Chinese herbs can be divided into various types depending on their function.  A broad division of herbal medicine is according to the four energies, five flavors, and general directions.  This is quite complicated and it is simpler to divide Chinese herbs into wither medicinal herbs or tonic herbs.  Medicinal herbs are herbs that are used specifically to treat a specific ailment.  They are powerful.  They can be toxic, and they must be used by an experienced herbal doctor.  Tonic herbs, on the other hand, are formulations that are mixed in such a way as to remain completely safe because they're totally balanced.  These herbs do not have any side effects.  They nurture the imbalances in the body and improve the function of all bodily organs.

Ginseng

Products Containing Ginseng:   Life Enhancer, Renu, Emperor's Formula

There are only two commonly used varieties of true Ginseng, The most widely known is Patiax Ginseng, also called Asian, Chinese or Korean Ginseng. The second is Panax Quinquefolius or American Ginseng. Some other true Ginsengs are Panax notoginseng, Panax pseudo-ginseng, Panax japonicus, Panax trifojius, Panax zingeberinsis, Panax stipuuleanatus and Panax vietnarnensis.

Ginseng contains several saponin glycosides. Saponins are 4-ring steroid-like chemicals with attached sugar molecules that make a foam when shaken in water. In the early '60's, Russian and Japanese scientists identified specific saponins unique to ginseng, called "ginsenosides" or "panaxosides". There is also 3% volatile oil containing a camphoraceous substance, a resin, arabinose, mucilage, and starch.

Ginseng (both Asian Ginseng and American Ginseng) can best be described as "adaptogens". An adaptogen allows the body to adapt to biological stresses.

The Philosophy of Chinese medicine as pertains to Ginseng

The Chinese believe that it is best to keep the body in peak physical condition rather than trying to cure the body after it is already sick. Although it is widely quoted in the Western Press that Ginseng is regarded as a "Cure-all" by the Chinese, a more accurate description would be to describe it as something that promotes "all-health". The Chinese medical approach is not to cure diseases, but to prevent them.

Western medicine uses drugs as the primary control of disease, and powerful drugs are regarded higher than mild drugs. Chinese medicine takes an opposite approach by regarding the mildest herbs as the first order, and more powerful herbs are taken only if the others fail. The Chinese attempt to maintain the body in perfect physical condition so that it will be more resistant to disease, which is a preventative approach.

The traditional way to pay a Chinese doctor was to pay when the patient was healthy, and to not pay when the patient was sick, because the doctor had obviously failed somehow. This method prompted Chinese doctors to be concerned with keeping their patients healthy. Compare that system to the system in Canada and the United States where a doctor who has all healthy patients goes bankrupt and a doctor with all sick patients becomes a millionaire. lmagime how many fewer health problems we would have if our doctors made more money if we were healthy than if we were sick. Oriental medicine is also based on the concept of Yin and Yang. Yin is considered cool, soothing, rerlective and female while Yang is considered hot, energetic, aggressive and male. The oriental philosophy is to balance these two in all aspects of life. For instance if your job requires constant thinking such as a mathematician or physicist then your hobby should be something that requires physical effort to bring your life into balance. If your job requires physical effort then your hobby should be something that requires thinking or mental stimulation. While Yin and Yang sound intimidating it can be crudely summed up as bringing all aspects of your life into harmony and balance.

Another key principle of Chinese medicine lies in the five properties: wood, fire, earth, metal and water. Earth implies solidity, and fire, activity. Health requires a proper relationship between the elements in the body and those of the external world. Ginseng, the root of man, is described as benefitting and harmonizing all the elements (Stephen Fulder - The Ginseng Book. 1996).

The Chinese rarely use any remedy by itself, and most Chinese medicines contain several ingredients. This may be why they have more success with herbal remedies than other cultures such as ours. Herbal remedies tend to be weaker in strength and therefore need their helper herbs to function property. A culture such as ours where people demand an all-in-one cure that works fast doesn't want to be involved enough to take several different remedies, some of them possibly several times a day. So it is very important to have the right formulation so that the ginseng can work at its highest efficacy.

