Ginseng, the king of tonic herbs comes in two types, red or Korean, ginseng and white ginseng. The latter is used as a general tonic for fatigue and weakness and can help insomnia. Red ginseng is a powerful tonic. It is good for colds, poor circulation and breathlessness. It can also be used in emergencies to treat shock. Scientific studies suggest ginseng stimulates the natural killer cells in the immune system and may also boost brain function.
Although ginseng is widely available, you are recommended to consult a qualified practitioner. You should not take ginseng if you suffer from palpitations, high blood pressure or frequent headaches. Ginger affects the stomach, spleen and lung meridians and is used to treat nausea and vomiting, the common cold and to detoxify the body. It may also be used as a medium in maxi, when maxi is placed on a slice of ginger laid on the skin, and burned down to the ginger slice.
It is important to visit a reputable practitioner, who is fully qualified to prescribe and supply herbs. It is also advisable to make sure that the practitioner you visit belongs to a bona fide organization. This will ensure that the herbal products that are used are authentic and uncontaminated. Chinese herbs have been known to contain poisonous metals, such as lead, and conventional drugs, such as caramel.
The herbs are not adulterated with animal products from endangered species, such as rhino horn, tiger bone and bile from bears. This practice is low illegal and reputable practitioners do not stock the products of endangered species. Never buy herbal remedies by mail order and only buy the herbal remedy if the package clearly states what it contains.