Floral Veil™ Herbal Infusion | Science & Benefits – NÜWA Botanical Encyclopedia

Traditional Uses:
Lemongrass has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic, Southeast Asian, and Caribbean traditional medicine as a digestive tonic, fever reducer, and antimicrobial agent. In Ayurveda, it is considered tridoshic (balancing for all doshas in moderate amounts), though particularly effective in reducing excess Kapha and Pitta. It was traditionally brewed into teas for colds, coughs, and fevers, and applied topically as a poultice to ease pain and swelling.

Folk medicine in Southeast Asia also prized lemongrass for postpartum recovery, using it in herbal baths to restore circulation and vitality after childbirth.
In TCM, lemongrass is associated with dispersing wind-cold and resolving dampness.

Modern Research:
Contemporary studies confirm many of these traditional claims.

Lemongrass contains citral, a compound with strong antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. Research shows that lemongrass essential oil exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria and fungi, supporting its traditional role in infection control. Its antioxidant properties are attributed to phenolic compounds that help reduce oxidative stress, while animal studies suggest potential hypoglycemic and lipid-lowering effects, making it relevant in metabolic health.

Clinical evidence also points to its ability to reduce anxiety and tension, with inhalation or tea preparations demonstrating mild anxiolytic properties. Postpartum traditions are increasingly supported by modern evidence showing lemongrass may promote circulation and reduce inflammation.

References:

Shah, G., Shri, R., Panchal, V., Sharma, N., Singh, B., & Mann, A. S. (2011). Scientific basis for the therapeutic use of Cymbopogon citratus, stapf (Lemongrass). Journal of Advanced Pharmaceutical Technology & Research, 2(1), 3–8. Link

Avoseh, O., Oyedeji, O., Rungqu, P., Nkeh-Chungag, B., & Oyedeji, A. (2015). Cymbopogon species; ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry and the pharmacological importance. Molecules, 20(5), 7438–7453. Link

Ekpenyong, C. E., Akpan, E. E., & Nyoh, A. (2015). Ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, and biological activities of Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf extracts. Chinese Journal of Natural Medicines, 13(5), 321–337. Link

Traditional Uses:

In TCM, turmeric (jiang huang) is acrid, bitter, and warm, entering the Spleen, Stomach, and Liver channels to invigorate blood, promote Qi movement, and relieve pain. Ayurveda reveres turmeric as a rasayana (rejuvenator) for cleansing the blood, supporting liver function, and enhancing skin health. It is also a postpartum restorative, traditionally used to promote wound healing and reduce inflammation.

Modern Research:

Curcumin, the main polyphenol in turmeric, is widely studied for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Clinical evidence supports its role in managing metabolic syndrome, arthritis, and wound healing. Synergistic combinations with black pepper (piperine) significantly enhance bioavailability. In maternal health, turmeric supplementation has been linked to reduced postpartum depression markers and improved healing processes.

References:

Hewlings, S. J., & Kalman, D. S. (2017). Curcumin: A review of its effects on human health. Foods, 6(10), 92. Link

Kunnumakkara, A. B., Bordoloi, D., Harsha, C., Banik, K., Gupta, S. C., & Aggarwal, B. B. (2017). Curcumin mediates anticancer effects by modulating multiple cell signaling pathways. Clinical Science, 131(15), 1781–1799. Link

Traditional Uses:
In Ayurveda, black pepper (maricha) is a "trikatu" herb, valued for stimulating digestion, circulation, and respiratory function. It was historically used in postpartum formulas to dispel dampness, enhance nutrient absorption, and restore metabolic fire (agni). In TCM, pepper is considered warming, used to counter cold stagnation and phlegm.

Modern Research:

The active alkaloid piperine is responsible for many of its pharmacological effects:

• Piperine inhibits hepatic and intestinal glucuronidation, increasing absorption of curcumin, resveratrol, and other nutrients .
  
• Clinical studies demonstrate increased bile acid secretion and improved enzymatic activity .
  
