Adaptogens: Herbs For Strength, Stamina, and Stress Relief David Winston, RH (AHG), 2004 Revised 2007

The idea of using tonic remedies to restore balance and health in a person is an ancient idea. The word and concept of an adaptogen is a relatively new way of describing a type of remedy commonly found in traditional Chinese (Qi tonic), African (Manyasi), Tibetan, Ayurvedic (Rasayana), and Native American medicine. The actual word adaptogen was first used by a Soviet scientist, Dr. Nikolai Lazarev, who under grants from the military, was researching substances which produced a state of nonspecific resistance (SNIR)1. The idea was to find ways to enhance the productivity and performance of soldiers, athletes, and workers without using dangerous stimulants. Much of the early research into adaptogens was done by Dr. I.I. Brekhman who, in the late 1950s, studied Panax ginseng. Looking for a less expensive and more available substitute, he changed his focus to a native Russian shrub, Eleutherococcus senticosis. His first monograph of this now popular herb (Siberian Ginseng, Eleuthero) was published in 1960. In 1969 Brekhman and Dardymov defined the general pharmacological properties of adaptogenic substances. These include2: a.) The substance is relatively non-toxic to the recipient. b.) An adaptogen has non-specific activity and acts by increasing resistance of the organism to a broad spectrum of adverse biological, chemical, and physical factors. c.) These substances tend to help regulate or normalize organ and system function within the organism. Several theories have been suggested to explain the effects of adaptogenic substances. One theory proposed by Dardymov and Kirkorian3 argues that adaptogens function primarily due to their antioxidant and free radical scavenging effects. While their theory is partially accurate, it is inadequate to explain the full effects of these medicinals4. More recent research by Panossian postulates that adaptogens work primarily by affecting the Hypothalamic/ Pituitary/Adrenal (HPA) axis and the Sympathoadrenal System (SAS)3. Thus, adaptogens modulate our response to stress (physical, environmental, or emotional) and help regulate the interconnected endocrine, immune, and nervous systems. This re-regulation of a disordered or highly stressed system is achieved by metabolic regulators such as cytokines, catecholamines, glucocorticoids, cortisol, serotonin, nitric oxide (NO), cholecystokinin, corticotrophin-releasing factor (CRF), and sex hormones. This broad array of biochemical activators helps explain why adaptogens also have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anxiolytic, antidepressant, nervine, and amphoteric effects as well. So while most or all adaptogens are antioxidants, having antioxidant properties (Green Tea, Rosemary, Cranberry) is not enough to make a substance an adaptogen. This is true of many amphoteric herbs as well. An amphoteric is a substance that normalizes function of an organ or a system within the body. I think of amphoterics as food for an organ. Examples include Hawthorn for the cardiovascular system, Fresh Milky Oat for the nervous system, or Helonias for the female reproductive system. All of these herbs are amphoteric, but none of them qualify as adaptogens. Brekhman and Dardymovs list of physiological actions of adaptogens states that adaptogens help modulate system function and maintain homeostasis. So all adaptogens act as broad spectrum amphoterics to living organisms, but they rarely have a pronounced effect on only one specific organ or system. Adaptogenic Materia Medica 1. Well-known adaptogens: American Ginseng root (Panax quinquefolius) Bitter, slightly sweet, slightly cool, moist Western Classification: Adaptogen, antioxidant, antiinflammatory, bitter tonic, immune amphoteric. American Ginseng is less stimulating/heating than Panax ginseng; making it more appropriate for regular use by younger people of both sexes. It is mildly cooling and moistening and is appropriate for fatigue, recovery from pneumonia or bronchitis (especially with a dry cough), CFIDS, asthma, chronic stress with depression or anxiety, and autoimmune diseases of the lungs or GI tract. I find it of great benefit for jet lag, metabolic syndrome, adrenal deficiency, immune depletion, sexual neurasthenia, and deficient insomnia. It is much less likely to over stimulate people than is Asian Ginseng and it is better for yin deficiency conditions (dryness)5. Dose: tincture (1:5): 35 ml (60100 drops) TID tea: Take 12 tsp. dried cut/sifted root to 12 oz. water. Gently simmer for 1/2 hour, steep an additional 1/2 hour. Take 4 oz. three times per day.