The Chinese believe that Panax Ginseng can fight cancer, slow aging, protect one against heart attack and other sudden illnesses, strengthen digestion, and reduce blood pressure, among numerous other benefits (Parks, 1983). Traditionally, many Chinese families kept an especially high quality Ginseng root for emergency purposes. If the family patriarch suddenly fell gravely ill, the Ginseng would be used to keep him alive until he could tell his heir where he had hidden the families valuables and pass on any words of wisdom that were needed.

Gingko

Products Containing Gingko: Revenol, Shangri-la, Einstein

Gingko Biloba Extract (EGB) is used for its neuroprotective effect and to help circulation. Its active ingredients are the bilobalides that are terpenes extracted from the gingko leaves. The bilobalides exert a trophic and protective effect on the neurons in cases of nerve injuries and neuropathies. It is potentially an important strategy for modifying nervous system function in individuals who have altered neuronal oxidation/reduction function along with antioxidants, based on the specific level of deficit of a particular patient. We need to look carefully for chronic metabolic conditions of the brain in each patient in which there is a complex millieu of interlocking biochemical pathways and physiological processes that are at work to determine what and how much FGB and antioxidants a particular patient needs.

Astragalus

Products Containing Astragalus: Emperor's Formula

Astragalus is a large genus in the pea family, some species of which are toxic to livestock (Locoweed of the American Southwest is an Astragalus). But the toxins are only in the above-ground parts, and this tonic comes from the root of a non-toxic Chinese Species Memaranaceus. The plant is a perennial with long, fibrous roots, native to North China and Inner Mongolia, sold in both wild and cultivated forms. Chinese pharmacies sell bundles of thin root-slices that resemble tongue depressors and have a sweet taste. These are simmered in medicinal soups, the slices being removed before serving because they are too tough to chew. Chinese pharmacies also sell many preparations of Astragalus, both singly and in combination with other herbs.

Practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine consider astragalus a true tonic that can strengthen debilitated patients and increase resistance to disease in general. In comtemporary Chinese medicine, it is also a chief component of zheng fu therapy, a combination herbal treatment designed to restore immune function in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Research in China has demonstrated increased survival in patients receiving both herbal and Western therapies, as well as protection from the immunosuppressive effects of the latter. Studies in the West confirm that astragalus enhances immune function by increasing activity of several kinds of white blood cells and boosting production of antibodies and interferon, the body's own antiviral agent.

If you feel you lack energy and vitality, have depressed immunity, and get too many colds, consider going on a course of astragalus. Follow dosage recommendations on labels.

Ganoderma (Reishi)

Products Containing Reishi: Ming Gold

Reishi is a mushroom, Ganoderma Lucidum, that grows on trees, has a surface that appears lacquered, and is one of the most important tonics in the traditional medicine of China and Japan, particularly esteemed for extending longevity. Reishi is a purely medicinal mushroom, not a culinary one, both because it is hard and woody and because it tastes very bitter. But it is nontoxic and has been the subject of a surprising amount of scientific research, both in Asia and the West. Like maitake and other related mushroom species, reishi improves immune function and inhibits the growth of some malignant tumors. Additionally, it shows significant anti-inflammatory effect, reduces allergic responsiveness, and protects the liver.

ECHINACEA

Products Containing ECHINACEA: VMM

Knowledge about many of the popular medicinal Plants from North America in common use today derives from the Native Americans. Many tribes had thousands of years of direct experience with Herb's. In their culture, and in later early American-European culture, several of these Herb's are of special interest - but especially herbs from the genus indigenous only to North America, Echinacea.

Currently there is a reawakened interest in ECHINACEA in the United States. The last few years have seen a tremendous rise in popularity from relative obscurity between 1930 and 1980 partly due to increased interest in immune system functions. Echinacea is probably one of the most promising immune strengtheners and modulators, with numerous scientific studies and rich clinical evidence in its favor. Over the last 99 years, various ECHINACEA species have had over 400 journal articles to their credit.

Twenty years after its "discovery" by the lay doctor H. C. F. Meyer and introduction into the Materia Medica by the Eclectic doctor John King and John Lloyd (ca. 1887), it had become the number one herb in popularity among both Eclectic and Regular medical doctors. Although orthodox medicine officially refused to recognize its worth and it was surrounded by controversy, many physicians used it, defending its efficacy. The centennial of its "discovery" by the medical profession in the U.S. comes at a time when its popularity has never been greater.

