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By Laurel Vukovic
Tonic herbs are considered superior medicine, working to keep the body healthy–all systems in sync, with vitality and energy to spare without risks or side effects . Here's how to put them to work for you.
Within the ranks of botanical medicines some herbs are pretty good. When used appropriately, they can foster specific effects in many people. Others are great: They consistently provide a range of health improvements for most people, with minimal side effects. But there's another class of herb—the tonic herb—that offers more far-reaching benefits. Such an herb has the ability to build and maintain health and to balance the body's functions. Virtually nontoxic, it is safe for anyone to take for as long as they like. You could call it a panacea—the Chinese refer to it as "superior" medicine—or just say it's a "super" herb.
Tonic herbs represent a unique class of plant medicine. Their role is not that of a targeted healer as is a plant or drug that's taken to address a certain health problem (for example, wood betony for a headache or St. Johns Wort for depression). Those herbs can be called "specifics," explains Christopher Hobbs, an herbalist in Santa Cruz, California and the author of Handbook for Herbal Healing (Botanica Press, 1990). Specifics stimulate or alter a body process and focus the body's energy on one particular task—fighting off a cold, let's say. Thus, we take them for a short period of time to address an acute condition. In contrast, tonics are generalists, used to maintain health by balancing physiological activity and providing nutrients and other substances that the body needs to function optimally. They nourish and support the body's systems on a deeper level, fostering equilibrium and balance and, thus, optimal health.
"A tonic is a substance that balances the biochemical and physiological events that comprise body systems," explains Daniel B. Mowrey, Ph.D., author of Herbal Tonic Therapies (Keats Publishing, 1993). While this is not a scientific definition, it is a basis for a medical model of tonic action. To comprehend the power of tonics, Mowrey says, one must understand the term "balance." "Balance means health or wellness–so illness may be viewed as a lack of balance, a departure from the optimum state in any given body system."
The effect of a tonic is subtle, yet it can be profound: Tonics have the power to increase energy levels, normalize the function of organs and organ systems, and even stave off disease. Thus, tonics can be very useful to people who seek to cultivate better overall health or who want extra insurance against a problem for which they have a greater-than-average risk–a family history, perhaps, or exposure to excessive stress or environmental toxins. The proper use of tonics might reduce or eliminate the need for stronger remedies, be they drugs or plant-based therapies, a fact that makes them an exciting new field for herbal researchers around the globe.
A fairly well-known example of a tonic is ginseng, an herb whose Latin name, panax, actually comes from the same root as "panacea," or "cure-all." Ginseng has been revered for centuries in Chinese medicine as an all-body tonic, possessing the ability to improve immune function, cardiovascular health, energy levels, and sexual vitality. Ginseng meets all criteria for a tonic: It nourishes, restores balance, and strengthens the functioning of an organ or system without throwing another organ or body system out of balance. And, when used properly, ginseng is virtually nontoxic and nonhabituating, even when taken over a long period of time.
East Meets West
The concept of tonic medicine is largely an Eastern one arising from the centuries - old traditions of Indian Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine. In the Eastern schools, tonics are regarded as the highest form of healing. Ayurvedic practitioners prescribe herbal tonics to renew body and mind, with the ultimate goal of creating pure awareness, delight in living, and enhancement of creativity. Similarly, Chinese herbalists prescribe tonics to strengthen a patient's resilience, improve organ function and metabolism, and further the development of what the Chinese call "radiant health." But the attainment of radiance is not a common consideration in the practice of conventional Western medicine.
The difference, of course, is one of philosophy. Western medicine focuses on the eradication of disease while Eastern medicine emphasizes strengthening and balancing health and energy. Chinese herbalist regards a tonic as a "superior" medicine and relegates herbs with antibiotic, pain-relieving, or other specific medicinal properties to the lower class of "inferior" medicines. Western medicine holds symptom-relieving drugs in high esteem, and its search for magic bullet drugs leaves little time or inclination to explore the more gentle tonics. As of today, no magic bullets have been found to heal the degenerative diseases and debilitating fatigue that bring more people to doctor's offices than any other ailment. And these areas, ironically, are where tonics really shine.
This bias, however, may at last be changing. Right now, researchers worldwide are studying tonic herbs to quantify their reputed attributes and to identify their active ingredients.
