Top 10 Ways to Live Better Longer!
Healthy Aging Strategies with Tonic Herbs
Aging is predictable in all living organisms; however, the rate of aging can vary greatly depending on our intrinsic genetic profile and our extrinsic lifestyle throughout life. Most experts would suggest that there is little we can do to influence our genetic patterns, but we know that we can influence familial disease patterns such as heart disease with diet, exercise, meditation, and tonic herbs providing us with a better quality of life into old age.
Until such time that advances in gene therapy can promise to replace all of our worn out parts, it our personal responsibility to maintain health and wellness with good personal lifestyle choices. Aging is a normal process that leads to our eventual deaths and there is an 'anti anti-aging movement' underway that reveres aging while promoting healthy aging life practices. Here are 10 great ways to slow down, or reverse the affects of aging:
1.) Nourish Yourself
What we see as aging, such as our personal appearance, flexibility, strength and so on, is simply a reflection of the aging that is occurring on a cellular level internally. As our age advances, our cells ability to divide and make new cells slows or halts. This is why it is necessary to provide the nourishment necessary to support healthy cells.
Diet
A diet of organic whole foods rich in vegetables, beans, and whole grains is vital for longevity. Avoiding processed foods, sugars, and saturated fats is necessary for promoting wellness. Healthy unsaturated fats are desirable, but highly refined and hydrogenated oils are detrimental to your health. These eating patterns are not new ideas, and are based on eating real foods.
Vitamins
Because absorption decreases with age, even organic foods may not provide us with enough vitamins and minerals. Vitamins and minerals are necessary as catalysts that allow us to break down, absorb, and utilize our nourishing foods. A one-a-day from the corner drug store may not be the best choice, so visit your local health food store for vitamins and minerals that your body can easily absorb. Make sure to boost your Vitamin C intake to at least 1,000 mgs. as Vitamin C helps to maintain the tenacity of our cells. Micro-minerals, such as those found in seaweed, increase the cellular adaptability to stresses and environmental changes.
Antioxidants
Free radicals are unstable cells that bounce around causing cellular damage internally and speed aging. Aging can also result from an accumulation of genetic errors due to damage from free radicals; the resulting changes in DNA result in cell mutations and malfunctioning; Cancer cells would be an example.
Anti-oxidants have the molecular compounds to stabilize the free radicals and stop the damage from occurring. Medicinal herbs are rich in antioxidant compounds such as flavanoids, phenolic acids, and esters in the essential oils of herbs. Some common sources of anti-oxidants include, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Coenzyme Q10, and Manganese. Vegetables, herbs and fruits are rich in antioxidants and are the safest way to ingest them.
Note: Another great trick for increasing the absorption rate of nutrients as we age is by going through NAET (Nambudrapad Allergy Elimination Treatments). In Chinese medicine, the decrease in absorption is mainly due to energetic blocks and imbalances that develop over a lifetime. These energetic blocks that do not allow you to absorb your nutrients can be cleared with NAET treatments. Go to NAET.com to learn more and find a practitioner in your area to promote absorption and healthy aging.
2.) Build Blood and Qi in the Body
In a healthy body, white blood cells only survive a few weeks to
months. Red blood cells survive about four months, after which
they are removed from the blood. Because these cells are central
in the delivery of nutrients and the proper function of our immune
response, it is vital to provide the body with the proper nourishment
to reproduce blood cells.
One of the most common pattern of imbalance in the elderly is
'Blood and Qi (Chi) Deficiency'. Qi is the 'vital energy' and warmth
producing quality of the body that allows the animation of the human body. All of the organs must receive abundant Qi and Blood to thrive and function properly.
Blood relies on Qi to move throughout the body, and Qi relies on Blood to nourish the organs that produce Qi in the body; therefore, Qi and Blood are interdependent, and if you have a deficiency of one, you will eventually have a deficiency of the other. Qi is obtained through air, water, food, Qi Gong breathing exercises, and tonic herbs. Blood mainly relies on nutrients from food and tonic herbs for production.