Many Native American tribes had a substantial Pharmacopoeia, and some used herbs and other internal medicines extensively. In the early days of European colonization of the North American continent, native peoples were known to share their considerable skill with the Europeans (Vogel, 1970), who generally were in need of medicines, due to the difficulty of transporting official drugs across the Atlantic. Of all the indigenous medicines introduced by Native Americans, ECHINACEA may be one of the most important.

According to Gilmore (I 911, 1913), "Echinacca seems to have been used as a remedy for more ailments than any other plant." Meyer, the German Jay physician who first introduced ECHINACEA to the medical profession, learned of its healing virtues from Native Americans (possibly the Pawnee or Omaha) living in Nebraska at the time. Most of the information we have on the ethnobotany of Echinacea comes from tribes that roamed the great plains region. For a thorough review of the ethnobotany of echinacea, see Hobbs (1989) and Foster (1991).

The important constituents, from a pharmacological perspective, of Echinacea can be divided into seven categories: 1) polysaccharides; 2) flavonoids; 3) caffeic acid derivatives; 4) essential oils; 5) polyacetylenes; 6) alkylamides; and 7) miscellaneous chemicals.

Echinacea both exerts a mild direct cortisone-like effect and enhances the secretion of adrenal cortex hormones. The polysaccharide portion appears to be responsible for the direct anti-inflammatory effects although the alkylamide fraction has also demonstrated some activity.

Echinacea contains a diverse range of active components affecting different aspects of immune function. To fully appreciate Echinacea's effect, it is important to understand some aspects of the immune system.

The immune system is perhaps one of the most complex and fascinating systems of the human body. The immune system's prime functions are protecting the body against infection and the development of cancer. The immune system is composed of the lymphatic vessels and organs (thymus, spleen, tonsils, and lymph nodes), white blood cells (lymphocytes, neutrophils, basophils, eosinophils, monocytes, etc,), specialized cells residing in various tissue (macrophages, mast cells, etc.), and specialized chemical factors, like complement, interferon, and interleukin.

CLINICAL APPLICATIONS

Echinacca has long been used clinically for conditions where its pharmacological actions have proven efficacy, especially in infections. Clinical studies have demonstrated effectiveness in a number of infectious conditions. Although many of the studies have utilized injectable preparations, oral preparations are generally thought to yield similar or even better results.

The common cold

One of the most popular uses of Echinacea is in the treatment of the common cold. Two recent studies offer considerable support for this clinical application. In one study, 180 patients with influenza were given either an extract of E. purpurea root at a daily dose of 450 mg or 900 mg, or a placebo, however the group taking the 900 mg dose showed significant reduction of cold symptoms.

Cordyceps

Products Containing Cordyceps: Ming Gold

Known in China as the "caterpillar fungus", Cordyceps sinensis is a peculiar mushroom that parasitizes the bodies of certain moth larvae. It is found in mountanous regions of China and Tibet and is now much cultivated, because it is in such great demand as a powerful tonic and restorative, believed to increase physical stamina, mental energy, sexual vigor, and longevity. It has a particular reputation for improving athletic performance, perhaps by increasing cardiac output. In China, cordyceps is considered safe and gentle, useful for both men and women of any age and state of health, even the most infirm.

In recent years, researchers have expanded the knowledge regarding this herb. It appears to be able to protect the kidney from the harmful effects of certain antibiotics, it has a protective effect on the immune system especially in the prevention of liver disorders . Chemical analysis indicates protein, fats, vitamin B12, cordycepiacid and ergosterol. These compounds in combination enhance immune function, sexual function and improvement in the lungs, liver and kidney as well as overall improvement in stamina and oxygen capacity( Yan Ching-yuan of the Veteran's general Hospital, Taipei)

Radix Polygoni Multiflorum (Ho Sau Wu)

Products Containing Radix Polygoni Multiflorum: Life Enhancer

Radix polygoni multiflorum is a very special herb revered by the Chinese for its many anti-aging properties. Ho Sau Wu literally means in Chinese "Mr. Ho's hair turned black", and has been used for centuries to prevent the greying of hair. It is derived from the root of the polygoni multiflorum plant and is used traditionally as a tonic in cooking and in teas. The benefits are many and include improvement in the hair, nails, and skin. It is known as a total body balancer in that it will subtly adjust the internal system to improve overall function of the organs, stimulate the endocrine system to improve the flow of hormones, and stimulate the production of natural antioxidants such as super oxide dismutase(SOD). It is excellent for helping with imbalances such as is found in the cardiovascular system, and in the central nervous system. This herb is often found in formulation combined with Chinese red ginseng, Dong Quai, and Astralgus in order to enhance its efficacy.

