Aging is a natural part of life, but healthy aging involves physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. Chinese Medicine has long utilized herbs as tools to promote vitality and prolong lifespan.
He Shou Wu (Polygonum multiflorum) is an effective rejuvenating herb, providing energy boosts while supporting liver and kidney functions. Additionally, He Shou Wu can improve cognitive performance as well as help balance emotions.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha (also known as winter cherry or Indian ginseng) is an herb commonly used to relieve stress, boost energy levels and enhance fertility. Furthermore, some claim it may aid weight loss while increasing muscle strength. Ashwagandha is an adaptogen and native to India and Southeast Asia that is commonly used in Ayurved medicine – an alternative form of healing incorporating Indian principles of natural healing. Ashwagandha can help the body adapt to physical, emotional, and mental stress by lowering cortisol levels – known as the stress hormone – while potentially improving male sexual libido and improving quality sleep. In addition, ashwagandha may reduce oxidative stress which has been shown to contribute to aging processes.
One study demonstrated how ashwagandha can significantly lower levels of blood inflammatory markers like CRP, IL-6 and TNF-a. Furthermore, it decreased activity within the hypothalamic pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis responsible for stress response; researchers therefore concluded this supported its potential to alleviate stress while improving cognitive function among healthy adults.
Another study showed that Ashwagandha supplements significantly increased maximum oxygen consumption (VO2 max), while decreasing resting blood pressure, cholesterol levels, lipid profile, immune system functions and improving their lipid profiles and immune systems in healthy participants. Furthermore, in male participants it was discovered to improve testosterone production and sperm count through supplementation.
There is limited evidence that ashwagandha can be safely taken in short-term doses by most people, although those suffering from an autoimmune condition such as rheumatoid arthritis or multiple sclerosis should avoid taking this herb as it could increase thyroid hormone levels, worsening symptoms. Three case reports have described cases of thyrotoxicosis in women taking high doses for over two months of ashwagandha consumption.
Long-term use of Ashwagandha to treat anxiety, stress or fatigue without consulting with your physician is not advised due to limited research available on its effects. This advice applies particularly if you suffer from certain autoimmune diseases or take insulin or diabetes medications as the herb could potentially interfere with them. In addition, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid this supplement.
Bhumyamalaki
Bhumyamalaki is a potent herbal remedy to support liver health and boost detoxification processes in the body. Packed with bioactive compounds such as phyllanthin and hypophyllanthin that provide protection from alcohol and toxins as well as their anti-oxidative stress caused by these agents, Bhumyamalaki can also increase bile flow while decreasing inflammation in the spleen while encouraging production of nitric oxide, essential for overall immune health.
Leaves, roots and fruit from this plant are combined into a powder that is taken twice daily for maximum efficacy in treating jaundice, hepatitis and gallstones as well as reducing gastrointestinal problems and treating menstrual irregularities. Furthermore, its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties also aid in lowering cholesterol levels.
Bhumi amlaki (Phyllanthus niruri), an Ayurvedic herb known for its hepatoprotective properties, can help treat chronic liver diseases including alcoholic liver disease and viral hepatitis. Additionally, this remedy may also be used to alleviate eye pain, treat digestion issues (hepatomegaly and splenomegaly), treat eye discomfort or respiratory conditions like bronchitis and asthma.
Diuretics help the body eliminate excess water and salt through urine. Furthermore, this medication also has other positive impacts such as lowering blood pressure and preventing high blood sugar in diabetics; relieving anxiety and depression; treating sexual disorders (gonorrhea) as well as urinary tract infections.
This herb makes an excellent addition to any diet, as its nutrients are essential for overall good health. You can add it to smoothies or drinks for an added nutrition boost, or take capsule form; just consult a doctor first as it may interact with certain medications and not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding; store this herb in a cool, dry location for best results!
Katuki
Kutki (also known as Picrorhiza kurroa or Katuka in Sanskrit) is one of Ayurveda’s most potent liver-protective herbs, grown on Himalayan mountains cliffs and highly prized for its healing properties. Kutki benefits include strengthening immunity, managing stress and improving overall mental wellness; its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities may even help treat rheumatism or arthritis.
Traditional Ayurved medicine uses hepatoprotective herbs such as Kutki to treat various liver conditions and boost immunity, with scientific studies showing its hepatoprotective compounds like Picroliv and Picroside being particularly effective at stimulating cell regeneration following liver damage. Furthermore, its protective qualities make Kutki ideal for treating injuries caused by alcoholism and radiation exposure.
ORGANIC INDIA Katuki is sustainably grown in Himachal Pradesh, a mountainous state located in northern India near the Himalayas. The herb’s roots and rhizome are widely used medicinally; specifically its anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective properties help balance pitta dosha to improve digestion while its antimicrobial, anti-diabetic, immunomodulatory, antipyretic properties help relieve throat and chest pain as well as act as an effective digestive tonic against indigestion.
Gotu Kola
Gotu kola (centella asiatica), commonly referred to by its common name “gotu kola,” is an anti-aging perennial plant with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It contains triterpenoid saponins which may be responsible for its many health benefits and have been demonstrated to reduce inflammation, improve circulation and promote skin healing as well as possess anti-bacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant properties – including helping prevent cell damage while increasing cognitive function – with studies showing them helping treat dementia in mice while its anti-inflammatory effects may help delay or even prevent Alzheimer’s in humans.
Gotu kola is used in Ayurveda medicine to balance Pitta and Vata doshas, helping rejuvenate both mind and body. Often employed as a cooling herb, its anti-inflammatory and blood-purifying properties help alleviate oily skin while simultaneously balancing Pitta imbalances. Furthermore, its relaxing effects help calm anxiety levels.
Gotu kola is an increasingly popular beauty herb, thanks to its anti-aging properties and powerful anti-bacterial action. These benefits help address acne and blemishes while the healing properties can improve stretch marks and scars. Furthermore, gotu kola can also be used to treat eczema and other skin conditions; one study even showed it’s as effective as hydrocortisone cream for treating both dermatitis and eczema!
Though gotu kola offers many health advantages, you should consult your physician before taking any herbal supplements, particularly if you have preexisting medical conditions or take prescription medication. Some cases have linked herbal supplements with liver problems and other serious side effects.
Gotu kola is most often sold as a supplement, though juices and tinctures also contain it. Furthermore, its culinary applications range from being used as a culinary herb to being an ingredient in Burmese cuisine where it is called malluma (a leafy green mixed with onion, crushed peanuts, bean powder and lime (or fish sauce) juice). Malluma can be served alongside rice as well as vegetarian dishes like jackfruit or pumpkin curry dishes for an aromatic burmese dish!
