Using Nature’s Secrets to Look Great and Feel Terrific, Stay young, slim, strong, and energetic – Naturally
Neem flowers and leaves
We are becoming acutely aware of our need to enhance immunity and reduce emotional stress. Immunity to illness, in alternative health traditions, includes emotional balance, mental clarity, vitality, restful sleep, a positive outlook–in short, all the ways we feel healthy. Health does not come in a vaccine, but requires careful deep-cleansing of impurities and poisons; balancing energy, circulation and body fluids; and generally fortifying body and mind.
Alternative health traditions have long protected us. Mithridates VI (132–63 BC) known as Mithridates the Great (Megas) and Eupator Dionysius) was king of Pontus in northern Anatolia. He took daily sub-lethal doses of poisons to build a tolerance. It’s no wonder: His mother had poisoned his brothers. He survived a Greek tragedy. Mithridates’ approach has been refined to become the science of homeopathic remedies made from a minute trace of a substance, sometimes an irritant, that evokes a desired immune response.
Mithridates’ also invented a universal antidote to poisons that became popular during the Renaissance. According to Aulus Cornelius Celsus (ca 25 BC—ca 50), it contained detoxifying herbs–saffron, ginger, cinnamon, rose, frankincense, gentian, and several aromatic resins galbanam, turpentine, and liquidambar. Mixed with honey and wine, the fragrant, stimulating concoction resembled the purifying approach used in Ayurveda.
Herbal tonics can work like foods: They can have nutritive value or they can be cleansing. Tonics make the body and mind work more effectively. Common Ayurvedic immune tonics include detoxifying bitter and pungent herbs. Their best use depends upon individual needs. Watch for signs of improvement in vitality and mood. Needs may change with lifestyle and the weather. Ayurvedic remedies balance body and mind by improving circulation and reducing inflammation and impurities. An effective detoxification treatment might first eliminate excess Kapha (thick mucus congestion, asthma, fat and tumors) then Pitta (inflammatory disorders) and nourish and rejuvenate Vata (nervous disorders.) The following herbs are presented in that order. Since herbs are complex, many valuable tonics serve numerous healing functions. Cleansing herbs should be used with caution by people who are emaciated or suffer from nervous exhaustion. Avoid cleansing herbs during pregnancy.
Bitter detoxifying herbs such as neem or dandelion are best used during morning hours because they are often laxative and diuretic. However, stimulants such as the ginsengs, can be used in late morning and afternoon–instead of other stimulants. AVOID using cleansing or stimulaing herbs or foods late at night. Compared to a homeopathic remedy, an herbal tonic’s healing effects work slowly and last a long time. See my previous article on Ashwagandha as an example of an excellent rejuvenative tonic for adrenal energy and the nervous system.
Guggul
Pungent, Drying: Detoxifies, Reduces Kapha
If you are overweight, have excess cholesterol or fibroids, guggul can reduce mucus impurities and therefore allow the body to fight off disease and lethargy quicker. This nutrient-rich resin has traditionally been used to support circulation and cardiovascular health. Guggul also encourages overall immunity and immune system response and help normalize cholesterol levels. Guggul feels stimulating because it reduces Kapha (mucus congestion, depression, and sleepiness.) Reducing Kapha helps eliminate fibroids and fat.
Tulsi Leaves: Holy Basil, Ocimum tenuiflorum
Cooling: Reduces stress and Pitta, Improves breathing, colic and cortisol-tummy fat
Holy Basil “the incomparable one” is a powerful adaptogenic herb useful for weight loss, colic, stress and poor memory. Traditionally used for respiratory and lung health and general immune support, Ocimum sanctum is considered an elixir healing to mind, body, and spirit. Ayurveda considers holy basil to have bitter, pungent, and astringent tastes to help normalize mucus with colds, flu, and other respiratory ailments. It is traditionally used to reduce fever, for earaches, digestive disorders such as bloating or colic, ringworm, malaria, and even as a mosquito repellant.
Modern research finds holy basil to have potent therapeutic potential for peptic ulcer sufferers due to its anti-ulcerogenic and ulcer healing properties. Through its neurotransmitter-modulating effects it has analgesic properties and anti-stress effects. Stress-related changes in levels of cortisol and the corticosteroids may have a negative impact on everything from weight management, to healing, and memory. Studies show holy basil has anti-stressor properties and a normalizing influence on stress-induced changes in these problematic corticosteroid hormone levels.
