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Tonic HerbalismThis will be the starting point for discussing tonic herbalism, and tonic herbs. All the herbs used in tonic herbalism may be used as medicinal herbs, but not all of the medicinal herbs may be used as tonics. I am defining tonic herbs as those herbs which focus on strengthening or fortifying natural body systems and processes. They are used to tonify or strengthen an already healthy individual. Most of the herbs identified as adaptogens will be included with the tonic herbs.
There are many ways to label tonic herbs. The herbs could be divided according to what body system is most affected by a particular herb, so we could talk about Lung Tonics or Kidney Tonics, for example. I will use those kinds of references where appropriate, but I want to start with a more basic division. Superior and Inferior Tonic HerbsMany herbalists, myself included, believe that herbs with more generalized effects are better or superior tonics. This means that if we have one herb which tonifies the lung function, and another which strengthens the heart, lungs, stomach and kidneys, the second herb is a Superior tonic to the first herb.(Ginseng is such a well known herb because it has a wide ranging effect on the body, and enhances many of the body's natural systems and processes. Ginseng belongs to the Superior Tonics.) The Superior tonics enhance the vitality of the individual as a whole, strenghtening the functioning of the body mind. Many are also believed to increase longevity, and some even to enhance spiritual development. The Inferior tonics still work to strengthen different aspects of the body, but tend to have a lesser effect on the whole individual. All of the tonic herbs tonify or enhance the body in some way, and may be used to improve deficiencies (although this is generally part of medical herbalism rather than tonic herbalism) and to increase circulation of energies already present, they all contribute to build vitality in the individual taking them appropriately. As I add information about specific tonic herbs, I will add links to this page, to make it easy to find the information about individual herbs. If you have any questions about specific herbs, or any of the information on this website, use the form here to submit your question. I will respond as soon as possible.
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