Blog_images_Vita_1_1024x1024.png

Why Use Aura Diet Supplements?

At Aura, it’s our mission to make traditional Chinese herbs more accessible to everyone. They’ve got a wide variety of health benefits and are versatile ingredients in tea and cooking

Now, why would you choose an Aura Diet Supplement over any other brand you’ve already heard of?

Good question – we’d be asking the same in your position!

But… there is a difference… a clear difference.

Here’s why we think you could achieve your health goals with the help of a 100% natural, herbal supplement… 

Premium Quality, Premium Herbs

Blog_images_Vita_1_1024x1024.png

We believe in the best, the very best, and only the best

Since we launched this range back in September 2020, we have brought together years of development with our own trusted suppliers to source the highest quality Chinese herbs from source.

How do we know this?

Again, another good question!

All of our Chinese herbs are non-sulphur treated, meaning they are grown according to classical DaoDi principles at their original source. Check out an example of a sulphur vs. non-sulphur treated herb – quite the difference!

We follow traditional methods to extract herbs according to classical texts and Chinese pharmacopoeia.

Unlike traditional teapills, no cornstarch or sugar is used to bind the herbs together.

Extraction methods are used based on the herb’s chemical composition.

To ensure we extract optimal levels of the active ingredient, some herbs are extracted with water and some are extracted with alcohol.

Untitled-design-1.png

Our supplement range has been standardised to a concentration ration of 5:1 from raw herb to finished product.

Each tablet contains 600mg of authentic DaoDi herbs, therefore; a single bottle of 60 tablets weighs 36g and is equivalent to 180g of raw herb.

That’s a lot of herb!

Value  

One bottle of Aura lasts up to 2 weeks, and has a shelf life of 5 years.

The leading brand of teapills may weigh roughly 33g and is equivalent to just 20-30g of raw herbs, for one-week’s dosage.

Starch and sugar are often used in teapills to bind the ingredients together, which leads to lower concentration and concerns for eliciting a blood sugar response.

So – when put into perspective, the stats speak for themselves… 

Blog_images_Vita_2_1024x1024.png

The differences are clear to see, as shown by the above chart. Aura products may yield better and quicker results than other forms of herbal remedies.  

Aura Supplements are categorised by the 5 Chinese Elements (Metal, Water, Wood, Fire, Earth)

So – the next time you’re looking for a supplement to assist with your health goals, you know where to find us! 

To explore the full range, click here.

For any further queries, please email info@auranutrition.com and we’ll be happy to help! 

Turkey Tail Mushroom – 5 Key Benefits

Being one of the most popular health mushrooms around, Coriolus Veriscolor sounds as interesting as it looks.

Sharing it’s name with something traditionally consumed at Christmas, it is commonly known as Turkey Tail’ mushroom

Possessing striking colours and a bright appearance, this mushroom has been used for centuries worldwide for a variety of health conditions.

1) Immune System 

If you’re prone to the common cold and sick of feeling under the weather (pardon the pun), then Turkey Tail mushroom could be the answer.

This mushroom contains powerful immune-boosting properties. Polysaccharopeptides (PSP) are protein-based polysaccharides (PSK) carbohydrates, which both activate and inhibit specific types of immune cells by reducing inflammation. 

Some studies have found that Turkey Tail mushroom is useful to also inhibit the growth and spread of unhealthy colon cells in humans. Quite a powerful little mushroom if you ask us! 

2) Gut Health

This mushroom has also been prized for its ability to enhance your gut health. 

How does it do this?

Well… tests have uncovered that Turkey Tail can help reduce damage caused by oxidative stress, while reducing numbness and pain. 

3) Cancer-Fighting 

Those key compounds we discussed earlier, PSP and PSK are also useful for colon and breast cancer, by inhibiting the growth of cancerous cells.

In terms of its uses for post-chemotherapy, there is a limited amount of research to suggest that Turkey Tail could be an effective treatment for this.

Though this is the case, we’re confident that this powerful mushroom has a lot more to give for anti-cancerous properties, so watch this space!

