Siberian Ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus)

Arnica is an aromatic perennial, usually about 1 ft (30 cm) high, with downy, oval-shaped leaves and bright yellow daisy-like flowers. Well-known for reducing swelling, bruising, and pain from injuries, it is frequently used as a homeopathic remedy (both internally and topically) for bruises, sprains, and sore muscles. Higher-dose tinctures have a stronger anti-inflammatory action and may serve as a cardiac tonic by improving blood flow to the coronary vessels, but such usage must be closely supervised.

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.

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.

Codonopsis is a small twining perennial growing to 5 feet with oval leaves and pendulous green and purple bell-shaped flowers marked with purple in summer. Native to northeastern China and growing throughout the region—especially in the Shanxi and Szechuan provinces—it is propagated from seed in spring or autumn, and the root is harvested in autumn once the aerial parts have died down. In Chinese herbal medicine, codonopsis holds a central place as a gentle tonic that increases energy levels, improves physical and mental well-being, and helps the body adapt to stress.

Corydalis is a small herbaceous perennial growing to 8 inches with narrow leaves and pink flowers. Native to Siberia, northern China, and Japan, it is commonly cultivated in eastern and northeastern parts of China. Propagated from seed in early spring or autumn, the rhizome is harvested in late spring and early summer when the aerial parts have withered. This important Chinese remedy has been used at least since the 8th century to help 'invigorate the blood' and relieve almost any painful condition, particularly menstrual cramps and chest and abdominal pain.

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.

Kava (Piper methysticum) is a tropical shrub or evergreen vine, traditionally revered across the Pacific Islands for its calming, muscle-relaxing, and mildly euphoric effects. Its thick, knotty rootstock is used ceremonially and medicinally to ease anxiety, insomnia, and pain while preserving mental clarity.