Soybean isoflavones

(Glycine max)

Soy isoflavones are a class of phytoestrogens, bioactive non-nutrients that are similar in chemical structure to estradiol, the main female hormone.

Studies have indicated that soybean isoflavones may help relieve hot flashes associated with menopause by helping to balance the hormone levels, diminishing the occurrence of the vasomotor symptoms caused by the hormone imbalance in the body.

Soy has also been shown to promote cardiovascular health and increase circulation throughout the body, necessary for healthy sexual activity.

Black cohosh standardized extract

Also known as black snakeroot, bugbane, bugwort, rattleroot, and rattleweed

Black cohosh is a perennial member of the buttercup family, native to North America. It has been used throughout history by Native Americans, Europeans, and in Korean folk medicine.

Black cohosh has anti-inflammatory properties and is believed to act like estrogen in the body. Studies have indicated that black cohosh may assist in relieving hot flashes and other symptoms of menopause.

Sage leaf 4:1 extract (Salvia officinalis)

Also known as Salvia officinalis, common sage, garden sage, kitchen sage

Sage is a perennial evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region and can be found in most kitchens throughout the world, with over 500 varieties available to choose from. The Latin name for sage, salvia means "to heal". Sage has been used throughout history as a healing plant for a variety of issues.

Sage has estrogen-simulating properties and may improve menopausal symptoms including night sweats, hot flashes, mood swings and discomfort. Studies have shown sage to play a role in mood improvements while reducing anxiety and increasing alertness, improving memory retention, and acting as an anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial.

Red raspberry leaf (Rubus idaeus)

Also known as Rubus idaeus

Red raspberry is a perennial whose leaf has many medical uses due to its rich content in vitamins, minerals, and tannins. Red raspberry leaf contains large amounts of vitamins A, C, E and some B complex vitamins, as well as potassium, phosphorus and calcium.

Red raspberry leaf acts as an antioxidant and antimicrobial and has been used in the past for cardiovascular support, and to help with GI tract disorders, influenza, diabetes and childbirth.

Red raspberry leaf has typically been used in births because it aids in contracting the smooth muscle of the uterine wall, which also occurs with uterine and circumvaginal muscle contractions during the female orgasm.

Bayberry bark (Morella cerifera)

Also known as wax myrtle, waxberry and candleberry

Bayberry is both a shrub and a tree found all over the world, though the species indigenous to the United States is most often regarded by herbalists. The bark contains starch, lignin, gum, albumen, tannic and gallic acids, astringent resin, a vaporous oil and an acid similar to saponin.

Bayberry bark has traditionally been classified as an astringent and used as a circulatory stimulant, as well as a diaphoretic (an agent which dilates superficial capillaries). It is known as a natural antibiotic and has been used in combination with other herbs to support normal vaginal yeast levels.

Cayenne pepper (Capsicum annuum)

Also known as guinea pepper and bird pepper

Cayenne pepper is known around the world for its spicy flavoring in culinary dishes, but also has a long history in medicinal uses. The active ingredient in cayenne, capsaicin, has traditionally been used orally for excessive blood clotting, malaria, heart disease prevention and poor circulation.

Studies have found that adrenaline release is accelerated by the presence of capsaicin as well as vasodilation (widening of blood vessels) in the cutaneous tissue. Increased blood flow enhances the circulation of nutrients while increasing toxin removal from the body. Cayenne's anti-inflammatory effects may help with headaches.

Damiana leaf (Tumera diffusa)

Also known as tunera diffusa

Damiana is a small aromatic flower-producing shrub native to Central and South America. It has been traditionally used as an aphrodisiac. Spanish missionaries first recorded that natives drank damiana tea mixed with sugar for its ability to enhance lovemaking. Damiana is currently used to help with headaches, depression and constipation.

Damiana is a valuable addition to Sensuvive™ due to its aphrodisiac nature. Damiana may also help to relieve discomfort by blocking pain signals through the release of neurotransmitters, as well as improving overall mood.

Ginger root (Zingiber officinale)

Also known as Zingiber officinale, African ginger, Jamaican ginger

Ginger has been used as medicine in Asian, Indian and Arabic herbal traditions since ancient times. The use of ginger as a culinary spice spans at least 4,400 years and continues to be valued around the world for its flavor in cooking. In China ginger has been used to aid digestion and treat stomach upset, diarrhea and nausea for more than 2,000 years!

Ginger is an anti-inflammatory that contains active components thought to be volatile oils and pungent phenol compounds such as gingerols and shogaols. Ginger has traditionally been used to help alleviate arthritis, colic, diarrhea and heart conditions. It is also believed to help with the common cold, flu-like symptoms, headaches and even painful menstrual periods.

Ginger may also help to alleviate discomfort by releasing neurotransmitters throughout the body that aid in blocking pain signals that can lead to sexual distress.

Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Also known as: sweet root, gan zao (Chinese licorice)

Licorice is a legume (related to peas and beans) and is native to southern Europe and parts of Asia. Licorice is the second largest selling herb in China and has been used for over 5,000 years as an aid in colds, sore throats, stomach ailments, constipation, and to alleviate cardiac and hypertension issues.

Licorice has properties of an anti-inflammatory and contains isoflavones which act as phytoestrogen and can help alleviate symptoms of menopause by helping to balance hormones throughout the body.

Valerian root (Valeriana officinalis)

Also known Valeriana officinalis

Valerian is a hardy perennial flowering plant native to Europe and parts of Asia. Valerian has been used as a medicinal herb since ancient Greek and Roman times, and its properties were described by the Greek healer Hippocrates, "the father of modern medicine".

Traditional use of valerian root has been to manage sleeping disorders, mood disorders and relieve anxieties as a sedative.

Studies have shown valerian to promote healthy blood pressure during stressful times. Valerian may help to relieve anxiety associated with symptoms of menopause and female sexual dysfunction.