Artemis Fertility Tea | 30g

Artemis Fertility Tea

What is Fertility Tea?

Fertility Tea contains a range of natural herbal ingredients that provides support for women who are wanting to conceive, by promoting a healthy and regular menstrual cycle to ensure ovulation occurs in preparation for conception; also preparing the body for pregnancy, as well as promoting a healthy libido.

Why use Fertility Tea?

Conception is dependent on a finely tuned interaction of hormones that play an important role in preparing the body for conception, as well as ensuring that a developing baby has the best possible environment to thrive and grow. Fertility Tea is a traditional herbal blend of natural ingredients that helps optimise the chances of conception by promoting hormonal balance for a healthy and regular menstrual cycle to ensure ovulation occurs; also preparing the body for pregnancy, as well as promoting a healthy libido.

What are the Key Benefits of Fertility Tea?

• Traditional medicinal plant formula 
• Supports hormone balance for optimising chance of conception
• Promotes a healthy libido
• Provides nutrients that support a healthy uterine environment for a developing baby
• All ingredients are certified organic, GE free and vegan
• Does not contain sugar or artificial sweeteners
• Does not contain added colours, flavours, preservatives, gluten, wheat or dairy

How does the body prepare for pregnancy?

The sole purpose of the female menstrual cycle is to prepare the body for conception and pregnancy and it is divided into two phases, follicular and the luteal, which are regulated by the female hormones oestrogen and progesterone, produced in the ovaries, which are in turn regulated by luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) produced by the pituitary gland. During the follicular or proliferative phase, the endometrium or uterine lining proliferates and thickens, and the egg follicles develop and mature stimulated by increasing levels of oestrogen. Ovulation then occurs, when the dominant follicle releases a mature egg. Following ovulation, the luteal or secretory phase prepares the uterus for implantation of a fertilized egg under the influence of increasing progesterone levels. Cervical mucus is a protein and nutrient rich fluid secreted by the cervix that changes in consistency through the cycle. The most important fertility enhancing stage takes place at ovulation when cervical mucus increases in volume and becomes thinner and stretchy like the consistency of egg white, to enable sperm easy access to the egg for fertilization and nourish the sperm on their journey. It is important that the pH of cervical mucus is not too acid and remains slightly alkaline, which is optimum for sperm viability.

What are phytoestrogens?

A Phytoestrogen is a plant derived compound that is similar in structure to endogenous (naturally occurring) oestradiol also known as 17-β-oestradiol or E2. Phytoestrogens can bind to the oestrogen receptor on cells that are responsive to oestrogen and can mimic some of the activities of endogenous oestrogen, although their effects are much weaker. These include effects on bone, ovarian, vascular and endometrial tissue^{1, 2.}

What is an emmenagogue?

An emmenagogue is an herb that stimulates blood flow in the pelvic area.

What are the Ingredients of Fertility Tea?

Key Ingredients:

Chaste tree (Vitex agnus castus):

Chaste tree also known as Chasteberry and Monk’s Pepper, is a flowering shrub belonging to the Verbenaceae family that is native to the Mediterranean region. Chaste tree has been used for centuries in traditional herbal medicine as a tonic for the reproductive system, to treat gynaecological problems, and was believed to be an aphrodisiac. In contemporary herbal medicine, Chaste tree is used to relieve premenstrual symptoms, menopausal symptoms and to treat infertility. Clinical studies have demonstrated that premenstrual symptoms like mastalgia (breast tenderness and pain), and premenstrual dysphoria are reduced by Chaste tree extract^3. A review of clinical studies concluded that Chaste tree extract is a safe and effective treatment for premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoria^4. High levels of the pituitary hormone prolactin, known as latent hyperprolactinaemia, are associated with premenstrual syndrome and infertility, and can disrupt hormonal regulation of the menstrual cycle. Clinical studies have shown that Chaste tree extract reduces high prolactin levels, which restores normal levels of oestrogen and progesterone in the menstrual cycle^{3, 5.} Luteal phase defects, due to hormonal imbalance, including low progesterone levels or high prolactin levels, are a cause of infertility. There is some clinical evidence that treatment Chaste tree extract may increase the chance of becoming pregnant and this may be due to restoring normal hormone levels in the luteal phase^{6, 7.} Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a characterised by imbalance of hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle, particularly high levels of prolactin, which can cause infertility. Preclinical and clinical studies have shown that Chaste tree extract lowers prolactin levels with similar efficacy to the pharmaceutical bromocriptine, indicating that Chaste tree extract has fertility-enhancing properties8. Several pharmacologically active compounds have been isolated from Chaste tree extracts including diterpenes, which have dopaminergic activity (dopamine stimulating activity) and bind to dopamine receptors on prolactin producing pituitary cells in vitro, which inhibits prolactin production^3.

Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum):

Cinnamon is obtained from the inner bark of the Cinnamomum tree, a tropical evergreen tree that originated in Sri Lanka and now is widely grown throughout Southeast Asia. There are two varieties of Cinnamon, Ceylon Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum), and Cassia Cinnamon, which contains high concentrations of coumarin anticoagulants that could be a health risk. In traditional Ayurvedic medicine Cinnamon was used as a remedy for many ailments including respiratory, digestive and gynaecological^9. It was also thought to stimulate the circulation and act as a muscle relaxant and aphrodisiac^10. Cinnamon contains several bioactive compounds including the oils cinnamaldehyde and eugenol with antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, and preclinical studies have indicated potential health benefits including soothing digestive problems and preventing nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea9. Eugenol has been shown to inhibit prostaglandin synthesis and in a clinical study cinnamon was found to reduce the severity of dysmenorrhea^{11, 12.} Cinnamon also contains tannins, which are astringents and cause vascular constriction which may help reduce heavy menstrual bleeding^{13, 14.}

Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra radix):

Licorice is derived from the root of the herbaceous perennial plant Glycyrrhiza glabra belonging to the Legume family. It is native to parts of Europe and Asia and the dried roots of the Licorice plant have been used in traditional medicine in several ancient cultures^15. It was used in traditional oriental medicine to replenish and invigorate and in other cultures to treat several ailments including peptic ulcers, liver diseases like hepatitis C, lung diseases and skin conditions; also for women’s health. Licorice has several active ingredients, the main one being glycyrrhizin, a triterpenoid saponin, which has many medicinal properties including anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, antimicrobial, immunomodulatory antioxidative, cancer and liver protecting effects; also, protecting the stomach from irritation and spasm and relieving indigestion^{16, 17, 18, 19.} Licorice has also been found to have neuropharmacological properties such as neuroprotective, antidepressant, and anxiolytic effects, which are thought to be mediated by interacting with receptors in the brain, particularly of the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) which is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter pathway in the brain, and dopamine system, which is the reward and motivational neurotransmitter, also known as the “feelgood” hormone^20. Licorice is an established phytoestrogen and liquiritigenin a flavone with oestrogenic activity, is another major pharmacologically active component in Licorice extract. Liquiritigenin binds to oestrogen receptors, as demonstrated in vitro and in animal models^{19, 21, 22.} This activity may protect against endocrine disrupting chemicals in the environment that can interfere with endogenous estrogen function^23.

Nettle leaf (Urtica dioica):

Nettle, also known as the stinging nettle, is a perennial flowering plant belonging to the Urticaceae family that is native to Europe, Asia, northern Africa, and western North America. It is used in traditional medicine for many purposes including as a pregnancy tonic and to maintain uterine muscle tone, for arthritis, gastrointestinal problems, as a blood purifier, emmenagogue and diuretic; also for its properties in preventing bleeding, such as a nosebleed or excessive menstrual bleeding, and for wound healing^{24, 25, 26.} Nettle leaves are rich in vitamins A, B, C and K, minerals like calcium, magnesium, potassium and iron, and other nutrients; also pharmacologically active compounds like the flavonoid rutin and carotenoids27. Nettle leaves have healing, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, and contribute to acid-alkaline balance in the body^{25, 27.}