For example, scientists in Russia, Japan, China , and the United States have found that the ginsenosides in ginseng increase resis-tance to stress by preventing the depletion of stress-fighting hormones in the adrenal glands. In studying a variety of immune tonics, including reishi and maitake mushrooms and astragalus root, researchers have identified complex sugar molecules called polysaccharides that appear to enhance immune function.
Tonic herbs are being researched in clinical studies as well. A ten-year study at the University of Texas Medical School showed that a combination of astragalus and ligustrum (two traditional Chinese tonic herbs) strengthens immune functioning. As the ancient sages knew, a strong immune system is a cornerstone of health and longevity. With the battle escalating against antibiotic-resistant strains of pathogens (sometimes referred to as supergerms), herbal tonics may play a critical role in winning the war. "Western medicine is finally realizing that it's not possible to destroy all pathogens," says David Frawley, an Ayurvedic teacher and herbalist in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
The Energy Crisis
Other tonics have been grabbing attention lately because of their ability to boost energy levels. According to both traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, the improvement in energy that comes from the regular use of herbal tonics is the result of a deeper internal shift towards health–the balancing effect that the herb has on various body organs and systems over time. "The goal of Chinese medicine is to cultivate equilibrium in the face of ever- changing conditions," explains Harriet Beinfield, an acupuncturist in San Francisco and the coauthor of Between Heaven and Earth: A Guide to Chinese Medicine (Ballantine, 199l). Tonic herbs fit into this approach because they provide a safe way to boost energy, rebuild health and vitality, and promote longevity–all in the midst of the ever-changing and energy-draining realities of the modern world.
Tonics may be more essential now than ever before, Hobbs contends. "Modern life has weakened all of us, and lack of energy has become our most common health complaint," he says. Hobbs cites the speedy pace of daily activities, based on the philosophy of working harder and fueled by frequent breaks for stimulants such as sugar and coffee, as the primary assault on energy stores. "Most of us pay more attention to our bank accounts than to our energy reserves," he says. Just as with a checking account, we get into trouble when we withdraw more (of either energy or money) than we deposit. "We should have ample vigor to sustain us into our eighties, nineties, even one hundreds—including sexual vitality. Tonic herbs are an excellent way of replenishing depleted energy stores."
Buyer's Guide To Tonics Tonic herbs are available in many forms, including whole fresh or dried plants (or plant parts, such as the root, bark, or leaves); these herbs are known as bulk herbs. You can also find tonic herbs sold as powders, pressed into tablets, or placed into capsules. In addition, many herbs are sold as liquid extracts (called tinctures or fluid extracts, depending on the ratio of herb to alcohol solvent in the formula). Powdered extracts, which are essentially liquid extracts that have been dried, also are available. Many experts suggest looking for standardized extracts, which are guaranteed to contain a percentage of a certain constituent of the whole herb that has been linked to its health benefits. However, in some cases, an herb's active ingredients have been isolated and other components removed through the process of extraction, says herbalist Christopher Hobbs. This separation process is fine for herbs being used to treat acute symptoms, Hobbs says, but might interfere with the actions of a tonic herb. In addition, he notes that standardization is not necessarily a guarantee of efficacy. Tonic herbs lose their tonic action when they are selectively extracted from the whole herb, agrees Daniel B. Mowrey, Ph.D. "The process removes some of the counterbalancing constituents of the herb or otherwise disrupts the balance that naturally exists among the constituents." Thus, if you're shopping for extracts, look for whole herbs (for tea) or products labeled "whole plant extracts." These are cruder extracts (which may or may not be standardized) that will contain more of a plant's constituents. Hobbs recommends a minimum dose of 6 to 12 grams a day of any tonic herb. If you're taking a powdered extract, that typically means you'll take three capsules twice a day (with meals); most powdered extracts are sold in a concentration of 4:1. If you're taking a tincture, it's probably much less concentrated (most are in a potency of 1:3 because the extracted herbal constituents are suspended in alcohol). Take three to four dropperful of tincture, apart from mealtime, three times a day. Check the label to determine proper dosage. To take tonic herbs as a tea, Hobbs suggests you simmer the dried herb (roots or bark) in two cups of water for at least forty minutes (if the herb you're using is dried leaves, pour the boiling water over the leaves and allow the tea to steep for 40 minutes). A good rule of thumb is to use one teaspoon of dried herb (roots or bark) per cup of water. Drink two to three cups of tea daily. |