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Ashwagandha root (Withania somnifera) Bitter, sweet, warm, dry Western Classification: Adaptogen, antiinflammatory, antioxidant, antispasmodic, astringent, immune amphoteric, sedative (mild), thyroid stimulant. This herb is one of the Rasayana (rejuvenative) herbs of Ayurveda. It is one of the few calming adaptogens and has traditionally been used for anxiety, bad dreams, mild OCD, insomnia, and nervous exhaustion. It acts as an antispasmodic & antiinflammatory and is very useful for fibromyalgia (with Kava and Scullcap), restless leg syndrome, mild Tourettes syndrome, and osteo-arthritis. It is an immune amphoteric useful for hyper- and hypo-immune conditions. I find it especially useful for autoimmune conditions affecting the muscles and joints such as rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, polymyositis, and polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR). It enhances male fertility (sperm count and sperm motility) and, due to its iron content, it benefits iron-deficient anemia (take it simmered in milk with molasses added). Ashwagandha also stimulates thyroid function. Studies in mice showed significant increases of serum T3(18%) and T4(111%) after 20 days of use6. I use it with Bacopa and Bladderwrack for hypothyroidism.5 Dose: tincture (1:5): 1.5-2 ml (3040 drops) TID tea: Take 1/2 tsp. dried root in 8 oz. water, decoct 10 minutes, steep 1/2 hour. Take 4 oz. TID. The dried root starts to lose its activity after two years. Chinese or Korean Ginseng root (Panax ginseng) Red Ginseng root Sweet, slightly bitter, warm-hot, moist White Ginseng root Sweet, bitter, warm, moist Western Classification: Adaptogen, antioxidant, antiinflammatory, antiasthmatic, cardiotonic, CNS stimulant (mild), immune amphoteric. Ginseng, especially Red Ginseng, is the most stimulating of the adaptogens. Traditionally it is used in Chinese medicine for older men with deficient kidney yang (impotence, fatigue, BPH, low back pain) or for patients with vanquished qi (CFIDS, CHF). It is a useful part of a protocol for deficient depression, exhaustion, Addisons Disease (with Licorice), deficient insomnia, diabetes, cachexia, immune deficiency allergic asthma (use it with Schisandra and Licorice), erectile dysfunction, and it helps prevent or treat leucopenia in patients receiving chemotherapy or radiation for cancer. Recent human studies using Asian Ginseng showed it reduced symptoms of COPD7, improved survival times in patients with gastric cancer, and reduced incidence of metastases8. Overuse of Ginseng in yang (excess) people can cause insomnia, anxiety, increased blood pressure, and irritability. Dose: tincture (1:5): 1-2 ml (2040 drops) up to three times per day. tea: Take 12 tsp. of the ground herb or one root, slowly decoct (in a nonmetal pot) for 1/2 hour. Let steep an additional hour. Take up to two cups per day. Cordyceps fungus (Cordyceps sinensis) Sweet, slightly acrid, warm, moist Western Classification: Adaptogen, antiasthmatic, antileukemic, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, immune potentiator, nephroprotective, sedative (mild). The caterpillar fungus (winter insect, summer plant) is one of the more unusual adaptogens. While the parasitized larvae are still available, most Cordyceps is now grown on soybeans. It is used in TCM for deficient kidney yin and yang caused by chronic disease or extremely rigorous labor/athletic training. It improves libido and sperm count, relieves fatigue, anemia, chronic coughs, tinnitus, and bone marrow (erythroid) suppression due to radiation therapy. Cordyceps also has active antitumor and antileukemic activity (use with Panax notoginseng), it enhances circulation and cardiac output, as well as lung capacity. Cordyceps combined with Nettle Seed, Unprocessed Rehmannia, Dan Shen, and Rhubarb is very useful for treating degenerative kidney disease. In human studies Cordyceps has shown significant benefit for male sexual dysfunction, hyperlipidemia, low platelet counts, allergic rhinitis, tinnitus, and chronic tracheitis9. Dose: tincture (1:4 or 1:5): 1-2 ml (20 to 40 drops) BID/TID tea: Add 1/2 tsp. mycelia powder or crushed mushroom to 10 oz. water. Decoct for 15 minutes, steep for 1 hour. Take 8 oz. once or twice per day capsules (standardized proprietary extract CordyMax Cs-4): 2 capsules per day

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Dang Shen root (Codonopsis pilosula) Sweet, warm, moist Western Classification: Adaptogen, gastroprotective, hypoglycemic agent, immune potentiator, nervine Codonopsis, also known as poor mans ginseng is used in TCM as a mild substitute for Panax. It is a spleen qi tonic and is used for poor appetite, gastric irritation, and/or ulcers, fatigue, and weak limbs. It is also a lung qi tonic and can be used for shortness of breath with a dry cough and frequent respiratory tract infections (use it with Prince Seng). Dang Shen is commonly used to strengthen the immune system (cancer, HIV, mononucleosis) and is frequently used in Fu Zheng therapies to prevent side effects from chemotherapy or radiation. It increases hemoglobin levels and