An herb must meet certain criteria teria to qualify as a tonic. First, it must restore balance and strengthen the functioning of an organ or system without throwing another organ or bodily system out of balance. Tonic herbs accomplish this by exerting a wide range of actions, rather than one specific function. Second, the herb must be safe, nontoxic, and non-habit-forming, even when taken over a long period of time—even indefinitely. According to traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, the improvement in energy that comes from the regular use of herbal tonics results from a deeper internal shift toward health. Herbal tonics provide a safe way for us to restore balance, rebuild health and vitality, and promote longevity, even in the face of the everchanging and often trying conditions of modern life. Those looking to build energy and vitality will do well to choose one or more of the following tonic herbs. For optimal benefit, take them for a minimum of three months, under the guidance of a health care practitioner. In time, these plant companions will help restore the energy that the body and mind expend each day, leaving reserves well-stocked to meet evernew challenges. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Also known as winter cherry, ashwagandha is a rejuvenative tonic herb. Translated from Sanskrit, ashwagandha means “that which has the smell of a horse.” Benefits: Ashwagandha is believed to imbue those who take it with the vitality of a horse. Consequently, men often use it to increase sexual vitality and energy. But ashwagandha is just as

appropriate for women. As the most frequently prescribed tonic herb in Ayurvedic medicine, ashwagandha helps anyone suffering from weakness or debility, including the fatigue caused by nervous tension and overwork. In Ayurvedic medicine, ashwagandha has quite a reputation. The herb increases energy and endurance, promotes longevity, supports sexual vitality, calms the mind, enhances mental functioning, rejuvenates the tissues, strengthens immune function, encourages restful sleep, and helps the body overcome imbalances caused by mental or physical stress, poor diet, lack of sleep, or environmental toxins. Ashwagandha also helps as an anti-inflammatory to relieve arthritis and joint pain. Research: Scientists believe that compounds in ashwagandha called “withanolides” are responsible for the herb’s healing properties. These compoundshave undergone extensive investigation, and although most of the experiments involved test tube or animal studies, the results indicate that the herb clearly has anti-inflammatory, immune stimulating, and adaptogenic benefits. Researchers view withanolides as similar to ginsenosides, the compounds responsible for the health benefits of ginseng. In fact, ashwagandha is often referred to as “Indian ginseng.” In studies, ashwagandha has stimulated immune cell activity and inhibited inflammation, as well as exerted mild sedative and muscle- relaxing properties. These findings support the herb’s traditional use as a tonic to bolster stress resistance and enhance general health and well being. Next >>