Since the dawn of time, humans have turned to plants to feel good, sleep better and perform their best. At Naternal, we blend modern science and production techniques with time-tested knowledge to deliver powerful, natural wellness products that work.
While hemp has recently taken center stage in the plant-powered wellness world, it is a single plant in a forest full of them. In this article, we'll explore the plant-based sidekicks we've carefully chosen and how they work with hemp to ensure you'll feel your targeted benefit.
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Hemp: The Plant Super Hero.
Hemp has emerged as a versatile powerhouse in plant-powered wellness. Its effectiveness stems from a complex profile of beneficial compounds, including cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, which interact with our body's endocannabinoid system (ECS).
The ECS plays a crucial role in maintaining balance across various bodily functions, including mood, sleep, appetite, and immune response. Hemp's cannabinoids - such as CBD, CBG, CBN, and THCv - interact with the ECS in unique ways, contributing to overall wellness.
However, hemp's versatility can be a double-edged sword. While it offers a wide range of potential benefits, this breadth can sometimes lead to inconsistent or unpredictable experiences. That's why we go beyond hemp, carefully selecting additional botanicals to create more targeted and reliable effects.
Hemp's Super Hero Sidekicks.
At Naternal, we recognize that effective plant-powered wellness comes from a thoughtfully curated combination of botanical ingredients. That's why we supercharge hemp with specific botanicals to create products that deliver more predictable and targeted benefits. Our formulations draw from a diverse palette of nature's most powerful plants and compounds, including adaptogens, functional mushrooms, nervines, cognitive enhancers, and essential nutrients.
Let's meet Naternal's super hero sidekicks to better understand how our products will help you unlock your body's full potential.
Functional Mushrooms: Nature's Cognitive and Immune Boosters
Mushrooms have been used in traditional medicine for millennia, but modern science is now uncovering the remarkable potential of specific varieties we call "functional mushrooms." But what exactly makes a mushroom "functional"?
Functional mushrooms are mushroom species that have been identified to have properties beyond basic nutrition, offering specific health benefits when consumed. These mushrooms are rich in bioactive compounds such as beta-glucans, triterpenes, and various antioxidants, which contribute to their potential to support different aspects of health - from cognitive function to immune defense.
Many functional mushrooms also act as adaptogens, substances that help the body resist various types of stress and promote overall balance. This adaptogenic quality, combined with their unique nutrient profiles, makes functional mushrooms powerful allies in our plant-powered formulations.
At Naternal, we've selected a roster of functional mushrooms to complement our hemp formulations and target specific wellness goals:
Lion's Mane: Known as the "smart mushroom," Lion's Mane is our cognitive enhancement superstar. Research suggests it may stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF), supporting brain health and potentially improving focus and memory. We pair it with hemp in our focus formulations for a comprehensive cognitive boost.
Reishi: Often called the "mushroom of immortality," Reishi is prized for its stress-reducing and immune-supporting properties. Clinical studies have shown that Reishi can significantly reduce fatigue and improve sleep quality. It works by modulating the body's stress response system and supporting the immune system through its bioactive compounds, including triterpenes and polysaccharides. Notably, Reishi has been found to potentially lower cortisol levels and boost the body's natural defense mechanisms, providing a dual approach to stress management and overall wellness.
Cordyceps : This energy-boosting fungus is a key player in our performance-enhancing formulations. Clinical studies have shown that Cordyceps can significantly improve exercise performance and reduce fatigue. It works by enhancing oxygen utilization in the body and increasing the production of ATP, the primary energy currency of cells. Notably, Cordyceps has been found to potentially improve VO2 max, a measure of aerobic fitness, making it particularly valuable for endurance athletes and those seeking to boost their stamina and vitality.
Turkey Tail : This functional mushroom is a key component in our focus-enhancing blends. Recent research suggests that Turkey Tail can support cognitive function and mental clarity. It works through its rich array of bioactive compounds, including polysaccharopeptides, which have been shown to have neuroprotective properties. Notably, Turkey Tail's immune-modulating effects may contribute to overall brain health by reducing neuroinflammation, potentially leading to improved focus and mental performance.
Adaptogens: Your Stress-Management Response Team.
In our fast-paced world, stress has become a constant companion. That's where adaptogens come in – they are nature's stress-management specialists. These remarkable plants help our bodies resist and recover from various stressors, whether physical, chemical, or biological.
Adaptogens work by interacting with the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the sympathoadrenal system, both of which are involved in the body's response to stress. By modulating these systems, adaptogens help maintain balance and promote resilience.
At Naternal, we've carefully selected a set of powerful adaptogens to complement our hemp formulations:
Ashwagandha: This ancient Ayurvedic herb is a cornerstone of our relaxation blends. Studies have shown that ashwagandha can significantly reduce cortisol levels, helping to alleviate stress and anxiety. It works by modulating the body's stress response system, potentially lowering blood pressure and heart rate, and promoting a sense of calm without causing drowsiness.