the number of red blood cells as well10. It is also indicated for insulin resistance and NIDDM along with Chinese Dioscorea, Huang Qi, and Lycium fruit. Dose: tincture (1:4 or 1:5): 2-4 ml (4080) drops TID/QID tea: Take 2-3 tsp. of the dried cut/sifted root or whole root and slowly decoct in 16 oz. of water for 1/2 hour. Steep an additional hour. Take up to two cups per day. Eleuthero root (Eleutherococcus senticosis) - Sweet, slightly bitter, neutral Western Classification: Adaptogen, anticholesteremic, antioxidant, antiinflammatory (mild), immune potentiator, nervine. Eleuthero (formerly Siberian Ginseng) is less tonifying than the true Ginsengs (Panax spp.). It is neutral energetically and so is appropriate for daily use. It is indicated for the average American who is overstressed, undernourished but overfed, doesnt get enough sleep or exercise, has dark circles under his or her eyes, a quivering tongue, and contracting/dilating pupils. This description of HPA axis depletion without overt pathology is precisely where Eleuthero is useful. Taken regularly it enhances immune function, reduces cortisol levels and inflammatory response, and it promotes improved cognitive and physical performance. In human studies Eleuthero has been successfully used to treat bone marrow suppression caused by chemotherapy or radiation, angina, hypercholesterolemia, and neurasthenia with headache, insomnia, and poor appetite11,1. In clinical practice I also use Eleuthero for white coat hypertension (along with Linden flower, Motherwort, and Chrysanthemum flower), jet lag, and ADHD. Dose: tincture (1:4): 4-5 ml (80-100 drops) TID/QID fluid extract: 1/2 tsp. 2-3 times per day tea: Add 12 tsp. dried powdered root to 1216 oz. of water. Decoct slowly for 2030 minutes, steep 1 hour. Take up to three cups per day. Licorice rhizome (Glycyrrhiza glabra, G. uralensis) Sweet, slightly bitter, warm, moist Western Classification: Adaptogen, antihistamine, antiinflammatory, antidiuretic, antioxidant, antitussive, antiviral, demulcent, hepatoprotective, immune amphoteric, gastroprotective. Gan Cao (Licorice) is a versatile and commonly used herb in TCM, Unani-Tibb and European herbal traditions. It is an immune amphoteric and can be useful for autoimmune disorders (Lupus, Scleroderma, Crohns disease, Rheumatoid Arthritis) as well as immune deficiency conditions (cancer, HIV, CFIDS). It strengthens adrenal function and can be used with Panax ginseng for Addisons disease. It is also useful for allergies, ulcers, elevated cortisol levels, PCOS (with Serenoa and Paeonia), and spasmodic coughs. Excess doses of Licorice can have a hyperaldosterogenic effect (increased retention of sodium and excretion of potassium). Women are more sensitive to this effect than men and patients with hypertension should avoid using this herb on a continual basis. Dose: tincture (1:5): .5-1 ml (1020) drops TID tea: Add 1/2 tsp. dried root to 8 oz. water, decoct 1015 minutes, let steep 1015 minutes. take 4 oz. BID. Reishi fungus (Ganoderma lucidum) Bitter, warm, neutral Western Classification: Mild adaptogen, anticholesteremic, antiinflammatory, antioxidant, cardiotonic, immune amphoteric, nervine. Known in TCM as Ling Zhi, the mushroom of immortality. It is an important immune amphoteric useful for hypo-(HIV, cancer, CFIDS) or hyper-(allergy, autoimmune disease) immune disorders. It acts as a calming nervine, mildly lowers blood pressure, relieves angina pain, and protects the liver against chemical or viral insult. It is an important part of most Fu Zheng formulas, used in China to enhance chemotherapy and reduce side effects of cancer treatment.
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Reishi fungus (continued) In clinical studies Ganoderma has been effective for treating asthma, hyperlipidemia, leucopenia, anxiety, & angina9. It can also be used to prevent or treat altitude sickness, combined with Ginger, Rhodiola, & Cordyceps.5 Dose: tincture (1:5): 4-5 ml (80-100 drops) four to six times per day tea: 1-2 oz. dried cut/sifted mushroom to 32 oz. water, slowly decoct for 2 hours until reduced by one-half (16 oz.). Take up to three-four cups per day. Capsules (powdered extract-standardized to 12% beta glucans and 6% triterpenes): 1-3 capsules BID Rhodiola root (Rhodiola rosea) Sweet, slightly bitter, cool, neutral Western Classification: Adaptogen, antiinflammatory, antioxidant, antidepressant, cardioprotective, immune potentiator, nervine. Known as Rose Root or Golden Root, Rhodiola has a long history of use in Scandinavia, Eastern Europe, and Russia as a rejuvenative tonic. Rhodiola has been an official medicine in the Soviet Union (now Russia) since 1969, as a mild CNS stimulant, memory enhancer, cardiotonic, and immune tonic12. In human studies, this root has been shown to be effective for treating mild depression, neurasthenia13, impaired cognitive function4, CFIDS, ADHD, erectile dysfunction, amenorrhea, and infertility in women. I find Rhodiola useful for people with deficient (asthenic) depression, altitude sickness (use it with Cordyceps, Reishi, and Holy Basil), and to aid in recovery from head trauma injury. Avoid using Rhodiola in