Note: The descriptive information on this website is not intended to diagnose, treat or prescribe any disease and has not been evaluated by the FDA. If you are ill please consult your own health care practitioner. Elementals, Ltd is not responsible for your experience with these products.
Click here for full disclaimer

HE SHOU WU - Polygonum Multiflorum is also known as the mysterious Fo-Ti in China. This herb strengthens sinew and bone; promotes fertility; has a reputation for darkening gray hair (when taken for years), building bone marrow, and reducing the signs of aging. An ancient tonic herb that has shown great potential in scientific studies for reducing high blood pressure and arteriosclerosis by reducing the retention of fats in the blood stream and preventing the penetration of fats in the arterial lining. It moistens the intestines and helps unblock the bowels so it is useful for constipation especially when associated with blood deficiency. He shou wu is one of the most widely used tonic herbs in traditional Chinese medicine for promoting longevity and enhancing sexual potency.

TANQ QUI (DANG QUI) Angelica sinensis
In China, this is the most widely used medicinal herb by both men and women. It is also widely used in the US and Europe. Tang Qui is classified as a blood and circulatory tonic that is rich in phytohormones and B vitamins benefiting both the male and female reproductive systems. It helps to correct endocrine imbalances such as infertility and menstrual irregularities. It improves peripheral circulation, alleviates constipation, relieves headache pain, and also the pain caused by traumatic injury or surgical wounds. Angelica is regarded as one of the most balanced yin tonics and the most important herb for menstrual disorders. It is often called the "female ginseng." Note: Do not take if you are pregnant, experience heavy menstrual cycles, have uterine fibroids, or frequent diarrhea without consulting a health care practitioner.

ST JOHNSWORT (Hypericum Perforatum). A supreme tonic for the nervous system benefiting people who live a high stress lifestyle. SWJ has been extensively studied for relief of mild depression. Some studies indicate it can replace Prosac in better than 50% of cases. Proven to stimulate endorphine production. Traditionally SJW is used to treat pain and disease of the nervous system, including neuralgia, rheumatic and arthritic pains and injury to the nerves. It is a strong anti-viral herb effective against herpes, shingles, CFS, AIDS. SJW contains high levels of plant melatonin effecting the sleep/wake cycle of the body. It is used to help treat alcoholism and to curb overeating especially when conditions are linked to depression. It has proven very effective for relieving many symptoms of menopause especially heart palpitations, insomnia and anxiety. Takes 2-6 weeks to achieve maximum benefits.
NOTE: This herb is not to be taken with SSRI medications. It is best to check with your health care professional about possible interactions with SJW and any prescription drugs you may be taking. For more information about herb-drug interactions, visit www.mp.com

BLACK COHOSH (Cimicifuga Racemosa) This herb has been used for centuries to relieve menstrual stress and nervous tension. It is part of the Native American healing tradition where it is considered a supreme female reproductive herb. It is the most widely used and thoroughly studied natural approach for relieving symptoms of menopause. In Germany and England, black cohosh is approved for use in the treatment of menopause and painful or difficult menstruation. According to recent studies, black cohosh is not related to phytoestrogenic plants as was previously believed; instead it works by reducing levels of the luteinizing hormone associated with hot flashes and other symptoms of menopause. (NEHA journal Winter 2001) Clinical studies show this herb relieves hot flashes, depression, and thinning of the vaginal wall. Black Cohosh is also an effective nervine - relaxing the nervous system and helping to lower blood pressure. Its anti-inflammatory action makes it useful for arthritis, and for muscular and neurological pain such as lower back pain. Through its influence on the vasomotor centers and on the nerve ganglia, black cohosh has a beneficial influence on the heart. (Herbal Medicine Healing D. Yance)
Note: This herb should not be used during pregnancy except during the last trimester and then only with supervision

LICORICE Glycyrrhiza Glabra: Licorice is one of the most widely used herbs in Chinese formulations. It is regarded as an energy tonic, adrenal tonic, a laxative, and a rejuvenative tonic. It is often called "the great detoxifier" because it helps rid the body of residual toxins. Licorice remedies stomach problems such as ulcers and clinical studies confirm the antacid activity of licorice. This herb soothes mucus membranes of the urinary and respiratory tract and helps to expel mucus in chest complaints. Licorice is useful in treating adrenal insufficiency and other glandular problems. In addition to its tonic qualities, licorice is a strong antiviral and antibacterial herb, has mild laxative properties and is a safe sweetener for diabetics.
NOTE: Excessive and long term use of concentrated extracts may cause water retention resulting in possible hypertension and reduction in thyroid and metabolic activity. Consult your health care practitioner if you are uncertain

