In fact it is the most
important longevity herb even surpassing ginseng and
all other herbs for its use as a sexual tonic and youth
preserver. He Shou Wu is an extremely important herb
in the Chinese system as it has many properties useful
to women and men of all ages. It's ability to
increase energy, preserve youth and restore impaired
sexual functioning has made it a favorite ingredient
in Chinese patent medicine. More current research has
found it to be effective in reducing cholesterol levels,
doubtless due to the lecithin found in the root. Also
used for lower back pain, insomnia, premature hair
loss and graying, diabetes and hypo-glycemia. It also
strengthens muscles, tendons, ligaments and bones.
He Shou Wu is the favorite tonic of China. Current
research has shown He Shu Wu to not only lower blood
cholesterol and help prevent the retention of fats
in the blood stream but it may also "prevent the penetration
of fats in the arterial lining..." theoretically reducing
arteriosclerosis.
The roots are tonic and
nutritious. He Shou Wu is said to build strength in
the Liver and Kidney, and also in the muscles and bones.
It is said to preserve, or even rejuvenate, the original
color of one's hair and to increase the "generative
energy," increasing the sperm in men and fertility
in women. It will calm the nervous system and clear
the eyes. Its strength comes from its remarkable ability
to cleanse the body by cleaning the kidney and liver,
which in turn cleans the blood. By virtue of its ability
to accumulate tremendous quantities of Qi into its
root, this herb will tonify these organs and will fortify
the blood. Though He Shou Wu provides abundant Qi,
it is not a stimulant, and is in fact slightly sedative.
The tuberous root comes
sliced. The larger the tuber, the more efficient and
valuable the herb. Dark slices are the most potent,
while those heavily streaked with white are of lower
quality. If the tuber is neatly sliced, this is an
indication that the root is of higher grade.
He Shou Wu is a basic ingredient
in many tonic herbal preparations. It may be eaten
alone, raw. Sugar coated pills of raw 100% He Shou
Wu are popular. These are labeled "Shou Wu Pian." He
Shou Wu is also the main ingredient in "Shou
Wu Chih". The very popular and potent commercial
tonic imported from China.
If you wish to prepare your
own tonic brew, cook He Shou Wu with an equal amount
of ginseng.
|