anxious, manic, or bipolar patients. Traditionally, Rhodiola is used in Tibetan medicine for nourishing the lungs, to increase blood circulation, and for fatigue, altitude sickness, and weakness. Dose: tincture (1:4): 2-3 ml (4060 drops) TID tea: Take 12 tsp. of the cut/sifted dried root and decoct in 810 oz. of water for 15 minutes, steep (covered) an additional 45 minutes. Take one to three cups per day. Avoid taking it in the evening as it may cause insomnia in sensitive people. standardized extract (3% rosavins and 1% salidrosides): 1/2-1 tablet per day Wu Wei Zi berries/seeds (Schisandra chinensis, S. splenathera) Sour, pungent, warm, dry Western Classification: Adaptogen, antioxidant, antiinflammatory, astringent, antiasthmatic, hepatoprotective, immune amphoteric. Schisandra berries mildly stimulate CNS activity and at the same time produce a calm, focused state of mind. It can be used with Codonopsis or American Ginseng for neurasthenia and exhaustion. It is very useful as part of a protocol for hepatitis B&C (use it with Milk Thistle and Turmeric), asthma (with Licorice), and for nervous system disorders including Parkinsons disease, Menieres syndrome, deficient depression, and teenage or adult ADHD. Wu Wei Zi is used in Fu Zheng therapy to support immune function and prevent side effects caused by cancer chemotherapy. Traditionally, this herb is used to astringe a leaky jing gate (urinary incontinence, leucorrhea, diarrhea, and spermatorrhea) and to reduce excessive sweating. Dose: tincture (1:5): 2-4 ml (4080 drops) TID/QID tea: Add 1 tsp. of the dried berries to 810 oz. water, decoct 510 minutes, steep 2030 minutes. Take 4 oz. TID 2. Newly Recognized Adaptogens Amla fruit (Emblica officinalis) Sour, sweet, cool, dry Western Classification: Adaptogen, antioxidant, anticholesteremic, antiinflammatory, astringent, radioprotective, diuretic, hepatoprotective (mild), nutritive. Amla, or Amalaki, is a Rasayana or rejuvenative remedy used in Ayurvedic medicine. A 1999 animal study by N.N. Rege concluded that Amla was not only a useful antioxidant and antiinflammatory, but had adaptogenic activity as well. The extract was shown to protect against biological, physical, and chemical stressors14. Amla is used clinically for connective tissue disorders (Scleroderma, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus, Ankylosing Spondylitis), to build blood (anemia use it with Ashwagandha and Codonopsis), and strengthen bones, capillaries, and the eyes. It also inhibits atherosclerosis, carcinogenesis, and may help slow the degeneration caused by Alzheimers disease. Dose: tincture (1:4 or 1:5): 3-5 ml (60-100 drops) TID/QID tea: Add 1/2-1 tsp. Dried fruit to 8 oz. water, decoct 10 minutes, steep 1 hour, take two to three cups per day. tablets: 1-2 BID/TID
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Aralia mandshurica, A. elata, A. schmidtii roots Pungent, warm, moist Western Classification: Adaptogen, antioxidant, CNS stimulant (mild), expectorant, hypoglycemic agent, nephroprotective. These three Aralia spp. (Araliaceae) are native to Siberia and Manchuria, and are used in Russia as mild adaptogenic tonics. Aralia mandshurica is the most researched of the three, and in animal studies it protected mice against radiation damage15. Readers should be aware that not all Aralia spp. have adaptogenic activity (Ex: A. racemosa, A. spinosa), and animal studies of A. mandshurica have noted possible hepatotoxicity.16,17 Dose: standardized extract: 150 mg. TID Bryonia root (Bryonia alba) Bitter, cold, dry Western Classification: Adaptogen, antiinflammatory, analgesic/antibacterial, antioxidant, cardiotonic, immune amphoteric. Usually thought of as a highly toxic plant, Bryonia root has been found to be both an adaptogen and nontoxic if gathered in the spring or autumn. The summer gathered roots have a very different chemistry and are, as commonly thought, quite toxic. Bryonia (commercially known as Lostak) is available as a tonic remedy in Russia and Eastern Europe. It is used to prevent radiation-induced cell damage, side effects from chemotherapy, treat CFIDS, and it improves physical endurance and work capacity18. Dose: standardized tablets: 1 per day Guduchi stem (Tinospora cordifolia) Bitter, warm, dry Western Classification: Adaptogen, antiinflammatory, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, diuretic, immune amphoteric. Guduchi is another of the Ayurvedic Rasayana remedies. It is traditionally used for impotence, gout, edema, arthritis, and general weakness. Human and animal studies have shown it increases uric acid excretion, is a powerful antiinflammatory for arthralgias, acts as an immunomodulator (useful for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy), hepatoprotective agent (hepatitis B&C), and it reduces elevated blood sugar levels. Animal studies suggest the herb has antistress (adaptogenic) effects protecting against cisplaten-induced intestinal hypermotility and it helped normalize macrophage activity14. Dose: tincture (1:5): 1.5-2 ml (30-40 drops) TID tea: 1 tsp. Dried herb, 8 oz. water, decoct 10-15 minutes, steep 1/2 hour. Take 4 oz. up to three