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For the past 2500 plus years, both Chinese and Indian Ayruvedic health systems have
used adaptogenic herbs as tonics for overall health and longevity. Adaptogens act
as regulators or modulators in either direction. Balancing the body's energy and
immunity means if there is not enough, more will be created. If there is too much,
it will be diminished.
When we take stimulants such as ephedra or caffeine, there
is a peak of energy for high performance followed by a drop in both. Adaptogens avoid
that and the resulting wear and tear by balancing the body's endocrine and immune
system. This allows us to draw on our native energy as needed and relax when not
needed.
Adaptogens Defined
When modern western medical scientists started investigating
these herbs in the late 1940's, the term adaptogen was adopted, and eventually with
its defining features, which are: 1) Nontoxic with normal dosage. 2) Produces a balanced
defense against stress in whatever direction is needed. 3) Normalizes the whole body
toward homeostasis.Homeostasis is the internal system's ability to remain constant
and balanced despite the external stressors. Hormones are kicked into high gear to
create fight or flight responses when dangers appear. Thousands or even hundreds
of years ago, stressors were mostly life and death
matters.
For most of us, today's dangers are usually less dramatic. But the body's internal
reactions remain the same. And usually we don't fight or flight! The resultant stress
and anxiety created causes poor health and aging issues.
Adaptogenic Tonic Herbs
The
toll of stress on our internal systems is a major source of aging issues. Adaptogenic
herbs have been used as anti-aging and longevity tonics for thousands of years. Tonics
can be taken daily over a lifetime for overall well being.
They are adaptogenic since
the body as a whole is addressed, not just a specific organ or malady that medicinal
herbs address. However, there are various differences peculiar to individual physiological
characteristics, climates, and emotional needs. It's wise to educate yourself more
or consult with an appropriate practitioner or herbalist.
The Basic Approach
The Chinese medicine approach will be used as a guide in this and
subsequent follow up articles since it is easier for western minds than Ayurveda.
Chinese medicine divides the human energy system into three categories, which are
comparable to a candle and its function. They are:
Jing - This is the physiological energy basis or foundation. It is likened to the
candle itself, the actual wax portion. It involves all the fluids that hold the body's
functions together. When depleted after "burning the candle at both ends" too long,
there can be no flame or Qi.
Qi or Chi - This is the function of energy itself. It
is the candle's flame. As Qi or Chi, it is the energy that enables our bodies and
organs to function. Low or blocked Qi leads to illness. But weak Jing cannot sustain
strong Qi. They are very dependent.
Shen - This is the area of spiritual and emotional
tone. It involves our attitude and ability to create and our spirituality. And of
course, it is dependent on the candle (Jing) and the flame (Qi)!
Of course, adaptogenic
herbs or tonics address all three parts of the human candle. But there can be a different
emphasis with any of the parts. Different times, different needs, and different situations
will determine which herbs should be used to obtain the homeostasis that ensures
longevity with a healthy body.
The next article will focus on what some of those herbs
are and the methods of preparing them.
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Need a memory enhancer?
EXERCISE ACROSS THE AGE GROUPS
A definitive cognitive enhancer would be beneficial to us all, from school-going children through to the elderly patient experiencing senile dementia. Both cognitive enhancement and delay of cognitive dysfunction have encouraged numerous studies investigating methods of achieving these goals. Brian Doyle, a clinical psychiatrist at Georgetown University, states that use of cognitive enhancing stimulants is commonplace among university-going students during examination periods (www.physorg.com). Among those surveyed, drugs of choice were Ritalin (stimulant to treat attention-deficit disorder), Modafinil (alleviate anxiety). These habits occur despite the known adverse side-effects of long-term use of these drugs, such as headaches, jitteriness, anxiety and sleeplessness along with the addictive qualities of Ritalin. As a result the search for healthy, inexpensive alternatives has become increasingly important to both those attempting to delay the effects of cognitive dysfunction an those looking to optimize their mental performance.
Exercise and its positive effects on cognition can be traced back In the scientific literature to as early as the 1930s, with a conclusive review published in 2008 by Hillman et al. Traditionally most research in this field has focused on the older population, looking at offsetting cognitive dysfunction through the medium of exercise. More recently, a few publication have investigated the younger
group with less conclusive data, resulting in a call for more research in this area by prominent reviewers.
