"Throughout our lives our immune systems are under assault from environmental toxins. Living in crowded cities, traveling frequently in airplanes, and spending time in day care centers and schools all expose us to many more germs than people had to deal with in the past. We can protect and strengthen our immunity by eating right, getting enough activity and rest, practicing stress reduction, and cultivating healthy emotional states. There are also several herbs, such as astragalus, that can help enhance immune function. Obtained from the root of Astragalus membranaceous in the pea family, astragalus has a long history in Chinese medicine, where it is used to ward off colds and flu. Astragalus can be beneficial for:
Look for standardized extracts in capsules and follow package directions."
From: Daily Tips: Featured Herb - Astragalus DrWeil.com 12/21/05
What is Astragalus?back
Astragalus is a tonic herb from the legume family. It is indigenous to China and has been used as a preventive health tonic in Traditional Chinese Medicine since ancient times. The botanical name of Astragalus is: Astragalus membranaceus. Astragalus is one of the herbs known to stimulate the body's natural production of interferon. It is known as a "Chi" tonic or replenisher. Chi is a concept in Chinese Medicine of the body's "Vital Life Energy". Astragalus is suitable for long-term use as an important aid in supporting the body's natural defense system.
How does Astragalus work?back
The Astragalus root is the part containing the active ingredients and it is used as an immunomodulator, meaning it balances and helps maintain a healthy immune system. The constituents of the root include: Polysaccharides, choline, betaine, rumatakenin, [beta]-sitosterol.
Astragalus was first referenced in the original material medica of the late Han period in China. In Traditional Chinese Medicine it is considered sweet and slightly warming. It is considered to be very safe and non-toxic and may be consumed daily. It is well known for its ability to strengthen and support the body's immune system. Astragalus has become an important botanical in the West since research demonstrating its immunoprotective effects have been documented. Astragalus is an ideal tonic for anyone who wants to help maintain a strong immune system.
Astragalus helps both chronic and acute problems in sinus, lungs, digestive system, liver and has cardio-protective benefits. It is also an important adaptogenic herb used to invigorate and balance the immune system. Astragalus is a natural anti-viral agent, and it may be taken preventively. Astragalus helps promote the bodies own healing and protective energy and it is known to prevent tumor formation. In ancient times (and still in parts of modern Asia), Astragalus root was cooked with food and has been revered for centuries for protection and disease prevention.
Health benefits of Astragalusback
Astragalus also helps to stop night or day sweats by what is known in Traditional Chinese Medicine is its ability to help build Yin and Blood as well as the protective Chi in the body. In Western Medicine, Astragalus has been shown to benefit the immune system by increasing natural killer cell activity, and by boosting bodies' production of antibodies and interferon. Astragalus has numerous immune enhancing benefits. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, long-term intake of Astragalus builds Chi (Vital Life Energy) in the body. This extra Chi helps to prevent depletion of our resources. Astragalus in combination with Dong Quai improves the circulation of Chi and blood in the skin making it more supple and healthy.
Cautionsback
Astragalus has shown no toxicity with long term use. Astragalus should be discontinued when experiencing excess heat in the body as it is a warming herb. It should be discontinued when there are symptoms of fever, dry cough, or constipation. When these symptoms are not present Astragalus may be continued and taken daily. As with all herbal and dietary supplements, you should always inform your physician about what you are taking in order to avoid potentially dangerous drug interactions.
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What is Siberian Eleuthero?back
Siberian Eleuthero is a remarkable herb from Russia, and is the root of the herb formerly known as "Siberian Ginseng." Eleuthero is considered a tonic herb and it is an adaptogen.
As an adaptogen, Siberian Eleuthero also helps the body adapt to stress. It does this by supporting healthy adrenal gland functions, allowing them to function optimally when challenged by stress. Siberian Eleuthero has been shown to enhance mental acuity and physical endurance without the "crash" that comes with caffeinated products. Another way that Siberian Eleuthero supports the body is by combating harmful toxins.
