a crucial role in converting food into energy, supports concentration, mental well-being, and even skin regeneration. Without it, the body would not be able to properly produce hormones or fight stress. It is also a substance that is hidden in every cell of our body, accompanies us from birth, and contributes to sufficient energy, skin health, and mental acuity. Although we may overlook it, its importance is undeniable, and its name is no coincidence. It comes from the Greek word “panto”, meaning “everywhere.” And indeed, it is omnipresent, irreplaceable, and somewhat mysterious. If we start exploring where this essential vitamin is found, it's in eggs, nuts, whole grains, shellfish, avocados, salmon, liver, kidneys, beef, yeast, vegetables... And if we've just realized that our diet is low in these foods, we should consider supplementing B5. After just a few days, we would notice a change. We would wake up with more energy, have a clearer mind, and even see an improvement in our skin. Colleagues would notice that we work faster, are more creative, and less stressed. Pantothenic acid will help us get back in shape. And for us, it will no longer be just another substance on the list of vitamins.
Maca - Peruvian Ginseng
For ages, people have been trying to find miraculous herbs and mushrooms that would enhance health, cure deadly diseases, and boost male potency. Each culture has its proven aphrodisiacs. Here, oysters or chocolate are especially well-known. Recently, especially with the development of tourism, we gradually also learn about other invigorating means that people use often on the opposite side of the planet. One of the oldest substances for potency support is Maca Peruvian Watercress.
Lady's Mantle - Woman's Cloak
Common Alchemilla is a perennial herb that originates from England but has spread worldwide. Its leaves and flower tops have been used for centuries primarily to alleviate menstrual problems, hence it is often called "woman's cloak". It is also suitable for men as it effectively helps with diarrhea, laryngitis, bleeding gums, or as a gargle for inflammation of the larynx. Its name comes from Arabic, from the word al-kimia. Alchemists tried to make gold by transforming various metals, as well as incredibly ordinary things. One of the secret ingredients in gold-making was water, caught in the leaves of this plant. As far as we know - it didn't work...