Bee balm can find its way into our culinary spice cabinet, yet is some of our most potent medicine against infections.
Bee balm is such a delightful plant, with its splash of flowers, strong scent, spicy taste and of course its affinity for bees.
It grows up to five feet tall in my garden and the bees can’t get enough of the flowers, buzzing from one to another in such quantity that the whole bush seems to hum at a low frequency.
Although bee balm is easily grown in the garden, this mint is endemic to North America and can be found growing wild throughout the US and Canada (see the USDA range map below). It was used extensively by many Native American tribes, including the Blackfoot, Menominee, Ojibwa and Winnebago.
This plant has many common names but they are all referring to some type of Monarda species. There are about 16 different species of Monarda and, as far as I know, all can be used interchangeably, with the taste of the plant giving us insight into its potency. Generally, the spicier the plant, the more potent it is. Monarda fistulosa, M. punctata, M. menthifolia, and M. didyma are the ones most commonly used as medicine.
And the smell. If you haven’t smelled bee balm, go smell some as soon as you can. Taste it while you’re at it. Make some tea. It’s calming and comforting and enlivening. We drank it all winter when I was small—sometimes mixed with lemon balm, sometimes on its own. - Rebecca Crabapple
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Health Benefits of Bee Balm
Bee balm is a plant with many hats. It can find its way into your culinary spice cabinet, yet be some of our most potent medicine against infections.
For infections of the mouth
Chemically, bee balm is closely related to thyme. Both of these plants contain high concentrations of thymol, which is a strong antiseptic. Thymol is a main ingredient in many commercial mouthwashes. Bee balm tea or a tincture of bee balm diluted in water not only freshens the breath but can also address infections in the mouth and gums.
For infections and discomfort of the digestive tract
As a spicy carminative herb, bee balm can promote stagnant digestion and relieve discomforts such as bloating, cramping and excessive gas. Herbalist Matthew Wood says it is beneficial for gallstone colic. Besides helping with a little indigestion, bee balm is a heavy hitter for serious intestinal woes, from diarrhea to vomiting to cholera.
It soothes gastric and intestinal pain in the absence of inflammation, especially in Cholera Morbus and overcomes nausea and vomiting. It controls diarrhea from debility with relaxation of the mucous structures of the intestinal canal. -Finley Ellingwood, 1919
For fungal infections
Bee balm is strongly antifungal, lending itself to combatting topical infections as well as imbalanced flora such as candida overgrowth and chronic vaginal yeast infections. For topical infections try a wash made from the tea as well as taking it internally as a tincture or tea.
For candida overgrowth try drinking regular cups of tea or drops of the tincture. For chronic vaginal yeast infections drink the tea internally as well as use the cooled tea as a douche.
Oil of Oregano is currently a popular item in alternative medicine for combating candida and various infections, but what most people do not know is that the active constituent of Oil of Oregano is present in large amounts in our own Monarda. For anything you might use Oil of Oregano for, you can substitute the prolific (and cheap) Monarda. -Kiva Rose
Monarda didyma taken at a friend's garden in southern France498For colds and the flu
Bee balm alone can be a wonderful pharmacy for the cold and flu season. The infused honey can soothe a sore throat. The hot tea can ease the discomfort of a fever and the inhaled steam can loosen congested mucous in the nose and lungs.
Bee balm is a diffusive herb. It brings heat from the core of the body to the periphery. If that sounds abstract to you, try drinking a cup of hot bee balm tea. You can literally feel the heat rise from the core of your body up to the skin and then dissipate.
In its general influence monarda punctata is a pure active stimulant of a diffusible character; a few drops of the oil on the tongue will produce a stimulation which will be felt at the tips of the fingers in a few minutes. It stimulates the nervous system and increases the heart's action, taking the place of alcoholic stimulants to a great extent. The essence, tincture or infusion are all prompt in their action. It soothes nervous excitement when due to exhaustion, promoting sleep and rest. -Finley Ellingwood, 1919
One of the ways bee balm helps to break up stagnancy through its diffusive actions is by promoting delayed menses. We call this an emmenagogue or blood mover and it should not be taken in large amounts by women in pregnancy.
As a relaxing nervine
Besides fighting infection and restoring healthy flora, bee balm is wonderful as a relaxing nervine as well. Herbalist Matt Wood says bee balm is specific for people with excessive nervousness and anxiety and for those who have difficulties with their passions. He has an extensive write up of bee balm in his book, The Book Of Herbal Wisdom.