Siberian Eleuthero helps increase mental alertness, combat fatigue, and to boost the body's healing system. Eleuthero is beneficial for physical endurance and has a remarkable normalizing and strengthening effect on the body. Siberian Eleuthero improves energy naturally. It benefits the liver, kidney and lung functions. Siberian Eleuthero (formerly called Siberian Ginseng) may be useful as a preventive measure during cold and flu season. Preliminary evidence also suggests that Siberian Eleuthero may prove valuable in the long-term management of various imbalances of the immune system and can help improve energy in HIV infection, chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia.
Russian scientists concluded that Siberian Eleuthero was similar in properties to Panax ginseng (Asian ginseng). Thus, the misleading term "Siberian ginseng" was coined in the early 1950's.
How does Siberian Eleuthero work?back
Eleuthero has a wide range of beneficial actions on performance, wellness and adaptation to change. The active constituents in the root of the plant contains a series of steroid-like compounds (eleutherosides) that counteract the "alarm" stage of stress response in the body, and benefits the adrenals. It has also been shown to be very beneficial and balancing for women during menopause. Siberian Eleuthero helps women overcome the fatigue associated with hormonal fluctuations.
Siberian Eleuthero has demonstrated ability to increase stamina and endurance. This led Soviet Olympic athletes to use it to enhance their training. Explorers, divers, sailors, and miners used Siberian Eleuthero to prevent stress-related illness. After the Chernobyl accident, many Russian and Ukrainian citizens were given Siberian Eleuthero to counteract the effects of radiation. Research has shown that Siberian Eleuthero improves the use of oxygen by the exercising muscle, which means that a person is able to maintain aerobic exercise longer and recover from workouts more quickly.
Health benefits of Siberian Eleutheroback
Healthy people taking 450 mg of the standardized extract (0.8%) two - three times per day have been shown to produce increased numbers of immune cells (T lymphocytes).
Siberian Eleuthero has been used as an adaptogenic energizer in connection with the following conditions:
Primary: Fatigue and Stress
Secondary: Chemotherapy Support
Other: Menopause, Alzheimer's disease, Athletic support, Chronic fatigue syndrome, Common cold/sore throat, Diabetes, Fibromyalgia, HIV support, Influenza
Cautionsback
Reported side effects from using Siberian Eleuthero are minimal. Mild, transient diarrhea has been reported by a very small number of users. Siberian Eleuthero may cause insomnia in some people if taken too close to bedtime. Eleuthero is not recommended for individuals with uncontrolled high blood pressure. As with all herbal and dietary supplements, you should always inform your physician about what you are taking in order to avoid potentially dangerous drug interactions.
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What is Dong Quai?back
Dong Quai has been called the "female ginseng" and is an excellent women's herb. It has been used for centuries in China for maintaining a healthy menstrual cycle. Dong Quai can help to build blood, maintain bowel regularity, relieve dryness, and improve general well-being. Dong Quai also helps to lower blood pressure and improves blood flow throughout the body.
Dong Quai (sometimes referred to as Tang Kuai) has been used in Asia for thousands of years as a tonic for the female reproductive system. In fact, it ranks just below ginseng as the most popular herb in China and Japan.
How does Dong Quai work?back
Most of the actions of Dong Quai depend on the presence of coumarins, phytosterols, polysaccharides and flavonoids. Dong Quai helps to promote uterine health and regulate the menstrual cycle. Coumarins dilate blood vessels, stimulating the central nervous system and increasing blood flow throughout the body. They may also relax the smooth muscles of the uterus, which would help to explain the herb's traditional use for menstrual cramps.
Dong Quai is known as a beauty tonic. The herb has been found to benefit the complexion by improving circulation in the skin and by detoxifying, thus helping to clear blemishes. Dong Quai has also shown an inhibitory effect against many bacteria including hemolytic Streptoccoccus and Shigella. It has a mild sedative effect, and a pain relieving effect.
Health benefits of Dong Quaiback
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dong Quai has been used to help balance Blood and Chi in the body. In TCM, where there is an obstruction of Blood, there can be dis-ease and Dong Quai works to restore balance.
