Medicinal Herbal

Herbal Body Tonics

Each system of the body has plants that are particularly suited to it, some of which are tonics. Below are listed some of the remedies which act as tonics for the major systems of the body.

 

Tonics are herbs that strengthen, nourish or tone either a specific organ or system or the entire body. This will aid the structural form of the tissues and organs as well as their function.

 

A characteristic of tonic herbs is that are all gentle remedies that have a mild yet profound effect on the body. Not all herbal remedies are tonics. Many have a powerful impact upon the human physiology. These must be used with the greatest respect, in times of illness when stronger medicine is called for.

 

The value of tonnic herbs lies in their nourishing, nurturing effects. Whenever possible the herbalist will focus on the use of such remedies and use herbs with a visible impact on the body only when necessary.

 

Infection:  Garlic, Echinacea, and system-specific anti-microbials such as Bearberry for the urinary system.

 

Cardiovascular System:  Hawthorn and Garlic. The bioflavonoid containing herbs such as Buckwheat and Linden Blossom are especially useful for strengthening blood vessels.

 

Respiratory System:  Mullein, Elecampane and Coltsfoot.

 

Digestive System: The bitter tonics will often be helpful in preventative approaches in health. Examples are Gentian, Agrimony and Dandelion Root.

 

The Liver:  Bitter tonics, especially Milk Thistle, are hepatics (work on the liver).

 

Urinary System:  Buchu, Bearberry and Corn Silk are very useful.

                       

Reproductive System: For women use Raspberry, Motherwort, Squaw Vine and other uterine tonics, while for men use Saw Palmetto, Damiana or Sarsaparilla.

 

Nervous System:       Oats, Skullcap, StJohn's Wort, Vervain and Mugwort are all excellent tonic remedies. Ginseng has a toning effect when the person is under stress, because of its effect upon the adrenal glands.

 

Musculo/Skeletal System:  Celery Seed, and Nettles will help prevent problems from other systems of the body manifest as disease in this system. Comfrey and Horsetail will help strengthen the bones and connective tissue.

 

The Skin:  Cleavers, Nettles, Red Clover and most alterative remedies will help.