• Piperine reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines and improves insulin sensitivity in metabolic syndrome models.
• Piperine has shown anxiolytic and memory-enhancing properties in preclinical studies .
  
  

References:
Srinivasan, K. (2007). Black pepper and its pungent principle-piperine: A review of diverse physiological effects. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 47(8), 735–748. Link

Dorman, H. J. D., & Deans, S. G. (2000). Antimicrobial agents from plants: antibacterial activity of plant volatile oils. Journal of Applied Microbiology, 88(2), 308–316. Link

M Djaldetti. (2021) Piperine – An Immunomodulator and Inflammation Mitigator. Journal of Clinical and Laboratory Research. 2(5) Link

Wattanathorn, J., et al. (2008). Piperine, the main alkaloid of black pepper, protects against cognitive impairment and oxidative damage in animal models. Food and Chemical Toxicology, 46(9), 3106–3110. Link

Traditional Uses:

Rosehip (the fruit of wild rose) has been used in European folk medicine for centuries as a remedy for colds, digestive disturbances, and joint pain. Its tart flavor and high vitamin C content made it a wartime substitute for citrus to prevent scurvy. Herbal traditions consider it a gentle blood purifier and immune booster, commonly prepared as jams, syrups, and teas.
In TCM, rosehip (mei gui guo) is mildly warm and sweet, used to regulate Qi, nourish the blood, and promote skin health.

Modern Research:

Rosehip is particularly rich in ascorbic acid, carotenoids, polyphenols, and galactolipids. Clinical studies suggest:

• Rosehip powder supplementation has reduced osteoarthritis pain and improved mobility in RCTs .
  
• Its high polyphenol and vitamin C content scavenges free radicals, reducing systemic oxidative stress .
  
• Galactolipids and vitamin C support collagen synthesis, improving skin elasticity and wound healing .
• Meta-analyses show rosehip enhances host resistance against respiratory infections.
  

References:
Lattanzio, F., Greco, E., Carretta, D., Cervellati, R., Govoni, P., & Speroni, E. (2011). In vivo anti-inflammatory effect of Rosa canina L. extract. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 137(1), 880–885. Link

Chrubasik, C., Roufogalis, B. D., Müller-Ladner, U., & Chrubasik, S. (2008). A systematic review on the Rosa canina effect and efficacy profiles. Phytomedicine, 15(4), 284–295. Link

Mármol, I., Sánchez-de-Diego, C., Pradilla Dieste, A., Cerrada, E., & Rodriguez Yoldi, M. J. (2017). Therapeutic applications of rose hips from traditional medicine to modern medicine. Phytotherapy Research, 31(3), 451–460. Link

Winther, K., Apel, K., & Thamsborg, G. (2015). A powder made from seeds and shells of rose-hip (Rosa canina) reduces pain in osteoarthritis patients: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Osteoarthritis and Cartilage, 23(11), 2027–2033. Link

Traditional Uses:

A prized Malaysian cultivar, Bentong ginger is traditionally considered more pungent and potent than common ginger.
Used in Malay and TCM postpartum care, it is believed to dispel “wind,” restore warmth, and reduce inflammation after childbirth. Mothers often consume it in confinement soups and teas to stimulate circulation, relieve nausea, and promote recovery.
In both TCM and Ayurveda, ginger on it's own is considered a warming, Qi-invigorating herb that dispels cold, supports digestion, and stimulates circulation. TCM classifies it as acrid and warm, entering the Lung, Spleen, and Stomach channels, often prescribed to alleviate nausea, warm the middle burner, and restore Yang. In Ayurveda, fresh ginger (ardraka) is used to kindle agni (digestive fire), ease respiratory congestion, and relieve joint stiffness, while dried ginger (shunthi) is applied for deep-seated digestive weakness and pain relief. Historically, midwives have used ginger teas and compresses to ease postpartum chills, promote uterine recovery, and reduce inflammation.