Dong Quai helps skin tone as it enriches the blood and improves circulation. Dong Quai is an important herb for women whose skin is sallow, dry and lacking a healthy glow. Astragalus is often used in combination with Dong Quai to further improve the circulation of Chi and blood in the skin making it more supple and healthy.
Dong Quai's reputation as a female tonic rests largely with its ability to reduce the symptoms of PMS (premenstrual syndrome) and regulate the menstrual cycle and for its benefit to the skin and circulation. The herb's long-standing popularity for reducing menstrual cramps has been ascribed to its anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic actions. Dong Quai works best for stressed women who suffer hot flashes but are generally chilly. Dong Quai will help warm the woman and also help support the liver.
Dong Quai also helps to improve blood circulation, nourish body fluids, counter fatigue, and lower blood pressure. As a rich source of vitamin B12, Dong Quai may play a role in stimulating red blood cell production. It may therefore indirectly boost energy and lessen fatigue by increasing the number of red blood cells transporting oxygen throughout the body.
Cautionsback
If you are taking an anticoagulant (blood-thinning) medication or a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (such as ibuprofen), check with your doctor before trying Dong Quai as it will have additive blood thinning and anti-inflammatory properties. Dong Quai also contains substances called psoralens that can react to sunlight, especially in fair-skinned people.
Dong Quai may have a mild laxative effect, and menstrual bleeding may increase when taking Dong Quai. Stop taking Dong Quai if a skin rash or photosensivity develops. Don't take Dong Quai if you are pregnant or nursing. As with all herbal and dietary supplements, you should always inform your physician about what you are taking in order to avoid potentially dangerous drug interactions.
REFERENCES
Ginkgo Biloba Proprietary Blend: 120 mg. Contains Ginkgo biloba extract (24% flavonoid glycosides and 6% terpene lactones) and Ginkgo biloba leaf powder.
From DrWeil.com on Healthy Aging, 2005
What is Ginkgo Biloba?back
Ginkgo has demonstrated enhanced memory, alertness and mental acuity due to its ability to enhance circulation. Recent studies show Ginkgo Biloba contains many potent antioxidants and is a free radical scavenger.
Ginkgo (Ginkgo Biloba) has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for over 4,000 years. Ginkgo is one of the most researched herbs in the world and has been shown to be highly effective. The Ginkgo biloba tree is the world's oldest living tree species - geological records indicate this plant has been growing on earth for 150 - 200 million years. Chinese monks are credited with keeping the tree in existence, as a sacred herb and ginkgo biloba has been used in China for hundreds of years. For herbal purposes the ginkgo biloba leaves are used in the form of a concentrated, standardized extract. Ginkgo biloba is among the most widely used prescription medicines in Germany and France, and it is one of the most popular herbs sold in the US.
How does Ginkgo Biloba work?back
Recent studies show that Ginkgo Biloba increases blood flow to the brain and that it increases the body's production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP boosts the brain's metabolism of glucose. Research also indicates that Ginkgo extracts raises oxygen levels in brain tissues. This would result in enhanced memory. German researchers found treatment with Ginkgo extracts improved circulation to the extremities, ear and eyes. Ginkgo has been shown to benefit the tone and elasticity of blood vessels.
There is considerable evidence from clinical trials to support the therapeutic use of ginkgo biloba for a wide range of cognitive and peripheral vascular conditions. Ginkgo biloba benefits blood flow to the retina and benefits eye health. Clinical tests show ginkgo biloba has improved hearing and memory in the elderly.
Ginkgo biloba works in an interesting way with two groups of active substances, flavonoids including ginkgolides A, B, and C, bilobalide, quercetin, and kaempferol, and terpene lactones. The ginkgolides have been shown to control allergic inflammation, anaphylactic shock and asthma. The flavonoids in ginkgo biloba extract function as antioxidants and free-radical scavengers, helping to prevent cell damage. Ginkgo biloba also works by increasing blood flow to the brain and throughout the body's network of blood vessels that supply blood and oxygen to the organ systems. It increases metabolism efficiency, regulates neurotransmitters, and boosts oxygen levels in the brain, which uses 20% of the body's oxygen. The terpenes help to reduce blood clots by reducing the platelet aggregation. This helps to promote vasodilation and improved blood flow in the arteries and capillaries.
