Tell us about the journey that led you to developing Maison Louno and discovering the benefits of adaptogens?
I started Maison Loüno as a way to share tips and health hacks I found to increase my wellbeing. When I was younger, I suffered from many health issues and all the remedies I found in holistic healing, blended to my love for sharing, encouraged me to start my brand. Adaptogens are amazing when you live cities and cope with small or bigger stress-factors everyday. Combined with mushrooms, and targeted flowers & plants, they can really do wonders for one’s energy levels. I started incorporating them in my daily rituals in 2018 after discovering them in the US, and they have been part of a big transformation journey.
Which are your favourite adaptogens and why?
Chaga is a functional mushroom with adaptogenic properties, so my answer will be this one. It’s fascinating. It’s the greatest source of antioxidants you can find, and holds very high levels of zinc and melanin as well which makes it amazing for your body and specifically your skin. I also find that adding chaga to your coffee, removes the jitters that caffeine bring. I love it.
What has been one of your greatest lessons, either professionally or personally?
"Don’t take things personally. It’s not about you, it’s about them, their history, their triggers, their vision.” As a highly sensitive person, I’ve had to learn this the hard way, starting life with taking everything personally hahaha boy did I learn!! And it’s such a relief when you realise this, like deep down, when your body believes it too.
What are some of your favourite ingredients to cook with?
I love cooking with fresh herbs which I grow on my balcony or buy at the farmers’ market. They made any simple meal taste amazing.
How do you incorporate scent into your daily ritual?
I was never a big fan of perfumes because I was allergic to most of them, so it’s only very recently when I discovered essential oils that I thought this could be my perfume for the day! And bonus it would add health benefits to my journey :) I love BASIUM's roll on which I always have with me before a dinner date or a work meeting :)
What are you looking forward to this coming summer?
Looking forward to time off, time with friends and getting inspired by the mediterranean coast :)
What are your favourite plants where you live? And how do you incorporate them into your day to day?
I am currently obsessed with "Verveine citronnée” (lemon verbena) which is amazing as plant remedy and for cooking. And the scent is so fresh and summery!
Any tips for someone who is new to adaptogens?
Adaptogens and functional mushrooms are amazing when taken over the long term. Like exercise and everything else, what works is what sticks. You can see results on your cortisol levels after taking Ashwagandha for just two weeks, but if you want long-term results, it’s a great idea to make a ritual out of taking them. Adding the plants to your morning matcha or evening cocoa.
How do adaptogens influence our moods?
Our moods are impacted by our hormones. As adaptogens help us cope with stress in stabilising our bodies, our moods naturally stabilise as well.
And lastly, how do you choose which adaptogen is right for you?
I find a balance between benefits of the plant/ my needs; working with health practitioners ; and which adaptogens I feel drawn to.
Any tips for someone who is new to adaptogens?
Adaptogens and functional mushrooms are amazing when taken over the long term. Like exercise and everything else, what works is what sticks. You can see results on your cortisol levels after taking Ashwagandha for just two weeks, but if you want long-term results, it’s a great idea to make a ritual out of taking them. Adding the plants to your morning matcha or evening cocoa.
How do adaptogens influence our moods?
Our moods are impacted by our hormones. As adaptogens help us cope with stress in stabilising our bodies, our moods naturally stabilise as well.
And lastly, how do you choose which adaptogen is right for you?
I find a balance between benefits of the plant/ my needs; working with health practitioners ; and which adaptogens I feel drawn to.
ASTROLOGICAL SIGN: Sun in Sagittarius, Moon in Taurus and Capricorn rising
MORNING RITUAL: Matcha with Lion’s mane, Maca and collagen
EVENING RITUAL: A Maison Loüno infusion with grain chicory, blackcurrant leaves and nettle. It’s so good! And helps with digestion after a delicious meal.
CURRENTLY READING: ’Think like a monk’ by Jay Shetty. I’m starting his coaching school in September, so taking a little jump start :)
MOVING AWAY: From perceived obligations
MOVING TOWARDS: Alignment in everything I do