7 Under the Radar Herbs
Eastern Medicine encourages cultivating a healthy body rather than fighting an illness only when it arises. Therefore it’s not surprising the average life expectancy for the country of South Korea is 82.5 years. By following centuries-old traditions and incorporating a variety of noteworthy herbs into natural remedies and diets, South Koreans have found ways to increase longevity with a healthy and balanced lifestyle. Although these herbs may not be common in headlines or wellness blogs, they certainly should be. Koreans have been using these herbs for their incredible healing properties which can help the body adapt to stress, regulate metabolism and manage pain. These are 8 underappreciated herbs that can be integrated into your wellness routine and can also be used to prevent or alleviate pain.
1. Magnolia Bark
Magnolia Bark is most well known for reducing stress and easing anxiety. Two of the main active components of the bark are honokiol and magnolol which have been used to treat depression and mental disorders in Eastern Medicine. The herb regulates the endocrine system and can stimulate the release of dopamine in the body, easing depression. In addition, honokiol contains incredible antioxidative, anti-inflammatory and anticancer qualities. Honokiol is being studied and tested for its chemopreventive and therapeutic properties. Magnolia bark is the first ingredient in the Mother Earl Pearls.
2. Corni Fructus
Corni Fructus is a deciduous shrub found in warm climates. For over 2,000 years, Corni Fructus has been used to restore the liver and kidneys. Studies have shown Corni Fructus can help decrease glucose toxicities and improve kidney function. The herb also exhibits bioactive properties that help treat the body from oxidative stress and inflammation.
3. Licorice Root
Glycyrrhetic acid is the most prominent bioactive compound in licorice root. For centuries licorice root has been used to treat stomach ulcers, heartburn, indigestion and bronchitis. Today, glycyrrhetic acid is also used to treat hepatitis C, memory loss, cancer and skin infections. Licorice root can boost the immune system by reducing stress and providing adrenal support.
4. Chaenomelis Fructus
Chaenomelis Fructus is the dried fruit from the flowering quince, mugua. The herb has been used for centuries to treat rheumatoid arthritis and exhibits anti-inflammatory agents. Research has found the triterpenoid, phenolic and phenylpropionic acids as well as alkaloids extracted from the herb aid in alleviating muscle tension and indigestion. Chaenomelis Fructus also possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-tumor properties.
5. Ginseng
Both Asian and American Ginseng are widely used for boosting the immune system. Ginseng helps the body combat infection, disease and also reduces the risk of contracting the cold or flu. The results of two studies showed those who took 400 mg of ginseng for 4 months daily had fewer colds than those who did not take ginseng. In addition, ginseng has been found to increase physical stamina, concentration, reduce stress and help treat diabetes as well as depression.
6. Piperis Longi Fructus
More commonly known as the long pepper fruit, piperis longi fructus is used to alleviate stomach pain and nausea. A research study found piperis longi increases the activity of enzymes and antioxidant activity in damaged livers. Results of the study showed piperis longi fructus significantly reduced the severity of liver fibrosis by increasing collagen content in the liver.
7. Dried Clementine
Dried Clementine is an incredible herb for the entire body. Clementines are a hybrid of sweet orange and mandarine orange. The herb is packed with vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus and folate. Dried Clementine helps strengthen bones and muscles, boosts cardiovascular health and supports brain function. Citrus peels have also been used for centuries in Eastern Medicine to improve digestion and alleviate gas and bloating. More recently, scientists are researching the constituents in citrus fruits for their anti-cancer properties. The flavonoid, hesperidin, which is found in citrus peels, has been found to reduce cancer cells in the colon.
Written by Grace Maeda