4) Obesity

Shockingly, 63% (35 million) of people in the UK are currently classified as being overweight or obese (2021 stats).  

The effects of the pandemic haven’t been kind to many’s waistline, with high fatty foods being the centre of attention. 

Luckily, Turkey Tail mushroom isn’t a fan of obesity – and contains protein-based beta-glucans (PBG) which may aid weight loss. 

A study in mice found that PBG helped prevent weight gain in those who consumed a high fat diet. 

This compound may help balance certain bacteria found in the gut, making Turkey Tail a useful addition to aid those weight loss goals. 

5) Antioxidants for Anti-Aging

Lastly, Turkey Tail mushroom contains Phenols and Flavonoids

These compounds can prevent damage to tissue, which typically cause chronic illness and premature aging.

So – if you’re looking for a Benjamin Button effect, Turkey Tail mushroom may just be the mushroom for you. 

How Can I Take Turkey Tail?

https://youtube.com/watch?v=76ATqNFS2C4%3Fwmode%3Dopaque%26enablejsapi%3D1

There are two easy ways to consume Turkey Tail mushroom – capsuled or powdered.

Benefits of Capsules – quick, easy consumption – good for on the go

Benefits of Powdered – can be taken with food, or in a smoothie

Summary

Now you’ve got a better understanding of the powerful Turkey Tail mushroom, incorporating this into your routine is a breeze. 

Click here for our Turkey Tail products, and for more information, contact us here. 

What’s the Difference between Fei Yan™ Tea & SlimmingT?

Lockdown didn’t do us many favours, let’s be honest.

There were so many great ideas when the pandemic first hit – set up a home gym, train for a marathon, only eat unprocessed foods… 

Well… I’m sure that the majority of these wonderful ideas didn’t quite go exactly to plan.

Don’t worry – we had high hopes for ourselves as well.

Instead, we found external peace on the sofa, binge-watched our favourite shows for hours on end and went up a couple of clothes sizes. 

Fast-forward to the present day, some of you may be in the same boat. 

You’re not happy with your figure, and you want resultsFast.

Here we meet at the natural herbal tea crossroads. 

One path leads to Fei Yan™ Tea. The other leads to SlimmingT.

Both teas known for their ability to help you trim up naturally, but what are the differences between the two?

Let’s uncover the secrets of these powerful herbal teas:

Fei Yan™ Tea

For centuries, Fei Yan™ Tea has been prized for its ability to promote natural weight loss and health-enhancement. 

The secret recipe comes from the original Fei Yan™ Diet Tea blend

History

This blend is named after a Chinese Empress of the Han Dynasty – Zhao Fei Yan.

Her slim and fragile figure was sought after by many, who were intrigued to find out her secret formula for slimming success

Fei Yan™ directly translates to ‘Flying Sparrow’, which drew the comparisons to the graceful bird. 

The legend says that Zhao Fei Yan™ was ‘as light as a swallow and could dance on another one’s palm’. 

Rumour has it that the Empress maintained her small waistline by drinking her authentic diet Tea daily. 

What Makes this Special?

Due to very high demand for this tea, the market was once saturated with counterfeit products which did not have the same desired weight loss effect.

To ensure the market gets the very best product, we have exclusively partnered with the founder of Fei Yan™ tea and re-branded this for the Western market.

So – next time you see another supposed ‘Fei Yan™ tea’ on the market, just remember where to find the 100% authentic product. 

Aura Health & Wellbeing is the only registered supplier in Europe.

Today, Fei Yan™ Tea is one of the most popular herbal weight loss teas consumed across Europe, and for good measure! 

Combining Lotus Leaf, Tangerine Peel, Rhubarb Root, Stevia Leaf and Oolong Tea makes this the ultimate formula to kickstart your weight loss journey.

Being naturally caffeine-free, you can enjoy its delicious taste without getting too much of a ‘buzz’.  

Consuming these powerful Chinese herbs in a beautiful blend of tea can get you back on track with your slimming goals, naturally.