times per day Holy Basil herb (Ocimum sanctum, O. gratissimum) Pungent, sweet, warm, neutral Western Classification: Adaptogen, antibacterial, anticholesteremic, antidepressant, antioxidant, antiviral, carminative, expectorant, immune amphoteric. Tulsi, or Holy Basil, has a long tradition of use in Ayurvedic, Siddha, and the Unani-Tibb systems of medicine. It is considered a Rasayana or rejuvenative medicine and is traditionally used to improve memory, to treat coughs, colds, indigestion, asthma (with Black Pepper), and fatigue. More recent research has shown it reduces excess immune response in allergic asthma and allergies while enhancing normal immune function. In addition, in animal studies, it increases endurance, inhibits ulcer formation, and protects against gamma radiation. In a human trial, Tulsi showed benefits in NIDDM, reducing fasting blood glucose (17.6%) and postprandial blood glucose (7.3%)19. I use Tulsi for stagnant depression (along with Lavender, Rosemary, and/or Damiana) to help speed recovery from head trauma injuries and for poor concentration and mental fog. Dose: tincture (1:5 or 1:2): 2-3 ml (4060 drops) TID tea: 1 tsp. dried leaf to 8 oz. hot water, steep, covered, 510 minutes. Take 4 oz. BID/TID Jiaogulan herb (Gynostemma pentaphylla) Sweet, slightly bitter, neutral Western Classification: Adaptogen, antioxidant, expectorant, hypocholesteremic, hepatoprotective, immune potentiator, nervine. This member of the Curcubitaceae family has a long history of use in Southern China & Taiwan as a folk remedy for fatigue, weakness, asthma, hepatitis, migraines, and cancer. Due to its low cost and safety, it has become much more widely used as a Ginseng substitute and adaptogen throughout Southeast Asia.

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Jiaogulan herb (continued) Interestingly, some of the active constituents, gypenosides, are chemically identical to ginsenosides found in the unrelated Panax species. Clinically, Jiaogulan is useful for hypertension, congestive heart failure, liver disease, elevated blood lipids, and to strengthen the immune system and inhibit cancer20. Dose: tincture (1:5): 1.5-2 ml (30-40 drops) TID tea: 1 tsp. Dried herb, 8 oz. water, decoct 10-15 minutes, steep 1/2 hour. Take 4 oz. up to three times per day capsules (standardized to gypenosides): 1-2 TID Rhaponticum root (Rhaponticum carthamoides) synonym:Leuzea carthamoides Bitter, cool, dry Western Classification: Adaptogen, anticoagulant, antioxidant, antitumor, cardiac tonic, hepatoprotective, hypoglycemic, immune stimulant, nervine Is a Russian herb used as a CNS stimulant and as a restorative agent to the nervous system. Animal studies have shown immunostimulant, antitumor, and cognitive enhancing effects. Human studies have shown it is an effective adaptogen, antidepressant (especially for depression due to alcohol withdrawal), immunopotentiator, hepatoprotective, and hypoglycemic agent21. It has been listed as an official medicine in the Soviet (now Russian) pharmacopoeia since 1961 and is a popular tonic for athletes (it promotes muscle building and enhances lactic and uric acid excretion). It also reduces LDL cholesterol levels, blood viscosity, and blood pressure. Dose: tincture (1:4) 2-4 ml (40-80 drops) TID tea: 1-2 tsp. Dried root, 12 oz. water, decoct 15-20 minutes, steep 40 minutes, take 4 oz. TID Shilajit-bituminous pitch Bitter, slightly pungent, warm Western Classification: Adaptogen, antiallergic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiulcer, hypoglycemic, immunomodulator An Ayurvedic mineral remedy used to enhance immune function and tonify the heart, liver, and kidneys. It is hepatoprotective, antiinflammatory, antihistamine, and gastroprotective. It is used clinically to treat diabetes (mixed 50/50 with Triphala), hepatitis, constipation, digestive disorders, cancer, degenerative kidney disease (use it with Cordyceps), and anemia. Dose: capsules or pills: 1-2 TID 3. Little-Known Adaptogens Hoppea dichotoma root An Ayurvedic plant traditionally used as a nerve tonic. It has been reported in the literature to have adaptogenic properties. Oplopanax elatus /Echinopanax elatus bark This herb is a Korean Araliaceae, it has been reported to have adaptogenic and antioxidant qualities in the Russian literature. Trichopus zeylanicus seed Is used by the Kani tribe of India for energy, to increase stamina, and to promote immunity and vitality. It has been shown in animal studies to increase adrenal corticosterone levels, inhibit ulcers, act as a hepatoprotective agent, and an aphrodisiac22. Cross Vine leaf (Bignonia capreolata) This common vine grows throughout the southeastern United States. The late Tommie Bass, the famed herbalist of Shinbone Ridge and people he trained use this plant as an adaptogenic tonic for promoting strength, energy, and to purify the blood23. Policias fruticosum root This small tree, known as Dinh Lang, grows in Vietnam, where the local people have long used it to protect against the effects of overwork, extreme temperatures, and illness. It is also used as a sexual tonic and animal studies confirm it enhances sexual activity in aged mice.