Licorice (glycrrhiza glabra)

Products Containing Licorice: SHANGRI-LA

The root of this plant has been known for its medicinal properties for ages. It is fifty times more sweet than sugar cane and was used by many ancient cultures. It was found in the tomb of King Tut dating back more than three thousand years and is part of the herbology of India, Greece and Rome. The Chinese believed that eating the root would give increased strength and endurance. Also used as a remedy for flu and colds. Licorice enhances the immune system and improves digestion.

Modern reseach in Europe has revealed that licorice is useful in preventing peptic ulcers and in stimulating the production of female hormones.

Discorea Extract (Mexican Wild Yam)

Products Containing Discorea: Endau, Youthinol

Discorea Extract provides natural progesterone and DHEA analogues when included in a cream base can be absorbed through the skin and provide replacement of progesterone. Provides relief from PMS, symptoms of menopause, prevention of osteoporosis, improves libido, energy. stamina , endurance, and stimulates your body's natural production and the regulation of: estrogen, progesterone, testosterone,other essential hormones. Protects the uterus and breast tissue from unapposed estrogen. Excellent for the improvement of texture of the skin . Improves cardiovascular function. Reduces breast cell proliferation. " Latest research now shows natural progesterone should be the choice, rather than estrogen as the hormone of replacement"..Dr. Betty Kamen.

Garcinia Cambogia - (Hydroxycitrate)

Products Containing Garcinia: Thinyu

This is derived from a plant that grows in southeast Asia and has been used by the natives in that region for hundreds of years in their cooking. It is the (-) version of citric acid ,i.e. Vitamin C . Biochemically similar to the (+) version it enters the Krebs cycle and fools the metabolism thus disabling the mechanism that the body has in converting carbohydrate into fat. It is an excellent dietary aid in preventing the normal buildup of fat if you increase carbohyrate intake. It helps build muscle and is anti-diabetic. Helps to normalize blood sugar and increase glycogen storage. Has been thoroughly researched as a weight loss supplement by a major pharmaceutic firm for the past twenty years.

Dong Quai ( Tang Kuei) Angelica Sinensis

Products Containing Dong Quai: Life Enhancer

This root is known in Chinese medicine as a blood thickening tonic and is especially helpful for women. It helps with the circulation and is used by Chinese doctors to help improve irregular or painful menses. It is often combined in tonics with Ho Shou Wo and ginseng. It can improve the balance of the hormones in both men and women and helps to build muscle. It may take as long as two to three months to show an effect because the effect is very subtle.

Radix Rehmannia

Products Containing Radix Rehmannia: Emperor's Formula

The root of this plant which is found in northern China has been used in Chinese tonics for thousands of years. It has an affinity foir the liver, heart, kidneys, and the small intestine. It is known to tonify the blood, stregthen the heart and act to detoxify the systerm. Excellent for diabetics and to reduce heat in the system. Good to improve the tonicity of the cardiovascular system.

Lycium Chinense (Wolfberry Fruit)

Products Containing Wolfberry Fruit: Emperor's Formula

Found throughout China and Japan. The skin of the root is used as a natural antipyretic and antitussive. It has an affinity for the lungs and kidneys and can alleviate blurry vision. Also can help to alleviate the effects of elevated blood pressure and high blood sugar. The fruit is used by the Chinese in soups and stews. Excellent for relief of symptoms of asthma, coughs, body heat and Yin deficiency.

Crataegus Pinnatifida (Hawthorne Berry)

Products Containing Hawthorne Berry: VMM

This is found naturally throughout Asia and in parts of Europe. The fruit is the active part and has an affinity for the spleen, digestive tract and the liver. Promotes digestion, acts a tonic for the heart and circulation, helps to lower cholesterol and helps to move excess stagnant food through the digestive tract. It is also antidiarrheal.

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