China is well known for its long-standing tradition of using wild herbs as food and as treatment for various illnesses. The practices of traditional Chinese medicine and qi gong incorporate herbs into healing regimens. The use of these herbal therapies is recognized by conventional doctors as alternative or complementary to Western medicine. Wild Chinese herbs are often processed and made into ointments, salves, powders and teas. If you intend on using Chinese herbs to treat any illness, please do so only under the guidance of a qualified health care professional.
Asian Ginseng
Panax ginseng is a plant with a rich history of use in Chinese herbal healing. It is often used to relieve fatigue and boost intellectual and physical performance, and shows some promise as an anticancer agent and immune booster. Ginseng is frequently added to energy drinks and tonics marketed as increasing sexual performance in males. Side effects for ginseng are reportedly low. If you are planning on using Asian ginseng for medicinal purposes, it should be done only under the close supervision of a medical doctor.
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba is also known as the maidenhair tree, a species dating back 300 million years, according to Wilkes University. Ginkgo is native to, and grows wild in, China, but now propagates all over the world. It has a long history of herbal medicine use, and in recent years has been added to many herbal supplements and energy drinks in the West. The chemicals in ginkgo have antioxidant and other health benefits well documented in scientific literature. Circulatory and cognitive effects have been demonstrated and this wild Chinese herb has few adverse effects associated with it. Before taking it, you should clear it with your doctor to ensure there are no negative interactions with current treatments.
Ma Huang
Ma huang is a natural Chinese herb that has been banned by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration due to a few complications and deaths after it was added to diet products in the form of ephedra. It has a rich history of medicinal use in China, and is still used to treat various ailments in Asia. This wild herb is a stimulant with bronchodilating effects, meaning it makes breathing easier. It is considered a treatment for asthma in traditional Chinese medicine. Ma huang is illegal in the United States, and if you are considering taking this herb in any other part of the world where it is legal, be sure to do so under the guidance of a health care professional.
Member Comments