EXERCISE and its BENEFITS to the BRAIN
Prominent research in the field of exercise and its effects on cognition began with rodents, using a task known as the Morris Water Maze (a deep bath of opaque water with only one safe exit). Is was found that exercise led to significant improvement in memory of the exit position in rats. However, numerous questions were raised regarding the application of these experiments to humans. The limited research into younger children and adolescents is less conclusive than in the elderly: exercise either shows maintenance or slight increase in academic performance, but certainly not a decline. Hillman et al. concluded that in the older generation, physical activity is conclusively linked to improved cognition, both in healthy individuals and in early Alzheimer sufferers. Furthermore, exercise has been associated with delaying the onset of Huntingtons’s and Parkinson’s diseases. The biggest improvement has been observed in the performance and testing of executive control processes which include aspects such as working memory, planning, multi-tasking and scheduling— qualities clearly desirable for a more effective lifestyle.
Discover the Secrets of
Anti-Aging
Adaptogenic Herbs
Part II by Paul Fassa
There are several adaptogenic herbs from traditional Chinese medicine that can be used as tonics safely and economically to maintain youthful vigor and health. Because virtually everyone can benefit, the Reishi mushroom will be discussed briefly in this in this article after a quick summary of Part I.
But this is not a subject to be glossed over lightly. One should consult a practitioner of Chinese or Ayurvedic medicine, or a qualified herbalist while furthering one's understanding of other herbs for long term self application. If you're interested, you can start your research using the "Sources for more information" section below this article.
Summary of Adapotogenic Herbs Part Il
Adaptogenics address the whole body to create internal balance, increasing or decreasing functions as necessary. They can be taken as tonics for a lifetime without side effects. There are three basic aspects of the human condition being balanced known as Chinese medicine's three treasures.
This candle metaphor describes these three treasures. The wax body of the candle is Jing, which is the body's physiological energy foundation or reservoir. The flame is Qi or Chi, the body's daily functioning energy. Shen is the light from the candle's flame depicting one's spiritual and emotional tone.
The Reishi or Ganoderma Mushroom
Traditionally, Reishi is considered the master longevity herb that benefits all three treasures of Chinese medicine.
Reishi also has immunomodulatory characteristics. This means that if anything is lacking in any system, such as the immune or endocrine system, this herb acts to stimulate and increase that system as needed. Conversely, any overproduction or excess is toned down to maintain proper balance.
Some benefits of Reishi observed in modern science are anti-bronchitis, expectorant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant, antitumor, antiviral, lower blood pressure, bone marrow nucleated cell proliferation, cardiotonic, central relaxent, killer cell enhancer, immunomodulatory, anti-HIV, liver protective and detoxifying, radiation protection, anti-ulcer, white blood cell and hematoglobin blood increase.
Making Your Tonic
When ordering, make sure you get mushrooms that are organically farmed or picked wild far away from highways or factories. Pesticides and synthetic fertilizers must be avoided. Mushrooms are like sponges, and they'll soak up whatever poisons there are in the soil.
Teas are the most common means of ingesting tonic herbs. After bringing the water and mushrooms to a boil, how long you simmer depends on the cut of mushrooms.
The rule of thumb is to pour out the liquid after at least a half hour or more, then add some water and boil further until the liquid no longer changes color or has a bitter taste. You should make enough for a week at a time. This is not a quick tea arrangement.
Many think tinctures are even better. You can use 100 proof vodka, which is 50 percent alcohol, or pure grain (drinkable) alcohol mixed 50 percent with distilled water. Put enough mushrooms in a large jar to fill it at least one-third to half way.
Then pour in the alcohol/water solution or vodka to just below the top of the jar. Seal and shake gently. Store in a cool dark space, and gently shake once every day for a month. You tincture is ready. A couple of droppers a day should suffice and last a long time. By the way, this is how to make any herbal tincture.
You can use teas while your tincture solution brews if you wish to start taking advantage of Reishi's benefits right away.
(Part I)
by: Paul Fassa
suffering from some kind of ailment, not knowing
exactly what is causing it or even know that they
are indeed a victim of changing hormones.