VITEX (CHASTEBERRY) This herb is often recommended for women to help regulate menstruation and relieve symptoms of PMS. It stimulates and helps to normalize pituitary gland function. Vitex increases the production of luteinizing hormones, enhancing the progesterone cycle. Vitex is a first choice for any hormone imbalance in women. This is the most popular herbal remedy in Europe for female imbalances. It has been successfully used to treat migraine headaches, skin rashes, abdominal cramping and other symptoms of PMS. (Vitex C.Hobbs)

HAWTHORNE (Crataegus) Hawthorn has long been regarded as a premier heart tonic improving circulation and heart function. In clinical studies hawthorne has been shown to strengthen the capillaries, improve blood supply to the heart by dilating coronary blood vessels, and to strengthen the heart muscle. Clinical studies have proven its ability to help relieve hypertension, cardiac arrhythmia, arteriosclerosis, angina pectoris, diseases of the heart valves, and palpitations. Recent research has shown that hawthorn taken orally increases blood flow to the brain.

MILK THISTLE (Silybum marianum) This herb has been used as a liver remedy for over 2,000 years. (The Green Pharmacy: J. Duke) It strengthens the liver and reduces damage from environmental stress and toxins. It is a healing tonic for the liver, helping to support the more than 500 metabolic functions of this vital organ. One of the active ingredients, silymarin, is a powerful antioxidant that prevents free radical damage. It also stimulates the production of healthy new liver cells. In addition to its tonic properties, this herb is effectively used to treat liver disease including hepatitis. It is also beneficial for helping the body detoxify alcohol, fatty foods, and the chemicals of our modern day world.

GINGER (Zingiber off.) Ginger is warming to the whole body and stimulates circulation. In Chinese medicine, its healing properties are so numerous it is included in more than half of the herb formulas. Because of its stimulating action, ginger increases the effectiveness and absorption rate of other herbs.
Recent studies show that ginger helps lower cholesterol and reduces platelet aggregation making it a good preventative tonic against arteriosclerosis and heart disease. Its tonic properties also include strengthening digestive function and stimulating circulation. We use freshly dried roots in our formulations.

TURMERIC (curcuma longa) This common spice used in curry blends, has been the subject of considerable medical research. In traditional cultures it is valued as an excellent natural antibiotic, while it also strengthens digestion and helps improve intestinal flora. It is known to promote good gastrointestinal health by stimulating the flow of bile. It also helps protect the liver against environmental toxins. Turmeric is used in traditional herbal medicine to promote circulation and as a digestive stimulant. It is a strong anti-inflammatory and, like aspirin, it inhibits platelet aggregation. It also helps lower blood cholesterol and is a powerful antioxidant - showing greater cell protection than Vitamin C. Turmeric also has a long history of use in the treatment of certain cancers. (Herbal Medicine Healing: D. Yance)

SAW PALMETTO (Seronoa repens) This herb has gained enormous popularity recently for its effect on prostate health and is widely considered a male tonic herb for treating hormone imbalances. More than 2 dozen well designed studies have shown its effectiveness for treating the symptoms of BPH - benign prostate hyperplasia. SP works by inhibiting the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) (The Green Pharmacy: Duke) DHT plays a significant role in the condition known as male pattern baldness. This and its high content of essential fatty acids are most likely both responsible for its hair thickening action noted by both men and women. This is an excellent tonic herb for women who have an excess of androgenic hormones. Symptoms of such an excess might include excess facial hair; cystic acne, and absence of their menstrual cycle (Herbal Medicine Healing: D. Yance)

REHMANNIA (Cooked, prepared) gan di huang
This is a blood tonic. Prepared rehmannia root is used to restore and regulate stamina and endurance. It benefits the liver, adrenal cortex and heart function. It helps to stabilize blood sugar. Specifically, prepared rehmannia is a remedy of choice in any chronic disease process involving adrenal and hepatic insufficiency. Because it provides yin level endocrine support, formulas that promote longevity have always included prepared rehmannia among their ingredients. This is the primary herb in one of the most famous Chinese formulas, Six Flavored Rehmannia Tonic Formula recommended for low back pain, arthritis, impotence, frequent urination, infertility, chronic eczema, fatigue and diabetes.

LYCII BERRIES (Lycium)
According to legend, this tonic herb was known as "the secret ingredient of harmonious marital relations." Small red berries that can be eaten as dried fruit, used in tea, or decocted in alcohol. The berries are used in Chinese medicine to nourish vital essence and might be prescribed for vertigo, dizziness, tinnitus, poor eyesight, cough due to deficiency, or lower back pain. The berries are very sweet, yet help to reduce blood sugar. Very high in vitamins and minerals.