Modern Research:

Gingerol and shogaol, the active compounds in ginger, have demonstrated broad pharmacological benefits including anti-nausea, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects. Studies specific to Malaysian ginger cultivars confirm higher concentrations of these bioactive constituents, enhancing its efficacy. Clinical trials show ginger reduces postpartum nausea, muscle soreness, and inflammatory markers, supporting its integration in modern maternal recovery protocols.

References:
Mohd. Sahardi, N. F. N., Jaafar, F., Zakaria, S. N. A., Tan, J. K., Mad Nordin, M. F., & Makpol, S. (2021). Comparison of the antioxidant activity of Malaysian ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) extracts with that of selected natural products and its effect on the viability of myoblast cells in culture. Sains Malaysiana, 50(5), 1445–1456. Link

Ali, B. H., Blunden, G., Tanira, M. O., & Nemmar, A. (2008). Some phytochemical, pharmacological, and toxicological properties of ginger (Zingiber officinale): A review. Food and Chemical Toxicology, 46(2), 409–420. Link

Traditional Uses:

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), goji berry (枸杞子, Gou Qi Zi) is classified as a sweet and neutral tonic that enters the Liver, Kidney, and Lung meridians. It is traditionally used to nourish Liver and Kidney yin, replenish essence, and support blood production. Goji is often prescribed to improve vision, enhance vitality, and support recovery from fatigue or depletion.

In postpartum contexts, it has historically been included in restorative broths and tonics to replenish blood, support lactation indirectly through nourishment, and promote overall resilience. Its gentle, food-like nature makes it one of the most commonly used tonic fruits in daily dietary therapy.

Modern Research:
Phytochemical analysis of goji berries reveals a rich profile of bioactive compounds, including Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBPs), carotenoids (notably zeaxanthin), flavonoids, and phenolic acids. These compounds exhibit antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and neuroprotective properties.

Lycium barbarum polysaccharides have been widely studied for their ability to reduce oxidative stress, modulate inflammatory signaling, and support immune cell activity. Research suggests LBPs may enhance antioxidant enzyme activity (including superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase), contributing to cellular defense mechanisms.

Goji berries are also among the richest known dietary sources of zeaxanthin, a carotenoid associated with retinal health and protection against oxidative damage. Emerging evidence indicates potential roles in supporting metabolic balance, gut microbiota modulation, and skin health through antioxidative pathways.

While traditionally valued for vision and vitality, contemporary research supports its broader function as a systemic antioxidant and gentle adaptogenic nutritive.

References:
Amagase, H., & Farnsworth, N. R. (2011). A review of botanical characteristics, phytochemistry, clinical relevance in efficacy and safety of Lycium barbarum fruit (goji). Food Research International, 44(7), 1702–1717. Link

Cheng, J., Zhou, Z., Sheng, H., He, L., Fan, X., He, Z., Sun, T., Zhang, X., Zhao, C., & He, X. (2015). An evidence-based update on the pharmacological activities and possible molecular targets of Lycium barbarum polysaccharides. Drug Design, Development and Therapy, 9, 33–78. Link

Donno, D., Beccaro, G. L., Mellano, M. G., Cerutti, A. K., & Bounous, G. (2015). Goji berry fruit (Lycium spp.): antioxidant compound fingerprint and bioactivity evaluation. Journal of Functional Foods, 18, 1070–1085. Link

Povolo, C., Foschini, A., & Ribaudo, G. (2019). Optimization of the extraction of bioactive molecules fromLycium barbarumfruits and evaluation of the antioxidant activity: a combined study.Natural product research,33(18), 2694–2698. Link

Traditional Uses:

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), chen pi is prized for regulating Qi, drying dampness, and harmonizing the middle burner. It is considered warm, acrid, and bitter, entering the Lung and Spleen channels, and is often prescribed to improve digestion, reduce bloating, and ease nausea. Historically, it has also been used to strengthen the immune system and aid recovery from illness due to its high vitamin C content.