When you reach a certain age, you start seeing
the effect that age and changing hormones has on
your body. Some known changes include;
• weight gain, especially in the waste line
• low libido (sex drive)
• hair loss
• Hot flashes
• Vaginal dryness
• Menopause symptoms
• Mood swings
• Dry skin and wrinkles
• “Man boobs”
• PMS symptoms
• Premature aging
• Memory loss and “senior moments”
• Muscles turning into flab
What is estrogen dominance?
For a man ›
Although your estrogen levels are lower than a woman's, you still need estrogen for healthy living. However, by midlife, your estrogen levels can climb out of control. For example gaining weight increases estrogen production. Fat cells contain the aromatase enzyme that converts testosterone into estrogen. Warning signs of estrogen
DIM is not a hormone, it naturally helps balance hormone levels and helps prevent estrogen dominance in men and women. DIM also helps safely neutralize dangerous synthetic xenoestrogens.
Over 40 studies recorded in the National Library of Medicine database confirm DIM is a superior nutrient to help maintain hormone balance.
According to a study printed in Pharmacological Research, patients suffering from long-term depression experienced significant improvement when treated with the brain hormone called pregnenolone sulfate.
Results are so promising that researchers are also including pregnenolone sulfate to treat some severe memory problems.
With DIM, you can get the benefits of this miraculous brain and memory boosting hormone.
DIM not only helps balance estrogen levels, it also helps metabolize pregnenolone sulfate. This is critical because low levels of pregnenolone sulfate can cause depression, and high levels can trigger anxiety attacks.
With DIM, you can help promote healthy metabolism of both estrogen and pregnenolone sulfate.
Some research by Health Resources
National Cancer Institute
"A recent study from the National Cancer Institute showed that men who ate 3 or more servings of cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, and bok choy) can slash the risk of serious prostate problems by HALF!"
Biochemical and Biophysical
Research Communications
“DIM supports the protective mechanism of apoptosis (programmed cell death) and promotes beneficial elimination of damaged cells."
Nutrients from the sea
Fish has been called, "brain food" for good reasons. It contains Omega-3 fatty acids that contribute to brain health. Interestingly, iodine, also from the sea, is an important nutrient used by the brain. Iodine is present in seaweed and in iodized salt. Oysters contain zinc that stimulates nerve functioning and activity, and cognitive function.
Vitamins for the brain
Acetyl-l-carnitine is also found in the brain. It protects your brain cells and increases blood flow in the brain. One of its important functions is to synthesize the neurotransmitter, acetylcholine, which helps with memory by increasing activity of the mitochondria in brain cells. Research with acetylcholine with Alzheimer and diabetic patients showed improved brain chemistry.
Vitamin B12 helps repair nerve fibers in the brain. Research shows that it may also decrease the blood levels of the amino acid homocysteine, which decreases brain function.
Vitamin E
A nationally funded study of vitamin E showed that it protects nerve cells from damage, possibly from its antioxidant effects. The study used high doses that should be prescribed by a physician, as vitamin E can interfere with blood clotting medications.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3s are found in the fatty membranes in nerve cells in the brain. Research has shown that omega-3s can reduce dementia. The FDA has now allowed food supplements to post health claims on labels of omega-3s that state, "Supportive but not conclusive research shows that consumption of EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease." The recommended dose, according to the FDA, is 3 grams a day.
Herbal Brain Enhancers
Ginseng is an adaptogen that helps improve brain function by increasing the release of hormones.
Ginseng has been used to treat those with learning disabilities.
Gingko Biloba Acts as a tonic to the circulatory system by increasing blood
flow to the brain, which also brings more nutrition to the brain. Several
compounds of the plant are thought to provide the functions of both antioxidant
and anti-inflammatory properties to the brain. Ginkgo is a traditional Chinese herbal
medicine and further research in its usefulness in brain chemistry is ongoing.
Bacopa is an herb used in Ayurvedic medicine to improve brain function since the 6th century.
Huperia serrata has been used in Chinese medicine to aid brain function. The mechanism
seems to imitate that of FDA approved drugs so clinical trials are underway in the National
Institute on Aging.
Proper brain nutrition can go a long way in maintaining and restoring healthy brain function.