Rhodiola : This adaptogenic herb is a cornerstone of our performance-enhancing formulations. Clinical studies have shown that Rhodiola can significantly reduce mental fatigue and improve physical performance, particularly during high-intensity activities. It works by increasing the body's resistance to various stressors, potentially enhancing exercise capacity and reducing recovery time. Uniquely, Rhodiola has been found to activate the synthesis of ATP, the primary source of energy in our cells, promoting sustained vitality without the crash associated with traditional stimulants.
Holy Basil : Also known as Tulsi, this adaptogenic herb is a key player in our performance-enhancing blends. Research has shown that Holy Basil can significantly improve physical endurance and mental clarity under stress. It works by optimizing the body's stress response, potentially improving oxygen utilization and supporting cognitive function. Notably, Holy Basil also possesses anti-inflammatory properties, which may aid in recovery and overall physical resilience.
Maca Root : This Peruvian superfood is a key ingredient in our performance-focused blends. Research has shown that Maca can significantly improve exercise performance and increase energy levels. It works by enhancing the body's ability to generate and utilize energy, potentially due to its rich nutrient profile including B vitamins, iron, and zinc. Notably, Maca has also been found to support hormonal balance, which may contribute to its ability to boost stamina and promote overall physical resilience.
Ginkgo Biloba: This herb is a key component in our energizing, focus-enhancing blends. Clinical studies have shown that Ginkgo Biloba can significantly improve cognitive function and increase mental energy. It works by enhancing cerebral blood flow and acting as a powerful antioxidant, potentially protecting brain cells from oxidative stress. Notably, Ginkgo has been found to improve attention and memory in healthy individuals, making it an ideal complement to hemp in our products designed for an energetic, clear-headed experience.
Nervines: Nurturing the Nervous System.
While adaptogens and functional mushrooms work to balance our body's overall wellness, nervines play a crucial role in directly supporting and calming our nervous system, particularly for promoting restful sleep. These botanical allies are especially valuable in our often overstimulated world, where quality sleep can be elusive.
Nervines are plants that have a specific affinity for the nervous system, helping to soothe, nourish, and restore balance to our nerves. They can be particularly beneficial when combined with hemp, as both work synergistically to promote relaxation and prepare the body for restorative sleep.
At Naternal, we've carefully selected two powerful nervines to complement our hemp formulations in our sleep-oriented products:
Valerian Root : This time-tested herb is a cornerstone of our sleep-enhancing formulations. Clinical studies have shown that Valerian Root can significantly improve sleep quality and reduce the time it takes to fall asleep. It works by interacting with GABA receptors in the brain, the same receptors targeted by common sleep medications. Notably, Valerian Root has been found to potentially increase deep sleep time, the most restorative phase of the sleep cycle, without causing grogginess the next day.
Chamomile : This gentle yet potent herb is a key player in our sleep-enhancing formulations. Scientific research has shown that Chamomile can significantly improve sleep quality and reduce symptoms of insomnia. It works primarily through its active compound, apigenin, which binds to specific receptors in the brain that promote sleepiness. Notably, Chamomile has been found to not only help with falling asleep but also to improve daytime functioning, offering a natural, non-habit-forming approach to better sleep.
Essential Nutrients: Supporting Optimal Function.
While our focus is on plant-powered wellness, we recognize the importance of essential nutrients in supporting overall health and enhancing the effects of our botanical ingredients. To round out our formulations, we carefully incorporate key nutrients that complement our plant-based approach.
L-Theanine : This unique amino acid is a cornerstone of our relaxation and sleep formulations. Clinical studies have shown that L-Theanine can significantly reduce stress and anxiety while promoting relaxation. It works by increasing alpha brain waves, which are associated with a state of wakeful relaxation. Notably, L-Theanine has been found to improve sleep quality without causing daytime drowsiness, making it an ideal complement to hemp in our products designed for calm and restful nights.
Magnesium : This essential mineral is a crucial component in our relaxation formulations. Scientific research has shown that Magnesium can significantly reduce stress and promote a sense of calm. It works by regulating neurotransmitters and helping to balance cortisol levels in the body. Notably, Magnesium has been found to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, our "rest and digest" mode, making it exceptionally effective for promoting relaxation. When combined with hemp in our relax products, Magnesium enhances the overall calming effect, creating a powerful synergy for stress relief and tranquility.
B-vitamins (B-6 and B-12): Scientific research has shown that B-vitamins play a crucial role in cellular energy production and cognitive function. B-6 aids in the synthesis of neurotransmitters vital for mood and mental clarity, while B-12 supports red blood cell formation and nervous system health. Notably, these vitamins have been found to help reduce fatigue and improve concentration, directly supporting mental alertness and cognitive performance.
