Herbal Capsules FAQ
General Questions
What is the difference between a raw herb powder capsule and a standardized extract capsule?
A raw herb powder capsule contains dried, milled plant material at naturally occurring concentrations. The active compound content varies batch to batch depending on growing conditions, harvest timing, and processing. A standardized extract capsule has been processed to guarantee a specific minimum concentration of the primary active compound — for example, ashwagandha standardized to 5% withanolides. Standardized extracts provide predictable, consistent potency. For therapeutic use, standardized extracts are the appropriate choice.
What does the extract ratio (e.g., 10:1, 20:1) mean?
The extract ratio tells you how much raw plant material was used to produce the extract. A 10:1 extract means 10kg of raw herb was concentrated into 1kg of extract. However, extract ratios alone do not tell you the concentration of active compounds — only a standardization percentage does. A 20:1 extract with no standardization marker is not necessarily more potent than a 5:1 extract standardized to a verified constituent level. Always look for the standardization percentage, not just the ratio.
Are your capsules vegetarian or vegan?
Our capsule shells are made from vegetable cellulose (HPMC — hydroxypropyl methylcellulose), which is suitable for vegetarians and vegans. We do not use gelatin capsules.
Do your capsules contain fillers or flow agents?
We minimize excipients. Where a flow agent is required for capsule filling, we use rice flour or magnesium stearate in small amounts. All excipients are disclosed in the "Other Ingredients" section of each product label. We do not use artificial colors, titanium dioxide, or undisclosed proprietary blends.
How should I store herbal capsules?
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity. Do not store in the bathroom or near a stove. Most herbal capsules are stable for 18–24 months from the manufacturing date when stored correctly. Check the expiration date on your bottle.
Dosing Questions
How long does it take for herbal supplements to work?
This depends on the herb and the intended effect. Adaptogens like ashwagandha and rhodiola typically require 2–4 weeks of consistent daily use before their effects become apparent — they work by modulating physiological systems over time, not by producing an acute response. Some herbs with more immediate mechanisms (valerian for sleep, for example) may produce noticeable effects within the same day. Follow the dosing guidance on each product page and allow adequate time before evaluating results.
Can I take multiple herbal capsules together?
Many herbal supplements can be taken together without issue. However, some herbs interact with medications or have additive effects when combined. If you are taking prescription medications — particularly blood thinners, antidepressants, immunosuppressants, or thyroid medications — consult a healthcare provider before adding herbal supplements. Specific interactions to be aware of: St. John's Wort interacts with a wide range of medications including SSRIs, birth control, and anticoagulants. Valerian may potentiate sedative medications. Echinacea is generally not recommended for individuals on immunosuppressant therapy.
Should I take herbal capsules with food?
Most herbal capsules can be taken with or without food. Taking them with food reduces the likelihood of mild gastrointestinal discomfort, which some people experience with concentrated extracts on an empty stomach. Fat-soluble compounds (such as curcuminoids in turmeric) absorb better when taken with a meal containing dietary fat.
What is the correct dose for [specific herb]?
Dosing information is provided on each individual product page, aligned with published research where available. As a general reference: Ashwagandha 300–600mg/day (standardized to 5% withanolides), Turmeric 500–1,000mg/day (standardized to 95% curcuminoids), Rhodiola 200–600mg/day (standardized to 3% rosavins/1% salidroside), Lion's Mane 500–3,000mg/day (standardized for beta-glucan content). These are general ranges from the research literature — individual response varies.
Safety Questions
Are herbal supplements safe?
Most herbal supplements have well-established safety profiles at typical therapeutic doses. However, "natural" does not mean risk-free. Herb-drug interactions are real, some herbs are contraindicated in pregnancy or with specific health conditions, and quality varies significantly across brands. We provide safety information on each product page. If you have a health condition or take medications, consult a healthcare provider before use.
Are your products tested for heavy metals?
Yes. All products are tested for lead, mercury, arsenic, and cadmium. We apply California Prop 65 limits as our internal standard. See our Third-Party Testing & COA Policy page for full details.
Can I take herbal supplements during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Many herbal supplements are not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Some have uterine-stimulating properties; others have not been studied in pregnant populations. As a general rule, avoid herbal supplements during pregnancy unless specifically recommended by a qualified healthcare provider. This applies to our products as well.
What is the return policy if a product doesn't work for me?
Please see our Returns & Refunds policy for current terms. We recommend contacting us directly if you have concerns about a product — we are committed to resolving issues fairly.
Product-Specific Questions
What is Blue Lotus and what is it used for?
Blue Lotus (Nymphaea caerulea) is an aquatic plant native to Egypt with a history of use in ancient Egyptian culture. Its primary active compounds are aporphine alkaloids, including nuciferine and apomorphine, which have mild dopaminergic and serotonergic activity. It is used by some adults for mild relaxation and mood support. It is not a controlled substance in the US.
What is Wild Lettuce and how does it differ from regular lettuce?
Wild Lettuce (Lactuca virosa) is a different species from culinary lettuce (Lactuca sativa). It contains lactucin and lactucopicrin — bitter sesquiterpene lactones with mild sedative and analgesic properties. It has been used historically as a mild pain reliever and sleep aid. Our Wild Lettuce is offered as a 20:1 concentrated extract.
What is Hoodia Gordonii used for?
Hoodia gordonii is a succulent plant from southern Africa traditionally used by the San people to suppress hunger during long hunts. Its primary active compound is P57, a steroidal glycoside that may act on the hypothalamus to reduce appetite signals. It is used by some adults as an appetite management tool. Evidence from human clinical trials is limited.
What is the difference between Maitake and Lion's Mane mushrooms?
Both are medicinal mushrooms, but with different primary mechanisms. Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus) is primarily studied for its neuroregenerative properties — specifically its ability to stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) synthesis. Maitake (Grifola frondosa) is primarily studied for its immune-modulating properties via its beta-glucan content, particularly a fraction called D-fraction. They can be taken together as they act through different pathways.