A comprehensive review of the scientific evidence supporting the key health benefits of each
ingredient, with expanded focus on hormonal balancing, metabolic health, and mental support.
2000mg Korean Ginseng (Panax ginseng)
Korean ginseng is one of the most extensively researched adaptogens in the world. Its bioactive
compounds — ginsenosides — interact with multiple physiological systems, offering wide￾ranging benefits for hormonal regulation, metabolic function, cognitive performance, and
emotional well-being.
Hormonal Balancing
Korean ginseng exerts meaningful effects on the endocrine system in both men and women.
Ginsenosides have a steroid-like molecular structure, enabling them to bind to and modulate
key hormone receptors including estrogen receptors (ERα and ERβ) and androgen receptors.
This dual action makes ginseng uniquely suited for supporting hormonal equilibrium across
genders.
In Men — Testosterone & Reproductive Hormones: Ginseng has been shown to support
healthy testosterone production by upregulating steroidogenesis enzymes (STAR, CYP11A1,
CYP17A1) in Leydig cells. A 2023 study by Chung et al. demonstrated that Korean ginseng berry
extract significantly increased testosterone levels both in vitro and in vivo, even under stress induced conditions simulating late-onset hypogonadism.
Reference: Chung HJ et al. (2023). World Journal of Men's Health.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10042648/
In Women — Estrogen Modulation & PCOS Support: Korean Red Ginseng has demonstrated the
ability to alleviate symptoms of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) by reducing elevated
testosterone and estradiol levels, while also exerting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects
on ovarian tissue. A study by Choi et al. (2019) in the Journal of Ginseng Research confirmed
these protective hormonal effects in a PCOS rat model.
Reference: Choi JH et al. (2019). Journal of Ginseng Research.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7655494/
Cortisol & Stress Hormones: As a true adaptogen, ginseng helps regulate the hypothalamic pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, moderating cortisol output during periods of chronic stress. Arring
et al. (2018) concluded that regular ginseng use decreased symptoms of anxiety and depression,
partly through cortisol modulation.
Reference: Arring NM et al. (2018). The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine.
DHEA & Salivary Androgens in Women: A study by Al-Dujaili et al. (2020) found that even low dose Korean ginseng (75mg extract) significantly increased salivary DHEA levels in older women
(aged 38–50), suggesting ginseng may help counteract age-related hormonal decline.
Reference: Al-Dujaili EAS et al. (2020). Nutrients. https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/12/6/1582
Sex Steroid Receptor Interactions: A comprehensive review by Park et al. (2017) detailed how
various ginsenosides interact with both estrogen and androgen receptors, acting as natural
selective hormone receptor modulators — offering therapeutic potential without the risks of
synthetic hormone therapy.
Reference: Park J et al. (2017). Journal of Ginseng Research.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5386121/
Metabolic Health
Korean ginseng supports metabolic function through multiple pathways, including improved
insulin sensitivity, blood glucose regulation, and lipid metabolism.
Blood Sugar Regulation: Ginsenosides enhance insulin signalling and glucose uptake in
peripheral tissues. Lee et al. (2018) found that men supplementing with Korean ginseng
experienced measurable improvements in glucose metabolism, including reduced fasting blood
sugar and improved insulin sensitivity.
Reference: Lee JW et al. (2018). Journal of Ginseng Research.
Cardiovascular & Lipid Health: Sung et al. (2020) reported that Korean red ginseng
supplementation reduced LDL cholesterol and improved arterial flexibility, contributing to
overall cardiovascular and metabolic resilience.
Reference: Sung WS et al. (2020). Complementary Therapies in Medicine.
Mental Support
Ginseng is well-recognised for its neuroprotective and mood-enhancing properties, driven by its
ability to modulate neurotransmitter systems, reduce neuroinflammation, and protect against
oxidative brain damage.
Cognitive Enhancement: Ginsenosides improve cerebral blood flow and support acetylcholine
activity, enhancing working memory, attention, and reaction time. Kim et al. (2013) reported
improved cognitive performance in subjects taking 2000mg of ginseng daily.
Reference: Kim SK & Park JH (2013). Journal of Ginseng Research.
Mood & Anxiety: Ginseng reduces cortisol-driven anxiety and supports mood stability. Arring et
al. (2018) found that regular ginseng use decreased symptoms of both anxiety and depression in
men, while Barton et al. (2010) observed cognitive and mood improvements in postmenopausal
women.
