Benefits Derived From Super Herbs

There are certain herbs that are traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine (the ancient medical system used in India) as well as in traditional Chinese medicine. These are herbs that most people never heard of with names that might be difficult to pronounce, such as ashwagandha, codonopsis, gotu kola, guggul and schisandra.  Are these herbs important to us in the West?  Absolutely. Their effectiveness is time-honored and established for centuries, supported by scientific research confirming their medicinal properties. Herbal practitioners around the world, in fact, recommend these herbs to patients.  The following details about the above-named herbs are worth remembering:

Ashwagandha (Withania Somniferum):

Benefit

  This herb is an energy-booster, especially for seniors. It reduces the effect of stress, inflammation. It helps relieve arthritis pain and improves sexual interest and performance. Some compounds in this herb have been found to increase the ability of mice and rats to learn and retain memories. Withaferin A, a compound in Ashwagandha has been shown to fight tumors, viruses, bacteria and fungal infections. It is believed that people feel stronger, with increased vitality.  Here is why:  As we age, we gradually lose immune function. We become susceptible to infection and age-related diseases and disabilities, such as loss of sensation, hearing and memory. Ashwagandha serves to boost the body’s immunity and resistance to disease, consequently slowing down the aging process, while improving the function of the nervous system.  Ayurvedic practitioners use it to treat patients that are physically and mentally stressed.  It works by serving to release cortisol, a hormone that we produce when we are under stress. It is also used to help age-related memory problems, and is shown to improve libido in men. It also contains a natural anti-inflammatory ingredient that helps ease pain.

Codonopsis (Codonopsis pilosula)

This herb is recommended for treating weakness and fatigue in the wake of a serious illness., such as influenza and pneumonia and to accelerate the process of convalescence. It also helps treat bedsores that could occur in the course of a prolonged recovery. Codonopsis should be used after an acute illness, within the period of recovery.  While ginseng is well known as an energy-boosting herb, codonopsis should be classified as an energy-boosting herb of choice for women.

Gotu Kola

This herb treats a variety of chronic and acute skin disorders. It is a member of the carrot family.  Its leaves and stems have been used for centuries to improve the texture of the skin. Clinically, goto kola is used internally as well as applied topically for chronic skin problems, such as acne, eczema and psoriasis.  It is also used to speed recovery from slow-healing wounds and skin ulcers. 

Goggul

This herb is recommended for inflammatory conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, high cholesterol levels, as well weight problems. Those with hyperthyroidism are advised to abstain from using goggul.  Goggul is the hardened sap or resin of an Indian desert-dwelling tree.  It is an ancient medicine used for centuries. Interestingly, it is also considered to be a traditional cure for obesity.  Be aware that goggul alone might not help melt off the pounds. The right diet and exercise should be combined, while goggul helps reduce body fat and cholesterol levels.  This herb encourages the liver to specifically burn fat and reduce bad cholesterol.

Schisandra

  It is recommended as a tonic energy-booster for those “on the go,” bent  on maintaining their mental and physical stamina. It has been traditionally used for hundreds of years in China, not only as an energy-booster, but also for chronic diarrhea, chronic cough, night sweat, impotence and poor nerve function.

In conclusion, bear in mind, as with any medication, herbal remedies might cause side effects and might interact with prescription or over-the-counter drugs.  It is advisable to consult your medical practitioner before taking it.