Milk Thistle
Putting The Super Herbs to Work Tonics—the mainstay of Eastern medicine–can be used to treat a variety of chronic conditions. Here are a few applications : |
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Type of Tonic |
Useful for Treating |
Herbs to Try |
| Energy-building | Fatigue, low energy levels | Ashwagandha, astragalus, codonopsis, ginseng, ho shou wu, Siberian ginseng Bilberry, dong quai, garlic, ginkgo, nettles, reishi mushroom Amalaki, astragalus, garlic, ginseng, maitake mushroom, raishi mushroom, Siberian ginseng Ginseng, Siberian ginseng Astragalus, codonopsis, gentian, ginseng Garlic, ginkgo, hawthorn |
Blood and blood vessels |
Varicose veins, impaired circulation, mild anemia |
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| Immunity-boosting | AIDS/HIV, cancer, chronic fatigue syndrome, chronic infections (candidiasis, cystitis) |
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| Adrenal-balancing | Fatigue, depression, emotional swings, stress |
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| Digestive support | Chronic gas, bloating, fatigue, or painful digestion |
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| Heart-strengthening | Hypertension, heart arrhythmias | |
Top Tonics
What follows is a guide to some of the more popular herbal tonics available today. Included are commonly used tonic herbs from the Ayurvedic and Chinese traditions as well as several Western herbs with tonic benefits. Many of these tonic herbs have been scientifically proven to strengthen immunity, increase energy, and enhance specific organ function. On others, research is still being compiled. But all of these herbs have been used safely–and with great success for generations.
By definition, a tonic herb is safe for anyone to take, for as long as he or she desires. However, as with any herbal medicine, the tonic herbs will be better suited for use at some times than others. For example, most experts suggest you stop taking tonics during an acute illness. A good rule of thumb is to try a tonic for two to six months and then decide whether it's having the desired effect. If you have any questions, talk with a healthcare professional who is versed in botanical medicine or consult an herbalist.
The herbs listed below are classified according to their tonic action. Here are a few notes:
• In general, a "sexual tonic" is classified as something that acts to normalize sexual desire and function and support the action of the reproductive organs, not just rev up the libido.
• Energy-building tonics are not simply stimulants (like coffee); instead, they serve to balance certain body functions in order to provide energy to the processes that need it, and conserve energy in processes that require conservation. Thus, their effect is a leveling one.
• A whole-body tonic is one that supports a few body systems synchronistically—the cardiovascular and immune systems, for example—to promote overall health, vitality, and disease resistance.
The tonic herbs listed here are available in natural foods stores across the country.
Amalaki (Emblica officinalis)
What It Is: Fruit of an Asian tree known as Indian gooseberry.
What It Does: Supports immunity; helps to build and maintain bones and other tissues, thus acting as a whole-body tonic.
How to Buy It: The berries are dried and sold as tablets or formulas or mixed into a paste called Chyavanprash.
Regarded in Ayurvedic medicine as one of the most potent rejuvenating substances, amalaki is reputed to increase the production of red blood cells and other body tissues, strengthen the teeth and bones, and improve eyesight The fruit's impressive vitamin C content—more than 3,000 mg per fruit (an orange has only 70 mg) appears to account for many of its health-building properties. Amalaki is the base for Chyavanprash, a delicious paste of thirty or more herbs cooked and mixed with honey and revered as one of the primary restorative tonics in Ayurvedic medicine.
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
What It Is: An Indian plant known in English as winter cherry.
What It Does: An energy-building and sexual tonic; strengthens the male reproductive system; also considered a whole-body tonic because of its ability to promote tissue healing and to regulate hormonal levels.
How to Buy It: Ashwagandha root is sold as a powder, tablet, or tincture.
Ashwagandha is often prescribed for anyone suffering from weakness or debility, including nervous exhaustion and over work, and has been called "Indian ginseng." Translated from Sanskrit, the word "ashwagandha" means "that which has the smell of a horse" (and it really does). The herb is believed to imbue those who take it with the vitality of a horse, so ashwagandha is often used by men hoping to restore sexual vitality and energy.
Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus)
What It Is: A member of the legume family that's grown in temperate climates around the world (known in English as milk vetch; known in Chinese as huang qi).
What It Does: Boosts immunity and energy.
How To Buy It: The root is sold dried in thin slices for simmering in a soup or tea. Liquid extracts are also available.