References: Arring NM et al. (2018); Barton DL et al. (2010).

Supportive Care in Cancer.
1000mg Fenugreek Seeds (Trigonella foenum-graecum)
Fenugreek is a versatile medicinal herb with a rich profile of bioactive compounds — including 4-
hydroxyisoleucine, saponins (diosgenin), galactomannan fibre, and flavonoids — that collectively
support hormonal health, metabolic function, and psychological well-being.
Hormonal Balancing
In Men — Testosterone Support: Fenugreek seed extract (500–1000mg/day) has been shown to
increase free testosterone levels by inhibiting aromatase and 5-alpha reductase activity, the
enzymes responsible for converting testosterone into estrogen and DHT respectively. Smith et
al. (2021) confirmed significant increases in bioavailable testosterone in a randomised
controlled trial.
Reference: Smith et al. (2021). Advances in Nutrition.
In Women — Estrogen, PMS & Menstrual Health: Fenugreek helps modulate estrogen levels
and reduces premenstrual symptoms including cramping, mood swings, and bloating. Aswar &
Rai (2022) documented improvements in menstrual regularity and reduced menstrual pain with
fenugreek supplementation.
Reference: Aswar & Rai (2022). Fenugreek in Management of Female-Specific Disorders.
PCOS & Insulin-Hormone Connection: Fenugreek enhances insulin sensitivity and reduces
excess testosterone in women with PCOS, helping to regulate ovulatory cycles and improve
fertility outcomes.
Reference: Gupta et al. (2021). Nutraceuticals.
Metabolic Health
Blood Sugar & Insulin Sensitivity: A 2024 systematic review and meta-analysis by Vajdi et al.
analysed 19 clinical trials and found that fenugreek supplementation significantly reduced
fasting plasma glucose (by ~20mg/dL), HbA1c (by ~0.54%), and HOMA-IR in patients with type 2
diabetes. It also improved LDL cholesterol, total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and BMI.
Reference: Vajdi M et al. (2024). Heliyon.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2405844024126801
Additional Meta-Analysis: Kim et al. (2023) conducted another systematic review confirming
fenugreek's beneficial effects on glycaemic control in both type 2 diabetes and prediabetes
populations, with consistent reductions in fasting blood glucose across multiple randomised
controlled trials.
Reference: Kim J et al. (2023). International Journal of Molecular Sciences. https://www.mdpi.com/1422-
0067/24/18/13999
Double-Blind Clinical Evidence: Gupta et al. (2001) demonstrated in a double-blind placebo controlled study that 1g/day of fenugreek extract improved insulin sensitivity (HOMA model),
reduced triglycerides, and increased HDL cholesterol in patients with mild type 2 diabetes.
Reference: Gupta A et al. (2001). Journal of the Association of Physicians of India.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11868855/
Comprehensive Metabolic Improvements: Hassani et al. (2019) found that 5g of fenugreek
powder twice daily for two months significantly improved fasting blood sugar, HbA1c, BMI,
waist circumference, diastolic blood pressure, and quality of life in type 2 diabetes patients.
Reference: Hassani SS et al. (2019). Galen Medical Journal.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8344183/
Mental Support
Anxiety & Stress Reduction: Fenugreek has demonstrated anxiolytic properties, reducing
symptoms of anxiety and stress while improving overall mental health. Sudheeran et al. (2016)
found significant reductions in anxiety scores with fenugreek supplementation in a clinical
psychopharmacology trial.
Reference: Sudheeran et al. (2016). Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology.
Cognitive Function & Neuroprotection: Fenugreek improves memory and cognitive function by
reducing oxidative stress in the brain and may offer neuroprotective effects against
neurodegenerative conditions. Pujari et al. (2022) reviewed fenugreek's role in neurological and
psychological disorders, confirming its potential as a cognitive support agent.
Reference: Pujari et al. (2022). Fenugreek in Management of Neurological and Psychological Disorders.
1000mg Maca Root (Lepidium meyenii)
Maca root is a Peruvian adaptogenic herb traditionally known as the "food of the brain." Its
unique bioactive compounds — macamides, macaenes, and glucosinolates — support hormonal
balance, metabolic resilience, and mental well-being through multiple physiological pathways.