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4. Possible Adaptogens Eucommia bark (Eucommia ulmoides) Sweet, slightly pungent, warm, neutral Western Classification: Mild adaptogen (?), antiinflammatory, antioxidant, antispasmodic, diuretic, gastroprotective, hypotensive. Japanese research suggests Du Zhong, Eucommia bark or leaves, have adaptogenic effects. Traditionally, it is used for hypertension, deficient kidney yang (low back pain, impotence), strengthening bones, ligaments, and muscles, and preventing miscarriage. Recent data indicates this herb promotes collagen synthesis, protects against gastric ulcers, and relieves stress and hypertension. It also lowers LDL & VLDL cholesterol levels and increases phagocyte activity9,10. Dose: tincture (1:5): 3-5 ml (60-90 drops) TID tea: 2 tsp. dried bark, 16 oz. water, decoct 1 hour, take 8 oz. BID/TID He Shou Wu root (Polygonum multiflorum) - Sweet, bitter, slightly warm Western Classification: Antioxidant, astringent, cholagogue, hepatoprotective, hypocholesterolemic, laxative, neuroprotective, nutritive In Chinese medicine, He Shou Wu is used to nourish the liver, kidneys, blood, and jing (essence). It can be used to treat people with yin or blood deficiency symptoms such as dizziness, ringing in the ears, anemia, poor vision, low back pain, and premature graying of the hair. It is also used for impotence, excessive vaginal discharge, uterine bleeding, and weak knees and ankles. Research has started to reveal some additional uses for He Shou Wu and possible explanations for some of its traditional uses. There are many animal studies that indicate that prepared He Shou Wu has neuroprotective effects. In rat studies, oral consumption of this herb inhibited the formation of beta-amyloid plaques (which are associated with neurodegeneration in people with Alzheimers disease), prevented dopaminergic degeneration caused by toxic pesticide exposures, and improved mental acuity and recall. In animal studies, regular use of He Shou Wu promoted increased adrenal and thyroid hormone secretions, enhanced T lymphocyte and macrophage activity, and prolonged the life spans of various animals. In clinical practice, this herb is often used for men with lack of libido, low sperm count, and poor sperm motility. It can be combined with Ashwagandha, suo yang (Cynomorium songaricum), and Morinda root to enhance the effects. Dose: tincture (1:5): 30-40 drops, three times per day tea: 2 tsp. dried root, 8 oz. water, decoct 15-20 minutes, steep 40 minutes, take 4 oz. up to 3 times per day. Do not decoct in a metal pot. Huang Qi root (Astragalus membranaceus) - Sweet, warm, moist Western Classification: Mild adaptogen (?), antidiaphoretic, antioxidant, antitumor, hepatoprotective, immune potentiator. Astragalus is a major tonic remedy in TCM. It is traditionally used for organ prolapse (spleen qi tonic), to strengthen the Wei qi, modulate sweating, and promote the draining of abscesses. It is a potent immunostimulant and antitumor agent that has been shown to increase survival time in patients with adenocarcinoma, non-small cell lung cancer, and breast cancer (use it with Ligustrum fruit). It is also very useful for immune deficiency conditions such as HIV, CFIDS, and TB and in human studies it helped to prevent colds and influenza. It is a lung qi tonic for dry coughs, frequent upper respiratory tract infections, asthma, as well as a cardiotonic (CHF, angina), and it protects the kidneys against nephrotoxic medications. The combination of Huang Qi and Shan Yao (Dioscorea opposita) is used in China for type II diabetes with qi and yin deficiency9. Dose: tincture (1:5): 2-4 ml (40-80 drops) TID tea: 2 tsp. Dried cut/sifted root, 12 oz. water, slowly decoct for twenty to thirty minutes, let steep another 1/2 hour. Take up to 3 cups per day.

