Chinese tonic herbs provide natural remedies for many ailments.
For centuries, practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine have used tonic herbs to treat an array of human ailments. In many Western countries, Chinese tonic herbs are now also regarded as effective alternative treatments for many conditions and illnesses.
Ginseng
One of the most well-known Chinese tonic herbs, ginseng, is widely available in pill form. Often used to increase energy or stamina, ginseng can also be effective in reducing stress.
Astragalus Root
Astragalus root comes from Astragalus membranaceus, a plant belonging to the legume family. After harvesting, the plant's roots are dried and ground into a fine powder for making tea. Astragalus root is helpful in boosting the human immune system and treating allergies.
Lycium Fruit
Another Chinese tonic herb comes from the fruit of the lycium plant, which is a member of the nightshade family, as are also potatoes, peppers and tomatoes. Lycium fruit, also called the goji berry, is known for its antiaging and antioxidant properties. Products with lycium fruit extract are now available in the United States and elsewhere.
Licorice Root
Derived from the licorice plant, licorice root has long been used a candy flavor. Widely known as a cough suppressant, licorice root is an ingredient in many commercial cough medications. Chinese herbal medicine practitioners use licorice root to treat digestive ailments.
Schizandra
Native to Northern China and Japan, schizandra is a vine of the magnolia family that produces small red berries. The tonic herb schizandra is extracted from the dried berries. Used as a treatment for insomina, schizandra can also enhance mental alertness and the functioning of the liver.
Cordyceps
Cordyceps is a fungus that grows in high-altitude regions of southern China. A small mushroom that resembles grass, cordyceps is known for its antiaging propeties and is used to enhance lung, kidney and liver functioning.
Gingko Biloba
A well-known herbal supplement, Gingko biloba is derived from leaves of the gingko tree that have been dried and ground into a fine powder. The mental-enhancing properties of Gingko biloba are well known.
Biota
An evergreen shrub, biota grows throughout China, and different parts of the plant yield several tonic herbs. Chinese herbal medicine practitioners use biota to treat coughs and headaches. Biota can also function as a diuretic or an antibacterial agent.
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