Focuses on ginseng as a natural source of energy. Several varieties
of ginseng; Therapeutic effects of each variety; Therapeutic effects of
licorice; Advantages of herbs over caffeine and sugar as sources of
energy.
By
PT Staff, published on March 01, 1998
Today's modern lifestyle requires a tremendous energy output.
Caffeine andsugar are quick fixes, but neither is healthy in the long
run. In the search for a way to maintain stamina, many health-conscious
people are turning to herbal tonics and supplements. Certain
energy-boosting herbs can provide profound long-term benefits for heath;
they are known as adaptogens. They help your body adapt to internal and
external stress, calming your nervous system if it is over-reacting, and
giving it a gentle boost if it's sluggish.
The most popular adaptogen is ginseng, a root that comes in several
varieties, such as Korean and Siberian. Siberian ginseng first showed up
as a terrific stress-buster in Russian studies in the 1960s. In Chinese
medicine, this herb symbolizes the vitality of the earth. It has a
beneficial influence on the cardiovascular system, helping regulate blood
pressure and cardiac rhythm. It also regulates the nervous system and
increases alertness and energy. Another adaptogen is schizandra, a
Chinese tonic herb used to help individuals recover from exertion and
improve endurance. It is considered somewhat weaker than ginseng.
Research suggests its calming effect on the central nervous system helps
counteract the jitters if you've had too much caffeine.
Licorice, another amazing herb, is known to increase energy and to
act like a natural cortisone, calming fatigue and allergies. Licorice
actually helps your body preserve its own natural cortisone, stimulates
your adrenal glands, and has has antibacterial properties. It should be
noted that licorice can raise blood pressure in some individuals, so if
you take this herb regularly, it's best to be monitored by your doctor to
ensure health and safety.
Unlike caffeine or prescription stimulants, herbs work gently to
give our bodies energy. Next time you feel you're dropping like a hot air
balloon running out of gas, give the double espresso a break and try a
few herbs on the rocks.
PHOTO (COLOR): "Oriental ginseng is a STIMULANT and SEXUAL
energizer, while American ginseng is a POWERFUL restorative herb."
Tags:
adaptogen,
adrenal glands,
alternative medicine,
antibacterial properties,
beneficial influence,
cardiac rhythm,
central nervous system,
chinese tonic,
cortisone,
energy,
energy output,
external stress,
ginseng,
ginseng research,
herbal tonics,
Herbs,
hot air balloon,
licorice,
quick fixes,
russian studies,
siberian ginseng,
stress buster,
tonic herb