Soon, you’ll be reminiscing to those days on the sofa and wishing you’d discovered this blend sooner!

SlimmingT

This special blend has been formulated to help improve your metabolism, which can contribute to healthy weight loss.

SlimmingT combines Lotus Leaf, Hawthorn Fruit, Luff Cylindrica, Coix Seeds, Astragalus Root, Liquorice Root and Oolong Tea. 

What Makes this Special?

While you might be itching ready to get your hands on some SlimmingT, this blend does promote bowel movements, so make sure you take care when drinking! 

This natural herbal tea possesses a range of health benefits which we could all get behind:

1) Boosts energy & metabolism – helps you discharge fat and toxins

2) Helps burn fat and calories – targets extra fat stored in your body 

3) Treats habitual constipation

4) Helps slim down abdominal area 

5) Calms bloating

6) Contains antioxidants – decreasing the risk of inflammation

7) Supports detoxification – reduces toxins in the body 

Conclusion

Click here to explore the full functional herbal tea range.

For any further queries, please contact info@auranutrition.com and we’ll be happy to help. 

1.png

Reishi Mushroom – 5 Key Benefits

As one of the most popular health mushrooms available, Reishi sounds like it has a lot to live up to – but luckily, it passes with flying colours!

It is also known by the name ‘Ling Zhi’or for the more scientific name ‘Ganoderma Lucidum’.

Displaying a vibrant appearance, this mushroom has been used for centuries worldwide for a variety of health conditions.

1) Immune System 

1.png

If you’re keen on developing your Superman-like powers against disease, Reishi is a great assistant to kick-start those dreams. 

Scientific studies have suggested that this mushroom can positively affect the genes in white blood cells, a critical part of your immune system. 

It is thought that Reishi can potentially increase the activity of natural killer cells, mainly used to fight infections and cancer in the body. 

2) Fatigue & Depression

Blog_images_2_8f7c9f92-7cce-46f2-84e0-a83447e06aa8_1024x1024.png

One study examined over 100 patients with conditions associated with aches, pains, dizziness, irritability and headaches.

Consuming Reishi was found to reduce fatigue and improve positivity and wellbeing over an 8 week period.

The study participants also experiences lower levels of anxiety and depression after taking Reishi supplements. 

3) Anti-Cancer

If you re-call what we touched on earlier, the cancer killing activity of this mushroom has had a positive influence on those with prostate cancer

Several scientific studies have shown Reishi to help fight colorectal cancer and tumours in the large intestine

4) Heart Health

Blog_images_5_1024x1024.png

This mushroom has been prized to help balance and potentially lower cholesterol levels, helping heart health. 

5) Antioxidant Levels

Reishi has also been potentially prized as a powerful antioxidant to help prevent damage to your cells. 

How Can I Take Reishi?

There are two easy ways to consume Reishi mushroom – capsuled or powdered.

Benefits of Capsules – quick, easy consumption – good for on the go

Benefits of Powdered – can be taken with food, or in a smoothie

Summary

Now you’ve got a better understanding of the powerful Reishi mushroom, incorporating this into your routine is a breeze. 

Click here for our Reishi products.

For more information, please contact us directly via info@mycologynutrition.com

The Ultimate Feast – Chinese Herbal Recipe Bundle

Ever have those random moments where you just reminisce about your favourite foods?

Yeah, us too.

Luckily – we’ve all got an excuse to dream today…

We’re not going to lie – this is one of our highlights of the year!

As part of our love for all things edible, we’ve outlined the perfect Chinese herbal recipes and created our Ultimate Feast Recipe Bundle, packed with flavour and fun:

BREAKFAST

Jujube Date Pancakes (Chinese Crepes)

Now, in Eastern culture this is usually eaten as a dessert.

BUT – because there are no rules when it comes to delicious food, we’re encouraging you to ignore these rules and kickstart your day in style.

If you’re not familiar with Jujube Dates, you’re probably wondering… why use these? 

Great question! 

What Makes Jujube Dates Special?

These beauties have a soft and crisp red skin, with a sweet, slightly tart spongy centre.

