I find the fragrance of Jasmine to be intoxicating. I used to have an arch in my backyard with jasmine growing over it. When the jasmine was in bloom, breathing in the fragrance often made me stop whatever I was doing and linger for a few moments to enjoy its heady, exotic scent.Fragrances have a powerful impact on both memory and emotions. The nerves that detect scent are directly wired into the limbic system of the brain, which controls emotions and shunts information into long-term memory. This…
Reishi mushrooms are a valuable TCM remedy for calming the shen (spirit), balancing immune functions, and replenishing a weakened system. They have numerous health benefits and have long history of use in China, where it is called Ling Zhi, which means “spiritual mushroom.”
The only surviving species of the Eucommia genus, eucommia is native to China and widely used in Chinese medicine as a superior tonic that enhances health and diminishes signs of aging. It is a superior tonic that promotes kidney, structural, and general health.
Plants containing the alkaloid berberine have been used around the world to fight infections. Two examples of traditional Chinese herbs are coptis or goldenthread and amur cork tree bark. A third example is the Southern folk remedy yellow root.
A thorny shrub, barberry is used to fight infections, stimulate bile flow and aid conditions such as gallbladder pain, gallstones, and jaundice. Barberry is also helpful for supporting healthy personal boundaries, which are important to help define what is self and what is not self.
A yellow alkaloid found in traditional infection-fighting herbs, it can help with metabolic syndrome, diabetes, inflammation, heart health, cancer, weight loss, and more.
People all over the world drink beverages made with caffeinated herbs to feel energy and stimulated. Herbs like kola nut, guarana, and yerba mate along with coffee and tea are all examples of stimulating nervines and when used sensibly can be good medicines to use.