Key Ingredients Explained:
- Lion’s Mane, Shiitake, Maitake, Cordyceps & Reishi Mushrooms: Celebrated adaptogenic mushrooms traditionally used for their balancing and wellness-supporting properties, ideally suited to life’s transitional stages.
- Red Clover, Sage & Hops Extract: Trusted botanical extracts traditionally used to naturally soothe and support women experiencing common menopause symptoms.
- Saffron: Historically treasured for supporting emotional well-being and mood balance during times of hormonal change.
- Magnesium, Zinc, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, Vitamins D3 & K2, and Folate: Essential vitamins and minerals specifically chosen to support hormonal balance, maintain bone health, reduce tiredness and fatigue, support cognitive function, and promote overall daily wellness.
Learn More About the Ingredients in Our Empower Range
The ingredients featured in our Empower range have been the focus of extensive traditional use and modern scientific research. Below, we’ve curated respected resources and scientific literature for further exploration into these ingredients and their potential roles during perimenopause and menopause.
Adaptogenic Mushrooms
Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus)
Traditionally known for cognitive wellbeing, Lion’s Mane has been extensively studied for its unique compounds, notably hericenones and erinacines.
- Reference: Lai, P. et al. (2013). Neurotrophic Properties of the Lion’s Mane Medicinal Mushroom, Hericium erinaceus (Higher Basidiomycetes) from Malaysia. International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms.
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)
Reishi mushrooms are valued for their immune-modulating polysaccharides and antioxidants, extensively studied for their potential overall health benefits.
- Reference: Sharma, C. et al. (2019). Bioactive metabolites of Ganoderma lucidum: Factors, mechanisms, and therapeutic potential. Herbal Medicine.
Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis)
Traditionally linked to vitality and energy, modern research continues to investigate Cordyceps’ role in supporting physical endurance and wellbeing.
- Reference: Powell, M. (2014). Medicinal Mushrooms: A Clinical Guide. Mycology Press.
Maitake (Grifola frondosa)
Rich in beta-glucans, Maitake is traditionally recognised for its overall wellbeing potential and continues to attract scientific interest.
Shiitake (Lentinula edodes) (Menopause blend only)
Shiitake mushrooms are rich in vitamins and polysaccharides, traditionally linked to immune support and general nutrition.
- Reference: Dai, X. et al. (2015). Shiitake Mushroom (Lentinus edodes) Polysaccharides and their Biological Effects. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules.
Botanicals & Adaptogens
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) (Perimenopause blend only)
A revered adaptogenic herb widely studied for its potential stress-supportive properties and traditionally used in Ayurveda.
- Reference: Chandrasekhar, K. et al. (2012). A prospective, randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study of safety and efficacy of Ashwagandha in reducing stress and anxiety. Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine.
Red Clover
Traditionally used in herbal practice to support women’s health, particularly during hormonal transitions.
- Reference: Myers, S.P. & Vigar, V. (2017). Effects of Red Clover on Menopausal Symptoms. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine.
Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis) (Perimenopause blend only)
Used historically in traditional herbal medicine, Dong Quai continues to be studied for its potential supportive role in women’s health.
- Reference: Kupfersztain, C. et al. (2003). The Clinical Importance of Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis). Journal of Women’s Health.
Sage & Hops Extract (Menopause blend only)
Respected botanicals traditionally used to soothe symptoms associated with menopause.
- Reference: Bommer, S. et al. (2011). Efficacy and safety of Sage leaf extract in the treatment of menopausal hot flushes. Advances in Therapy.
Saffron (Crocus sativus)
Historically valued for mood balance, saffron has been studied for its supportive role in emotional wellbeing.
- Reference: Hausenblas, H.A. et al. (2013). Saffron for the treatment of depression: A systematic review. Journal of Integrative Medicine.
Vitamins & Minerals
The vitamins and minerals in our formulations—B Vitamins, D3, K2, Folate, Magnesium, and Zinc—are well-documented for their contributions to bone health, hormonal balance, immune system function, and psychological wellbeing.