Because bee balm is diffusive and stimulating in nature it works especially well for people with symptoms of stagnancy and excessive dampness such as clammy skin.
In my mind, Beebalm’s special talents lie in its infection-resolving abilities as well as its mood lifting and somewhat euphoric effect upon the senses. It also has the benefit of having both stimulating and relaxing, warming and cooling attributes. It can create a distinct feeling of heat in the body, but also significantly cools inflammation of any kind. -Kiva Rose
For preventing infection and healing burns
Bee balm is a wonderful remedy for burns. It can be infused in honey, in vinegar, as a tea wash, or even as a spit poultice. Once the heat has left the burn it can be applied as a salve.
498Plant preparations
Bee balm is considered safe for most people but because of its ability to suppress menstruation it should not be taken in medicinal doses by pregnant women.
Although all species can be used in the same manner I suggest tasting your different bee balms to get a feel for the variations within them. This will help you to determine dosage.
When making bee balm tea, steep the plant for anywhere from 10 to 20 minutes. Longer steeping might produce a tea that is difficult to drink due to the high volatile oil content.
Bee balm makes a great tincture and can also be extracted into honey, vinegar and oil.
It also makes a great culinary spice. Consider adding it to dishes where you would normally add oregano or thyme. Eggs, pizza and even vegetables and steak all combine well with this spicy plant.
If you don't have bee balm growing near you, consider adding it to your garden. This is a fun and easy plant to grow and very difficult to find it in commerce.
Botanically Speaking
Bee balm grows readily in the garden as well as in the wilderness. All species of Monarda are endemic to North America.
Bee balm range498
In this section we’ll discuss the Monarda genus. You can differentiate the species through flower color and growth patterns.
Bee balm is a perennial plant that can grow up to six feet tall, but is more commonly around 4 feet.
Being a member of the mint family, bee balm has many mint family characteristics.
It has square stems and opposite lanceolate leaves, as seen below.
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Its flowers have the typical “lipped” appearance of the mint family. I’ve heard them aptly described as fireworks. It flowers in the late summer and is typically harvested while in bloom.
In the process of becoming familiar with herbalism, it’s easy to feel confused by jargon that, while clearly obvious to those using it, tends towards being something of an insider’s tongue. This can cause beginners to feel alienated from group discussion that could be educational and intimidated by what should be common sense concepts. Because of that, I’ve decided to start a series of posts called “Terms of the Trade” that will provide a simple definition of the term(s), and a sample context in which it might be used. I don’t plan to make this complex or exhaustive, but for it to serve as a clear introduction to those unfamiliar with, or confused by, herbal terminology as well as a refresher course for more experienced practitioners looking to refine their understanding.
The term diffusive has been coming up more and more in recent herbal conversations. Although a generally archaic term, it has become somewhat common with the revival of physio-medical thought in modern herbalists. What most people don’t know is that diffusive is only one part of a symbiotic set. The other, the word permanent, I don’t hear nearly as much but is an important element in understanding the former term.
To diffuse is to spread something widely. In herbalism, it generally refers to any agent that has a powerful, rapid, and sometimes transient effect on the body through the nervous system. This impression can often first be felt upon the tongue as a tingly sensation, as with Echinacea, Wild Ginger, Bayberry or Prickly Ash.
Permanent refers to those plants which act on the body in a slower, less jolting and more persistent manner. This especially applies to many nourishing herbs such as Milky Oats but can also be felt in many, many other plants.
It is important to realize that a plant can have both a diffusive and permanent action on the body, in varying proportions and degrees. Cayenne is a common example of this, being first felt through its rapid effect on the nervous system which fades, but then persists in a more permanent, slow way on the whole body. William Cook puts it this way:
“These terms are, of course, merely relative; for some agents which are absorbed (as capsicum) may first make a diffusive impression through the nerves, and follow this by an influence of a slower and more persistent kind through the entire frame. But, while this nomenclature is not absolute, it is sufficiently explicit to warrant its general use — employing the terms only as referring to time, and not to extent.”