Astragalus is not only a popular energy tonic in China, but has recently become well known in the West as an immune strengthener. In China it's considered an excellent whole-body tonic for adults who might be too stimulated by ginseng (ginseng is traditionally used by people over forty). In this country, it is often prescribed as a tonic for all ages to strengthen immunity, or what the Chinese call "protective energy." Clinical studies show that astragalus stimulates white blood cell activity and increases the production of interferon, both vital components of the immune system. Astragalus has been proven effective in increasing resistance to a wide spectrum of immune system breakdowns from the common cold to cancer. Chinese herbalists also prescribe astragalus to improve digestion and metabolism.
The Fine Print By definition, tonic herbs are nontoxic and nonhabituating, safe and gentle for use by anyone for as long as he or she likes. However, a few guidelines exist for their selection and use:
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Bilberry
Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus)
What It Is: A European relative of the blueberry.
What It Does: Strengthens capillaries and other blood vessels; improves vision.
How To Buy It: Berries and leaves of the bilberry shrub are processed into tablets, capsules, and liquid extracts.
Bilberry has been used in Europe for decades in order to prevent and treat eye disorders such as macular degeneration, night blindness, and cataracts. The benefits of bilberry were discovered by Royal Air Force pilots during World War II, when they reported that their night vision improved after eating rations of bilberry jam. Scientists have identified the active ingredients in bilberries: flavonoid compounds, called anthocyanosides, which give the berries their rich purple color. These compounds have been shown to strengthen capillaries and support the biochemical reactions in the eye that are responsible for eyesight; they also have potent antioxidant properties. (The ability to strengthen capillaries also makes bilberry helpful in the treatment of varicose veins and other circulatory problems.) Bilberry also appears to relieve menstrual problems by relaxing smooth muscle, such as that which lines the uterine wall.
Codonopsis (Codonopsis tangshen)
What It Is: A small vine, from the bellflower family, grown throughout China.
What It Does: Energy building and whole body tonic with ability to support digestion and overall metabolism.
How to Buy It: The root is sold whole (to be brewed as a tea) or in extract or capsule form.
Codonopsis has been used in Chinese medicine for generations to improve digestion and the assimilation of nutrients and to increase vitality. This mild, sweet root is considered by Chinese herbalists to be an excellent substitute for ginseng. Because codonopsis has a milder effect than ginseng, it is considered safe to use in conditions where the more powerful energy-building properties of ginseng might exacerbate a condition of excess–for example, in the case of hypertension. While the effects of codonopsis are not as long-lasting as those of ginseng, it is less expensive.
Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis)
What It Is: A member of the carrot family.
What It Does: Strengthens female reproductive organs and regulates hormonal levels; also a liver remedy, circulatory stimulant, and blood fortifier, thus considered to be a good whole-body tonic.
How To Buy It: The roots are dried and sold whole (to brew as a tea) or as powders, tablets, capsules, drops, and tinctures. (To prepare a traditional dong quai tea, simmer one root with six jujube dates in three cups of water until one cup of liquid remains.)
Dong quai is sometimes called the "female ginseng." (It has acquired a reputation in the West as being primarily a women's herb, but in China dong quai is also often included in formulas for men–the circu- lation-boosting properties that make dong quai useful for the female reproductive system are also beneficial to men.) The sweet and slightly bitter root is rich in phytoestrogens, plant estrogenic substances that have a normalizing effect on a woman's hormone fluctuations. Dong quai is used as a reproductive tonic during all cycles of a woman's life; it helps regulate the menstrual cycle and also eases the effects of menopause.
Garlic (Allium sativum)
What It Is: A member of the onion family.
What It Does: Acts as an immune tonic, strengthens the cardiovascular system; antioxidant, antimicrobial, and cholesterol-regulating properties also make it a whole-body tonic.
How To Buy It: Garlic bulbs are available fresh and whole, in jars as individual cloves (or chopped cloves), powdered, or in capsule, tablet, or tincture form.
Each time that you indulge in a garlic-laden pasta or soup, you're providing your body with one of nature's most powerful whole-body tonics. The variety of sulfur compounds that give garlic its pungent flavor and odor are the basis for the herb's healing properties. Garlic is perhaps the best studied of all the tonic herbs and has potent antimicrobial action; it's also effective against bacteria, fungi, and viruses. The herb is a powerful antioxidant, providing protection from heart disease and cancer. Garlic strengthens the cardiovascular system by lowering blood pressure and levels of LDL, or "bad" cholesterol, and triglycerides. At the same time, it raises levels of HDL, or "good" cholesterol. Garlic has also been proven to stimulate immune function, increase the activity of natural killer cells, and block the formation of cancerous cells.