Another great benefit of these is that they’re packed with vitamins, antioxidants, minerals and fibre – a perfect balance between taste and feel-good!

We recommend using the non-pitted Jujube Dates, to ensure the vibrant flavours are kept in-tact.

Right – enough of us teasing you with the Jujube’s life story – let’s get to the real fun…

How to Make the Perfect Jujube Date Pancake

Ingredients

– 2 cups all-purpose flour

– 3/4 cup of boiling water

– 3 tablespoons sesame oil

– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)

– 1 cup of Jujube Dates

[Optional for a sweeter tooth] – 2 tablespoons of sugar

Method

1) Sift the flour into a bowl. Add 1/2 cup of boiling water and stir.

2) Knead the warm dough until it is smooth, then add the remaining 1/4 cup of water if necessary.

3) Cover the dough and rest for 30 mins

4) Place the rested dough on a flat surface and cut in half. Roll out until it is roughly 1/4 inch-thick.

5) Use a cookie cutter to cut out 3-inch circles of dough.

6) Brush the sesame oil over the top of 2 dough circles, then lay them on top of each other (with the oil sides together)

7) Roll out the dough to form a 6-inch pancake, then repeat to make the rest of the 3-inch dough circles.

8) Heat a frying pan over a low heat, then add one of the paired pancakes and cook until brown on both sides (approx. 3 minutes together)

9) Remove from the heat and pull the pancakes apart. Do the same with the remainder of your pancakes. Cool for a minute or two.

10) Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over a medium-high heat. Crush down and spread the Jujube Dates over the unbrowned surface of the pancakes.

11) Roll the pancakes over 2 to 3 times, to form a flat roll. Brown the pancakes in the pan on both sides

12) Dust the pancakes with sugar (if required).

13) Serve and enjoy!

MID-MORNING SNACK

Black Sesame Seed Smoothie

After a great start to the day, we want to keep those energy levels boosted.

An on-the-go option, coming right up!

What Makes Black Sesame Seeds Special?

A versatile ingredient to many dishes, Black Sesame Seeds are naturally high in protein, antioxidants, calcium, magnesium, copper and iron. 

These are also great for their anti-aging properties, assisting to stabilise blood pressure, plus helping with fibre and cell reinforcements. 

How to Make the Perfect Black Sesame Seed Smoothie

Ingredients

– 250ml milk of your choice (we’re going with soya milk)

– 1 tbsp grounded flaxseed

– 1 tsp maca powder (optional)

– Pinch of ground cinnamon

– 1 date (stoned)

– 1 small ripe banana

– Handful of spinach

– 1 tbsp of butter

– Handful of black sesame seeds

Method

1) Pour the milk into a blender and add the ground flaxseed, maca powder, and cinnamon

2) Add the remaining ingredients then mix until smooth

3) Pour into a glass, then add the Black Sesame Seeds on top

4) Enjoy!

You can’t go wrong with a good-old soup, but with a tasty twist!

Here’s why we recommend using Nameko Mushrooms in this dish…

What Makes Nameko Mushrooms Special?

With an enhanced earthy flavour when sautéed, these mushrooms contain a naturally occurring gelatin on the cap which allows them to lightly thicken soups.  

Nameko Mushrooms are very popular, as they may assist with strengthening of the immune system, reduce cholesterol, combat mental health disorders and help resistance of staph infection. 

How to Make the Perfect Nameko Mushroom Soup 

Ingredients

– 1 handful of Nameko mushrooms

– 1/4 leek

– 600ml Dashi stock

– 2 tablespoons of Miso

Method

1) Finely chop the leek. Rinse the mushrooms and leave them to drain in a colander

2) Place a pan on a medium heat and bring to a boil. Mix in the Dashi stock

3) Add the mushrooms and leek into the pan and stir

4) Lower the heat and add the miso to thicken the soup

5) Once thickened, remove from the heat and leave to stand for 1 minute

6) Serve and enjoy!

MID-AFTERNOON SNACK

Handful of Dried Lotus Seeds

As a super-efficient, easy snack, these seeds are tasty and nutritious, two of our favourite words.

