Widely known and used for its anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties, helping to reduce allergy symptoms

Also has been used for supporting skin, bone and urinary health

Antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-ulcer, diuretic and analgesic (pain-relieving) properties

TCM applications

• Targets lung, liver and kidney meridians 

• Cleanses toxins out of the blood

• Improves stamina

• Tones the lungs

• Builds blood

Common type of seaweed that contains high levels of iodine, making it a strong source of support for thyroid health

Contains a high level of antioxidants, including beta-carotene (which gets converted to vitamin A in the body and supports eye, skin and brain health) lutein and zeaxanthin (both are found in dark leafy greens)

Also contains nutrients that have been studied for their antioxidant, anticancer, immune-modulatory and anti-inflammatory properties 

Has been used for centuries to treat pain and inflammation, especially in muscles and joints, and heal wounds

A 2013 review of clinical trials and studies stated that comfrey “is clinically proven to relieve pain, inflammation and swelling of muscles and joints in the case of degenerative arthritis, acute myalgia in the back, sprains, contusions and strains after sports injuries and accidents, also in children aged 3 years and older”

TCM applications

• Targets kidney, bladder, spleen and lung meridians

• Nourishes yin

• Promotes tissue repair

• Builds blood and qi

• Used as a yin tonic to heal wounds

Believed to be first used during the Han Dynasty, circa 200 CE, to support the digestive system and to stimulate appetite

The leaves are a great source of chlorophyll (the green pigment in plants), which is anti-cancer, antiviral and high in antioxidants, among many other benefits

Absorbs unique minerals from the earth that are not found in many other plants 

Alfalfa extract has been used as a source of iron and folic acid for those who are anemic 

TCM applications

• Targets stomach, spleen and kidney meridians

• Clears stomach and spleen

• Expels dampness and heat

• Promotes elimination

• Reduces swelling

Member of the daisy family, along with dahlias, thistle, ragweed, lettuce, artichokes and sunflowers

The use of dandelion as an herbal remedy can be traced all the way back to 659 B.C. in ancient China; was also used in Welsh, Arabic and European medicine

Studies show that dandelion root may help prevent and treat certain types of cancer, such as liver cancer, leukemia, pancreatic cancer, breast cancer, esophageal cancer and prostate cancer

Supports liver and kidney health, is antimicrobial and antiviral, reduces high cholesterol and blood pressure, high in antioxidants, strengthens bones and supports healthy skin

Contains one of the highest concentrations of silica compared to other plants; silica is an important mineral that supports collagen production, heart health and the immune system 

Most commonly used to support skin, nail, hair and joint health

Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, analgesic (pain-relieving) properties

TCM applications

• Targets large intestine, lung, bladder and kidney meridians 

• Clears damp heat

• Lowers inflammation 

• Strengthens bone

• Stops bleeding

Traditionally used to balance hormones and treat symptoms associated with menopause, such as hot flashes and night sweats

Also commonly used to prevent and treat respiratory conditions, such as asthma, bronchitis and the common cold 

Anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antispasmodic, diuretic, antioxidant and anticancer properties

TCM applications

• Targets lung, kidney and bladder meridians 

• Cleanses and nourishes blood

• Clears heat

• Reduces inflammation