Signs of Blood Deficiency include dry skin, dizziness, palpitations, withered skin, lusterless complexion, pale lips, a weak pulse, insomnia, tight muscles, inflexible joints, and thinning brittle hair. Blood is made up mainly of water, and water has amazing isolate properties; this is why older people who are Blood Deficient are intolerant of temperature fluctuations, and are always too hot or too cold. Building Blood with herbs such as astragalus and dang gui will help to promote healthy aging.
3.) Eliminate Toxins from the Body
Exposure to toxins can occur from environmental exposures such as pollution, occupational hazards such as paint, hair dyes, or chemicals, or pesticides in our foods. Many toxins act as free radicals and cause cellular damage in the body speeding up aging. Other pesticides and toxins seem to interfere with the mechanisms that stimulate the division of cells in the body and cell division is the way you regenerate new cells that keep you youthful.
Typically the body eliminates toxins through the liver, kidneys, skin, lungs, lymphatic system and so on. It is when the body becomes overwhelmed with toxins that the systems of elimination stop functioning optimally, and toxins become lodged more internally in the body. Herbs such as burdock, yellow dock, and cleavers that support the systems necessary for elimination can be a seasonal preventative treatments taken every 6 months or so to slow down aging.
4.) Get a Good Night's Sleep
Researchers from the University of Chicago Medical Center found that lack of sleep produces changes in the bodies, even in teens, that are related with premature aging. "We found that the metabolic and endocrine changes resulting from a significant sleep debt mimic many of the hallmarks of aging," said Eve Van Cauter, Ph.D., professor of medicine at the University of Chicago and director of the study. "We suspect that chronic sleep loss may not only hasten the onset but could also increase the severity of age-related ailments such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity and memory loss."
There are many underlying causes of insomnia and sleep disturbances. One of the reasons that Chinese medicine is able to treat insomnia with such great success is because it has a number of practical theories that actually address the root causes of sleep disorders. It should be noted that in Chinese medicine a normal pattern of sleep would be the ability to fall asleep on your own around 10 or 11 PM, and stay asleep for 7-8 hours without interruption. Any other sleep pattern would be considered abnormal, and would be part of a pattern of imbalance.
5.) Reduce Stress
The part of the DNA that controls cell aging is called a telomere. If you think of a strand of DNA as a shoelace, the telomere is the plastic tip on the end that provides protection to the DNA. Telomeres naturally get thinner an fray as we age, and the more worn they become, the less protection they provide. Chronic stress has been shown to speed up this process resulting in the premature death of cells, rather than normal rejuvenating mechanism of cell division.
Stress is a normal part of our lives, and it is more specifically how we deal with stressors that determine if stress is going to affect us negatively. Many people find the stress involved with life drama stimulating, but creating drama is often an effort to avoid dealing with past emotional traumas.
It is known that our nervous system has two functional modes; the Sympathetic & Para-sympathetic. We are supposed to live in the parasympathetic mode that promotes a "rest and digest" response and a calming of the nerves to preserve adrenal health. Unfortunately, many of us are caught up in an unhealthy loop of emotional responses to life's every day stresses putting us in the Sympathetic mode that promotes a "fight or flight" response inhibiting digestion, increasing the heart rate, constricting blood vessels, inhibiting reproduction responses, and causing our body to consume tissue for quick energy. This causes adrenal exhaustion and pre-mature aging.
It is possible to re-program the nervous system so that it is not so over reactive to normal stressors. Some of the most common ways to maintain a healthy nervous system are exercise, breathing meditations, and the use of herbal nervines such as albizzia, skullcap, and lemon balm.