So how is this useful to the novice or practicing herbalist? Well, understanding both the differences and overlaps of these terms will allow us to better understand the action of the plant in the human body, and to thus better see what is required. In some cases, diffusives can help to potentiate the effects of more permanent herbs, to speed and strengthen their effects. For instance, TJ Lyle states in Physio-Medical Therapeutics that:
“Hepatics, cathartics, stimulants and nervines will usually be more effective if combined with some diffusive, and a less dose will be required.”
Basically a diffusive can help nudge the other plants into acting quicker, stronger and in a smaller dose. They work through the sensitive nervous system to effect the whole body. On the other hand, very diffusive herbs can be rendered safer, more nourishing and longer lasting through being combined with a permanent plant. Because of this, diffusive herbs are often added in small amounts to nearly every formula and are sometimes considered harmonizers as well as potentizers. Ginger is a perfect example of this, serving to spread the effect of the overall medicine more promptly through the body, and increase the immediate as well as long term effects. This is why I often combine Peach and Ginger, especially for use in digestive or nervine matters, for Ginger speeds the spread of the calming influence while the Peach soaks in and saturates the whole overactive system with its sweet yet firm touch. In the same way, the lymphatic effects of Burdock will be felt more quickly if a small percentage of say, Echinacea or Ginger, is added to it. This is why we can still see small sprinkles of Cayenne added to many older formulas, not so much because the practitioners were obsessed with hot peppers, but because it was an easily available and highly effective way of increasing the potency of the medicine.
Resources
Physio-Medical Therapeutics by TJ Lyle
Treatise on Therapeutics by William Cook
The Admirable Secrets of Herbs, Roots & Barks by Matthew Wood
This article will explore astragalus health benefits in both the Chinese and Western Herbalism perspectives.
Astragalus is an amazing root that helps to support immune system function and protect the liver and heart. This article will explore astragalus health benefits in both the Chinese and Western Herbalism perspectives.
Astragalus root originally comes to us from China but it has quickly integrated itself into western herbalism. In a recent poll of practicing herbalists it placed as 16th in the top 50 herbs commonly used by western herbalists.
It’s important to note that the plant we use for medicine is a specific genus and species. There are over 2,000 different species in the Astragalus genus. Some of these plants are toxic and none are known to have the same qualities as Astragalus membranaceus, although a few are used medicinally.
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Astragalus Medicinal Uses in Chinese Medicine
Since this herb comes to us from China let’s begin by exploring astragalus health benefits in the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) tradition.
Astragalus root is considered to be a sweet tonic herb that is slightly warming. It has an ascending energy (which is important; we’ll get to that later).
It is specifically a Spleen Qi Tonic and a Lung Qi Tonic. Therefore, it is used when there is Spleen Qi Deficiency and Lung Qi Deficiency. I realize that if you are a western herbalist you might be scratching your head at this point! Let’s try to break this down for better understanding.
When organ systems are mentioned in TCM they don’t exactly correlate to our western organ systems. So the Liver in TCM isn’t exactly the liver of our western anatomical or physiological understanding. Generally, the organs are capitalized when referring to the TCM organ. The Spleen in TCM is more closely related to our understanding of the pancreas in that it is strongly tied to digestive function.
The Spleen is responsible for transforming food and drink into Qi (energy) and Blood. If someone is lacking Qi or energy, we look for dysfunction of the Spleen first and foremost. This way of thinking is directly related to western herbalism in that we almost always address digestion first. If a person isn’t assimilating food correctly, how can they achieve good health?
After the Spleen transforms food and drink into Qi, the Qi ascends to the Lungs where it is combined with the Lung Qi and transformed into the Zhen Qi, or energy that supports our entire body.
When the Spleen is lacking Qi the person may experience fatigue and sluggishness, loose stools or diarrhea, poor appetite, phlegm and dampness, weak arms and legs and prolapsed organs (such as hemorrhoids).
Astragalus root is a Spleen Qi tonic. It brings energy, increases appetite and improves digestion and can lift prolapsed organs.
Astragalus is also a Lung Qi tonic. The Lungs in TCM are more closely related to our western understanding of the lungs, although there are some differences. The Lungs take in air and create Qi. The Lungs house what is called the Wei Qi (pronounced “way-chi”), sometimes referred to as the defensive Qi. The Wei Qi is like a force field for our body, protecting us from invading pathogens (bacteria, virus, etc). When the Lungs or the Wei Qi are weak we are more prone to illness, may have dull skin, and difficulty with breathing.