Tulsi’s extracts are used for common colds, headaches, stomach disorders, inflammation, heart disease, various forms of poisoning, and malaria. Traditionally, tulsi is taken as an herbal tea, dried powder, fresh leaf, or mixed with ghee. Essential oil extracted from Karpoora tulsi is mostly used for medicinal purposes and in herbal cosmetics for its anti-bacterial activity. For centuries, the dried leaves of Tulsi have been mixed with stored grains to repel insects.
Recent studies suggest that Tulsi may be a COX-2 inhibitor (Prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (prostaglandin G/H synthase and cyclooxygenase), also known as PTGS2 an anti-inflammatory involved in prostaglandin synthesis) Like many modern painkillers due to its significant amount of eugenol (1-hydroxy-2-methoxy-4-allylbenzene). According to Dr. Narendra Singh, several studies have demonstrated that constituents of holy basil can neutralize free radicals and inhibit the production of inflammatory prostaglandins. An animal study found an extract of holy basil to be essentially equivalent to a standard dose of aspirin. These effects may explain one of Tulsi’s traditional roles in the treatment of pain and arthritis.
Studies have also shown Tulsi to be effective for diabetes, by reducing blood glucose levels. The same study showed significant reduction in total cholesterol levels with Tulsi. Another study showed that Tulsi’s beneficial effect on blood glucose levels is due to its antioxidant properties. Tulsi also shows some promise for protection from radiation poisoning and cataracts. Tulsi tea is mild-tasting for daily use. The following Ayurvedic herbs are strongly bitter and may best be used in pills.
Guduchi (A.K.A. Gulancha, Amrutha, Gilroy, Gurcha)
Reduces Impurities and Pitta, Rejuvenating, Calming
Guduchi is an important Rasayana (rejuvenative tonic) in Ayurveda. Human studies show it enhances the function of protective cells called macrophages. Its principle constituents are tinosporine, tinosporide, tinosporaside, cordifolide, cordifol, heptacosanol, clerodane furano diterpene, diterpenoid furanolactone tinosporidine, columbin and sitosterol. The stem is used in dyspepsia, fevers and urinary diseases. The plant is used to improve the immune system and the body’s resistance to infections.
Guduchi is bitter, stomachic, antiperiodic, and aphrodisiac. It is useful in chronic diarrhea. It helps remove urinary stones, acts as a diuretic, a CNS depressant, a hypoglycemic in diabetes, an antibacterial, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, anti-rheumatic, antiallergic, analgesic, and hepatoprotective. Guduchi helps increase the effectiveness of white blood cells to build the body’s own defense. It is used for hepatitis, arthritis, as an adjuvant in cancer chemotherapy and an immunomodulator.
Mahasudarshan churna (powder) or pills
Reduces Pitta, Eliminates toxins
Mahasudarshan, a complicated bitter, pungent, astringent, cooling formula supports the proper function of the liver and lymphatic system to eliminate wastes and boost immunity. It is balancing for pitta and kapha, may aggravate vata if used in excess. Its actions are alterative, antibilious, anti-inflammatory, antiperiodic, antipyretic, antiviral, decongestant, depurative, diaphoretic, diuretic, and refrigerant. It is traditionally used for acne, allergies, biliousness, colds and flu, fevers, lymphatic congestion, nausea, gallstones, liver disorders and jaundice, styes, and fatigue resulting from faulty digestion and elimination.
Mahasudarshan is a complex formulation of Ayurvedic herbs that bolsters immunity through detoxification. The main ingredients include chireta, kutki, guduchi and other notably bitter and astringent herbs that help relieve imbalances of pitta and kapha. Traditionally used for fever and disorders of the liver and lymph, this synergistic formula cools and cleanses the system. Mahasudarshan decongests the body and enhances the elimination of toxins, assisting the immune system in times of infection.
Neem
Purifies Pitta, Improves circulatory, digestive, respiratory and urinary functions.
Neem leaves are recommended for skin infections, intestinal parasites, and biliousness. Its cooling, extremely bitter quality reduces inflammatory problems from fevers and hot flashes to diabetes.
There are five types of Pitta located in the gastro-intestinal tract, the lymph system, blood and bone marrow, liver, spleen, brain, nerve cells, eyes, and skin. The fire of Pitta separates the pure from impure wastes and keeps the complexion fresh, warm and dewy. It fuels intelligence, knowledge and vision. When we detoxify body and mind, vitality and clarity are possible. Again–Bitter detoxifying herbs such as neem or dandelion are best used during morning hours because they are often laxative and diuretic. Use them when you have jaundice, skin blemishes, body odors, and constipation.
After the body is cleared of impurities, you will feel lighter, freer for all sorts of improvements. You will also be better able to absorb tonic foods and herbs.
