It is an obsession in current culture to stay youthful. Whole industries are built around the concept of being forever young. While this may be simple vanity at times, there is a realistic goal to be vital and healthy throughout life. Although certain herbs such as ginseng have garnered the world’s attention, there are plenty more herbs that might be less known at present, and yet they have the potential to restore vitality and health.
As mentioned, it is realistic to expect to have good health, mobility, vitality and a functioning mind well into old age. Unfortunately in present culture this is a rarity instead of the rule. With the vitality in the early twenties, it is unthinkable to consider that the body will breakdown in time. Illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, dementia, osteoporosis, and arthritis all take their toll in time. The good thing is that there are options to reverse all of these.
Anti-Aging Herbs to Keep the Body Strong
In particular, Asian and South American medicine seems to hold the keys to longevity with herbs and diet. Some of the underutilized herbs are as follows:
- Fo-Ti Teng – A very common herb in traditional Chinese medicine, it is rarely used in the western world. Essentially it restores energy to a weak kidney meridian, one of the subtle lines of energy running through the body. It helps restore overall energy, darkens greying hair, boosts sex drive, and promotes longevity.
- Wolfberry (Goji)- One of the heavily marketed berries is the Chinese wolfberry or goji berry. Although health food marketing companies would like its customers to believe that there is a difference between inexpensive Chinese wolfberry and expensive Tibetan goji berries, the fact remains it is the same plant and comes from the same area. The only difference is the price the consumer pays. Look for an inexpensive source in the Asian markets in most major cities. They are also marketed under the Latin name Lycium. Whatever it is called, wolfberries are packed with nutrients and medicine to treat a number of health conditions. In particular, they help regulate blood sugar, rebuild tissue, lower cholesterol, fight cancer, boost immune function, and provide a boost of energy. They will help make an old wolf young again.
- Maca – A root vegetable from the Peruvian Andes, this medicinal food is known as a hormonal balancer and vitality booster. In particular it is being marketed as boosting lagging sex drive in both men and women.
- Gynura –Almost unheard of in western culture, this Asian herb regulates blood sugar and protects the eyes and kidneys which can be comprised with age and diabetes.
- Maral Root – This Siberian plant is being studied by sport medicine doctors as an adaptogen for strengthening muscles, endurance and regulating blood sugar levels. It could be just the boost for muscles that lose their strength through time and illness.
Herbs for a Sound Mind
- Gingko Biloba – Gingko is probably one of the more popular herbs for maintaining mental clarity with age. It is thought that it increases blood flow, especially to areas of the brain.
- Bacopa – Another Asian herb, this one is fast gaining the reputation for helping to protect mental functioning. This plant should not be confused with the bacopa that is often found in hanging baskets sold at garden nurseries
- Sushni – This member of the fern family from Bangladesh, resembles a small four leaf clover. According to Otto Richter of Richter’s Herbs, it is used as brain food and to help alleviate insomnia. It has also been shown to lower cholesterol levels.
- Gotu Kola – Well used in Chinese medicine, this herb is thought to rejuvenate the cells of the brain.
Aging and Lifestyle Choices
Herbs are not the only way to maintain youthful energy. Drinking plenty of water and having daily exercise both go a long way to keeping the body healthy and energetic. Walking daily is one of the best habits to form. In a sensible society, food is also seen as medicine. A diet low in fat, decreased meat consumption, and high in organic fruits and vegetables will improve overall health.
One of the less tangible qualities is a positive attitude. There has been enough research to show that a positive attitude, a life full of laughter despite its challenges, and a balanced lifestyle all contribute to improved health and longevity.
References
Otto Richter, Richter Herbs
Green Pharmacy, Dr James Duke, 1997 Rodale Press
