The use of herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is believed to be as ancient as China’s history itself, or even older. Back in the times of our “hunter-gatherer” ancestors, survival was contingent on their knowledge of their surroundings. First-hand experienced taught them which herbs and plants were toxic, which ones sustained life, which ones provided strength, and which ones offered all-natural healing.
Chinese medicine can be used for various illnesses, from the common cold to serious cardiovascular diseases, however, is also commonly used to help with stamina, particularly if the person uses natural herbs for energy.
Chinese medicine is an alternative medicinal approach and usually used in conjunction with other forms of healing. It involves methods such as acupuncture, massage, exercise, and herbal medicine. Qi and Yin and Yang are the fundamental concepts of Chinese medicine. Qi is vital energy, while yin and yang are forces that are complementary and explain the relationships of substances. Harmony is achieved with the balance of the yin and yang.
TCM is trusted because it has been used for over thousands of years and has been proven to work. It’s also natural, which makes it less toxic in comparison to pharmaceuticals and manufactured drugs.
Instead of the typical approach of Western Medicine of treating symptoms, often at the expense of body systems, Chinese herbal medicine revives the body’s ability to heal itself and achieve a healthy balance.
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There are numerous herbs for energy, stamina, and healing, and some of the most commonly used in Chinese medicine are as follows:
Sea Buckthorn
Hippophae rhamnoides, also known as Sea Buckthorn, is a shrub that can grow up to 6 meters tall and has stiff, thorny branches. Its leaves are lanceolate with pale silvery-green tone. The roots spread out widely and rapidly. This herb grows abundantly in the mountainous regions of Central Europe and Asia.
Sea Buckthorn is highly valued for its golden-orange berries that are rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin E, flavonoids, folic acid, carotenoids, organic acids, fatty acids, and oils, and other health-giving nutrients. The leaves contain triterpenes and are used in making teas.
Several laboratory studies show that the alcohol extracts from the flavonoids in Sea Buckthorn support a natural inflammatory response.
Palmitoleic acid, a skin component, is one of the ingredients of the Sea Buckthorn oil. It is recognized as a powerful topical agent, making it effective in treating skin injuries and wounds, including burns and cuts. When administered orally and in sufficient quantities, this fatty acid nourishes and softens the skin. It is useful in treating atopic dermatitis and other systemic skin disorders.
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The oil is also extensively used alone or in combination with other herbs as topical application to soothe and heal burns, infections, scalds, and ulcerations. Its UV-blocking properties make it an ideal ingredient in sunblocks. Horses that eat feed containing Sea Buckthorn are found to develop good, shiny coats, and the berry of the Sea Buckthorn is believed to deliver the same benefits for human skin and nails.
Using Sea Buckthorn Berry daily can improve your health, and make you feel and look beautiful inside and out.
Astragalus
The root of this plant is often used in herbal teas and soups, in capsule form, or as extracts. Astragalus is believed to treat and prevent upper respiratory infections and common colds and is usually used in combination with other herbs that likewise strengthen and support the body’s immune system like angelica, licorice, and Panax Ginseng.
The root of the Astragalus mostly targets the lungs and spleen, located in the respiratory and lymphatic system, respectively. These systems play a big part in converting the stored energy in your body into life energy.
Astragalus should be used in moderation, though. Since it’s energizing, it may cause agitation, palpitation, and insomnia in some cases. I recommend only taking it in the morning to avoid these side effects.
Ginger
The roots of this tropical plant are used not only for cooking but for medicinal purposes as well. It is commonly used dried or fresh, or in tea, liquid extract, capsule, or tablet form. It is known to provide relief for nausea, stomachaches, and diarrhea.
Likewise, it is used to remedy osteoarthritis and rheumatoid symptoms, as well as joint and muscle pains. However, while there’s been plenty of anecdotal evidence for thousands of years as to the health benefits of ginger root, there isn’t much conclusive evidence from scientific research that confirms the extent of ginger’s role in the treatment of these conditions.
On the other hand, there are studies showing that ginger safely aids in reducing the severity of vomiting and nausea in pregnancy-related cases.
It’s easy to buy a ginger root and cut it into thin slices or small cubes and add it to your morning drink. You’ll feel the healing benefits of ginger for your stomach almost immediately.
Bitter Orange
Bitter orange also sometimes called bigarade orange, Seville orange, sour orange, or marmalade orange refers to a citrus tree and its fruit that is common to countries in Southeast Asia.
Its peeled and dried fruit are used in tablets, capsules, and extracts. The oil of the fruit, known as neroli, is applied to the skin as a remedy for fungal infections like athlete’s foot and ringworm.
For centuries, bitter orange has been used to relieve stomach problems such as indigestion, nausea, and constipation. It may also be prescribed as a relief for nasal congestion, loss of appetite, weight loss, and heartburn.
Panax Ginseng
Panax Ginseng is one of the most widely-known herbs for natural energy. Used as an adaptogen herb, it allows the body to perform at its peak. It helps improve the body’s stamina, mental vitality and memory functions which is why it’s commonly used by fans of nootropic herbs.
Aside from being popular among herbs for energy, it is also used to treat blood disorders, erectile dysfunction, depression, anxiety and many more.
When dried and used in teas, extracts, pills, and creams, the root of this herb unleashes ginsenonisides, components that are believed to be responsible for Ginseng’s healing properties. Its health benefits include increased stamina, better immunity, sharpened physical and mental performance, and better blood pressure.
Green Tea
Another choice widely known amid herbs for energy is Green Tea. It is popular because of its potent antioxidant properties. It also contains caffeine that can provide your body with extra energy. Its caffeine content is less than coffee though, but still enough to give your stamina and energy a little boost.
Additionally, green tea helps battle disease with its anti-carcinogenic properties. It also has antibiotic properties that aid in fighting off bacteria. Green tea can also aid in weight loss!
Dong Quai
The root of Dong Quai herb is used in tinctures or as an ingredient in herbal creams. It’s often used to provide female hormonal balance. It can be part of a treatment regimen intended to relieve discomfort associated with PMS or menopause including joint pain, cramps, constipation, and hot flashes.
These are only some of the many natural herbs for energy. While Chinese medicine is natural and has been used for centuries, it is still important for one to do research before trying these cures. When in doubt, always consult an expert regarding your health needs and what the appropriate method of healing is.