Modern Research:
Phytochemical analysis of Chen Pi shows it contains polymethoxyflavones (PMFs) such as nobiletin and tangeretin, which exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and lipid-lowering effects. Recent studies demonstrate its potential in reducing oxidative stress, modulating gut microbiota, and improving lipid metabolism. In clinical models, Chen Pi extracts have been shown to ease dyspepsia and regulate gastrointestinal motility, validating its traditional digestive applications.

It's rich Vitamin C content supports collagen synthesis, immune health, and wound repair.

Research suggests aged citrus peels may help regulate cholesterol levels and protect cardiovascular health

References:
Shi, M., Guo, Q., Xiao, Z., Sarengaowa, Xiao, Y., & Feng, K. (2024). Recent Advances in the Health Benefits and Application of Tangerine Peel (Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium): A Review.Foods,13(13), 1978. Link

Zhang, X., Zhou, Y., Cheong, M. S., Khan, H., Ruan, C.-C., Fu, M., Xiao, J., & Cheang, W. S. (2022). Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium extract and flavonoids reduce inflammation in RAW 264.7 macrophages by inactivation of MAPK and NF-κB pathways. Food Frontiers, 3(4), 785–795. Link

Singh B., Singh J.P., Kaur A., Singh N. Phenolic composition, antioxidant potential and health benefits of citrus peel. Food Res. Int. 2020;132:109114. doi: 10.1016/j.foodres.2020.109114. Link

Ling Y., Shi Z., Yang X., Cai Z., Wang L., Wu X., Ye A., Jiang J. Hypolipidemic effect of pure total flavonoids from peel of Citrus (PTFC) on hamsters of hyperlipidemia and its potential mechanism. Exp. Gerontol. 2020;130:110786. doi: 10.1016/j.exger.2019.110786. Link

Traditional Uses:

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), saffron (番红花, Fan Hong Hua) is considered warm and aromatic, entering the Heart and Liver channels. It has historically been used to invigorate blood circulation, dispel stagnation, and ease emotional constraint. Unlike stronger blood-moving herbs, saffron is prized for its subtlety — gently encouraging movement without excessive stimulation.

Across Persian, Mediterranean, and Ayurvedic traditions, saffron has long been regarded as a mood-elevating botanical, often incorporated into restorative tonics to uplift the spirit, support recovery from exhaustion, and enhance overall vitality. Its rarity and vibrant colour historically symbolised renewal, warmth, and emotional clarity.

Modern Research:
Saffron contains several bioactive compounds, primarily crocin, crocetin, safranal, and picrocrocin. These constituents exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuromodulatory properties.

Crocin and safranal have been studied for their potential influence on neurotransmitter pathways, particularly serotonin, dopamine, and GABA signaling. Clinical research suggests saffron supplementation may support mood balance and emotional resilience, with some trials demonstrating comparable effects to standard antidepressant medications in mild-to-moderate depressive states — though at standardized extract doses rather than culinary amounts.

Saffron’s antioxidant profile contributes to cellular protection against oxidative stress, particularly within neural tissues. Emerging research also explores its potential role in supporting hormonal balance, cognitive clarity, and stress regulation through modulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis.

While traditionally used for circulation and emotional uplift, modern findings position saffron as a botanical with notable neuroprotective and adaptogenic potential.

References:
Lopresti, A. L., & Drummond, P. D. (2014). Saffron (Crocus sativus) for depression: a systematic review of clinical studies and examination of underlying antidepressant mechanisms of action. Human Psychopharmacology: Clinical and Experimental, 29(6), 517–527. Link

Hausenblas, H. A., Saha, D., Dubyak, P. J., & Anton, S. D. (2013). Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) and major depressive disorder: a meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. Journal of Integrative Medicine, 11(6), 377–383. Link

Bathaie, S. Z., & Mousavi, S. Z. (2010). New applications and mechanisms of action of saffron and its important ingredients. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 50(8), 761–786. Link

Pitsikas, N. (2016). Constituents of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) as potential candidates for the treatment of anxiety disorders and schizophrenia. Molecules, 21(3), 303. Link