Seluna Ingredient Research

Magnesium Glycinate

What it is: A chelated form of magnesium bound to glycine, an amino acid. This form has superior absorption compared to magnesium oxide and is less likely to cause digestive upset.

Why it's in the bundle:

• Up to 75% of peri-menopausal women are magnesium deficient
• Supports sleep quality and duration (common peri complaint)
• May reduce frequency and severity of hot flashes
• Supports mood regulation and anxiety reduction
• Helps maintain bone density during estrogen decline

Red Clover Isoflavones

What it is: A plant extract containing four primary isoflavones — formononetin, biochanin A, genistein, and daidzein — that have weak estrogen-like effects (phytoestrogens). Red clover is unique among phytoestrogen sources because it contains all four major isoflavones, whereas soy primarily contains genistein and daidzein.

Why the exact dose matters:

• Dose-response is real: Meta-analyses show ≥80mg/day produces significantly stronger results than 40mg/day
• At 80mg/day: Weighted mean reduction of 3.63 hot flashes per day vs. placebo (p<0.00001)
• At ≥80mg/day in women with ≥5 hot flashes/day: Up to 44% reduction in hot flash frequency vs. placebo
• Effects emerge at 12+ weeks — this is a slow-acting botanical, not an instant fix
• Contains higher proportion of biochanin A than soy, which may improve efficacy for vasomotor symptoms

Why it's in the bundle:

• Supports a healthy response to occasional hot flashes and night sweats
• Gentler plant-based alternative for women who prefer non-hormonal approaches
• May support cardiovascular markers during the menopausal transition
• Generally well-tolerated with low side effect profile in studies up to 12 months

Ashwagandha KSM-66

What it is: A full-spectrum extract of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) root standardized to contain the highest concentration of withanolides. KSM-66 is the most clinically studied ashwagandha extract, with 24+ published clinical trials.

Why we cycle it:

• Most clinical trials ran 8-12 weeks — long-term continuous data is limited
• Cycling prevents potential tolerance (receptor desensitization to withanolides)
• Allows your HPA axis (stress response system) to reset and maintain natural resilience
• Ashwagandha can mildly increase T3/T4 thyroid hormones — periodic breaks are prudent for healthy adults
• The 2 months on / 1 month off protocol aligns with clinical study durations while giving your body a reset
• Subscription stays active during off-months — we just pause the Calm bottle and keep the Foundation bottle going

Why it's in the bundle:

• Reduces perceived stress and cortisol levels
• Improves sleep quality in peri-menopausal women
• Supports cognitive function and reduces brain fog
• May improve sexual function and arousal
• Cycling protocol is a trust signal — most brands never mention it

Ceramides + Hyaluronic Acid + Niacinamide

What it is: A barrier-repair serum formulated specifically for skin compromised by hormonal changes during perimenopause.

Why it's in the bundle:

• Ceramides restore skin barrier function (often weakened during peri)
• Hyaluronic acid increases hydration and reduces fine lines
• Niacinamide reduces inflammation, regulates sebum, strengthens barrier
• Fragrance-free and pH-balanced for sensitive peri skin
• No retinoids, acids, or sensitizing actives that can worsen barrier dysfunction