Peppermint (Metha piperita): 

Peppermint is a natural hybrid cross between watermint and spearmint, belonging to the Lamiaceae family, that is native to Europe and the Middle East. Peppermint was used in traditional medicine as an aphrodisiac and is widely used in herbal teas for its a soothing effect on the intestines to relieve digestive problems like gas, bloating, nausea and stomach cramps. Bioactive compounds identified in Peppermint extract include rosmarinic acid and the flavonoids eriocitrin, luteolin and hesperidin and the essential oil menthol and menthone, which contribute to its antimicrobial, antioxidant, analgesic, anaesthetic, antispasmodic and antitumor properties^{28, 29, 30.} Some of the essential oil components like the monoterpenes menthol, menthone, limonene and piperitone are thought to have direct effects on the brain, by interacting with neurotransmitters including serotonin, dopamine, acetylcholine and GABA (gaba amino butyric acid). This interaction was found to improve some aspects of cognitive function, alertness and overall mood, and reduce anxiety^31.

Raspberry leaf (Rubus idaeus):

Raspberry is a flowering shrub belonging to the Rosaceae family, native to Europe and Northern Asia and known for its red fruit. The leaves of the raspberry plant have been used traditionally to maintain health and reduce nausea during pregnancy and has been taken as a tea throughout pregnancy; also to help with menstrual pain. Raspberry leaf is also used as a uterine relaxant and stimulant to help with labour^{32, 33} Raspberry leaf is rich is nutrients including vitamins A, C and E, minerals like magnesium calcium, iron and zinc, and contains many pharmacologically active compounds including tannins like ellagic acids, also flavonoids like kaemferol and quercetin and terpenoids, which contribute its potent antioxidant properties^33. Raspberry leaf is recommended by some midwives for improving pelvic muscle tone and is considered one of the safest herbs for pregnancy as it does not stimulate uterine contractions. In separate studies using a questionnaire of pregnant women using herbal remedies, Raspberry leaf was found to be one of the most commonly used herbs during pregnancy for the belief that it strengthens and tones the uterus in preparation for labour^{34, 35.} Clinical studies have indicated that Raspberry leaf may reduce complications and the use of interventions during birth^{36, 37.}

What are the Contraindications/Interactions of Fertility Tea?

• There are no documented herb-drug interactions within the recommended dosage. However, you should always check the ingredients for known allergies and to ensure you do not have any allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients. 
• Stop using if you develop any irritation or allergy while taking Fertility Tea. 
• Always read the label and use as directed or seek advice from your healthcare professional.

What are the Directions for using Fertility Tea?

Use one heaped teaspoon (1g) of Fertility Tea powder per cup (150ml) and infuse with boiling water for 5-10 minutes.

Dosage:

Take 3 cups per day for a minimum of 3 months. When pregnancy is confirmed, continue with 3 cups daily until week 13 and then continue to take 2-3 cups of Artemis Pregnancy Tea.

Note:

Raspberry leaf has a cumulative effect throughout pregnancy to prepare the uterine muscle.

For best results:

Shake the can before opening, as the contents may settle.

Special instructions

• Do not microwave. 
• Close can immediately after use to avoid external contamination. 
• Store in the fridge in hot and humid climates and keep away from heat and moisture. 