- Reference: EFSA (European Food Safety Authority). (2009-2021). Authorised Health Claims under Regulation (EU) No 1924/2006.
Important Note:
This educational information is provided for reference purposes only. Love Mushrooms products are sold exclusively as food supplements. The information provided here has not been evaluated by the MHRA or EFSA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any diseases or health conditions. Always consult your healthcare professional before adding new supplements to your routine.
Behind The Blend
Lion’s Mane
Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus) is a medicinal mushroom traditionally valued for its role in supporting cognitive function and overall wellbeing. Popular among women experiencing menopause, Lion’s Mane is often chosen to support mental clarity, memory, and general cognitive health.
While some preliminary studies suggest potential cognitive benefits from Lion’s Mane, current research is ongoing, and specific health claims relating to menopause symptom relief or cognitive improvements have not yet been authorised by UK regulatory authorities.
Cordyceps
Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis) is a medicinal mushroom traditionally used to support overall vitality, energy, and physical endurance. It’s popular among women experiencing menopause who seek natural support for energy levels, stamina, and overall wellbeing.
While traditional herbal practices highlight Cordyceps’ potential energising properties, current scientific research remains limited, and no specific health claims related directly to menopause or symptom relief have been authorised by UK regulatory bodies.
Reishi
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) is a medicinal mushroom traditionally valued for its calming properties and role in supporting overall wellbeing and relaxation. Popular among women during menopause, Reishi is often chosen for its reputed ability to support emotional balance, relaxation, and general health.
While Reishi has a long history of traditional use, current scientific evidence specifically relating to menopausal symptom relief is limited, and no authorised health claims exist in the UK for menopause-related uses of Reishi.
Maitake
Maitake (Grifola frondosa) is a medicinal mushroom traditionally valued for its general health-supporting properties, especially its use in promoting overall vitality and immune health. Many women during menopause consider Maitake for its reputed potential to support wellbeing during periods of hormonal transition.
Currently, scientific research specifically linking Maitake to menopause symptom relief is limited, and no authorised health claims regarding menopause exist in the UK.
Red Clover
Red clover (Trifolium pratense) is a flowering plant traditionally used in herbal practices. It contains isoflavones—plant-based compounds structurally similar to oestrogen. These isoflavones have been studied for their potential role in supporting women’s health during menopause.
It’s important to note that, as of now, no health claims for red clover are authorised in the UK or EU for the relief of menopausal symptoms.
Sage Leaf
Sage (Salvia officinalis) has a long history of traditional use in herbal medicine. Particularly popular during menopause, sage leaf has been traditionally used to help manage common symptoms such as hot flushes and excessive sweating.
In the UK, sage is often recommended as a complementary herbal option; however, it’s important to note that specific health claims related to menopause relief from sage leaf are not officially authorised by UK regulators.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an adaptogenic herb traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to help the body manage stress. It has gained popularity among women experiencing perimenopause and menopause due to its reputation for promoting emotional wellbeing and balance.
Although traditionally used for supporting stress resilience, energy, and relaxation, it’s important to highlight that specific health claims related to menopause symptom relief are not currently authorised by UK regulatory bodies. Clinical evidence regarding Ashwagandha’s effectiveness specifically for menopausal symptoms is limited, with ongoing research still exploring its potential.
Dong Quai
Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis), often referred to as “female ginseng,” has been traditionally used in East Asian herbal practices, particularly to support women’s health and well-being during various life stages, including menopause.
In the UK, no official health claims relating Dong Quai directly to menopause symptom relief have been authorised by regulatory bodies.
Zinc
Zinc is an essential mineral that contributes to various important functions in the body, including normal immune system function, maintaining healthy skin, hair, nails, and bones, and supporting cognitive function. During perimenopause and menopause, maintaining adequate zinc levels is important to support overall health and wellbeing.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is an important nutrient known for its antioxidant properties, helping to protect cells from oxidative stress. It plays a role in maintaining healthy skin, eyes, and immune function, and is often considered beneficial for general health and wellbeing during perimenopause and menopause.