SCHISANDRA Wu Wei zu
This amazing adaptogenic is known as the five flavor berry in Chinese medicine because it improves the function of the five organ systems of the body. It supports adrenal deficiency with symptoms of chronic loss of stamina, fatigue; stress, over work, and lingering illness. Schisandra effects many aspects of digestion, from stimulation of gastric juices to a tonic effect on the liver and gallbladder. Laboratory tests and clinical trials support the claims that schisandra helps improve brain efficiency, improves reflexes and builds strength and endurance in healthy people. Current research has focused on Schisandra's ability to prevent, treat and cure various kinds of liver disease - especially hepatitis. This is a prime herb for chronic cough and wheezing due to lung deficiency or patterns of lung and kidney deficiency. Other benefits include calming the spirit, reducing irritability, controlling palpitations, improving dream disturbed sleep and insomnia.
NOTE: Do not use Schisandra in the presence of colds, flu, fevers, or the early stages of rashes or coughs.

SIBERIAN GINSENG (Eleuthero)
This herb is considered one of the best adaptogens by many herbalists. Eleuthero is not a true ginseng but it shares many of the qualities and is a favored tonic herb for those living a high stress lifestyle. Eleuthero strengthens and supports the entire endocrine and glandular system, helping to regulate thyroid, adrenal and pancreatic functions. It can be used in deficiency or stress conditions and will not cause the "rush" often experienced with panax ginseng. Enhances endurance (need less rest) and helps to minimize jet lag. It is given to athletes to increase stamina and is safe for all ages. Russian studies have shown it significantly improved employee performance and reduced the need for sick leave. Siberian ginseng helps to balance blood pressure and blood sugar levels, helps reduce blood fat levels, increases stamina, improves disease resistance, helps protect the liver from toxic overload, helps lower blood pressure; aids in re-absorption of plaque from arteries. All this and it is high in antioxidants as well.

ASTRAGALUS - huang chi
This herb is a tonic for the whole body and safe for people of all ages. Traditionally, astragalus is used to strengthen energy and help build resistance to colds, flu, weakness and disease. It has a special affinity for the respiratory system and is very effective for treating chronically weak lungs with shortness of breath and poor stamina. Scientific studies show it fortifies immunity by increasing the production and activity of the white blood cells specifically involved in fighting disease such as cancer. "The diseases for which it is prescribed are almost numberless." Contains: 19 amino acids, flavonoids, polysaccharides, folic acids, trace minerals including selenium.

CODONPOSIS - Dang Shen
Often called "poor man's ginseng," this is a milder and more affordable substitute for panax ginseng. It is a whole body tonic with the ability to support digestive function and increase energy. It is safe for all ages and for use with hypertension, when panax ginseng is sometimes questionable. Pharmaceutical research has confirmed that the herb promotes digestion and metabolism, helps strengthen the immune system, stimulates the nervous system, dilates peripheral blood vessels, and helps to lower blood pressure. (Herbal Emissaries, Steven Foster ) Contains: amino acids, trace amounts of iron, manganese, zinc, B vitamins, proteins

PANAX AMERICAN GINSENG - Panax comes from the same root word as panacea or cure all. Revered for centuries in China, this adaptogen is considered an all-body tonic, possessing the ability to improve immune function, cardiovascular health, energy levels, and sexual vitality. Ancient sages recommend reserving panax ginseng for relieving symptoms of old age. American ginseng is considered less warming to the body than Asian ginseng. Ginseng nourishes, restores balance, and strengthens the functioning of organ systems without throwing another system out of balance. For instance, it will raise or lower blood sugar, raise or lower blood pressure, according to what the body needs. Ginseng is on the endangered list of plant species. Once abundant in the forests of New England, ginseng is now cultivated as a farm crop because it has become scarce in it's natural habitat. Most of the ginseng grown in this county is sent to China and Japan because their resources are scarce as well. We use 3-4 year old cultivated roots grown in the U.S. in our formulas.

MUSHROOMS - are powerful tonic herbs that have been used for centuries to support wellness and promote longevity. Scientific studies have confirmed many of the traditional uses of medicinal mushrooms and discovered new applications for stimulating immune function and inhibiting tumor growth. What is common to all medicinal mushrooms are special compounds called polysaccharides, that demonstrate powerful antiviral, and immune boosting properties. Eatable mushrooms are valuable health foods - low in calories, high in vegetable proteins, iron, zinc, fiber, amino acids, vitamins and minerals. Mushrooms are a good source of germanium, an element that improves cellular oxygenation and enhances immunity. We use a double extraction method for our mushroom tinctures.
Note: If you wish more information on the healing power of mushrooms, we suggest reading Medicinal Mushrooms by herbalist, Christopher Hobbs.

HOME