Gentian (Gentiana Lutea)
What It Is: A flowering plant native to the mountains of central and northern Europe.
What It Does: Strengthens the digestive system and promotes the production of digestive juices.
How To Buy It: Dried rhizomes and roots are processed and sold as part of a bitters mixture. (To take digestive bitters, add one-half to one teaspoon of the preparation to a small amount of warm water and sip slowly. For the best results, take digestive bitters thirty minutes before meals.)
Gentian is one of the most intensely bitter-tasting herbs around. Although it's not one you would choose to take as a beverage, it's the herb of choice for bitters digestive tonics. Gentian improves the digestion of fats and proteins and alleviates digestive disturbances such as gas, constipation, heartburn, diarrhea, and nausea. To be most effective, gentian has to come into direct contact with the taste buds, so you must take the herb as a liquid tonic or tincture. The bitter taste elicits a reflex action in the digestive organs, which stimulates the flow of gastric, liver, and pancreatic digestive fluids. Gentian is often combined with aromatic and good-tasting herbs such as car- damom and fennel, which make the formula more palatable (without interfering with its tonic action), and add digestion-enhancing properties of their own.
Ginkgo ( Ginkgo biloba)
What It Is: A tree native to China and cultivated in Japan and many other parts of the world, with distinctive, fan-shaped leaves.
Ginkgo
What It Does: Strengthens the circulatory system, stimulating blood flow and relaxing blood vessels; especially effective at improving circulation to the brain, making it a popular tonic for improving memory.
How To Buy It: Ginkgo leaves are processed into extracts.
Ginkgo leaf is the premier tonic herb for improving circulation, especially to the brain and the extremities, and is used to improve memory and concentration; ginkgo also shows promise in preventing the onset of senility caused by poor circulation. Gingko has been found helpful for many disorders linked to poor circulation, including vertigo, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), hearing loss, impotence, macular degeneration, and reduced blood flow to the feet, legs, and hands. Ginkgo also is a powerful antioxidant. Extracts of ginkgo leaf are among the most frequently prescribed prescription medicines in Europe.
Ginseng (Panax ginseng and Panax quinquefolium).
What It Is: Two species of a slow-growing shrub indigenous to China (P. ginseng) and northeastern North America (P. quinquefolium).
What It Does: Boosts energy, immunity, and sexuality; strengthens male reproductive organs; strengthens the adrenal glands and improves the body's ability to handle stress (thus considered a whole-body tonic).
Ginseng
How To Buy It: Ginseng root is sold whole or processed into liquid extracts, capsules, or powders. In the stores, you'll see Chinese ginseng in the form of either red ginseng, which has been steamed, or white ginseng, which has not; red ginseng is the more potent and stimulating of the two. American ginseng is less stimulating than either type of Chinese ginseng. Standardized extracts provide a guaranteed amount of ginsenosides, which has been identified as the herb's active ingredient. Whole ginseng root can be prepared as a tonic tea or soup.
Chinese herbalists often prepare ginseng with an equal part of red jujube dates, which lessens the possibility of building too much energy. Note: Ginseng supplements vary widely in their concentration; follow the label instructions, gradually working up to a dosage that works for you.
The virtues of ginseng have been extolled for more than two thousand years in the annals of Chinese medicine. Ginseng is said to replace lost chi, or life energy, and numerous research studies support its reputation for real restorative properties. It helps the body adapt more easily to physical and emotional stressors by strengthening the functioning of the adrenal glands. Ginseng is also stimulating (and thus popular as an energy-building tonic) and has been shown to have immune-enhancing and anticancer properties. (One caution: Because of its stimulating properties, red ginseng might cause irritability or hypertension in some people. If this occurs, lower your dose or switch to white or American ginseng.) Ginseng generally is used cyclically–take the herb for two weeks and then take a two-week break before resuming your dosage. While you're taking ginseng, you may wish to cut back on other stimulants (such as coffee).
Hawthorn (Crataegus oxyacantha)
What It Is: A small flowering tree grown throughout Europe.