Product Size

30g

References

The following references provide scientific support for the use of this product:

1. Sirotkin AV, Harrath AH. Phytoestrogens and their effects. Eur J Pharmacol 2014 Oct 15;741:230-6. 
2. Usui T. Pharmaceutical prospects of phytoestrogens. Endocr J.2006 Feb;53(1):7-20.
3. Wuttke W, Jarry H, Christoffel V, Spengler B, Seidlová-Wuttke D. Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus) pharmacology and clinical indications. Phytomedicine.2003 May;10(4):348-57. 
4. Cerqueira RO, Frey BN, Leclerc E, Brietzke E. Vitex agnus castus for premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder: a systematic review. Arch Womens Ment Health.2017 Dec;20(6):713-719. 
5. van Die D, Burger HG, Teede HJ, Bone KM. Vitex agnus-castus Extracts for Female Reproductive Disorders: A Systematic Review of Clinical Trials. Planta Med 2013; 79: 562–575
6. Roemheld-Hamm B. Chasteberry. Am Fam Physician.2005 Sep 1;72(5):821-4.
7. Westphal LM, Polan ML, Trant AS. Double-blind, placebo-controlled study of Fertilityblend: a nutritional supplement for improving fertility in women Clin Exp Obstet Gynecol.2006;33(4):205-8. 
8. Arentz S, Abbott JA, Smith CA, Bensoussan A. Herbal medicine for the management of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and associated oligo/ amenorrhoea and hyperandrogenism; a review of the laboratory evidence for effects with corroborative clinical findings. BMC Complement Altern Med.2014 Dec 18;14:511. 
9. Ranasinghe P, Pigera S, Premakumara GA S, Galappaththy P, Godwin R, Constantine GR, Katulanda P. Medicinal properties of ‘true’ cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum): a systematic review. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine 2013, 13:275.
10. Sahu M, Sahoo NK, Revathi M, Shalini P. Comparative Study of Centrally Acting Skeletal Muscle Relaxant Activity of Aqueous Extract of Cinnamomum zeylanicum Bark with Methocarbamol on Albino Mice. Int. J. Pharm. Sci. Rev. Res. 2013; 23(1), 16, 78-80.
11. Mirabi P, Alamolhoda H, Esmaeilzadeh S, Mojab F. Effect of Medicinal Herbs on Primary Dysmenorrhoea- a Systematic Review. Iran J Pharm Res. 2014; 13(3): 757–767
12. Begum M, Das S, H, Sharma HK. Menstrual Disorders: Causes and Natural Remedies. J Pharm Chem Biol Sci, June-August 2016; 4(2):307-320
13. Livdans-Forret AB, Harvey PJ, Larkin-Their SM. Menorrhagia: A synopsis of management focusing on herbal and nutritional supplements, and chiropractic. J Can Chiropr Assoc 2007 Dec; 51(4): 235–246.
14. Jaafarpour M, Hatefi M, Najafi F; Khajavikhan J, Ali Khan A. The Effect of Cinnamon on Menstrual Bleeding and Systemic Symptoms With Primary Dysmenorrhea. Iran Red Crescent Med J. 2015 April; 17(4): e27032 
15. Fiore C, Eisenhut M, Ragazzi E, Zanchin G, Armanini D. A history of the therapeutic use of liquorice in Europe. J Ethnopharmacol. 2005 Jul 14;99(3):317-24.
16. Asl MN, Hosseinzadeh H. Review of pharmacological effects of Glycyrrhiza sp. and its bioactive compounds. Phytother Res 2008 Jun;22(6):709-24. 
17. Shamsa F, Ohtsuki K, Hasanzadeh E, Rezazadeh S. The Anti-inflammatory and Anti-viral Effects of an Ethnic Medicine: Glycyrrhizin. J Medicinal Plants Volume 9, Supplement No. 6, 2010
18. Schröfelbauer B, Raffetseder J, Hauner M, Wolkerstorfer A, Ernst W, Szolar OH. Glycyrrhizin, the main active compound in liquorice, attenuates pro-inflammatory responses by interfering with membrane-dependent receptor signalling. Biochem J. 2009 Jul 15;421(3):473-82. 
