Anti-Aging Chinese Herbs: Do they work?
Chinese herbal formulas have been associated with good health and longevity since the days of Sun Shu Mao, a famous Chinese physician who lived from 581 to 682 A.D. This father of traditional Chinese medicine believed that much of the credit for his long (101 year) life span was due to his regular use of Chinese herbal formulas. Sun Shu Mao stated: anyone under forty should use herbs occasionally to naturally regulate and strengthen the body; anyone over fifty should use tonics daily to nourish the blood, strengthen the body and promote longevity. Tonics such as Ginseng (参), Ling Zhi Reishi (灵芝) and Yang Rong Wan (养荣丸) have been used for centuries to nourish aging bodies. Other aging formulas are believed to help the body address specific aging conditions such as normal body aches and pains, eye strain, hair loss and menopause.
Both Goji Berries (枸杞) and Gotu Kola (积雪草) have made modern day news as super herbs. Goji Berries, found growing high in the asian alpine regions, have for centuries been used as a preventative treatment for healthy eyes. They’re also packed with antioxidants, which make them amazing for anti-aging (they’ve even made their way into various skincare products, as well as packaged cereals and bars).
Professor Li Chi Yun attributed Gotu Kola, or Pennywort, to helping him maintain a calm state of mind – in his opinion, the most important longevity factor. When it comes to Gotu-Kola, the saying in Asia goes :“Two leaves a day, keeps old age away”! Used by Chinese and Indian herbal doctors for thousands of years, Gotu-Kola is a remedy that is still used today to combat stress-related anxiety, and strengthen immunity. Gotu Kola is a unique herb not to be confused with the Kola Nut, which contains caffeine. Gotu-Kola has no caffeine present, and instead contains compounds called triterpenoids that can decrease anxiety and increase mental function.
The Three Treasures: (Tape 2) Traditional Chinese Herbal Formulas for the Health Professional
The Three Treasures: (Tape 4) Traditional Chinese Herbal Formulas for the Health Professional