AUTUMN MOON RITUAL CHOCOLATE

Schizandra, rich in antioxidants, is known as the five-flavor berry ( wu wei zi) in TCM, with a balanced taste profile of sweet, salty, sour, bitter and astringent, and is prized for its adaptogenic qualities. 

Especially beneficial for women, it is one of the safest botanicals to consume that both supports and gently protects liver cells and stimulates detox pathways; cleansing and building red blood cells.

Aiding in stress resistance and boosting endurance, schizandra pulses support liver, while tonifying the ovaries, pituitary gland, hypothalamus, and adrenals! Schizandra enhances skin and eye health and fortifies the body's defence against oxidative stress.

Maca, also known as Peruvian ginseng, enhances energy levels and endurance while balancing hormones and increasing libido in both men and women, and is especially beneficial for women in supporting menstruation, fertility health and easing pms symptoms. Maca aids in memory and learning, and improves mood. 

This adaptogenic root has malted nutty caramel notes which pairs beautifully with cacao, and is rich in vitamins B, C, E and minerals such as calcium, zinc, iron, and magnesium.

Cinnamon Bark has natural anti-inflammatory properties that might help alleviate menstrual cramps and general discomfort during the luteal phase.

It can potentially regulate blood sugar levels, which might stabilize mood and energy fluctuations associated with PMS.

Cinnamon's aromatic and warming qualities can also provide a comforting effect, possibly reducing stress and improving overall well-being during this season

Ginger is well-known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, which can help reduce menstrual pain and cramps during the luteal phase.

It aids in digestion, potentially alleviating bloating, gas, and nausea that some women experience before their period starts.

Ginger might also help in reducing the severity of mood swings by its stress-relieving properties, contributing to a more balanced emotional state.

Lion's Mane mushroom might support cognitive function and mood, which could be beneficial during the luteal phase when hormonal changes might affect mental clarity and emotional stability.

It contains compounds that could promote nerve growth factor (NGF) synthesis, potentially aiding in reducing the cognitive fog associated with PMS.

Lion's Mane's anti-inflammatory properties might also help in managing physical symptoms like bloating or pain that can occur pre-menstrually.

Ashwagandha is an Ayurvedic adaptogen used for centuries to relieve anxiety and stress. During the transition from ovulation, this herb can stabilize the metabolism by modulating thyroid function while improving melatonin production and cognitive performance. Supportive for the luteal phase, ashwagandha’s adaptogenic effects support progesterone production and have even been found to alleviate physical symptoms like bloating and breast tenderness, PMS symptoms, and potentially contributes to a more stable and comfortable premenstruation.

Ashwagandha aids in managing the stress often heightened during the luteal phase, fostering a calmer state of mind.

Its thyroid-supportive qualities might stabilize metabolism, which can be beneficial in alleviating mood and energy fluctuations typical of the premenstrual period.

Ginkgo Biloba makes the brain beautiful! It can improve blood circulation, helping to reduce symptoms like breast tenderness and menstrual cramps by ensuring better blood flow to the reproductive organs.

Its antioxidant properties lower oxidative stress, potentially easing some of the emotional and physical discomforts of the luteal phase.

Ginkgo also supports cognitive function under hormonal stress, helping to maintain mental clarity during the premenstrual period.

Black Cohosh is traditionally used to alleviate menopausal symptoms but can also be beneficial during the luteal phase for reducing menstrual cramps and mood swings.

It's believed to have estrogen-like effects, which might help balance hormones, potentially easing PMS symptoms like irritability and breast tenderness.

Its anti-inflammatory properties could contribute to reducing pelvic pain or discomfort associated with the hormonal changes before menstruation.

L-Theanine found in green tea, is known for promoting relaxation without drowsiness, potentially helping to manage stress and anxiety during the luteal phase.

It can improve focus and concentration, which might counterbalance the mood fluctuations and cognitive issues some women experience pre-menstruation.

L-Theanine may also enhance sleep quality by promoting alpha brain waves, which could be beneficial for those facing sleep disturbances due to hormonal changes before their period.

GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid) acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain, which can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, potentially easing mood swings during the luteal phase.

By calming neural activity, it alleviates stress-related symptoms of PMS, such as irritability or emotional tension.

Some studies suggest GABA might also have a role in regulating sleep patterns, which can be disturbed by hormonal shifts, aiding in better rest before menstruation.

Astragalus, one of the most prized tonic herbs of the orient from the first records thousands of years ago right up to today. Astragalus is a prime energy strengthening herb, tonifying all metabolic, respiratory and eliminative functions.

Traditionally called the Great Protector, there is an energizing levity to this all around super tonic! The luteal phase looks forward to the compassionate uplifting of this balancing adaptogen as hormones off ramp.

Wild Blueberry is loaded with antioxidants, especially anthocyanins, which can help reduce inflammation, a common issue during the luteal phase leading to PMS symptoms.

They contain a high amount of vitamin C, supporting the immune system, which might be weakened due to hormonal fluctuations.

The fiber in wild blueberries aids digestion, helping to alleviate bloating and constipation often experienced pre-menstrually.

Wild Aronia Berry, or chokeberry, is renowned for its high antioxidant content, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, possibly alleviating some PMS symptoms.

It contains anthocyanins and other polyphenols that might stabilize blood sugar levels, helping to manage energy dips and mood swings during the luteal phase.

Its astringent properties could support digestive health, potentially reducing bloating and aiding in overall gastrointestinal comfort as menstruation approaches.