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[…] Herbal Tonics that protect against Poisons By Letha Tulsi?s extracts are used for common colds, headaches, stomach disorders, inflammation, heart disease, various forms of poisoning, and malaria. Traditionally, tulsi is taken as an herbal tea, dried powder, fresh leaf, or mixed with ghee … Letha’s Health Secrets – https://www.asianhealthsecrets.com/letha […]
Letha,
How wonderful to receive these fascinating missives. As you studied voice, you must know that Mozart wrote an opera about Mithridates. Frankly, I thought that he was a fictional character. Live and learn.
The only problem I have with learning about these tonics, is that I don’t know whether they can be taken together. For instance: Can aswagandha and guggul be taken the same day somewhat continuously?
Have a happy fall season.
Nola
Hi Nola
Thanks for the questions. Asian herbal combinations are ofter very complex. Abana capsules (AKA “HeartCare” (for healthy heart support) made by Himalaya contains some 30 herbs including ashwagandha, guggul, gotu kola, catnip, arjuna, ginger, cardamon, clove and many other herbs to reduce cholesterol, strengthen and regulate heart functions.
If you use only 2 herbs in large doses they will have a stronger effect than using such as ready made combination. Do not worry about combining a tonic stimulant like ashwagandha with a cleanser like guggul. They will help each other to work. Ashwagandha since it is an adrenal tonic builds vitality, increases breath, and steadies heartbeat. Guggul clears mucus congestion from lungs as it helps dissolve fibroids. Both actions are necessary. If the combination of those 2 feels upsetting, unsettling, makes you dizzy or some other discomfort, take them at separate times. Use a small dose – for ex. 1 capsule of each daily and then increase dose to recommended dose or as needed for a while. You should start to feel stronger, more clear, mentally sharp but calm after they start to work. Cut back guggul if you start to feel too thirsty. It is drying.
If your tongue is very red and dry – they may be too heating and drying for you. You could still take them if you add a moistening tonic that evening such as Shilajet or shatavari. Asian herbal combinations are combinations because the herbs are added to reduce possible side-effects.
best, L.
Letha – I just love how detailed your posts are, written assuming your readers have the capacity to understand the information in its entirety.
Are there any of the above mentioned herbs that should NOT be taken together? Which companies make these and where can we purchase? I’ve never heard of shilajet or shatavari, do they have western names – and can these be taken daily as a preventive?
Many thanks,
Juni
Thanks Juni
Sometimes I am in a hurry to post an article and go back later to link it with companies online. Yesterday I was in a hurry because I taught a 3 Hr. workshop on herbs and foods for MidLife Magic. Some of the herbs in the articles were mentioned in Class. I’ll go back and link up the article when I can.
Shilajet and Shatavari come from India and are available in East Indian groceries and herb shops.
In NYC, I buy them in Manhattan at shops on and near Lexington bet. E. 28 and 29 Streets. There are several herb shops there –Foods of India, Kalustan, Little India shops, Butala Emporium are all there.
Online you can order Ayurvedic herbs (from India) from http://www.indousplaza.com
They are in Manhattan (Butala Emporium) or Queens.
You know you need a bitter, cleansing herb(s) if you have inflammatory problems- blemishes or ruddy complexion, fevers, constipation. If you take them expect to cleanse. They may be diuretic and laxative.
After over indulging, spring time, or for chronic problems such as inflammatory arthritis or hypertension.
If you want to use one or more for general cleansing such as at the change of season, to help stop a bad habit try a small dose 1 – 2 capsules for 1 – 3 days. If you feel too weak, cut back.
Ashwagandha can be used by most people, but some who are too dehydrated (thirsty; thinning hair, dry cracked skin) need to add shilajet or shatavari along with ashwagandha.
hope that helps, L.
Hi, Letha.
Your posts are great and informative, as usual.
I have been trying to quit smoking for months now. (You know, the stopped one week start again routine)
My question is: While I’m going through this routine and hopefully to end without smoking, is there a supplement that I can use to start rebuilding the moisture and such that I’ve lost from the smoking?
Again, thanks so much for sharing your wonderful expertise and knowledge!!!
Thanks Natasha!
Great question. ONe of my favorite moisturizing, rejuvenating supplements is from India – SHILAJET capsules. Find it in Indian groceries or herb shops or online.
You can take 1 – 2 capsules at bedtime without food. It detoxifies and contains antioxidants and nutrients that rejuvenate internal tissue and fluids.
