Health Benefits of the Nordic Shield
Haskap (Lonicera caerulea)
Haskap – the Arctic honeyberry – is one of the most powerful natural antioxidants found in northern climates.
Its deep blue pigment comes from anthocyanins, particularly cyanidin-3-glucoside, known to protect cell membranes from oxidative stress and delay the aging process of tissues [1, 2].
Regular haskap consumption has been shown to:
- Improve micro-circulation and cardiovascular health, supporting elastic blood vessels and balanced blood pressure;
- Enhance brain function and memory, as anthocyanins cross the blood-brain barrier and support neuronal protection;
- Reduce inflammation in the body by down-regulating oxidative enzymes and balancing immune cell response [3];
- Support eye and skin health through antioxidant and vitamin C synergy.
This berry embodies northern resilience – compact, strong, and quietly powerful.
Quince (Chaenomeles japonica)
Quince, often called the golden fruit of balance, is a natural vitamin C powerhouse containing up to 3–5 times more vitamin C than apples.
It is also rich in flavonoids, organic acids, and pectin, all contributing to immune protection, digestion, and skin vitality [4].
Scientific studies reveal that quince extracts:
- Strengthen the immune system by stimulating white blood cell activity and supporting antibody formation;
- Promote collagen synthesis, maintaining healthy skin, hair, and connective tissues;
- Exhibit antiviral and antibacterial effects, helping the body defend against seasonal infections [5];
- Soothe the digestive system, reducing mild inflammation in the stomach and intestines due to its natural pectins and polyphenols.
Quince adds the bright warmth of sunlight to haskap’s northern calm – together forming an extraordinary duo for inner protection.
Synergy & Summary
The combination of Haskap and Quince in the Nordic Shield provides a unique balance of anthocyanin-rich antioxidants and vitamin-dense freshness.
This natural synergy creates a protective harmony that defends, restores, and strengthens from within.
The Nordic Shield:
- Builds a resilient immune barrier through high vitamin C and polyphenol synergy;
- Guards against oxidative stress and premature cellular aging;
- Supports vascular, skin, and brain health by improving micro-circulation and collagen renewal;
- Promotes a sense of steady, calm vitality – energy that flows naturally, not artificially.
It is the North’s way of caring – quiet, strong, and unwavering.
References
- Jurikova T. et al. (2017). Lonicera caerulea L. (Haskap): A new berry crop with health-promoting properties.Journal of Functional Foods, 37: 631–640.
- Celli G.B. et al. (2016). Cyanidin-3-glucoside-rich haskap berry extract improves vascular function and reduces oxidative stress. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 64(5): 934–943.
- Wu S.B. et al. (2015). Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of honeyberry anthocyanins. Plant Foods for Human Nutrition, 70(3): 341–349.
- Teleszko M. et al. (2016). Chemical composition and antioxidant capacity of Chaenomeles fruits. Food Chemistry, 202: 155–162.
- Choi J.G. et al. (2017). Anti-inflammatory and antiviral activity of Chaenomeles japonica extracts. Molecules, 22(3): 471.