What Makes Dried Lotus Seeds Special?

These are valued for a tonne of great health and healing properties, including:

– High in protein, calcium, zinc, iron & potassium

– May improve a sluggish appetite 

– Can improve brain function and memory (senile dementia)

– Low in sugar and saturated fat 

– Can help with anti-ageing 

– May act as an anti-inflammatory and reduce blood pressure

– Can help benefit the kidneys

– May assist insomnia 

– Can help treat urinary problems 

– May help reduce heart disease

– Can assist weight loss

How to Eat Dried Lotus Seeds?

These are super easy to consume – raw or cooked.

As they have a hard and rough texture, they must be soaked in water overnight before eating. 

Once you’ve done this, make sure to de-shell them before tucking in! 

DINNER

Steamed Chicken in Dang Gui Sauce*

*Don’t worry if you’re vegan/vegetarian, click here for an alternative recipe!

Traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine, Dang Gui is a powerful ingredient with impressive health benefits.

What Makes Dang Gui Special?

Known to assist cardiovascular diseases, improve blood circulation and women’s reproductive health issues, this is a tasty yet important health boosting tool!

It may also be beneficial to dilate blood vessels and control muscle spasms, further helping the regulation of menstrual flow in women.

How to Make the Perfect Steamed Chicken in Dang Gui Sauce

Ingredients

– 40g of ginger

– 500g of chicken with skin and bone (cut into 3cm pieces)

– 30g rice (of your choice)

– 20g soy sauce

– 5 slices of Dang Gui

– 1/4 tsp sesame oil

– 1 tsp salt

– 800g of water

– 10 jujube dates (optional)

Method

1) Place ginger in a mixing bowl and chop finely

2) Transfer this mix into a small sieve

3) Place chicken and rest of ingredients into a pot fitted with steamer basket over water

4) Bring water to the boil, until the chicken juices run clear (30 mins)

5) Let the mixture stand for a couple of minutes then remove

6) Serve and enjoy!

DESSERT (if you’re still peckish)

Black Plum Pie

If you’re still hanging in there and haven’t succumbed to a food coma just yet, we salute you.

In our eyes, that’s ALWAYS room for dessert, so top off World Food Day with a sweet sensation…

What Makes Black Plum Special?

Belonging to the same family as peaches, apricots and nectarines, Black Plums are the more diverse fruit of the family.

They make great additions to most salads or desserts due to being high in Vitamin C, but the sweetest part of this ingredient is how it can benefit your health.

Known to help stop coughing, alleviate thirst and pain, prevent diarrhoea, stop bleeding and treating corns/warts, this is a key health boosting fruit you need to try!

How to Make the Perfect Black Plum Pie

Ingredients

– 2 unbaked pie crusts

– 1/2 cup of sugar

– 2 tbsp flour

– 1 tsp cinnamon

– 1 tbsp butter

– 500g of dried black plums

Method

1) Preheat oven to 450 degrees (Gas Mark 8)

2) Place one pie crust into a 9 inch pie dish, then wash the plums

3) Cut plums in half (removing pit), then into quarters

4) Arrange plums evenly in the pie crust

5) Mix together dry ingredients then sprinkle over the top of the plums

6) Slightly glaze the mix with butter

7) Place top crust over the plums, then trim the crust to fit the edge

8) Cut around 6 slits into the top of the pie

9) Bake at 450 degrees for 12 minutes, then reduce the heat to 325 degrees (Gas Mark 3) for a further 25 minutes

10) Check after time elapsed – if plums are tender you’re good to go

11) Serve and enjoy, warm or cold!

Summary 

If you’ve made it this far, you’re a superstar.

You’ve successfully completed the Vita Ultimate Feast challenge, what an achievement!

Now that you’ve got some great ideas of how to use Chinese herbal ingredients in some unique dishes, check out our other recipes here.

For any further information on Chinese culinary herbs, please contact us on info@vitaherbalnutrition.com and we’ll be happy to help.