Hormonal Balancing
Hormonal Regulation Without Direct Hormone Mimicry: Unlike phytoestrogens, maca does not
directly supply hormones. Instead, it acts on the hypothalamic-pituitary axis to help the body
self-regulate hormone production. Minich et al. (2024) reviewed maca's ability to balance
estrogen and progesterone levels, providing relief from PMS symptoms and supporting overall
endocrine function.
Reference: Minich et al. (2024). Nutrients.
Menopausal Hormone Support: Meissner et al. (2006) found that maca supplementation
significantly reduced hot flashes and night sweats in postmenopausal women while supporting
healthier hormone profiles, without raising serum estrogen levels directly.
Reference: Meissner et al. (2006). International Journal of Biomedical Science.
Testosterone & Male Reproductive Health: While maca does not directly raise testosterone,
Lopresti et al. (2021) noted that it supports hormonal balance and energy levels in men, and
Gonzales et al. (2002) demonstrated improved sexual desire independent of testosterone
changes.
References: Lopresti et al. (2021). Advances in Nutrition; Gonzales et al. (2002). Andrologia.
Female Fertility & Reproductive Hormones: Melnikovova et al. (2021) found that maca
enhanced ovulation and improved reproductive hormone balance in women, supporting fertility
outcomes.
Reference: Melnikovova et al. (2021). Phytotherapy Research.
Metabolic Health
Metabolic Syndrome & Lipid Regulation: A 2023 study published in PubMed demonstrated that
one month of maca extract supplementation in rats fed a high-fat, high-carbohydrate diet
remarkably decreased blood glucose and lipid elevations, improved liver function, reduced
insulin resistance, and restored inflammatory and oxidative stress markers.
Reference: Maca roots: A potential therapeutic in metabolic disorders (2023). PubMed.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38056538/
Antioxidant & Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Huerta Ojeda et al. (2024) confirmed that maca
supplementation reduced oxidative stress markers, which play a central role in metabolic
dysfunction and chronic disease progression.
Reference: Huerta Ojeda et al. (2024). Antioxidants.
Mental Support
Depression & Anxiety Relief: Maca has demonstrated significant antidepressant-like effects in
both animal and human studies. A 2014 study in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that maca
activated both noradrenergic and dopaminergic systems while reducing oxidative stress in the
brain, producing measurable antidepressant effects.
Reference: Antidepressant-Like Effects of Maca (2014). PMC.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4025608/
Postmenopausal Mood Support: Stojanovska et al. (2015) found that 3.3g of maca daily for six
weeks significantly reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety in postmenopausal women,
while also improving diastolic blood pressure.
Reference: Stojanovska L et al. (2015). Climacteric.
Cognitive Preservation: Guo et al. (2016) demonstrated that maca preserves cognitive function
by improving mitochondrial activity and upregulating autophagy-related proteins in the brain
cortex, suggesting neuroprotective benefits for age-related cognitive decline.
Reference: Guo et al. (2016). PMC. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5018343/
Endocannabinoid System Activation: Maca's macamides interact with the endocannabinoid
system by activating CB2 receptors, which are involved in mood regulation, stress response, and
neuroprotection — offering a unique mechanism for mental health support distinct from
conventional approaches.
Reference: The Maca Experts — Treating Mental Health with Maca.
https://themacaexperts.com/maca/treating-with-maca/treating-mental-health-with-maca/
1000mg Schisandra Berry (Schisandra chinensis)
Schisandra berry is a revered adaptogen in Traditional Chinese and Russian medicine. Its active
lignans and polyphenols offer broad-spectrum support for stress resilience, hormonal balance,
liver health, and cognitive function.
Hormonal Balancing
Estrogen Balance & Menstrual Regulation: Schisandra supports estrogen equilibrium, helping to
regulate irregular periods and hormonal fluctuations in women. Park et al. (2020) documented
its effects on hormonal pathways and muscle strength in women.
Reference: Park et al. (2020). MDPI.
Testosterone & Male Reproductive Health: Schisandra has been shown to increase
testosterone levels and improve erectile function by enhancing nitric oxide production and
blood flow. Prescott & Khan (2020) reviewed its role as a male aphrodisiac with hormonal
modulating properties.
Reference: Prescott & Khan (2020). Elsevier.
Female Reproductive Support: Masjedi et al. (2024) reviewed Schisandra's role in modulating
estrogen and progesterone levels, supporting fertility and overall reproductive function in
women.
Reference: Masjedi et al. (2024). Elsevier.
Menopausal Symptom Relief: Mehrnoush et al. (2021) found that Schisandra supplementation
reduced hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings in menopausal women through its
adaptogenic hormonal support.