As a Lung Qi tonic, astragalus root is useful for those who are frequently coming down with colds and the flu, have difficulty breathing (such as asthma) or those who sweat too much or not enough.
In Chinese medical terms, astragalus builds up the protective chi. Imagine that there is a protective shield around your body, just below the surface of the skin, that keep out cold and other external influences. It vitalizes the non-specific immune defenses and wards off infections. This is the protective chi, and astragalus is the premier herb in Chinese herbalism to strengthen it. -Paul Bergner
Fresh astragalus harvested from my garden255
Astragalus Uses in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Typically, astragalus root is used as a decoction of the root or it is cooked into food like stew or rice (the root will need to be removed before eating). Most of my TCM texts recommend simmering it for a minimum of a half hour to a full hour. This is a mild, food-like herb that can be taken in larger quantities with recommendations anywhere from 10 - 30 grams (1/3 of an ounce to 1 ounce).
Herbs are almost always formulated in TCM and rarely used as simples (simples = using just one herb at a time).
Astragalus root is a part of many formulas and is often paired with Ligusticum and Ginseng. One classic formula that includes astragalus is Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang.
Astragalus has similar Qi-strengthening properties to ginseng but is less heating and stimulating. It is often said that those younger in years will benefit most from astragalus while those more seasoned with years may find ginseng more beneficial.
Astragalus for colds?
You’ll often hear that it is best to take astragalus to prevent colds and the flu but it should be avoided during acute illness. While I would say that is generally true, it is much more complicated. If someone is sick and with a lot of deficiency symptoms, astragalus might be used to strengthen the person’s reserves to boost them towards wellness.
I frequently combine astragalus with reishi mushroom to improve immunity and instruct patients who easily get sick to drink a daily dose of the two throughout fall and winter. Similarly, it may be included in soups or cooked with grains and eaten on a weekly basis to help the whole family get through the winter without a single cold (people are always impressed with how well they feel and avoid colds and flu.)
-Lesley Tierra, Healing with the Herbs of Life
Astragalus Health Benefits in Western Herbalism
As I mentioned before, astragalus has firmly made its way into western herbalism. Astragalus root can be bought as an import from China, can be grown in your garden or can be purchased from herb farmers growing it in North America.
Astragalus root, as well as specific constituents of astragalus, have been studied extensively here in the west and in China for applications against cancer, heart disease, blood sugar imbalances and even longevity.
Astragalus Root Slices255
Astragalus Health Benefits for the Immune System and Cancer
Astragalus root has been studied extensively for its effect on the immune system. It has been shown to reduce the occurrence of common respiratory illnesses, inhibit tumor growth and bolster immune system activity in general.
The studies of its use in cancer patients is astounding. It is frequently being used alongside chemotherapy to alleviate the side effects of the chemotherapy treatments. It has also been shown to inhibit the growth of tumors and bolster the immune system.
Research shows Astragalus root stimulates the immune system in many ways. It increases the number of stem cells in bone marrow and lymph tissue and encourages their development into active immune cells. It appears to help trigger immune cells from a “resting” state into heightened activity. One study showed Astragalus root helps promote and maintain respiratory health. It also enhances the body’s production of immunoglobulin and stimulates macrophages. Astragalus can help activate T-cells and natural killer (NK) cells. -Thorne Research
Benefits of Astragalus as an Adaptogen
Astragalus root is considered an adaptogen. It helps to build and restore general health to the body. It is used for those with adrenal fatigue, which may manifest as fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome.
I often use it for people who are completely run down. If they are getting frequent colds and flus, that is a sure sign this herb will be of benefit! I often combine it with ashwaganda root.
I also frequently use this root for people with seasonal allergies. As an immunomodulator it helps to straighten up the immune system, lessening the frequency and severity of allergies.
Astragalus Plant255
Astragalus Health Benefits for Longevity
Astragalus root seems to prolong the life of cancer patients by supporting the immune system and inhibiting cancer growth. Scientific studies have also shown that specific constituents within astragalus are highly anti-oxidant, which slows the rate of aging.
A telomere is a structure found at the end of a chromosome and is a region of repetitive DNA. Its job is to prevent deterioration of the chromosome. Shortened telomeres are associated with poor health and aging. Astragalus has also shown that it can slow telomere shortening, giving us further clues as to how to promotes longevity.