What It Does: Strengthens the cardiovascular system.
Hawthorn
How To Buy It: Dried hawthorn flowers can be brewed as a tea; the flowers and berries also are processed to make liquid extracts and capsules.
Hawthorn has long been regarded as the premier heart tonic by European herbalists. It has been proven to relieve hypertension, cardiac arrhythmias, arteriosclerosis, angina pectoris, diseases of the heart valves, and palpitations. The active ingredients in hawthorn flowers and berries are flavonoid compounds called anthocyanidins and proanthocyanidins, which give the berries and flowers their pink, red, and deep blue colors. In clinical studies, hawthorn has been shown to strengthen the capillaries, improve blood supply to the heart by dilating coronary blood vessels, and strengthen the heart muscle. It also may be helpful against arthritis, as it appears to stabilize collagen, which can be destroyed when joints become inflamed.
Ho Shou Wu (Polygonum multiflorum)
What It Is: A weedy, twining vine related to buckwheat and grown in China; also own known as (fo-ti or, less frequently, by its English name, fleece flower).
What It Does: Energy-building and sexual tonic, also credited with lowering cholesterol, reducing the signs of aging, and improving the quality of blood, hair, and teeth, thus making it a whole-body tonic.
How To Buy It: The root is sold in slices or processed into a liquid extract. (The herb is also combined with dong quai, ginseng, and other herbs in Chinese tonic elixirs known as shou wu chih, or Super Shou Wu, which are available from Chinese herb suppliers.)
The name of this tonic herb says it all; translated, it means "Mr. Ho has black hair." Valued by Chinese herbalists as a blood, liver, and kidney tonic, ho shou wu is one of the primary herbs in Chinese medicine for promoting longevity. The bittersweet-tasting root also enjoys a legendary reputation as a preserver of youthful energy and sexual potency and is prescribed for signs of aging such as wrinkles, impotence, and prematurely gray hair. If taken for years, ho shou wu is even said to restore hair color.
Maitake Mushroom (Grifola frondosa)
What It Is: Edible mushroom cultivated in Japan, Europe, and North America, where it's known as "Hen of the Woods".
What It Does: Acts as an immune-strengthening tonic; because of its ability to stabilize blood pressure and blood sugar levels, is also considered a whole-body tonic.
How To Buy It: The mushroom is sold dried for use in cooking and is available fresh in some markets. It's also sold in tablet form. Fresh (or dried and rehydrated) maitakes can be added to soups, pasta dishes, and stir-fries.
The delicious maitake mushroom has been highly prized for centuries by the Japanese, and its remarkable healing properties are the subject of numerous research studies worldwide. These properties have been shown to increase cellular immunity and to inhibit cancerous growths. Specifically, scientists have proven that an extract from this mushroom directly activates various cells of the immune system, including macrophages and natural killer cells. Maitake mushroom is recommended for people with immune system disorders (including AIDS) as well as those with chronic fatigue syndrome and environmental illnesses.
Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum)
What It Is: A thorny, weedlike plant originally found in the Mediterranean region of Europe; now a common weed all over the world.
What It Does: Strengthens the liver to reduce damage from environmental stresses; often taken after exposure to toxins.
How To Buy It: Milk thistle seeds are processed and sold as standardized extracts (capsules and drops) containing silymarin, an active ingredient in the seeds.
Milk Thistle
Virtually unknown in this country until a few years ago, milk thistle is rapidly becoming the herb of choice as a healing tonic for the liver. The active ingredient silymarin is a powerful antioxidant that prevents free radical damage to the liver. In addition, silymarin stimulates the production of healthy new liver cells. Extracts of milk thistle have long been used in Europe to treat a variety of liver problems including cirrhosis, hepatitis A and B, and liver damage caused by exposure to toxic chemicals. The herb also is beneficial for helping the liver detoxify alcohol, fatty foods, and the chemicals that, unfortunately, permeate our modern life.
Nettles (Urtica dioica)
What It Is: A vigorous, weedy plant found throughout the world; also known as stinging nettles because it features tiny hairs, like miniature hypodermic needles, that inject an irritant into the skin.
What It Does: Blood tonic and general nutritive; with its ability to support the circulatory system, also considered a whole-body tonic.
Nettle
How To Buy It: The upper leaves and stems are dried and sold as is or processed into capsules, tinctures, and liquid extracts. (You can sprinkle a few tablespoons of dried nettles over salads, soups, or vegetables.)