19. Ramalingam M, Kim H, Lee Y, Lee YI. Phytochemical and Pharmacological Role of Liquiritigenin and Isoliquiritigenin From Radix Glycyrrhizae in Human Health and Disease Models. Front Aging Neurosci.2018 Nov 1;10:348.
20. Zhao ZL, Kim SC, Liu HF, Wu YY, Li LB et al. Blockade of nicotine sensitization by methanol extracts of Glycyrrhizae radix mediated via antagonism of accumbal oxidative stress. BMC Complement Altern Med 2017 Nov 16;17(1):493. 
21. Hajirahimkhan A, Simmler C, Yuan Y, Anderson JR, Chen SN. Evaluation of Estrogenic Activity of Licorice Species in Comparison with Hops Used in Botanicals for Menopausal Symptoms. PLoS One.2013 Jul 12;8(7):e67947
22. Mersereau JE, Levy N, Staub RE, Baggett S, Zogovic T, et al. Liquiritigenin is a plant-derived highly selective estrogen receptor beta agonist. Mol Cell Endocrinol (2008)283: 49–57.
23. Chu XT, de la Cruz J, Hwang SG, Hong H. Tumorigenic Effects of Endocrine-disrupting Chemicals are Alleviated by Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) Root Extract through Suppression of AhR Expression in Mammalian Cells. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev, 15 (12), 4809-4813
24. Upton R. Stinging nettles leaf (Urtica dioica L): Extraordinary vegetable medicine. Journal of Herbal Medicine 2013; 3, 1, 9-38
25. Joshi BC, Mukhija M, Kalia AN. Pharmacognostical review of Urtica dioica L. International Journal of Green Pharmacy October December 2014
26. Bouassida KZ, Bardaa S, Khimiri M, Rebaii T, Tounsi S, Jlaiel L, Trigui M. Exploring the Urtica dioica Leaves Hemostatic and Wound-Healing Potential. BioMed Research International Volume 2017 (2017), 
27. Kregiel D, Pawlikowska E, Antolak H. Urtica spp.: Ordinary Plants with Extraordinary Properties. Molecules 2018, 23. 
28. McKay DL, Blumberg JB. A review of the bioactivity and potential health benefits of peppermint tea (Mentha piperita L.). Phytother Res. 2006 Aug;20(8):619-33. 
29. Keifer D, Ulbricht C, Abrams TR, Basch E,Giese N, et al. Peppermint (Mentha ×piperita): An evidence-based systematic review by the Natural Standard Research Collaboration Article in Journal of Herbal Pharmacotherapy 2007 7(2):91-143.
30. Loolaie M, Moasefi N, Rasouli H, Adibi H. Peppermint and Its Functionality: A Review. Archives Clin Microbiology 2017; 8 (4) 54. 
31. Kennedy D, Okello E, Chazot P, Howes M-J , Samuel Ohiomokhare S, et al. Volatile Terpenes and Brain Function: Investigation of the Cognitive and Mood Effects of Mentha × Piperita L. Essential Oil with In Vitro Properties Relevant to Central Nervous System Function. Nutrients 2018, 10, 1029
32. Patel AV, Rojas-Vera, J, Dacke CG. Therapeutic constituents and actions of Rubus species. Curr Med Chem. 2004 Jun;11(11):1501-12.
33. Ferlemi A-V, Fotini N. LamariBerry Leaves: An Alternative Source of Bioactive Natural Products of Nutritional and Medicinal Value. Antioxidants 2016, 5, 17.
34. Holst L, Wright D, Haavik S, Nordeng H. The Use and the User of Herbal Remedies During Pregnancy. J Altern Complement Med 2009 Jul;15(7):787-92 
35. Forster DA, Denning A, Wills G, Bolger M, McCarthy E. Herbal medicine use during pregnancy in a group of Australian women. BMC Preg Childbirth. 2006;6:21.
36. Parsons M, Simpson M, Ponton T. Raspberry leaf and its effect on labour: safety and efficacy. Aust Coll Midwives Inc J. 1999 Sep;12(3):20-5. 
37. Simpson M, Parsons M, Greenwood J, Wade K. Raspberry leaf in pregnancy: its safety and efficacy in labor. J Midwifery Womens Health. 2001 Mar-Apr;46(2):51-9.