6.) Exercise
Walking, Tai Qi, Qi Gong, and yoga increase blood circulation, decrease stress, maintain flexibility, all while helping to maintain a healthy body weight. Running is not considered a wise exercise method, especially as we age, because it depletes the 'Kidney Energy' that is central in aging in Chinese medical theory. Moderate weight lifting can help with maintaining bone mass and muscle strength, but heavy lifting and extreme workouts deplete the body of Qi and Blood and should be avoided. Brisk walks of around 10-15 miles per week are optimal for healthy aging.
7.) Limit Your Exposure to the Sun
The sun is a life giving force that has been villainized of late. While over-exposure to the sun's rays will cause skin damage, exposing the skin to 15 minutes or so of sunlight daily insures the healthy production of Vitamin D that is vital to bone density and strength. Many elderly people in living facilities go for months without daily sun exposure, thus hastening their decline. In Chinese medicine, it is everything in moderation rather than a linear standard of bad/good, black/white solutions.
8.) Avoid Drugs (recreational or pharmaceutical), Cigarettes and Alcohol
We've all heard that a couple of glasses of red wine is good for us and no-one has proven that smoking in moderation (4 cigarettes a day) will have a dramatic negative impact on your health, it goes without saying that the over consumption of these substances can have a negative impact on your health. If you have been a heavy consumer of drugs or alcohol in the past, herbs to repair the liver function such as bupleurum and yellow dock can reverse damage already incurred. If you have smoked in the past, use elecampane and mullein to repair the lungs.
9.) Maintain a healthy weight with whole foods and regular exercise.
The CDC lists the following increased health risks in overweight and obese individuals:
- Dyslipidemia
(for example, high total cholesterol
or high levels of Type 2 diabetes)
- Stroke
- Gallbladder disease
- Respiratory problems
- Some cancers
(endometrial, breast, and colon)
10.) Learn New Things
Part of healthy aging is maintaining clear thinking. While the understanding of how the brain actually functions is a scientific work in progress at this time, many studies are showing that we are able to create new pathways and synapses in the brain throughout our life; this effort is especially important as we age. Avoiding senility can be as simple as reading new books, learning a new language, taking an art class, and even taking a walk in the woods.
While aging may be inevitable, aging well is a choice. It takes time and practice to learn new lifestyle patterns; don't expect to create all new healthy habits overnight. Simply, begin to implement one or two new things every few weeks to implement these healthy aging tips.
This classification of herbs, called Tonics, are superfoods that strengthen the body and promote a long, healthy, vibrant life. Chinese Tonic Herbs can be taken over a long period of time without any side effects, and support the Three Treasures (Shen, Qi, and Jing). Tonics are prefferable when possible to prevent disease and to treat underlying causes of disease, rather than treating symptoms. Patients can cycle through different types of tonic formulas in prevention therapies targeted at heart health, immune health, mobility and flexibility. Sage Mountain effectively addresses all of these healthy aging issues without any side effects.
For information on conventional treatments for anxiety, visit Medline, the CDC, or the American Diabetes Association. This is not an endorsement of these organization, just a resource guide.
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Tonic Herbs for Healthy Aging:
Ganoderma lucidum-ling zhi-Reishi Mushroom
The Reishi mushroom has an unparalleled reputation in the Orient as the ultimate Tonic Herb for increasing longevity. For over two thousand years it has been sought-after by mountain sages and by the emperors of China. In the first Chinese herbal text (Shennong’s Pharmacopeia) it says that "continuous consumption of Reishi makes your body light and young, lengthens your life and turns you into one like the immortal who never dies." Reishi was traditionally called "the mushroom of immortality."
Codonopsis pilosula-dang shen
Codonopsis is one of the most celebrated and widely used Chinese tonic herbs. It is mild and doesn't have any known side effects. An outstanding Qi tonic, it supports the Spleen and Lung functions so that Qi is replenished. Codonopsis is also an exceptional blood tonic and a key immune system tonic. It's actions closely mimic Ginseng, but Codonopsis can be used daily without over stimulation or disruption of other body functions.