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Lycium fruit (Lycium chinense) Sweet, warm, moist Western Classification: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, chemoprotective, hepatoprotective, hypoglycemic agent, mild hypotensive agent, mild immune tonic, nutritive Is used in TCM as a liver, kidney, and blood tonic. Gou Qi Zi (popularly known as Goji berries) strengthen the eyes and vasculature, acts as a mild hepatoprotective agent, and lowers LDL/VLDL cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Lycium fruit has significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity and in animal studies it has been found to prevent formation of beta-amyloid plaques and neuronal apoptosis. A polysaccharide extract of the berries is being used as an immune stimulant in cancer patients. New uses of the fruit for male infertility, as a chemoprotective agent, and to relieve cachexia suggest a possible adaptogenic effect. Dose: tincture (1:4): 3-4.5 ml (60-90 drops) QID tea: 2 tsp. Dried fruit to 12 oz. water, decoct 15-20 minutes, steep 40-50 minutes, take up to three cups per day Mimosa flowers or stem bark (Albizzia julibrissin) Sweet, neutral Western Classification: Mild adaptogen (?), antidepressant, antioxidant, anxiolytic, nervine. Japanese researchers have suggested Albizzia has adaptogenic effects. There is little data to support this statement, but the flowers and bark of this small, shrubby tree are superb mood-elevators and I use it with Hawthorn and Rose petals to treat broken hearts. In TCM the bark (and flowers) are used for emotional problems caused by liver qi stagnation short temper, depression, irritability, impaired memory, and PMS/menopausal mood swings12. Dose: tincture (1:5): 2-4 ml (40-80 drops) TID Tea: 1-2 tsp. Dried bark to 8 oz. water. Decoct for 10 minutes, steep 30-40 minutes, take 4 oz. TID Morinda root (Morinda officinalis) Pungent, sweet Western Classification: Mild adaptogen, antidepressant, antioxidant, hypoglycemic agent, immune tonic, nervine. Known as Ba Ji Tian in Chinese medicine, this root is used for deficient kidney yang patterns lack of libido, impotence, low back pain, male and female infertility, and urinary frequency.5 It is also used for strengthening the muscles and bones and for asthma (along with Schisandra) caused by the kidneys not grasping the lung qi (wheezing, inability to fully inhale). Animal research suggests that this herb also has antidepressant and antistress (adaptogenic) effects.24 Dose: tincture (1:5): 1.5-2.5 (30-50 drops) ml TID tea: 1-2 tsp. dried root, 10 oz. water, decoct 15 minutes, steep 45 minutes, take 4 oz. TID Prince Seng root (Pseudostellaria heterophylla) Sweet, slightly bitter, warm, moist Western Classification: Mild adaptogen (?), demulcent, immune potentiator, pectoral. Known in TCM as Tai Zi Shen (or Hai Er Shen), Prince Seng is often referred to as Ginseng of the Lungs. It is a very important lung yin tonic for dry coughs, emphysema, lung damage, or hot/dry lung conditions. It mildly stimulates the immune system and has been used to treat malaise, neurasthenia, CFS (use it with Schisandra), IBS, and asthma. It is a useful remedy for deficient, sensitive patients who need tonics, but get easily over stimulated by stronger adaptogens14. Dose: tincture (1:5): 2-4 ml (40-80 drops) TID/QID tea: 1-2 tsp. Dried root, 12 oz. water, decoct slowly for 20-30 minutes, steep 1 hour, take 4 oz QID Saw Palmetto berries (Serenoa repens) Acrid, sweet, warm, moist Western Classification: Mild adaptogen (?), antiinflammatory, diuretic, expectorant, immune potentiator, nutritive. Saw Palmetto is thought of as a prostate herb, but in reality it is much more. When it was introduced into Western medical practice in 1877 it was used for cachexia, neurasthenia, anorexia, and general depletion. From a TCM standpoint, it would be seen as a tonic to the kidney yin, lung, and spleen qi.
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Saw Palmetto berries (continued) These qualities are consistent with most, if not all, Chinese adaptogenic remedies. I use Saw Palmetto herb (in capsules) in practice for asthenic, deficient patients who are underweight, have difficulty breathing, and have dry hair and skin5. Dose: tincture (1:3): 3-4.5 ml (60-90 drops) QID tea: 1-2 tsp. dried berry, 8 oz. water, steep 1 hour, decoct 15-20 minutes, take 4 oz. QID capsules: 1-2 00 capsules BID Shatavari root (Asparagus racemosus) Sweet, bitter, warm, moist Western Classification: Mild adaptogen (?), antispasmodic, antitussive, gastroprotective, aphrodisiac(?), demulcent, diuretic, immune potentiator. This Indian species of Asparagus is used as a Rasayana remedy in Ayurveda. It has long been used as a tonic remedy, especially for women, promoting fertility and reducing menopausal symptoms, especially vaginal dryness and lack of libido. It is also used for dry coughs, to heal or prevent gastric ulcers, as a nutritive tonic for cachexia, and as a soothing diuretic. Recent research