8 Best Chinese Herbs

There are a very large number of Chinese herbs that are thought to help a variety of illnesses and ailments, from the very serious to the relatively minor. I have compiled a list of some of the most popular and what they can be used for.

1. Ginseng - This is a common herb that is said to aid healing and rejuvenation. It is particularly good at replenishing the body with fluids that have been lost and also aids the removal of toxins from the body. Ginseng tea is a common method of consuming this powerful herb.
2. Reishi Mushrooms - These are considered to be powerful immune system boosters, that increase antioxidants in the body as well as increasing the vitality of white blood cells. These mushrooms are also said to have a calming influence on the body and are able to help fight insomnia.
3. Lotus Seed - The Lotus Seed aids the function of the spleen and kidneys. It helps reduce diarrhea and also stimulate appetite.
4. Licorice Root - Well known for its detoxification abilities, this root invigorates the body whilst simultaneously cooling it down.
5. Ginko Biloba - This is one of the oldest Chinese herbs. It is said to have positive effects on the lungs and heart as well as able to fight coughs, asthma and a host of allergies. It is one of the most popular natural remedies taken.
6. Ephedra - This herb fights asthma and stimulates blood pressure and heart function too. It also stimulates glands, tissue and muscle in the body as well as increasing the secretion of adrenalin.
7. Astralagus - This is used to build up the immune system by increasing the function of the blood cells.
8. Albizzia Flower and Bark - A herb that is used to combat emotional problems. It has calming properties that have a positive effect on the body and brain.

These are some of the most common and popular Chinese herbs used around the world. If any of you have used these or other Chinese herbs, we’d love to hear about your experience. Send in your comments below.

What is Chinese Medicine?

Chinese Medicine is the oldest healing system in the world, dating back as far as the 3rd Century BC. The whole idea is based on the principals of yin and yang which are opposite yet complementary universal forces and create balance within the body to allow the free flow of life energy (called qi).

Long term treatment has been known to cure patients of a range of symptoms that they never once associated with their main injury or complaint. It can also improve our body awareness and strengthen the immune system to aid a long and healthy life. The most commonly treated disorders by Chinese Medicine are anxiety, depression, arthritis, migraines, joint pain, asthma, colds and flu symptoms.

It has adapted well over the years so it is still as relevant today as it has always been. Research continues throughout the world into this ancient healing method and the tools involved.

Acupuncture is the most well known tool of Chinese Medicine. This method works by increasing circulation around the body and therefore stimulating the body’s healing process. During an acupuncture treatment endorphins are released which not only relaxes the body but it also regulates serotonin in the brain. Small needles are inserted into the patient’s skin in particular places according to the complaint or illness that needs treating. The needles are placed along the patient’s meridians (which are essentially pathways along which qi travels). By tapping into the energy in this way, the body can restore its balance and rid itself of the complaint for good.

Herbs and herbal remedies are a big part of Chinese Medicine. Herb formulations can be made from all sources including animal, mineral, fruit, seed and plant sources. Generally the herbal remedies can be taken in either a pill or tablet form, or as a tea. Here at Baldwin’s we have a range of products available and if you would like to know more about any of them, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Have any of you tried Chinese Medicine? Did it work and cure you of the complaint? Send in your comments about Chinese Medicine below.

What is a herbal tincture?

A herbal tincture is an alternative to infusing herbs as the tincture can be added directly to a drink such as water or fruit juice. To make a herbal tincture, the herb is placed in a mixture of alcohol and water and then left at room temperature for 2 to 4 weeks. As this point the mixture is filtered and bottled. Generally the ratio of tinctures is 1 part herb to 3 parts liquid. The alcohol solution can vary in strength between 25% and 60%.

Because of the ease taking tinctures, they are particular popular amongst business travellers or those of us on the go. Just a few drops in a drink in the morning if all you need to do to receive the full benefits of the particular herb you taking. The small bottle is easily portable and very convenient too.

Here at Baldwin’s, not only do we offer discounts on large sizes of all our herbal tinctures, but at the moment we also have a 20% discount on our Baldwins Echinacea (angustifolia) Herbal Tincture. This is a good way to experience a herbal tincture without spending much money. You can receive all the benefits of a herbal tincture at Baldwin’s, but without any of the cost.

The benefits of herbal tinctures are numerous. Only a very small amount of the herb is needed and the solution stays potent and strong for many years. There are some herbal compounds that can only be extracted using alcohol, and the small but potent dosage goes to work right away.

Have any of you taken herbal tinctures in the past? Do you think they are something that is worthwhile, or did you not feel many of the benefits. Send in all of your comments below about herbal tinctures.