Bark ingredient
Boswellia / Boswellia serrata
Native to the dry mountainous regions of India, this moderate to large sized branching tree is cultivated worldwide. Known as ‘Indian frankincense’ the resin of Boswellia species has been used as incense in religious and cultural ceremonies for thousands of years.
There are approximately 25 known species belonging to genus Boswellia, most of them found in Arabia, north-eastern coast of Africa and India. Since ancient times, three of these species have been considered as ‘true Frankincense’ producing trees, including Boswellia serrata, along with Boswellia sacra, grown in South Arabia, and Boswellia frereana a Somalian species.
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Traditionally used in Ayurvedic Medicine to:
- Relieve inflammation
- Reduce mild joint inflammation and swelling
- Relieve symptoms of mild arthritis and mild osteoarthritis
- Relieve mild joint pain and soreness
- Support joint health
- Support general health and wellbeing
Traditionally
Boswellia serrata is one of the ancient and most valued herbs in Ayurveda. “Gajabhakshya”, is a Sanskrit name sometimes used for Boswellia.
Bark ingredient
Cinnamon / Cinnamomum verum
Native to Sri Lanka, Cinnomomum verum, is a small, slow growth evergreen tree, which is now grown across the world. The spice is obtained from the inner bark of the tree and used for culinary, aromatherapy and herbal use.
Its botanical name is derived from the Hebraic and Arabic term amomon, meaning ‘fragrant spice plant’.
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Traditionally used in Western Herbal Medicine to:
- Relieve symptoms of indigestion
- Reduce abdominal bloating
- Relieve digestive discomfort
Traditionally
Since ancient times, this spice has been used for a variety of purposes including in food preparations as well as a variety of herbal uses. It was valued as a precious commodity and was so highly prized that it was regarded a gift fit for monarchs. It is believed that its source was kept secret in the Mediterranean world by those in the spice trade to protect their monopoly as suppliers.
Bark ingredient
Cramp Bark / Viburnum opulus
Native to Europe and United States this deciduous, tall, flowering shrub with red berries and clusters of white flowers is now grown worldwide. Due to its widespread availability across the globe, it is also referred to as Guelder Rose, Highbush Cranberry and Snowball Tree.
As the common name suggests, Cramp Bark is used traditionally in Western Herbal Medicine to help relieve muscle cramps and tension, including muscle spasms.
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Traditionally used in Western Herbal Medicine as:
- An antispasmodic to relieve muscle cramps and tension
- Support muscle health and function
- Maintain general health and wellbeing
Traditionally
Native Americans would eat the berries of the viburnum plant and other parts of the plant were smoked as an alternative to tobacco.
Bark ingredient
Slippery Elm / Ulmus rubra
Native to North America, this medium-sized, fast growth tree is now grown throughout the world and is also referred to as Red Elm, Grey Elm or Indian Elm.
The plant’s bark and root are used medicinally for the soothing properties in the case of inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract.
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Traditionally used in Western Herbal Medicine to:
- Support gastrointestinal mucosal membrane health
- Soothe gastrointestinal tract mucous membranes
- Relieve mild gastrointestinal tract inflammation
- Soothe irritated tissues
Traditionally
Native Americans also used the bark to quench thirst by chewing the sweet, fibrous inner bark peeled from twigs and branches.
Bark ingredient
White Willow Bark / Salix alba
Native to Europe, Asia and North America, and now grown throughout the world, this tall, fast-growth, deciduous tree is also recognised as Brittle Willow or simply Willow.The name, White Willow, derives from the white tone to the undersides of the leaves. It is also a dioecious, meaning there are both male and female trees.
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Traditionally used in Western Herbal Medicine to:
- Relieve mild fever and reduce body temperature
Traditionally
The use of willow bark dates to the time of Hippocrates when people were advised to chew on the bark to help reduce fever and inflammation.