Astragalus Benefits for the Heart
Astragalus herb has been studied extensively for its effects on improving heart function, even in patients with extreme cases such as congestive heart failure. It can also inhibit the formation of lipid peroxides and decrease blood coagulation. Another study shows that it can strengthen left ventricular function.
Astragalus Benefits for the Liver
Astragalus root has been scientifically shown to decrease the replication of the hepatitis B virus. It has also been shown to prevent damage to the kidneys and liver that has been caused by either medications or viral infections.
Astragalus Benefits for the Blood and Kidneys
Astragalus is also a blood tonic. It helps to regulate fluid metabolism, and those who consume it regularly are said to rarely suffer from fluid retention and bloating. -Ron Teeguarden, Chinese Tonic Herbs
Astragalus regulates fluid metabolism. We see this not only in its diuretic properties but also in its ability to stop profuse sweating. It is also used for night sweats and for edema.
It has been used to treat nephritis caused by complications from Lupus, especially when used in conjunction with pharmaceutical drugs.
It is also used to build blood and can be considered for those with anemia, especially anemia related to poor digestion.
Astragalus Benefits to Heal Topical Infections
Astragalus herb can be taken internally and applied as a poultice to address infections from wounds.
Botanically Speaking
Astragalus is a perennial member of the pea family.
Astragalus grows from 3 to 5 feet in height with sprawling stems. It likes to grow in sandy soils that drain well. The flowers appear in racemes of yellowish whitish pea flowers.
The roots can be dug in the spring or fall after four years of growth. The taproots grow 3 - 4 feet into the ground. One healthy plants yields about 3/4 of a pound of root.
I've been growing astragalus in my garden for the past couple of years. The photo below is from my first harvest. The fresh root was barely fibrous and quite sweet! After chopping and drying the root it was barely enough for one decoction! So, I either need to grow an entire row of astragalus every year (we go through about five pounds a year), or buy astragalus from Mountain Rose Herbs.
Astragalus Flowers
Fresh astragalus root
Using Astragalus
Think of astragalus as an herb that slowly builds the system. Don’t expect immediate results. Because it is a food-like herb it is recommended to take it daily, in large amounts for an extended period of time.
While astragalus is traditionally used as a decoction or cooked with foods, western herbalists have started tincturing the root as well. Herbalist David Winston recommends 40-80 drops of a 1:5 astragalus extract three times per day.
In the past, high quality astragalus was believed to be the large flat tongue depressor looking roots, the more yellow in color the better. I’ve since learned from Roy Upton that these roots are often manipulated with yellow dyes.
I like to buy the sliced roots for my soups (since they are easy to remove) or the cut and sifted roots for use in tea blends.
When I recommend astragalus herb to people I use the standard dosages as put forth by TCM (10-30 grams, sometimes even up to 100 grams). It is difficult to get this dose using a tincture or capsules.
Remember, when using the root in food (soups, rice, quinoa, etc) you will always have to remove the root since it is too fibrous to eat.
During the winter months, my husband and I often drink chai blends and I add 60 grams of astragalus root to each batch (30 for each of us.) Here's one of my favorite chai recipes.
Astragalus Side Effects
Astragalus herb interacts with recombinant interleukin 2 and recombinant alpha interferon 1 and 2. It is speculated that astragalus would interfere with those on immunosuppressive drugs.
As per TCM astragalus is avoided when there are heat signs or yin deficiency signs.
Summary
Astragalus root has specific and powerful applications for cancer and immune system support. However, because it also contains so many protective properties (for heart, liver, kidneys) it is a wonderful herb to consider for preventive care. Cook it into your food, enjoy chai tea made with it, eat the powder with honey and ghee... so many ways to enjoy this root. I'd love to hear your favorite astragalus recipes in the comments!
This article was originally written for HerbMentor.com. If you liked the article, you'll love the community and education atHerbMentor.com!
Black cohosh contains numerous chemical constituents, among them isoflavones which mimic hormonal activity. This makes this herb useful for hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and even the depression sometimes associated with menopause. Though black and blue cohosh are unrelated botanically they are often used together in formulas to support the female… Continue reading
Black cohosh contains numerous chemical constituents, among them isoflavones which mimic hormonal activity. This makes this herb useful for hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and even the depression sometimes associated with menopause. Though black and blue cohosh are unrelated botanically they are often used together in formulas to support the female reproductive system. Blue cohosh acts primarily as a uterine stimulant, while black cohosh effects estrogen levels. It appears to provide that relief without having adverse estrogenic effects on mammary gland or uterine tissue.