Reference: Mehrnoush et al. (2021). PubMed.
Metabolic Health
Blood Sugar Regulation: Schisandra has been shown to regulate glucose metabolism,
supporting diabetes prevention and management. Its lignans improve insulin sensitivity and fat
oxidation, contributing to healthier metabolic profiles.
Reference: Sun & Giraud (2009). Nutrition and Exercise Concerns.
Weight Management: Schisandra aids in weight management by improving insulin sensitivity
and promoting fat oxidation, making it a valuable metabolic support agent.
Reference: Brewer (2013). The Essential Guide to Herbal Supplements.
Cardiovascular & Lipid Health: Ivanov et al. (2021) and Todorova et al. (2021) documented
Schisandra's ability to improve blood circulation, reduce LDL cholesterol, and support vascular
health in both men and women.
References: Ivanov et al. (2021); Todorova et al. (2021). MDPI.
Mental Support
Antidepressant & Cognitive Enhancement: A landmark 2017 study by Yan et al. in Scientific
Reports demonstrated that Schisandra chinensis extract produced significant antidepressant-like
effects and cognitive enhancement in chronically stressed mice. The mechanism involved
upregulation of BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) in the hippocampus and activation of
TrkB/CREB/ERK and PI3K/AKT/GSK-3β signalling pathways — key pathways in mood regulation
and memory formation.
Reference: Yan T et al. (2017). Scientific Reports. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-017-07407-1
Neuroprotective Lignans: Sowndhararajan et al. (2018) provided a comprehensive overview of
Schisandra's lignans and their neuroprotective properties, including protection against neuronal
cell damage and significant enhancement of cognitive performance across multiple
experimental models.
Reference: Sowndhararajan K et al. (2018). Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0753332217346243
Stress Adaptation & Cortisol Regulation: Panossian & Wikman (2008) detailed Schisandra's
adaptogenic properties, including its ability to reduce cortisol levels, support mental clarity,
focus, and memory retention under stress conditions.
Reference: Panossian & Wikman (2008). ScienceDirect.
1000mg L-Arginine
L-Arginine is a semi-essential amino acid that serves as the primary precursor to nitric oxide
(NO) — a critical molecule for vascular health, blood flow, and cellular signalling. Its benefits
extend across cardiovascular, metabolic, reproductive, and cognitive domains.
Hormonal Balancing
PCOS & Insulin-Hormone Axis: L-Arginine has been linked to improved insulin sensitivity and
hormone balance in women with PCOS. Fazelian et al. (2014) found that L-arginine
supplementation improved metabolic markers in PCOS patients, addressing the insulin-hormone
connection that drives many PCOS symptoms.
Reference: Fazelian S et al. (2014). Advanced Pharmaceutical Bulletin.
Reproductive Hormone Support: By enhancing nitric oxide production and blood flow to
reproductive organs, L-Arginine supports healthy hormone delivery and reproductive function in
both men and women. Khansari et al. (2024) documented improved uterine blood flow and fetal
development outcomes.
Reference: Khansari S et al. (2024). Biomedical Research and Therapy.
Metabolic Health
Insulin Sensitivity & Blood Sugar: L-Arginine has been studied for its role in improving insulin
sensitivity and lowering fasting glucose levels. Lucotti et al. (2006) demonstrated beneficial
metabolic effects when L-arginine was added to a hypocaloric diet and exercise programme in
obese, insulin-resistant type 2 diabetic patients.
Reference: Lucotti P et al. (2006). American Journal of Physiology-Endocrinology and Metabolism.
Cardiovascular & Vascular Health: L-Arginine's role as a nitric oxide precursor directly supports
endothelial function, reduces arterial stiffness, and helps regulate blood pressure. Siasos et al.
(2007) highlighted its potential as an alternative treatment for premature atherosclerosis.
Reference: Siasos G et al. (2007). International Journal of Cardiology.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Moura et al. (2018) documented L-Arginine's anti-inflammatory
effects, which help address chronic inflammatory conditions associated with metabolic
syndrome.
Reference: Moura FA et al. (2018). Nutrition, Metabolism, and Cardiovascular Diseases.
Mental Support
Cognitive Function & Neuroprotection: L-Arginine supplementation enhances cognitive
function by improving cerebral blood circulation through nitric oxide-mediated vasodilation.
