Good health benefits can be had through the nutritional boost and natural synergy provided by daily use of tonic herbs. Many herbs are nutritional powerhouses that can improve health and quality of life through organic processes simply by changing your daily beverage to a strong herbal tea, or infusion, made of a mixture of tonic herbs. Your mixture need not be the same every day, since different herbs affect different systems, varying content and strength of the ingredients in your daily infusions will provide variety needed for optimum nutrition and health benefits.

Some of the best tonic herbs have a long history, and many are gaining more scientific proof of their benefits every day. For additional information about making infusions, please visit our Herbal How To Page.

Nettles (Urtica dioica)

A nutritional powerhouse, nettles have been used as food stuff for thousands of years. Rich in iron, calcium, magnesium, silicon, boron, zinc, vitamin D, chromium, cholorophyll, B vitamins, carotenes, vitamin C, copper and other nutritional components, nettles nourish the endocrine, digestive, and nervous systems. By activating the metabolism, nettles can be an ally in weight-loss efforts. Herbalists have recommended for anemia and fatigue, touting nettle's nourishing effect on the adrenal system. The anti-inflammatory properties of nettles are responsible for a reputation for treating all types of allergies and hay fever. Slow strong energy built by regular consumption of nettle infusion or tea has been touted as a welcome relief for many menopausal symptoms. Nettles activate testosterone in both men and women, contributing to increased sexual desire. Infusion of dried nettle leaf is can be enjoyed at a rate of 1-4 cups daily, hot or cold.

Generally considered as safe, very few people may develop a rash after consuming nettles, if so discontinue at once. Those with fluid retention due to heart or kidney problems should not consume nettles on a regular basis. If taking a regular prescription medication, as always, check with your doctor before starting a regimen using herbs for your health.

Oatstraw (Avena sativa)

This is the same plant you get your morning cup of oatmeal from, but the milky green tops and stems are medicinal and so nutritious, a cup of oatstraw tea each day is sure to improve health. Rich in calcium, silica, chromium, and B vitamins, oatstraw is soothing on the nerves and relieves stress and anxiety in the system. Oatstraw is one of the highest plant sources of magnesium, which may be the reason many claim it helps alleviate sore muscles. Steroidal saponins nourish adrenal and nervous system, stabilize blood sugar, even out emotions, and alleviate depression.

Considered safe, most benefits are realized with 1-4 cups of infusion daily. Capsules, tablets, and tinctures of oatstraw have not been proven to be effective, as infusion of fresh or dried herb has.

Hawthorn (Crataegus)

The berries from the hawthorn tree have made scrumptious and nutritious jams and pies for many years. Those who consumed them were sure to live long and healthy lives. Hawthorn has been shown to increase the pumping action of the heart and dilate blood vessels, reducing palpitations and angina as a result. Rich in minerals, vitamin C, and bioflavonoids, hawthorn is antioxidant and strengthens capillaries. Thought to reduce stroke risk and improve memory, hawthorn improves the ability of the liver to convert cholesterol. Hawthorn has been used to reduce anxiety and restlessness, improving ability to concentrate for those suffering with Attention Deficit Disorder. In addition, by relieving anxiety, hawthorn may help to allieve insomnia. Infusion of fresh or dried hawthorn berries can be taken up to 3-4 cups daily.

Considered safe, but consult a physician before using if currently taking heart medication. Use only in consultation with physician if pregnant, nursing, or if considering supplementing a child.

Red Clover (Trifolium pratense)

A tonic herb, red clover has a reputation as the anti-cancer herb. Rich in iron, calcium, nitrogen, chromium, B vitamins, and flavonoids, particularly phytoestrogen. Particularly helpful during menopause, red clover protects breast health, eases hot flashes, relieves dryness and sooths mucous membranes. Some claim red clover will assist women having difficulty becoming pregnant. Folk medicine even claims red clover reduces wrinkles. Known as a blood purifier, red clover builds energy and eases anxiety and confusion. Medicinally useful to detoxify, easing chronic cough and colds.

Do not use red clover if taking blood thinners, aspirin therapy, or have bleeding problems.

Ginseng Root (Panax ginseng, Panax cinquefolius)

Is there anything Ginseng hasn’t be reported to do? Energizing and rejuvinating to the hormonal system, ginseng protects the immune system and tones the cardiovascular system, reducing heart rate and oxygen needed by the heart. Touted for increasing sexual desire and stamina, improving liver function and digestion, reducing blood sugar swings, and improving ability to deal with stress. Ginseng nourishes the adrenal cortex, pituitary, thyroid, and hypothalamus, improving memory, cognitive ability, and concentration. When combined with echinacea, ginseng increases activity of natural killer cells, possibly helping to reduce fatigue in chronic fatigue syndrome and lupus. Some report reduced hot flashes and night sweats using ginseng, in addition to elimination of perimenopausal flooding.

A fantastic tonic herb for men and women alike, ginseng is rather expensive, but a little goes a very long way. Infusion of dried root up to 1/2-1 cup daily, or simply chew on a small piece of the dried root. One of my favorite ways to enjoy ginseng is to put a small piece of dried root into a jar of honey and let sit for about 4 weeks, then use a small amount of the honey in tea or on toast daily.

Do not use ginseng if taking insulin or blood pressure drugs, MAO inhibitors, digitalis, warfarin, or prescription steroids. Ginseng roots are not all alike, and some will be overstimulated by some roots. Experimentation is key if this is you. It is possible to have too much ginseng, a headache could be a sign this is so. It truly is best to use very small amounts over a long time for maximum benefit, more is not necessary. Do not use if pregnant or nursing. Discontinue use two weeks prior to any planned surgery.

Here's to you good health!