Energy - 180 Caplets

GINSENG

There are several plants that are commonly referred to as GINSENG. In the strict sense of the word "ginseng" refers to the Panax genus, of which Korean and American ginseng are the most well known medicinal herbs. Siberian, Indian and Brazilian ginsengs are not members of this genus, but share similar medicinal effects to the true ginsengs.

The ginsengs are adaptogenic herbs, meaning that they help people during stressful times and recovery from illness and fatigue. The ginsenosides and eleuthrosides are the active medicinal components of the ginsengs. Studies show that they have a structure that is similar to the steroid hormones and act through the brain. The end result is stimulation of the adrenal gland and activation of the body's energy reserves. This response keeps us safe, allowing us to fight for survival, or to flee from dangerous situations. It also increases heart rate; blood pressure and blood flow to the brain, muscles, lungs and heart. Thus ginseng leads to increased energy, mental performance and performance in physical tasks like athletics. This response can deplete the body after a while so ginseng also contains substances that stimulate cell replication, protein synthesis, immune functioning and blood sugar regulation. All of these properties nourish the body and aid in recovery from times of high activity, illness and stress. The ginsengs are recommended by natural health practitioners for a variety of needs including athletic performance, energy, recovery from illness or surgery, stress, support during cell treatment, impotence, low libido and frequent colds and flus.

The difference in the ginsengs is the strength of their activity and the amount that they stimulate versus nourish the body. Red Korean ginseng is the most stimulating and least nourishing. It is usually recommended for men. Korean white ginseng is slightly less stimulating than the red variety and is a good choice for energy enhancement in women. Both of these varieties are not usually recommended for long-term use. Siberian and American ginseng are moderately stimulating and more nourishing. They are useful for everyone and can be used for longer periods of time.

Ashwaganda (Indian Ginseng)

Ashwagandha is an Ayurvedic herb that has been traditionally used to support the body during stressful times, an adrenal and nervous system tonic. It prevents the depletion of vitamin C. vitamin C concentrates in the adrenal gland, the organ responsible for the body's adaptation to stress. Low levels of vitamin C hamper the adrenal gland's ability to produce hormones, like cortisol, and thus lead to stress-related illnesses. Ashwagandha also modulates the immune system, which is often depleted by stress. A good example of this is the cold or flu that someone comes down with immediately after the project has been completed or the last exam has been written. Ashwagandha has been studied for its ability to increase sexual functioning and physical endurance. This may also be due to Ashwagandha's support of the adrenal gland because testosterone is produced in the adrenals and is responsible for libido and muscle growth.

Suma (Brazilian Ginseng)

Suma is a South American herb that has been traditionally used to support the body during stressful times, an adrenal and nervous system tonic. It optimizes the functioning of the adrenal gland, the organ responsible for the body's adaptation to stress and for protection against stress-related illnesses. Suma also modulates the immune system, which is often depleted by stress. Suma also supports blood production. By maintaining the blood's oxygen carrying capacity Suma prevents anemia and fatigue. Suma has been studied for its ability to increase sexual functioning and physical endurance. This may also be due to Suma's support of the adrenal gland because testosterone is produced in the adrenals and is responsible for libido and muscle growth. Natural health practitioners for conditions like anemia, arthritis, impotence, menopausal complaints, Epstein-Barr virus and low immune functioning recommend Suma.

What Is An Adaptogenic Herb?

Adaptogenic herbs tend to normalize body functions, and when the job is completed, they are eliminated or incorporated into the body without any side effects. Adaptogenic herbs are especially useful in times of increased stress, lowered immunity and lessened vitality. Some excellent adaptogenic herbs include garlic, ginseng, echinacea, ginkgo, goldenseal and pau'darco.