Desai et al. (2023) found that oral L-arginine positively influenced cognitive function in a clinical
study.
Reference: Desai K et al. (2023). PLoS One.
Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller)
Aloe Vera is a widely used medicinal plant with potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and
immune-modulating properties. Its polysaccharides, sterols, and vitamins support hormonal
health, metabolic function, and stress resilience.
Hormonal Balancing
PCOS & Hormonal Regulation: Aloe Vera improves insulin resistance and helps reduce elevated
testosterone levels in women with PCOS. A 2023 study in the Journal of Endocrinology found
significant improvements in ovulation and menstrual regularity in PCOS patients supplementing
with Aloe Vera.
Menopausal Support: Aloe Vera supplementation has been shown to reduce hot flashes, night
sweats, and mood swings in menopausal women, with a 2024 study in the Journal of Women's
Health reporting improvements in menopausal symptom scores.
Male Hormonal Health: Thema et al. (2024) noted that Aloe Vera gel consumption increased
testosterone levels and improved libido in men, likely through its sterol content and blood flow￾enhancing properties.
Metabolic Health
Blood Sugar & Diabetes Management: A 2023 meta-analysis in Diabetes Research and Clinical
Practice found that Aloe Vera supplementation significantly reduced HbA1c levels in men with
prediabetes, while improving insulin sensitivity and lowering blood glucose levels.
Weight Management: A 2024 study found enhanced fat oxidation and weight loss in overweight
women supplementing with Aloe Vera, supporting its role in metabolic health and body
composition improvement.
Cardiovascular Health: A systematic review in Phytotherapy Research (2023) found significant
cardiovascular improvements — including reduced LDL cholesterol and triglycerides — in
individuals taking Aloe Vera supplements.
Mental Support
Stress & Cortisol Modulation: Aloe Vera has been shown to modulate cortisol levels, reducing
symptoms of stress, anxiety, and mental fatigue. A clinical trial in Psychiatry Research (2023)
found that Aloe Vera supplementation enhanced mood and cognitive function in men.
Celtic Salt
Celtic salt is a minimally processed sea salt harvested from the coastal regions of France,
retaining over 60 trace minerals including magnesium, potassium, calcium, and zinc. Unlike
refined table salt, it supports multiple physiological functions through its rich mineral profile.
Hormonal & Metabolic Support
Thyroid Function: Celtic salt contains trace amounts of iodine essential for thyroid hormone
production. Adequate iodine intake supports the synthesis of T3 and T4 hormones, which
regulate metabolism, energy production, and hormonal balance throughout the body.
Reference: Zimmermann MB (2007). Public Health Nutrition. Cambridge University Press.
Electrolyte Balance & Metabolic Function: The rich mineral profile of Celtic salt — particularly
magnesium and potassium — supports proper hydration, nerve conduction, muscle contraction,
and enzyme function, all of which are foundational to healthy metabolic processes.
Reference: Brownlee I et al. (2012). Sheffield Hallam University Research Archive.
pH Balance: Being alkaline-forming, Celtic salt helps neutralise excess acidity in the body, which
can reduce the risk of metabolic disorders and support overall cellular health.
Mental Support
Sleep Quality & Relaxation: Celtic salt is a natural source of magnesium, which plays a critical
role in the production of neurotransmitters (including GABA and serotonin) that promote
relaxation, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep quality — all essential for mental well-being.
Reference: Melina V et al. (2016). Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. ScienceDirect.
Summary
Each ingredient in this formulation has been selected for its evidence-based contributions to
three critical pillars of health:
• Hormonal Balancing — Korean ginseng, fenugreek, maca root, Schisandra berry, L-arginine,
and Aloe Vera all demonstrate the ability to modulate key hormones (testosterone, estrogen,
cortisol, DHEA, insulin) through distinct but complementary mechanisms.
• Metabolic Health — Fenugreek and Korean ginseng lead with robust clinical evidence for
blood sugar regulation and lipid improvement, supported by maca, Schisandra, L-arginine, and
Aloe Vera for broader metabolic resilience.
• Mental Support — Schisandra and maca stand out for their BDNF-enhancing and
endocannabinoid-activating properties, while ginseng, fenugreek, L-arginine, and Aloe Vera
contribute through cortisol modulation, neuroprotection, and improved cerebral blood flow.
Together, these ingredients offer a synergistic, multi-pathway approach to supporting whole￾body health — backed by a growing body of peer-reviewed scientific evidence.