Nettles are one of the best-known tonics in Western herbalism. The plant is revered because of its ability to balance the body's responses to allergens and to support immune function. Nettles can calm allergic reactions (essentially an overeager response of the immune system to irritants), relieving congestion in the nasal passages and bronchii and lessening other allergy symptoms such as watery eyes and sneezing. In addition, the herb acts as a circulatory stimulant and has astringent properties, making it useful for treating irritant skin conditions such as eczema. Nettles are also a traditional folk remedy for anemia, as the plant is rich in iron and vitamin C (beyond iron, it contains the minerals calcium, magnesium, and potassium). It also has diuretic properties.
Reishi Mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum)
What It Is: A woody mushroom indigenous to Asia, Europe, and North America.
What It Does: An immunity tonic; also used to fight aging and degenerative diseases, therefore making it a whole-body tonic.
How To Buy It: The mushroom stems and caps are dried and processed into capsules; also sold in bulk for tea.
The reishi mushroom (called ling shi in China) was revered by the Taoists–seekers of immortality–as the elixir of life. Reishi mushroom has been used in China and Japan for thousands of years, where it is considered a longevity tonic and is prescribed for many age-related disorders and a variety of degenerative diseases (including arthritis), allergies, cancer, and heart disease. Clinical studies have shown that reishi have antioxidant, immune-stimulating, and anticancer properties, and have been shown to protect and improve liver and cardiovascular function. The mushroom stimulates the synthesis of RNA and DNA, the blueprints and building blocks of cells. Reishis also have mild sedative properties and aid the body's adaptation to stress.
Shatavari (Asparagacea racemosus)
What It Is: A variety of asparagus root, native to India.
What It Does: Acts as a sexual tonic, an organ-strengthening tonic (for the female reproductive system), and a whole-body tonic (thanks to its ability to regulate hormonal levels).
How To Buy It: The root is available as a powder, tablet, or liquid extract.
Shatavari is the primary Ayurvedic rejuvenating tonic for women. It is prescribed to strengthen the reproductive organs, enhance fertility, and relieve the symptoms of menopause. Translated from Sanskrit, shatavari means "who possesses a hundred husbands," a title alluding to the herb's ability to strengthen a woman's sexual vitality. It also has calming properties.
Siberian Ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosis)
What It Is: A large spiny shrub grown throughout China and Siberia; also known as spiny ginseng or eleuthero ginseng.
What It Does: Energy tonic; also supports the adrenal glands and other body systems, making it a whole-body tonic.
How To Buy It: The root of the ginseng plant is powdered and used in capsules and tinctures.
Don't confuse this tonic herb with Chinese or American Panax ginseng; they come from different branches of the family. Unlike the other tonic herbs listed here, Siberian ginseng does not have a long history of use as a folk remedy; the health-promoting benefits of Siberian ginseng have largely been researched and documented by Russian scientists, who have proven in numerous studies that it significantly increases energy and endurance for both physical and mental tasks. Many studies have also shown the herb to be an invaluable aid for increasing resistance to stress, and people who take Siberian ginseng regularly report an increased sense of psychological as well as physical well-being. Siberian ginseng is one of the best whole-body tonics available. Among its positive effects are its ability to normalize blood pressure, lower cholesterol, regulate blood sugar, neutralize free radicals, enhance immune function, and strengthen the adrenal glands.
Laurel Vukovic is a regular contribute to Natural Health.
Reprinted with permission from Natural Health, Sept-Oct. 1996. For a trial issue of Natural Health, call 1-800-526-8440.
Resources
For advice on using herbs:
Herb Research Foundation
1007 Pearl Street, Suite 200
Boulder, CO 80302 303 449-2265
For help in finding an herbalist in your area:
American Herbalists Guild
P.O. Box 746555
Arvada, CO 80006
303-439-8800
Mail-order sources for herbs:
Gaia Herbs
12 Lancaster county Road
Harvard, MA 01451 800-831-7780
(Western, Chinese, and Ayurvedic extracts)
Health Source Northwest
8 N.W. 23 Avenue
Portland, OR 97210
503-242-9055
(Ayurvedic herbs)
East Earth Trade Winds
P. O. Box 493151
Redding, CA 96049
800-258-6878 (Chinese bulk herbs and extracts)