Preparations of standardized ginkgo biloba are adjusted to a potency of 24% flavonoids and 6% terpenes (ginkgolides) for Herbal Fortress. Ginkgo biloba extract and capsules should be taken for 12 weeks in order to be effective.
Health benefits of Ginkgo Bilobaback
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, stagnation of Chi and of Blood can lead to disease. When our blood is circulating properly, many functional disorders can be avoided. Depression, anxiety, headaches, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), and dizziness have all been linked to reduced blood flow to the brain. By improving blood circulation, ginkgo may be useful for improving these disorders.
By improving blood circulation to the extremities, ginkgo helps ease painful coldness in the hands and feet. It can also reduce the calf cramping and leg weakness due by improving circulation in the legs. Improved penile blood circulation has been documented after six weeks of use.
Some studies suggest that ginkgo may benefit vision and help prevent macular degeneration because it increases blood flow to the nerve-rich fibers of the eyes. The herb's antioxidant capabilities may also help to neutralize the cell-damaging free radicals that are considered a leading cause of this disorder. Ginkgo biloba's powerful antioxidant and circulation-promoting properties may also be of help in treating blurring and dimming of vision.
By reducing the "stickiness" of the blood, as aspirin does, ginkgo may lower the risk of blood clots and possibly reduce the risk of heart attacks or stroke. Studies are also evaluating the herb's effectiveness in speeding recovery from stroke. And help reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke. Long used in China, ginkgo is also used to relieve the airway spasms and wheezing associated with breathing disorders.
Cautionsback
There are some things to be aware of when using ginkgo biloba. It is known to reduce clotting time of blood due to its anti-inflammatory properties. This may be a problem with people on anticoagulant medications including aspirin and Warfarin (Coumadin and would have an additive effect in thinning the blood). Ginkgo biloba may interfere with the action of some prescribed medications for high blood pressure as Ginkgo may have an additive effect in lowering blood pressure. As with all herbal and dietary supplements, you should always inform your physician about what you are taking in order to avoid potentially dangerous drug interactions.
RESEARCH
Reishi's Important Role in Longevity and Health Maintenance:back
Reishi (Ganoderma Lucidum), commonly known as Ling Zhi in Chinese, is an herbal mushroom known to have legendary health benefits since ancient times. It has been used in Japan and China for over 2,000 years making it the oldest mushroom known to have been used therapeutically. It has been revered as nature's rarest and most beneficial herb in the "Superior" category of Shen Nung Ben Cao Jing, the oldest and most famous medical text on Oriental herbal medicine, Reishi is the highest ranked superior tonic herb for its ability to harmonize the functions of the body, mind and spirit. Reishi has earned the titles "Mushroom of Immortality" and "The King of Herbs".
Regular consumption of Reishi can enhance our body's immune system and improve blood circulation. Reishi is recommended as an immune modulator and a general tonic. Reishi is also used to help calm anxiety, benefit the liver and lungs may be beneficial in balancing blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol levels. It also has anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-oxidant properties. It is non-toxic and can be taken daily without producing any side effects. When it is taken regularly, it can restore the body to its natural state, enabling all organs to function normally.
How does Reishi work?back
Reishi is an adaptogen, meaning that it helps the body adapt to stresses of various kinds. It lowers the fight/flight response and helps to moderate the flow of adrenalin. It also helps improve memory and sharpen concentration. It supports and enhances liver and kidney detoxification. Reishi helps the liver excrete toxins and by-products and appears to aid in the regulatory functions of the kidneys. Scientific research reveals Reishi's role as a nutritional supplement that help normalize and regulate the body's organs and functions.
