Tonic Herbs: Sidebar
To accompany “Achieving Radiant Health with Tonic Herbs”
SusanHappell-Opsomer; January 2013
Sidebar Word Count: 363
There are currently fifty-two natural substances generally recognized as the major Chinese tonic herbs. They have passed the six-point criteria and have stood the test of time through centuries of continuous use. Though tonics are used individually, when put into actual practice most of the herbs get combined into potent formulations targeted to assist specific body functions/systems or are explicitly prepared to support an individual’s overall health plan..
This list ‘sampler’ is extracted from the fifty-two superior herbs; each is accompanied by an abbreviated summary of potential benefits.
TONIC HERB SAMPLER
American Ginseng Root nourishes the lungs, skin, and stomach.
Asparagus Root opens the heart, prolongs life, and tonifies sexual functions.
Cinnamon Bark attributes to good circulation and is an internal energizer.
CodonopsisRoot restores energy, balances the metabolism, and stimulates blood production.
Cordyceps Mushroom builds sexual and physical power, mental energy, and the immune system.
Deer Antler strengthens all aspects of a person’s life, stimulates the production of blood by nourishing the marrow, and promotes youthfulness.
Gecko Tail is used by athletes for strength and endurance, to provide sexual energy, and as a major lung tonic.
Ginseng (covers a broad range of herbs under the heading Ginseng) regulates blood sugar, prevents over fatigue, positively influences the entire hormonal system, and treats certain types of infertility and impotence.
Gynostemma Leaf promotes longevity, anti-fatigue, and is a virtual “cure-all”.
Licorice Root builds energy and is an excellent digestive tonic.
Longan Fruit is a blood tonic, nurtures the heart, and adds luster and beauty to the skin.
Lycium Fruit promotes cheerfulness, vitality, and improves and brightens the eyes/vision; rich in vitamins C and B and is a powerful antioxidant.
Pearl helps regenerate tissue, is nutritious, and beautifies the skin.
Polygonum Root (Ho Shou Wu) increases energy, cleans the blood, nurtures hair and teeth, and can return an aging person to youth.
RehmanniaRoot nourishes the kidneys and is a primary longevity herb.
Reishi Mushroom promotes anti-aging, regulates the immune system, improves oxygen utilization, helps fight autoimmune diseases such as allergies, and lowers LDL “bad” cholesterol.
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