In China, it is said that long-term use of he shou wu famous "longevity herb" helps return an aging person to youthfulness. He shou wu is known to strengthens the back. The literal translation of the name is "black-haired Mr. He" refers to its ability to restore hair color and nourish the skin, hair, teeth and nails. It is a classic essence tonic and major blood tonic for longevity.
Morus Albus-sang shen-Mulberry fruit spike
Builds blood, nourishes yin and moistens the intestines. Traditionally used in China for premature graying of the hair and for longevity.
Gynostemma pentaphyllum- jiao gu lan
Gynostemma is used to slow down aging and to prevent feebleness and senility; to reduce fatigue, to increase vigor; to improve digestion; to strengthen the mind; and to improve sex functions. It generally reinforces overall health and is viewed as a virtual "cure-all" in Asia for longevity. Ongoing use of Gynostemma has a protective quality strengthening the adaptive capacity of the person at every level of their life. It also moderates blood sugar and reduces blood fat.
Eucommia ulmoides-du zhong-Rubber Tree Bark
Eucommia is considered a primary herb used to increase yang functions in the body. Eucommia bark strengthens the bones and muscles, heals injured and weakened tissues, and can treat lower back and leg pain, stiffness and arthritis. It lowers blood pressure and is also given to pregnant women to calm the fetus and prevent miscarriage. It is a highly aclaimed longevity herb.
Cynomorium-suo yang
Cynomorium is a superb tonic to the primal yang essence and is used in many tonics for both men and women. It is widely believed in the Orient to be a superb longevity herb and an excellent sexual tonic and stimulant. It is said to strengthen the bones, benefits joints and reverses motor imparement.
Schisandra chinensis-wu wei zi
Schizandra is a famous tonic historically consumed by Chinese royalty. It is renowned as a beauty tonic and is considered to be a youth preserving herb. It has been used for centuries to make the skin soft, moist and radiant. It is also said to be a powerful tonic to the brain and mind, and is believed in China to improve memory. It is also said to be an excellent sexual tonic when consumed regularly.
Astragalus-huang qi
Astragalus is potent immune system and has been used for over 2000 years to strengthen the body as a whole. As a Spleen Qi tonic, Astragalus strengthens muscle, builds blood and improves all bodily functions.
Paeonia lactiflora-bai shao-White peony
Moistens and soothes the Liver while building and purifying blood. Peony root is a famous and highly prized longevity herb.
Dioscorea opposita-shan yao
Benefits the Lungs, Kidneys and Spleen. It builds Spleen Qi, which results in strong digestion and improved metabolism.
Rehmannia glutinosa-shu di huang
A Kidney tonic and longevity herb and is found in "anti-aging" formulations for longevity, and rejuvenation.
Poria cocos-fu ling
It is traditionally used as a Qi tonic to strengthen Spleen function and is highly nourishing. Poria has important immune enhancing ability.
Olea europaea-Olive Leaf
It is an essential nutrient for all anti-aging programs and for enhancing the immune system. Strengthens the cardiovascular system and is an antioxidant. Used traditionally to lower blood pressure and moderate blood sugar.
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The statements made have not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. Herbal formulas, natural remedies, and aromatherapy products related to alternative health products on this site have not been evaluated by the U.S. FDA. Our products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The statements on this website are based principally on traditional knowledge accumulated over thousands of years of Chinese medical practices. The content provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your health care professional. You should not use the information on this site to diagnose or treat any health issues. As always, you should consult with a healthcare professional before starting any diet, beginning an exercise program, using herbs or other supplementation programs, before taking any pharmaceutical medication, or if you have or suspect you might have a health problem. Unless specifically mentioned in the product label or recommended by your professional health care provider, our herbal supplements, natural remedies, and alternative health products are not intended for children under the age of 18, pregnant women, or nursing mothers. Ingredients and dosage recommendations may change - see product label for current information. Please refer to our policy/FAQ’s page before making a purchase.
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