indicates Shatavari enhances immune function, increases corticosteroid production, and promotes cell regeneration14. Dose: tincture (1:5): 2-4 ml (40-80 drops) TID tea: 2 tsp. Dried, powdered root to 8 oz. water, decoct 10-15 minutes, steep 40 minutes, take up to 2 cups per day Suma bark (Pfaffia paniculata) Acrid, sweet, neutral Western Classification: Mild adaptogen (?), antitumor, anticholesteremic, immune potentiator. Incorrectly called Brazilian Ginseng, Pfaffia is reported to have a long history of ethnobotanical use. Modern phytochemical studies were initiated in Japan in the 1980s and among the constituents identified is Ecdysone. This substance is a type of biologically active phytosterol that mimics insect hormones and is of great interest to researchers. Clinically, Suma has been used to regulate hormones (Diabetes, BPH, lack of libido, menopausal symptoms), enhance immunity, and inhibit tumor growth. Michael Tierra, OMD, RH (AHG) has stated he has only seen adaptogenic effects when using Suma in very high doses (6-9g per day if I recall correctly). Dose: tincture (1:5): 2-3 ml (40-60 drops) TID tea: 1-2 tsp. Dried bark, 12 oz. water, decoct 20 minutes, steep 15 minutes, take 4 oz. TID capsules: one 500 mg capsule BID Bibliography
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Panossian, A., Wikman, G., Wagner, H., Plant Adaptogens III, Earlier and More Recent Aspects and Concepts On Their Mode of Action, Phytomedicine: 6(4):287-299, 1999 Wagner, H., Immunostimulants and Adaptogens From Plants, pp. 1-18, In Arnason, J., et al, Phytochemistry of Medicinal Plants, Plenum Press, NY, 1995 Panossian, A., Adaptogens, Tonic Herbs for Fatigue and Stress, Alternative & Complementary Therapies, 9(6):327-331, 2003 Klein, R., Kindscher, K., Botanical Medicines With Stress Adaptogen Properties in the Ethnobotanical Literature: A Review-Unpublished Manuscript 6/21/03 Winston, D., Winstons Botanic Materia Medica and Therapeutics, DW-CHS, Washington, NJ, 2007

Panda, S., Kar, A., Changes In Thyroid Hormone Concentrations After Administration of Ashwagandha Root Extract To Adult Male Mice, Jrl. Pharm. Pharmacol, 1998, 50:1065-1068 Gross, D., Shenkman, Z., et al, Ginseng Improves Pulmonary Functions and Exercise Capacity in Patients With COPD, Monaldi Arch Chest Dis, 57 (5-6), 242-246, 2002 Suh, S.O., Kroh, M., et al, Effects of Red Ginseng Upon Postoperative Immunity and Survival in Patients With Stage III Gastric Cancer, Am. Jrl. Chin. Med., 30(4):483:494, 2002
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Chen, J.K., Chen, T.T., Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology, Art of Medicine Press, City of Industry, CA, 2004

You-Ping Zhu, Chinese Materia Medica, Chemistry, Pharmacology, and Applications, Harwood, Amsterdam, 1998
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12 Brown, R.P., Gerarg, P., Ramazanov, Z., Rhodiola rosea, A Phytomedical Overview, Herbalgram 56:40-52, 2002

Dorbinyan, V., Kteyan, A., et al, Rhodiola rosea in Stress-Induced Fatigue-A Double-Blind Cross-Over Study of a Standardized Extract SHR-5 With a Repeated Low-Dose Regimen on the Mental Performance of Healthy Physicians During Night Duty. Phytomedicine: 7(5):365-372, 2000 Rege, N.N., Thatte, U.M., Dahanukar, S.A., Adaptogenic Properties of Six Rasayana Herbs Used in Ayurvedic Medicine, Phytotherapy Research: 13(4):275-91, 1999
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Wagner, H., Norr, H., Winterhoff, H., Plant Adaptogens, Phytomedicine: 1(1):63-76, 1994

Burgos, R., Hancke, J., Wikman, G., et al, Toxicological Assessment of Aralia mandshurica (Araliaceae) Root Extract After Subchronic Administraiton in Rats. A Biochemical and Histological Study, Phytotherapy Research, 1994, 8(1):1-9 Burgos, R., Hancke, J., Caceres, D., et al, Hepatotoxic Effect of Aralia mandshurica Dried Root Extraction Pigs, Phytotherapy Research, 1999, 11(1):59-61 Panossian, A., Gabrielian E., Wagner, H., Plant Adaptogens II, Bryonia as an Adaptogen, Phytomedicine: 4(1): 85-99, 1997 Winston, D., Maimes, S., Adaptogens, Herbs For Strength, Stamina, and Stress Relief, Healing Arts Press, 2007
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Blumart, M., Jialiu, L., Jiaogulan, Chinas Immortality Herb, Torchlight Pub., 1999

Yance, D., Adaptogens: New Conceptions and Uses, Personal Insights, and Recent Advances, Centre for Natural Healing, 2000 Singh, B., Gupta, D.K., Chandan, B.K., Adaptogenic Activity of a Glyco-Peptido-Lipid Fraction From The Alcoholic Extract Trichopus zeylanicus, Gaertn., Phytomedicine: 8(4):283-291, 2001
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Patten, D., Mountain Medicine, The Herbal Remedies of Tommie Bass, National Reader Press, 2004

Zhang, Z.O, Yuan, L., et al, The Effect of Morinda officinalis How, a Chinese Traditional Medicinal Plant, on The DRL 72-s Schedule in Rats and The Forced Swimming Test in Mice, Pharmacol Biochem Behav, 2002, May;72(1-2):39-43

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