You’ve no doubt heard about traditional Chinese medicine, with its emphasis on natural herbs. But have you ever wondered if its time-honored remedies really work? The answer is yes, according to results from modern research labs! Read on to discover how these science-backed Eastern cures can make you healthier and happier today.
Fight allergies with reishi!
Fall allergies getting you down? This medicinal mushroom contains a magical ingredient, which acts like an antihistamine to block allergic responses before they start. Reishi also has anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce swelling.
Proof it works: One study found it acts like hydrocortisone to soothe inflammation, but without negative side effects.
Boost energy with cordyceps!
Tired and dragging? This Chinese mushroom extract to the rescue! It’s proven to boost energy production inside cells by 18% Results: You’ll have more oomph, so getting through even the most demanding day will be easier. Bonus: In China, it’s also considered an aphrodisiac!
Proof it works: A study in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition reveals it increases endurance of athletes by 10%, leading them to work out longer and faster without any extra effort. Another study found condyceps doubles oxygen intake without just sex weeks, helping your whole bodywork more efficiently, boosting energy and increasing blood flow to muscles!
Relax with jujube!
Stressed out, can’t seep, but don’t want to take an Rx? Try jujube! This ancient fruit has long been used in Chine as a natural sedative, and modern-day studies identify why it works: It’s active ingredients, called jujubosides, calm the brain regions responsible for stress.
Proof it works: A study in the Journal of Ethno pharmacology found jujube eases anxiety and even improves quality of sleep-reducing nighttime awakenings- all without any negative side effects!
Easy PMS-and menopause-symptoms with Dong Quai!
It’s no surprise that this “empress of herbs” is so powerful against menstrual cramps: its anti-inflammatory effects are nearly twice as strong as good old aspirin! Plus, it mimics female hormones like estrogen in the body. No wonder it’s used in China as natural hormone replacement therapy to relieve menopausal symptoms like night sweats, dryness and low libido.
Proof it works: Studies in China confirm Dong Quai can help reduce symptoms like hot flashes and sleep disturbances in menopausal women by more than 25% and may calm hormonal irritability as effectively as Valium!
Dodge colds and flu with astragalus!
Widely prescribed in Chinese medicine, “astragalus improves circulation, bolsters the immune system and helps the body become more resistant to pathogens,” says Brigitte Mars, author of The Desktop Guide to Herbal Medicine. It’s such a powerful immunity booster; the National Cancer Institute even lists it as an adjunct therapy to traditional treatments!
Proof it works: In one study, the survival rates of Chinese cancer patients given astragalus along with their regular treatment jumped an impressive 43%!