Vitamin E has traditionally been used by some women seeking relief from symptoms such as hot flushes.
Saffron
Saffron (Crocus sativus) is a spice traditionally used in herbal practices, particularly valued for its reputed mood-supporting and calming properties. During menopause, saffron is often sought by women looking to support emotional wellbeing and manage mild mood fluctuations.
While some studies have explored saffron’s potential effects on mood and emotional balance, including in menopausal women, current evidence remains preliminary. In the UK, specific health claims regarding saffron’s effectiveness for menopause symptom relief have not been authorised by regulatory bodies.
Vegan Vitamin D3 from Lichen
Vitamin D3 sourced from lichen is a plant-based form of vitamin D, making it particularly suitable for vegetarians and vegans. Vitamin D plays an essential role in supporting healthy bones, teeth, immune function, and muscle health, all of which are particularly important during perimenopause and menopause.
Although Vitamin D3 itself does not specifically target menopause symptoms, adequate vitamin D intake supports overall health and wellbeing, particularly maintaining bone health, which can become a greater focus during menopausal years. UK regulatory authorities have authorised health claims relating to vitamin D’s role in maintaining normal bones and normal muscle function, but not specifically related to menopause symptom relief.
Black Pepper (BioPerine®)
BioPerine®, a standardised extract from black pepper (Piper nigrum), is commonly used in nutritional supplements to enhance the absorption and bioavailability of certain vitamins, minerals, and herbal extracts. While BioPerine® itself does not directly address symptoms of menopause, it is frequently included in supplements intended to support overall wellbeing during perimenopause and menopause due to its ability to enhance nutrient absorption.
In the UK, authorised health claims regarding black pepper extracts like BioPerine® specifically relating to menopause symptom relief are not available. However, its role in supporting nutrient absorption is recognised and valued in supplement formulations.
Folate
Folate (Vitamin B9) is essential for numerous functions in the body, including contributing to normal psychological function, reducing tiredness and fatigue, and supporting a healthy immune system. During perimenopause and menopause, adequate folate intake can support general wellbeing and energy levels.
While folate itself is not directly linked to relief of specific menopausal symptoms, maintaining healthy levels contributes to overall health during this transitional period. In the UK, authorised health claims exist for folate’s roles in supporting normal psychological function, reducing fatigue, and normal immune system function, but not specifically for menopausal symptom management.
Vitamin K2
Vitamin K2 contributes to maintaining healthy bones and supporting normal blood clotting, both essential functions during perimenopause and menopause. Maintaining healthy bone density becomes particularly important during these life stages due to hormonal changes.
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 plays an essential role in maintaining hormonal balance, energy levels, and psychological wellbeing. It contributes to the regulation of hormonal activity, normal psychological function, and reducing tiredness and fatigue—areas of particular importance during perimenopause and menopause.
Hops (Humulus lupulus
Hops (Humulus lupulus) is a plant traditionally known for its calming and relaxing properties. It has been used historically in herbal practices, often valued by women during menopause, particularly for its reputed soothing qualities.
Although some research has explored the potential use of hops for supporting restful sleep and relaxation during menopause, current evidence remains limited, and UK regulatory authorities have not authorised specific health claims regarding its effectiveness in relieving menopausal symptoms.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is essential for supporting normal energy metabolism, psychological function, and reducing tiredness and fatigue—areas of particular importance during perimenopause and menopause. It also contributes to normal functioning of the nervous system and the production of healthy red blood cells.
Vegan Capsule Cell
Vegan capsule shells are an ideal alternative for individuals seeking plant-based supplements. Made from plant-derived materials such as cellulose, vegan capsules offer a convenient, ethical, and dietary-friendly option suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
