The use of herbs to maintain good health is a principal part of Chinese medicine. Literature on herbal medicine dates back 2,000 years and describes thousands of medicinal ingredients. The healing herbs that are still in use today are divided into three broad categories: upper herbs, middle herbs, and lower herbs. These healing herbs are made up of plant, mineral and animal products.
History of Chinese Herbs for Health
It is believed that herbal medicine was developed by Daoist alchemists searching for the "elixir of life." Ancient literature records emperors requesting such medicine. Manuscripts from 2,000 years ago describe thousands of medicinal ingredients. The Shang Han Lun compiled during the second and third centuries CE, includes 113 herbal formulas. The later Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing compilation describes 730 herbs based on their actions, and identifies the three still in use today.
The Category of Upper Herbs
Upper herbs are also known as ruler herbs. They make up the basic ingredients in longevity formulas. They are believed to assist the smooth flow of qi, or vital energy, and blood throughout the body. These upper herbs are cinnamon, peony root, ginseng root, sweetgum fruit, Sichuan pepper (a mix), leaves and fruit, and ginger.
The Category of Middle Herbs
Middle herbs, or ministerial herbs, are very strong and may have side effects. Professional advice is always recommended when you use these herbs. They treat psychological problems and minor diseases. Middle herbs are made up of wormwood or mugwort, field mint, loquat, Clerodendrum, Euonymus or spindle fruit, and fossil bone.
The Category of Lower Herbs
Lower herbs, or assistant herbs, are toxic. A qualified herbalist is required to dispense these herbs. Found in this category of herbs are substances such as arsenic and euphorbia. They treat serious disorders. Lower herbs also include poppy, ma huang (also known as ephedra), Forsythia, persica, Evodia, dried ephedra, and Japanese honeysuckle.
Warning About Chinese Medicinal Herbs
When Chinese herbal medicine includes ingredients such as arsenic, poppy, euphorbia and ephedra, it must always be used under careful supervision. Researchers from the Mayo clinic warn about the powerful herb ephedra (ma juang) which was sold here in the US, on the shelf, as a natural weight-loss supplement. The misuse of this powerful herb is said to have caused deaths and 800 cases of toxicity!
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