Kava

Kava kava, or piper methysticum, is a plant native to the South Pacific. The root of the plant is used as an herbal remedy with various effects. Traditionally, the kava root was ground into a paste and added to liquid for consumption as a kava drink. It’s often used in ceremonies and rituals for its relaxation properties, potential to increase sociability, and mood elevation. For today’s use, we’ve harnessed the power of this incredible plant to create a modern tonic that offers all the same benefits. Learn more about kava on our Kava 101 page.

Kola Nut

Kola nut is the seed of the plant Cola nitida and is native to the rainforests of West Africa. It has a bitter taste and naturally contains caffeine, theobromine, among other compounds.

One of the key benefits of kola nut is its stimulating properties. The caffeine in kola nut can provide a natural boost of energy and improve mental alertness. This makes it a popular ingredient in many energy drinks and supplements.

In addition to its stimulating properties, kola nut has been found to have antioxidant properties. A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that kola nut had high levels of antioxidants

One common traditional method of consuming kola nuts was by chewing them. Kola nuts were often used as a natural way to increase energy and alertness. They were typically chewed by breaking off a piece of the nut and slowly chewing it to release the bitter juices and the stimulating compounds, including caffeine. The act of chewing kola nuts was often considered a social and ceremonial practice in some cultures, where they were shared among family and friends during gatherings or used as a symbol of hospitality.

The kola nut is a unique nut that has been used for centuries in traditional African medicine. Its stimulant properties, appetite-suppressing effects, and antioxidant content make it a popular ingredient in many supplements and energy drinks. However, it's important to note that kola nut contains caffeine, so it should be consumed in moderation and avoided by those who are sensitive to caffeine.

Rhodiola

Rhodiola, also known as rhodiola rosea, is a flowering herb that grows in cold regions such as the Arctic and the mountains of Europe and Asia where it has been used traditionally for centuries. Today, rhodiola has gained popularity as a supplement due to its ability to possibly enhance cognitive function, increase energy levels, and reduce occasional stress.

In addition to its cognitive and physical benefits, rhodiola has also been found to have antioxidant properties, which may help with wellness as we age and promote overall health.

One traditional method of consuming rhodiola was by making an herbal infusion or tea. The roots or leaves of the rhodiola plant were steeped in hot water to extract the active compounds, and the resulting tea was consumed as a beverage. This method allowed for the natural compounds in rhodiola to be absorbed by the body and potentially provide its adaptogenic effects, which are known to help the body cope with occasional stress and fatigue.

In conclusion, rhodiola is a powerful herb that has been used for centuries for its many wellness and general health benefits. Whether you’re looking to support your cognitive function, your physical performance, or reduce occasional stress and anxiety, rhodiola is definitely worth considering.

Lion's Mane

Lion's mane, also known as Hericium erinaceus, is a type of edible mushroom that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. It has a unique appearance that is white and shaggy, resembling a lion's mane, hence the name.

Lion's mane is rich in polysaccharides and beta-glucans, which have been found to have immune-supporting properties. In addition, lion’s mane is a nootropic, meaning it contains compounds that support cognitive heath and function. It is often referred to as the “smart mushroom” because of its possible ability to support brain function, including memory, focus and clarity.

It is said that Buddhist monks in Asia traditionally put lion’s mane in teas to maintain brain function and enhance focus during meditation.

Lion's mane is a unique and powerful mushroom that has been shown to have many general health and wellness benefits. Its ability to support healthy cognitive function and memory make it a great supplement for those looking to support their brain function.

Kava

Just like our feel free tonic, feel free CLASSIC tonic’s main ingredient is Kava. Learn more about Kava here.

Kratom

Kratom, who’s scientific name is Mitragyna speciosa, is a tropical evergreen tree in the coffee family that is native to Southeast Asia, particularly, Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia. Kratom leaves have been traditionally used in these regions for centuries. The leaves are often consumed fresh from the tree or by brewing them into a tea or decoction. Kratom is used in Southeast Asia to enhance energy and physical endurance and increase mood. Kratom use in the West has dramatically increased over the past few decades with reported uses for mood enhancement, and energy increase. There are a few key facts to know before using kratom:

1. Serving Size: it is important to consume kratom in moderation. Traditional use of kratom is from the leaf material, where very low doses of the active compounds are consumed.
2. Quality: make sure your kratom is from a reputable vendor who is performing quality testing on their material as there have been reports of adulterated kratom products in the US market.
3. As with any dietary supplement, make sure to discuss kratom consumption with a healthcare professional if you are on any other medications or have pre-existing conditions to make sure kratom is right for you.

Here at Botanic Tonics we use green vein full leaf kratom, sourced from Indonesia. Each lot of kratom leaf used is processed in a facility under current good manufacturing practices to ensure its quality and unadulterated status. Kratom is NOT an opioid and is not approved as a drug. It is sold in the US as either a dietary supplement or food. In 2018, an attempt to schedule kratom as a controlled substance was stopped by congress. Certain jurisdictions in the US have put restrictions on the sale and use of kratom so be sure to check your local laws prior to use.