Knowledge base
All remedies A–Z
Short, sourced profiles of the remedies we cover. Informational only, not medical advice.
Remedies
Herb
Ashwagandha
Withania somnifera
An adaptogenic herb used for stress. Several small trials show a modest drop in stress and better sleep; the long-term safety data are thin.
Herb
Kurkuma (curcumine)
Curcuma longa
Curcumin from turmeric has anti-inflammatory effects in the lab. Human trials suggest modest relief for joint pain, but absorption is poor and results are mixed.
Supplement
Magnesium
Magnesium
A mineral many people get too little of. A supplement helps mainly when you are short; the claims about sleep and cramps are weaker than often suggested.
Herb
Valeriaan
Valeriana officinalis
A traditional herb for restlessness and getting to sleep. The evidence is weak and inconsistent, but it is gentle and widely tolerated.
Supplement
Vitamine D
Cholecalciferol
The best example of a supplement that clearly helps when you are deficient, and does little when you are not. Sensible in winter and for risk groups.