Vitamin C: Scientific research has demonstrated that Vitamin C plays a crucial role in supporting the immune system and protecting cells from oxidative damage. It works by stimulating the production and function of white blood cells, particularly neutrophils, lymphocytes, and phagocytes, which are key to the body's defense mechanisms. Notably, Vitamin C acts as a powerful antioxidant, neutralizing harmful free radicals and potentially reducing inflammation in the body.
Natural Stimulants
For centuries, cultures around the world have turned to certain plants for their energizing and focus-enhancing properties. Natural stimulants like yerba mate and cacao contain a variety of compounds that work synergistically to provide a balanced boost of energy without the harsh side effects often associated with artificial stimulants. These plants are rich in natural caffeine, theobromine, and other bioactive compounds that not only increase alertness but also offer additional health benefits such as antioxidant protection and mood enhancement.
What's more, many of these natural stimulants provide a smoother, more sustained energy boost compared to isolated caffeine sources. This is due to the presence of other nutrients and compounds that modulate the effects of caffeine, resulting in a more gradual onset and offset of stimulation.
At Naternal, we've selected yerba mate and cacao to complement our hemp formulations and target specific wellness goals related to energy, focus, and cognitive performance:
Yerba Mate (COMING SOON): This South American herb is renowned for providing a clean, sustained energy boost without the jitters often associated with coffee. Yerba Mate contains a unique blend of xanthines (including caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline) along with beneficial polyphenols and saponins. This combination not only enhances mental focus but also provides antioxidant benefits. In our energizing blends, Yerba Mate complements hemp by offering an uplifting effect while hemp helps to smooth out any potential edge, resulting in focused energy without anxiety.
Cacao (COMING SOON): More than just a delicious treat, cacao is a cognitive powerhouse. Rich in flavonoids, particularly epicatechin, cacao has been shown to improve blood flow to the brain and may enhance cognitive function. It also contains compounds that can boost mood and promote a sense of well-being, such as phenylethylamine (PEA) and anandamide, often called the "bliss molecule." When we pair cacao with hemp in our mood-supporting formulations, we create a synergistic effect that not only enhances cognitive function but also promotes a positive outlook.
By thoughtfully combining these ingredients, we create products that not only leverage the benefits of hemp but also provide targeted, multi-faceted support for your specific wellness goals. This strategic approach allows us to offer solutions that are both potent and precise, embodying our commitment to effective, plant-powered wellness.
Formulating for Targeted Benefits.
At Naternal, our approach to plant-powered wellness goes beyond simply combining ingredients. We carefully curate and blend our botanicals and hemp extracts to create targeted solutions that address specific needs. Our formulations are designed to harness the synergistic effects of these plant compounds, delivering more focused and effective benefits. Here's how we approach some key areas of wellness:
Feel Good: To promote calm and ease tension, we might combine CBD with adaptogenic ashwagandha, soothing L-theanine, and nerve-supporting magnesium. This blend works to address stress on multiple levels, from balancing cortisol levels to promoting relaxation without sedation.
Sleep Better: For those seeking restful nights, we may pair the sleep-supporting cannabinoid CBN with traditional sleep aids like valerian root and chamomile, enhanced by the calming effects of L-theanine. This combination aims to ease you into a natural, restorative sleep cycle.
Perform Your Best: Our multi-faceted formulas could include CBD for its anti-inflammatory properties, cordyceps for energy and stamina, and lion's mane for cognitive support. We might add THCv for its energizing effects, maca root for overall vitality, and ginkgo biloba for improved circulation. This comprehensive blend is designed to support physical recovery, boost immune function, enhance mental clarity, and provide sustained energy without the jitters or crash associated with caffeine.
Tying it Together
The world of plant-powered wellness is vast and full of potential. While hemp serves as a powerful foundation, the inclusion of diverse botanical ingredients allows us to create truly targeted wellness solutions. By harnessing the synergy between hemp and other plant allies, Naternal is committed to providing you with balanced, effective products that support your overall well-being.
We invite you to explore our range of thoughtfully formulated products, each designed to harness the power of hemp and its botanical companions. Remember, plant-based wellness is a journey - one that we're excited to embark on with you, one leaf at a time.
The Author: Garrett Perdue
As Naternal's CEO, I lead a team dedicated to enhancing lives through plant-based health and wellness products. With nearly a decade in the cannabis industry, I bring deep market knowledge and regulatory expertise to our innovative product approach. My background in law and global business helps me navigate complex environments to drive growth. As a faith-driven, family-centered plant enthusiast, I'm committed to exploring natural solutions like cannabis to improve global well-being, embodying Naternal's mission to make a positive impact every day.