Also get some acupuncture to help you to stop smoking. It helps heal damaged tissue and stop cravings. There are points in the ear to treat inflammation in – liver, lungs, nervous system and mouth.
best, L.
Hi, L.
Thanks, again, for your informative reply.
I have located the shalejit online and I do plan on ordering it. I have one question, I take the Abana just about daily (another wonderful product I was alerted to thanks to this website). Can I take the Abana and the shalijet?
I also take reishi or astralagus on differing days. Just wondering if these supplements should be taken together.
Thanks,
N.
Hi Natasha
I like questions like that.
I think its good to take Abana with breakfast and maybe in afternoon or early evening.
Shilajet works well at bedtime without food. It is not digestive. Don’t take them
at the same time. Shilajet may slow the stimulating action of Abana or increase mucus congestion.
Shilajet is moistening and relaxing, improves sleep.
You can take reishi and astragalus together. They are both tonics that have anticancer properties. But astragalus also enhances sweating when there is not enough. That may take the reishi out to affect the skin. That’s ok. Reishi is cooling and nourishing. Just don’t take the combination along with a heavy meal. You may feel bloated from the astragalus if you take a lot. Usually capsules are not too strong. Cooking herbs makes stronger brews. If you have trouble with the combo, take them separately.
Reishi reduces cholesterol and inflammation. You can take more in warmer weather.
Astragalus is also fine by itself for prevention of cancer and to enhance vitality.
Hello Letha,
Is tulsi tea effective in the killing L form bacteria? There are many well-respected micro-biologists who believe that L form bacteria are the real culprit behind all heart disease rather than poor diet and lack of excercise.
Thank You.
Don
Hello Don
It seems unlikely that tulsi could kill L form bacteria. It is a very difficult form of bacteria to study and eliminate from the cells because it becomes part of our immune system. Herbs and plants in general when ingested as teas work as foods and do not usually affect cells the way a drug might. L form bacterias are hard to kill because cooking does not kill it. It does not live outside the body but is part of foods and then part of us. Here is a useful article about it:
http://bacteriality.com/2007/08/15/l-forms/
hi
can ashwagandha and arjuna be taken together
Raj
Yes the pill HeartCare made by Himalaya contains both ashwagandha and arjuna – both to strengthen muscle.
Happy new year.
Can ashwagandha , triphala, tulsi and guggul can taken together
Jamal
I would take triphala and guggul in the morning and ashwagandha in the afternoon. Do not know if you need tulsi and why you are taking it. It may not mix well with the other herbs.
Lethaji,
I came across your blog by chance and after reading up on a few of your articles I’m hoping that you might be able to advise me.I am a 22 year old female suffering from severe cystic acne for four years now. The last time I visited a dermatologist, which was just about a year ago from date, I was told I had to be put on Accutane. I do not have that kind of money to cover the treatment as you may know it is very costly and the long list of side effects of this ‘miracle drug’ does not make it anymore appealing. I have been looking for alternative medicinal treatments for a very long time and the things I have tried so far have not amounted to any success hence I am sitting here taking a shot to see if you can provide me with any input. All of these HUGE painful cysts have left terrible hyper-pigmentation and scarring and I have noticed this experience has made me a rather bitter and unhappy individual. I am currently not taking any form of oral medication (was on antibiotics because the cystic acne flare up was pretty bad earlier this month) nor any supplements ( the whole food based vitamins I used to take had absolutely no significant impact on any aspect of my well-being). Is there anything you can suggest which you believe would make a difference?
-Mo
Mo
a number of my clients have had success using neem capsules – taking 3 twice daily for 2 weeks. It helped with herpes and acne. Topically I recommend papaya enzyme powder as a mask. mix 1/4 tsp of the powder to a few drops of water or mild soap and apply for up to 3 min. then wash off to exfoliate the skin. (google it for sources)
Dear Mo
Sorry to hear about your troubles with antibiotics. I would use a long term dose of probiotics – not just yogurt but acidophilus, even occasionally used as an anal suppository to help regulate bowel movements. Avoid hot spice, honey, ginger, orange, and tomato. For internal use I recommend from Health Concerns pills called Skin Balance and Coptis Purge Fire take them together as advised on the bottle for up to 6 months.
Externally to exfoliate the skin mix 1/4 tsp papaya enzyme (pepain) with water or yogurt and apply to acne and entire face for up to 2 minutes or so. Wash with warm water. Apply aloe jel to wounds or sores. See the chapter on skin in my book Healthy Beauty. If in NYC I will be teaching a class on natural beauty at NY Open Center. See the teaching section of this website for dates, etc. Good luck, Mo
best, Letha
Thank you so much!