Knowing Herbs and Tonics

Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum) is safely used in herbalism as a liver herb and a restorative qi tonic for the potent benefits to immune function.

Two types of fragrant chamomile flowers are safely and medicinally used within herbalism: German chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is stronger and bitter in flavor, and Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) is milder and sweet in flavor.

Astragalus root (Astragalus membranaceus, Astragalus mongholicus) is safely used in herbalism as the premier qi tonic to promote healing, vitality, immune function, and a greater potential for being more energetic throughout daily activities.

Calendula flowers (Calendula officinalis) is a potent healing herb any aspiring herbalist learns to use that is often found in yards and home gardens which is used safely as a tonic within herbalism for a variety of uses for anyone..

Catuaba bark refers to the several species of plants (Erythroxylum vacciniifolium, Erythroxylum catuaba, Tetragastris catuaba, Trichilia catigua, Anemopaegma arvense) where the bark of each is used similarly, interchangeably, and safely within herbalism as a moderate stimulant for reducing fatigue during physical and mental performance

Muira puama bark refers to the several species of trees (Lirosma cupana, Ptychopetalum olacoides, Croton echioides) where the bark of each is used similarly, interchangeably, and safely in herbalism as a moderate stimulant.

Elecampane root and flower (Inula helenium) is a safe stimulating herb used as a tonic in herbalism for strengthening the lungs and digestive tract.

Barberry root, rhizome, and berry (Berberis vulgaris) is safely used in herbalism as a detoxifying herb and digestive tonic. Another similar species called oregon grape is used nearly identically to barberry, so these two herbs are used the same.

Oregon grape root and rhizome (Mahonia aquifolium) is used in herbalism as a safe detoxifying herb and digestive tonic. Another similar species called barberry is used nearly identically to oregon grape root, so these two herbs are used the same.

White willow bark (Salix alba) is a safe bitter medicinal herb within herbalism that is used for bodily discomforts.

Bilberries (Vaccinium myrtillus) and huckleberries are nutritive blood and eye tonics that may be used safely and interchangeably; they are related to blueberries, but contain a lot less sugar than blueberries, so they are used as herbs in herbalism.

Guarana seeds (Paullinia cupana) are a stimulant tonic in herbalism that are named after the indigenous Guarani people. They are harvested from a native climbing evergreen in the Amazon and have the appearance of an eye when the fruit ripens and splits open to expose the flesh and seed.

Kola nuts are actually seeds that come from the fruits of the African species of evergreen trees Cola nitida and Cola acuminata; they are a safe herb that is used as a tonic stimulant in herbalism which is like coffee and tea. Extracts of kola nuts are used to flavor some cola drinks.

Angelica root (angelica archangelica) is a safe stimulating herb that may be used as a tonic in herbalism for blood circulation and strengthening the digestive tract. Additionally, angelica is often used in brief durations to relax and cleanse the lungs and nose and during menstruation.

The main use of ashwagandha root (Withania somnifera) in herbalism is primarily as an adrenal nerve tonic. Ashwagandha root is a safe herb that is both calming and rejuvenating to the nerves, body, and, mind, unlike many herbal tonics that stimulate and strengthen without promoting rest and recovery, such as coffee and tea.