Autumn Tonics

With the cold season approaching, many are concerned about supporting their bodies during this transition.

In this article, you will find brief descriptions of some medicinal plants that can help you in this quest and the most effective preparation method. You will also find a specific recipe to try!

 

Adaptogens and Tonics

There are many words in herbalism that describe the properties of plants. And when you're not in the field, it can sometimes be difficult to navigate.

"Adaptogen" and "Tonic" are two qualities of plants that indicate an ability to support the body in its normal functions.

The word "Tonic" in particular primarily indicates this, the fact of supporting the body in its normal functions. Tonic plants are plants that can be taken long-term without problems (3 months and more). A tonic plant can be general or have a specialty, such as the nervous system, the digestive system, or even the immune system.

The word "adaptogen", on the other hand, is much more recent than the word tonic, dating from the mid-1900s, developed by scientists who studied plants that promoted better physical performance and better adaptation to the environment, or "a state of non-specific resistance" of the organism that consumes them.

In all cases, these are non-toxic plants, even at high doses. Therapeutic dosages are therefore very safe.

Below is the recipe, and further down, the descriptions of our different plants. Contact us on Thursday or Friday for more personalized advice.

[[ recipeID=recipe-9kv2nsb60, title=Sirop Tonique d'Automne ]]

Description of our tonics:

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

Also known as "Indian Ginseng", this name is inaccurate, as this plant is not part of the Ginseng family. However, it is very tonic and adaptogenic. Particularly useful for people who feel tired and need a little extra energy.

It promotes calm sleep and good stress management during the day. In some cases, it helps normalize testosterone levels in all genders.

 

 

 

 

Astragalus (Astragalus membracaneus)

Astragalus is a great classic for strengthening immunity. It is gentle and suitable for most constitutions and for children. It is very beneficial in syrup, but can also be added to soup broths, as is done in China.

 

 

 

 

 

Codonopsis (Codonopsis pilosula)

Codonopsis is sometimes called poor man's ginseng, but it has different affinities in the body. Also very useful for children. A good immune tonic, it promotes energy in people with a very dry constitution (e.g., permanently dry throat). Codonopsis particularly fortifies the lungs.

 

 

 

 

 

Eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus)

Eleuthero has been extensively studied, primarily by Russians and Chinese to improve the physical and mental performance of their athletes and astronauts. It nourishes less deeply than the previous tonics but helps to access physical and mental energy quickly.

 

 

 

Canadian Ginseng (Panax quinquefolium)

Even if you don't know plants, you know Ginseng, and you look for it for its energizing properties. However, Ginseng is only interesting for those 40 and over or for very exhausted people. Younger individuals should turn to all the other options offered here, as the body does not need the support of Ginseng. It is very useful for normalizing metabolism and restoring good energy. It is consumed in small doses accompanied by other tonics.

 

 

 

Goji (Lycium barbarum)

Both Goji and Ginseng contain polyalkynes, and Goji also contains specific and very studied polysaccharides. Very interesting for preserving and restoring vitality. Also promotes hormonal and metabolic balance.

 

 

 

 

 

Licorice (Glycyrrhizza glabra)

The reputation of Licorice is well-established. It is widely studied and has effects on several aspects of health, including the health of digestive mucous membranes. It is often part of antiviral formulations. It is useful in cases of adrenal exhaustion, but it generally never exceeds 10% in a recipe, as it has properties that can cause hypertension in some individuals.

 

 

 

 

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)

A great tonic, it helps strengthen the immune system. It has a good affinity for liver health and for adrenal exhaustion. Less suitable for dry and cold constitutions, less suitable for children. Bitter and mushroom flavor.

 

 

 

 

 

Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea)

Another plant enjoying great popularity right now, rhodiola, this sub-arctic plant that grows in tundras on all northern continents, offers a rose-flavored root. Its strong astringency makes it less pleasant on its own for dry constitutions. Rhodiola promotes concentration and mental clarity, as well as energy and stress management.

  

 

 

 

Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis) 

Schisandra, or the five-flavor berry, is another classic from China, Japan, and Korea, which has long since traveled to North America. Particularly useful for quick energy, it has a good affinity with the cardiovascular system, liver, and stress management. Its strong taste is dominant in blends and not suitable for children.

 

 

 

 

Elderberries (Sambucus nigra)

Elderberries are delicious. Highly studied for their polyphenol content, they are marketed as ready-made syrups to help fight respiratory infections. Elderberries are rich in anthocyanins and also promote vascular health. They are suitable for all age groups.

 

 

In conclusion:

That's certainly a lot of choices. Try the ones that appeal to you most in small quantities to start, or try our syrup recipe at the top of this article. Or, contact our herbalist during their available days.

Reading Resources:

Soviet Training and Recovery Methods

Adaptogens in Medical Herbalism

Adaptogens: Herbs for Strength, Stamina, and Stress Relief

Asian Functional Foods

Plant Adaptogens—History and Future Perspectives