Black cohosh has also been tried for a lot of additional uses, such as anxiety, rheumatism, fever, sore throat, and cough, but it is not often used for these purposes these days.
Some people also apply black cohosh directly on the skin. This is because there was some thought that black cohosh would improve the skin’s appearance. Similarly, people used black cohosh for other skin conditions such as acne, wart removal, and even the removal of moles, but this is seldom done anymore.
Black cohosh also goes by the name “bugbane” because it was once used as an insect repellent. It is no longer used for this purpose. Frontiersmen had said that black cohosh was useful for rattlesnake bites, but no modern researchers have tested this.
Do not confuse black cohosh with blue cohosh or white cohosh. These are unrelated plants. The blue and white cohosh plants do not have the same effects as black cohosh, and may not be safe.
The root of black cohosh is used for medicinal purposes. Black cohosh root contains several chemicals that might have effects in the body. Some of these chemicals work on the immune system and might affect the body’s defenses against diseases. Some might help the body to reduce inflammation. Other chemicals in black cohosh root might work in nerves and in the brain. These chemicals might work similar to another chemical in the brain called serotonin. Scientists call this type of chemical a neurotransmitter because it helps the brain send messages to other parts of the body.
Black cohosh root also seems to have some effects similar to the female hormone, estrogen. In some parts of the body, black cohosh might increase the effects of estrogen. In other parts of the body, black cohosh might decrease the effects of estrogen. Estrogen itself has various effects in different parts of the body. Estrogen also has different effects in people at different stages of life. Black cohosh should not be thought of as an “herbal estrogen” or a substitute for estrogen. It is more accurate to think of it as an herb that acts similar to estrogen in some people.
Schisandra chinensis Common name: Schisandra, Wu Wei Zi Family: Schisandraceae Part used: Fruit (berries) Constituents: Lignans (schizadrin, gomisin, deoxyschizandrin and …
Schisandra chinensis Common name: Schisandra, Wu Wei Zi
Medical uses: Of great use as a general hepatoprotector, antioxidant and adaptogen by increase the nervous reflex response. Promotes vitality and increases memory and cognitive functions while providing resistance to stress. Will tone and strengthen the immune system to increase physical performance and endurance and promotes recovery after surgery. Will enhance athlete’s performance and improve liver detoxification and functions.
Pharmacology:
Lignans (schizadrin, gomisin, deoxyschizandrin and pregomisin) are hepatoprotective and immunomodulating. Appear to protect the liver by activating liver enzymes that produce glutathione.
Lignans also interfere with platelet activating factor, a chemical that promotes inflammation in a number of conditions.
Toxicity: High doses may cause mild GIT disturbances (reduces appetite, heartburn, nausea, indigestion, headaches, skin rash).
Interactions: Theoretically can interfere with metabolism of many drugs due to effect of liver and gastric secretions.
Research:
A placebo controlled double-blind study in athletes using standardized extracts of schizandra showed an increase in the concentration of nitric oxide and cortisol in blood plasma and saliva similar to athletes with heavy physical exercise. The results correlate with an increased physical performance in athletes taking adaptogens vs. athletes taking placebo
Panossian AG, Oganessian AS, Ambartusmian M, et al. Effects of heavy physical exercise and adaptogens on nitric oxide content in human saliva. Phytomedicine 1999;6(1):17-26.
Eleutherococcus senticosus Common name: Siberian ginseng Family: Araliaceae Parts used: Root Constituents: Eleutherosides (glycosides) including eleutherosides B and E…
Eleutherococcus senticosus Common name: Siberian ginseng
Family: Araliaceae
Parts used: Root
Constituents: Eleutherosides (glycosides) including eleutherosides B and E; Syringin; Phenylpropanes; Polysaccharide; Ciwujianoside. Phenolic compounds, triterpenoid saponins, lignans, coumarins, volatile oils.
Medicinal actions: Adaptogen & general tonic, antioxidant, chemoprotective, immuno-modulator & stimulant, hypertensive (in a hypotensive state), cardiotonic, hypoglycemic, circulatory stimulant, anti-coagulant, bitter.
