Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis)

Asian or Korean ginseng (Panax ginseng) is a perennial reaching about 3 ft (1 m) in height, with toothed oval leaves and a cluster of small green-yellow flowers. Its root is legendary for its adaptogenic qualities, boosting energy and physical stamina, slowing aspects of aging, and fortifying the body against stress. Ginseng is considered more warming (especially red ginseng, which is steamed before drying) and thus suited for older, easily fatigued individuals who feel cold.

Shatavari is a slender perennial fern that can grow up to 23 feet in height, featuring fronds of needle-like leaves, tiny white flowers, and purple-black berries. Known as the 'Queen of herbs' in Ayurvedic medicine, its name literally means '100 spouses,' reflecting its reputation as a sexual tonic and fertility promoter. The root is the medicinal part used. Native to the Himalayas and Indian subcontinent, it grows wild in gravelly soils up to 3,900 feet above sea level and is also found in western China.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), sometimes called “Indian ginseng,” is a sturdy shrub growing to about 5 ft (1.5 m) with oval leaves, greenish or yellow flowers, and small, round fruits. A key herb in Ayurvedic medicine, it is valued for boosting vitality and aiding convalescence from chronic illnesses. It promotes relaxation, increases energy and muscle tone, and can support healthy thyroid hormone conversion from T4 to T3. Traditionally, ashwagandha is considered a “Rasáyana” (rejuvenator), used long-term to rebuild and regenerate body and mind.

Andrographis, commonly known as Green Chiretta or King of Bitters, is an upright annual herb reaching approximately 3 feet in height. Native to India and cultivated throughout northern regions of India and China, this bitter medicinal plant has been valued in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. Historically used primarily for liver support and treating infections—especially malaria—it has earned recognition for its powerful immune-boosting and protective properties. The plant thrives on plains and in forest undergrowth, where its spotted pale brown or purple flowers and long seed capsules distinguish it from other medicinal herbs.

Bacopa, also known as Water Hyssop or Brahmi, is a creeping succulent perennial that can grow to about 20 inches. It features spatula-shaped fleshy leaves and pale blue or white flowers on slender stalks. Thriving in marshlands and along the edges of mangrove swamps in warmer temperate and tropical climates—especially southern Asia—it develops into dense mats on mudflats. This herb has been a cornerstone of Ayurvedic medicine for supporting cognitive function and treating various nervous system disorders, and it is increasingly recognized in Western herbalism for its brain-enhancing properties.

Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a bushy annual herb growing up to about 20 in (50 cm), with shiny oval leaves arranged on a square stem and small white flowers in whorls. Known for its strong, sweet aroma, basil is cultivated worldwide in numerous varieties. Traditional sources regard basil as both a culinary and medicinal herb, used to address digestive discomfort and various nervous system issues.

Bitter melon is an annual climbing vine reaching about 6.5 feet, characterized by deeply lobed leaves, yellow flowers, and distinctive orange-yellow fruit. Native to southern Asia and now common throughout tropical regions worldwide, it is harvested year-round. The plant's unripe fruit, ripe fruit, leaves, seeds, and seed oil all have medicinal applications, and it has been a traditional remedy for diabetes symptoms in Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean for centuries.

Boldo is a strongly aromatic multi-branched evergreen shrub or tree growing to 20 feet. It has egg-shaped leathery leaves with a lemony scent, clusters of white or yellow bell-shaped flowers, and small yellow berries. Native to Chile and Peru, it has become naturalized in the Mediterranean region and the West Coast of North America, where it grows on dry sunny slopes and in mountain pastures in the Andes. It is widely cultivated, and its leaves are gathered throughout the year. Boldo is a valued remedy in Latin American herbal medicine and is used by the Araucanian people in Chile as a tonic.