GRAPE LEAF
The grapevine (Vitis vinifera) is one of humanity’s oldest cultivated plants, with its leaves being used in traditional medicine since antiquity. The leaves contain flavonoids such as quercitrin and rutin, as well as tannins, tartaric and malic acid, and essential minerals, giving them vascular-protective and anti-inflammatory properties. In phytotherapy, red grape leaf extracts are used to treat chronic venous insufficiency, helping to relieve symptoms such as swelling, pain, and heaviness in the legs. Additionally, grape leaves are rich in fibre, protein, and vitamins A and K. In culinary traditions, grape leaves are a staple in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine, in which they are stuffed with ingredients such as meat or rice.
SWEET CLOVER
Sweet clover (Melilotus officinalis) is a plant widely found in Europe and Asia, belonging to the legume family (Fabaceae) and the pea subfamily (Faboideae), known for its distinctly sweet fragrance. In traditional European herbal medicine, sweet clover is valued for its therapeutic properties, used both internally as a tea and externally in poultices.
JUNIPER BERRY
Juniper berries (Juniperus communis) are the berry-like cones of the juniper shrub, which is widely distributed across Europe, Asia, and North America. They contain essential oils such as α-pinene, sabinene, and myrcene, as well as flavonoids and tannins. Traditionally, juniper berries have been used to support digestion and relieve bloating and stomach discomfort. They are also known for their diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties. In culinary applications, juniper berries are commonly used as a spice for meat dishes and to flavour beverages, most notably gin.
HAWTHORNE
The hawthorn (Crataegus) is a member of the rose family and belongs to the pome fruit plant genus. Its main distribution is in North America, but some of the 300 species can also be found in Europe. Hawthorn was often planted as a protective hedge to mark field boundaries as well as contain livestock.
LEMON ZEST
The lemon (Citrus × limon), like many other tropical fruits, originally came from India. The first reliable records of its cultivation in Europe and Asia Minor date back 1,000 years. As a staple of royal orangeries, this beautiful tree is unique for bearing both fruit and blossoms at the same time. Historically, its juice saved the lives of many sailors by preventing scurvy. The essential oil, extracted from the peel, has an invigorating aroma and repels pests such as mosquitoes.