Health benefits of Reishiback
Reishi is primarily composed of complex carbohydrates called water-soluble polysaccharides, triterpeniods, proteins and amino acids. Researchers have identified that water-soluble polysaccharides are the most active element found in Reishi. Taking Vitamin C with Reishi will improve the bio-availability of these polysaccharides.
Another major active ingredient found in Reishi are triterpenes, called ganoderic acids. Preliminary studies indicated that ganoderic acids help alleviate common allergies, improve oxygen utilization and improve liver functions.
A considerable number of studies in Japan, China, USA, and the UK in the past 30 years have shown that the consumption of Reishi has been linked to the treatment of a vast range of diseases, common ailments, and conditions. The scientific research strongly supports Reishi's role as a normalizing substance - a nutritional supplement that can yield benefits through its normalization and regulation of the body's organs and functions. Reishi is an important herb in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), helping the body maintain balance preventively and also to restore the balance when one is sick.
Recommendationsback
Take Vitamin C along with Reishi to improve bio-availability.
Cautionsback
The anti-inflammatory properties of Reishi can slow the blood's clotting time, anyone taking anticoagulants should avoid Reishi.
RESEARCH
What is Rhodiola rosea?back
Herbal Fortress™ Rhodiola rosea Forte, also golden root or rose root, is the underground part of Rhodiola rosea, native to high latitudes of the Northern Hemisphere. In Scandinavia, Siberia, Mongolia and China, among other places, traditional people prized the root as a remedy to enhance physical strength and endurance and mental stamina*. New scientific studies support the traditional use of this valued herb. Adaptogens increase resistance and adaptation to stress, helping to build stamina and vitality.* Rhodiola rosea grows in the arctic regions of eastern Siberia. It is a popular plant in traditional medical systems in Eastern Europe and Asia. Russians have enjoyed Rhodiola rosea tea for centuries as an energy booster.
How does Rhodiola rosea work?back
Russian and Chinese scientists have researched the benefits of rhodiola root for several decades. Dozens of species of Rhodiola plant grow wild in nature. Rhodiola root has a reputation for stimulating the nervous system, decreasing depression, enhancing work performance, decreasing fatigue, and reducing high altitude sickness. Rhodiola rosea has been categorized as an adaptogen by Russian researchers due to its observed ability to increase resistance to a variety of chemical, biological, and physical stressors. The adaptogenic, cardiopulmonary protective, and central nervous system activities of Rhodiola rosea root have been attributed primarily to its ability to influence levels and activity of monoamines and opioid peptides such as beta-endorphins. There have been claims that rhodiola has a beneficial effect on sexual activity in men and women. Rhodiola may be helpful in increasing energy and decreasing mental fatigue*.
Health benefits of Rhodiola roseaback
Rhodiola rosea grows in the Arctic regions of eastern Siberia. It is a popular plant in traditional medical systems in Eastern Europe and Asia. Russians have enjoyed Rhodiola rosea tea for centuries as an adaptogen to stress and an energy booster.
Cautionsback
As with any nutritional supplement, always consult your healthcare professional if you are pregnant or nursing or if you have any health condition. Keep out of reach of children. Not recommended for individuals that have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Discontinue if unusual symptoms occur. Do not exceed recommended dose unless under the guidance of a health care professional.
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* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Recommendationsback
Stop taking nutritional supplements at least 2- 3 weeks prior to surgery due to potential blood thinning effects and to prevent any risks of complications during surgery. Total anti-inflammatory consumption, including anti-inflammatory medications or anticoagulants, as well as any of the Herbal Fortress nutritional supplements should be monitored by a physician and eliminated at least 2-3 weeks prior to any surgical procedure in order to reduce blood loss.
As with any nutritional supplement, keep out of the reach of children and always consult your healthcare professional first, if you are pregnant, lactating or have any health condition.
Disclaimer: back
The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information contained in site is intended for education, entertainment and information purposes only. This information is not intended to be used to diagnose, prescribe or replace proper medical care. The plant described herein is not intended to treat, cure, diagnose, mitigate or prevent any disease. Please refer to our "conditions of use" for further information.
