Tonic Herbs | Ginseng Root

Ginseng root is a good way to introduce your self to the benefits of tonic herbs

The application of tonic herbs is not relieving symptoms of a disease or ailment, but to improve or strengthen the natural processes and systems of the body. Tonic herbs are usually very safe to utilise, with very few or no side effects, and many benefits.

The tonic herbs are also medicinal herbs, however not all medicinal herbs can be used as tonics.

Researchers have often use the term "adaptogen" to portray some of these tonic herbs. They discovered that adaptogenic herbs have a stronger effect when the person taking these herbs is under a great deal of stress.

Ginseng root:

Ginseng root is almost certainly the most familiar tonic herb. There are quite a few different types of Ginseng, all of which share many of the same characteristics. Check those listed below.

	Panax Ginseng is the most well-known of the Ginsengs. It is most often obtainable as "Red" or "White" Ginseng. (The difference between Red Ginseng and White Ginseng is how the roots are treated after harvesting.) A few people find that Panax Ginseng is too stimulating for them, and have found Siberian Ginseng to be a better choice for them.
	American Ginseng ( Panax Quinquefolium) which some time ago grew in its natural habitat in great amounts. However, over harvesting has made natural American Ginseng very scarce. Botanically, this is closely related to the Panax Ginseng
	Siberian Ginseng (Eleutherococcus Senticosus) often called Eletheuro may be the most investigated herb in the world. This was the very first herb described as an adaptogen. The herb with latin name Acanthopanax Gracilistylus is also sold under the name Siberian Ginseng, and shares many properties with Eleuthero.

A few effects of Siberian Ginseng are: increases endurance; helps insomnia; lowers blood pressure; improves blood circulation; improves blood flow to the brain. (A full listing would take several pages.)

All these varieties function as adaptogens, and act as a tonic herb on your body system. They are all safe to use, and are also suitable for long term use.

Many herbalists feel that Siberian Ginseng is the safest of the Ginsengs. It is often used with older or frail individuals, to help improve their energy levels.

All of the Ginseng roots are obtainable as raw herbs, in capsules form and powders. Powders and capsules are the easiest to use, simply follow the manufacturer's instructions on the bottle. Many herbalists state that using standardized extracts gives you less benefit than using the whole root.

Trying one or more of the varieties of Ginseng root is a good way to introduce your self to the benefits of tonic herbs.