Medicinal use: Eleutherococcus is an adrenal adaptogen and increases mental alertness and physical endurance. It inhibits hypertrophy of adrenal and thyroid glands by reducing extent of the fight or flight reaction and reduces the exhaustive effects of long term stress. Treatment of chronic viral infections, prevention of infections, cancer prevention, adjuvant cancer therapy, treatment of chronic illness and fatigue, alleviation of chronic stress, and reduction of damage from heavy metal and pesticide toxicity.
Pharmacology:
Effects are due to a combination of components, primarily eleutherosides B and E
Pharmacy: Standardized capsule: 100mg (standardized to greater than 1% eleutheroside E): 200 – 400 mg daily in 2 doses. Whole powder: 2-4 g daily in two doses. Tincture (1:2, 25%), 2-8ml QD. Best taken in the morning and at noon to match the adrenal gland rhythm. Pause dosing, 6 weeks on 2 weeks off
Contraindications: Best to avoid in children and those that are nervous, tense, manic or overly energetic.
Toxicity: High doses may cause palpitations, insomnia, hypertension and tachycardia.
Interactions: Avoid use with stimulants, alcohol, barbiturates, anti-psychotics, digoxin, and anticoagulants.
Medical uses: Has been used since ancient times in traditional Chinese medicine as a warming tonic. When research illuminated its effects upon the immune system, it was adopted as an important herb in the West. Studies indicate that the polysaccharides intensity phagocytosis, stimulate pituitary-adrenal cortical activity, and restore depleted red blood cell formation in bone marrow. It appears to strengthen both nonspecific & specific immunity, combating general infections of all kinds, cancer & autoimmune diseases (theoretical).
Pharmacology:
Polysaccharides stimulate phagocytosis and interferon production
Triterpenoid saponins (astragalosides) have a positively inotropic action on the heart, stimulate NK cells, are hepatoprotective, and reduce Ach receptor antibody activity.
Contraindications: May exacerbate autoimmune diseases in some people.
Toxicity: No adverse effects with recommended dosage.
Interactions: Polysaccharides may theoretically reduce absorption of many agents if taken simultaneously. Theoretically may interfere with blood pressure medications, anticoagulants and immunosuppressants. Reduces the side effects & toxicity of drugs as it is a hepatoprotective.
Medicinal use: Provides immunological support and improves the functioning and regulation of the whole immune system. Is especially helpful in chronic immune weakness and poor resistance to airborne & respiratory infections. Is especially anti-bacterial against staphylococcus and streptococcus. Inhibits the release of histamine and reduces the immune response to inhaled or ingested allergens, especially those allergies mediated by immunoglobulin E. Can be used in cancer and other disease involving massive oxidative damage, including chemical toxicity and liver damage, and also as a long term prophylactic and regulator for the circulatory system. It’s antioxidant effect protects against radiation damage so it can be utilized if exposure to X rays is expected and reduces inflammation without interfering in the healing response.
Pharmacology:
Polysaccharides (b-D-glucans) are anti-tumor, immuno-stimulant, hypoglycemic and cardiotonic.These are water soluble constituents, and this may account for the traditional use of Reishi in teas and soups as an immune enhancing herb.
Nucleotides (adenosine) inhibit platelet aggregation and thrombus formation, and are muscle relaxant and analgesic. These are not readily water soluble and hence have not been utilized clinically until more recent times.
Triterpenes are adaptogens, inhibit histamine release and cholesterol sythesis.
Oleic acid is anti-allergic by inhibiting histamine release.
Germanium helps oxygenate cells and neutralize pain in end stages of cancer.
Sterols act as hormone precursors and hepatoprotecters.
Toxicity: When commencing treatment many people experience transient cleansing reactions such as pimples, sore muscles, dizziness, bowel disturbance and itchy skin. These pass within a few days as the toxins are eliminated from the body, and can be controlled by regulating the daily dose.
Medicinal use: Has specific use for peptic ulcers both as prophylactic and as treatment. Regulates gastric acid levels and protects and soothes GIT mucous membranes. Also of great use in musculoskeletal conditions such as arthritis, gout, and all kinds of muscle & joint pains. It promotes uric acid excretion and has anti-bacterial and immunomodulating effets.
Pharmacology:
Salicylates – salicin, salicylic acid are analgesic and anti-inflammatory.
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