anti-oxidant chinese herbs

Astragalus (huang qi) is one such Chinese herbal remedy with anti-oxidant and anti-viral properties. As a root with a multitude of benefits -astragalus improves immunity, replenishes vital energy, prevents onset of colds, and balances blood sugar levels. Research is showing promise that it can protect DNA and increase longevity. Plus, research conducted at the University of Texas Medical Center in Houston found that an astragalus water extraction enhanced the function of T-cells taken from cancer patients. Thus, astragalus is now used as a stimulant for the immune system to counteract the immune suppression associated with cancer therapy. For prevention of an illness, astragalus can be added to culinary preparations such as chicken soup to enhance its health and nutritional effects. Its usage should be discontinued once a cold has begun, and beware that astragalus can affect blood pressure.

Chinese angelica root (dang gui) is another herb that is commonly used individually – and traditionally added to a soup along with astragalus and vegetables for tonification purposes. This herb nourishes Blood and balances hormones – therefore, it is primarily used for gynecological and menopausal issues. But what makes it especially interesting is that it looks quite similar to the shape of a woman’s body. 

Dang gui helps alleviate chronic constipation. This is particularly the case when constipation occurs postpartum, during a chronic illness, or for an elderly person. It also helps alleviate pain and promotes healing of various types of sores and abscesses, as well as traumatic injury when stagnation of Blood is present. It is important to know that dang gui may interfere with the action of anti-coagulating drugs due to its Blood building properties.

An important aspect of folk medicine dating back to the Middle Ages is the concept known as the “doctrine of signatures” - stating that herbs which resemble various parts of the body can be used by herbalists to treat ailments of those parts of the body. Botanists Jakob Bohme and William Coles found theological justification for this, explaining that God is showing people how plants should be used. Interestingly, this doctrine relates to the fact that slices of the herb dang gui resemble a woman’s body; and it’s use is predominantly for treatment of women’s health issues.

Ginseng root (ren shen) also fits into the concept of the doctrine of signatures because it resembles the shape of a male’s body and is used primarily to treat men.  Ginseng root replenishes vital energy, balances hormones, promotes fluid secretion, lowers blood sugar levels after eating, reduces stress levels, and improves mental capacity. Like astragalus and dang gui, it can be taken individually or added to soup to boost its healthful benefits. However, according to Chinese tradition, ginseng is best brewed by itself (via a double-boil method) in a ceramic ginseng cooker to slowly extract and conserve its powerful anti-oxidant and Qi nourishing qualities. In fact, it is said that the longer the ginseng root cooks, the more potent the effects.

There are several different types of ginseng, each appropriate for a particular constitution. Consulting an acupuncturist trained in Chinese herbal medicine would be appropriate to discover which ginseng type is best. Ginseng has been prized for centuries in China, the more superior the quality – the more expensive the root becomes. People save and cherish their ginseng roots for years, until the “time is ripe” to benefit from their powerful anti-aging and health producing benefits.

Two aspects of the body that show early signs of aging for many people are the eyes and ears. Chrysanthemum (ju hua) is an herbal flower reputed for its protection of the eyes and bolstering of auditory health. Its high vitamin C content makes it good for the eyes, and high Beta-carotene good for building immunity and help for skin problems. Chrysanthemum also has anti-viral properties and thus alleviates colds and sinusitis. As a powerful anti-oxidant it counteracts aging symptoms through neutralizing toxins, builds immunity and brightens the eyes. It is indicated for tinnitus, deafness, and excessive eye tearing, chronic glaucoma and cataracts.

Chrysanthemum tea is traditional favorite, with a few goji berries added when available. It is easily prepared by placing approximately 15 chrysanthemum flowers into a teapot or small cooking pot after they are rinsed thoroughly with water. Next cover the flowers with three cups of freshly boiled water and steep for five minutes. Strain the liquid and enjoy the tea. It is beneficial during the summer months due to its cooling properties, or used to cool the body from heat symptoms such as fever anytime of the year. Drink 1-3 cups per day depending on need. It can be sweetened with a little stevia, honey or maple syrup – although traditionally it was made with rock sugar.