16 Oct King of herbs

Introducing the king of herbs & conqueror of tiredness

Tiredness and fatigue is an everyday feature for many of us – not surprising with the many stressors that surround us in daily life. There is a group of herbs called Adaptogens that can help restore our balance and coping mechanisms. Adaptogens allow our bodies to ‘adapt’ to stress without stimulating us into a high with an eventuating low such as we experience with coffee and chocolate, common energy boosting allies.

One of our favourite adaptogens is Panax ginseng a herb that had its first usage documented over 2000 years ago in the Chinese herbal Materia Medica. It is often referred to as the king of herbs and is believed to embody man’s three essences of body, mind and spirit.

One of the ways Panax ginseng is believed to work is through increasing oxygen uptake, which explains why it has been shown to increase physical and mental performance. More oxygen for our muscles and brain means that they work better, very useful for those of us who are sporting (whether competitively or just for fun) and for tired brains that need to perform (whether you’re a multi-tasking parent, delivering an important business presentation or doing both!).

Clinical studies for a specific Panax ginseng extract have shown improved physical function, endurance and recovery time after periods of increased physical demand. These improvements include better uptake of oxygen, improved recovery heart rate and reduced lactate in our muscles (the build-up of which makes us stiff and sore) during exercise. Research also tells us that Panax ginseng actually helps us perform difficult mental tasks without the post-task brain fatigue.

Additionally, Panax ginseng has been shown to help boost our immune system, increasing our resistance to the common cold and flu as well as reducing the incidence and consequences of common infections.

After considering Panax ginseng’s many virtues is it no wonder that for thousands of years it has been revered by herbalists as ‘the king of herbs’. Although you should be aware that products can vary enormously. Adulteration of the herb is not uncommon and, as this herb is a root, it acts like a ‘sponge’, literally sucking up everything around it. So it is important to ensure that the product has a certificate of analysis showing quality and purity of the extract.

For more information or to book a naturopathic and nutrition consultation, please call Karen Latter, Sydney health & fertility, Manly or The Fountain Centre, Balgowlah on 0405 707 156