Ron Teeguarden - Chinese Tonic Herbs

This book made available by the Internet Archive.

Preface

Throughout the history of mankind, people have sought to tap the seemingly magical powers of nature to enhance the quality of life, and to heighten the experience of human life on earth. And from the very beginning, wisdom has dictated that nothing is more important than health and inner happiness. Material possessions have undoubtedly always had their attractiveness, and indeed their worth, but the wise have always known that all the material wealth on earth is useless if physical and emotional health are lost. How many sick or unhappy millionaires would gladly give up the bulk of their wealth in exchange for a healthy, vital body and a contented happy state of mind! Indeed, every culture has asked the primary question: how can we attain ultimate health and happiness?

We live in a time when the material world seems all-powerful. The material world is not innately bad, for who does not enjoy physical beauty and, these days, the benefits of technology? But though the material world is perpetually changing, the basics of life remain unchanged. We all still seek physical and emotional well-being. It is for this reason that this book has been written. The author, an American of non-Oriental descent, has discovered that Eastern wise-men and wise-women have developed over a period of several thousand years a very wonderful means of contributing to basic health and happiness. Irrespective of changing times, of fads and changing fancies, the Chinese have tred a steady course in the study and development of what they call radiant health.

The Chinese people, and soon after them the Japanese and Korean peoples, have learned to tap natures marvelous resources for this purpose. With great wisdom, they have studied the ways and means of nature and have gradually learned how to use her gifts for mankinds benefit. In particular, they have learned how to use the plants, minerals and animals. The Oriental people have developed a marvelous herbal system, using these products of the earth and founded upon the great principles of life, that comes extraordinarily close'to answering mans eternal question of how to pave the way to true health and happiness.

The Oriental people, unquestionably wise, have studied the affects of these natural products upon themselves, and over several millennia have discovered some truly remarkable products that do indeed enhance the life experience in significant ways. Some of these products have been found to prolong life. Some enhance the powers of thought and of the psyche. Others strengthen the body, and still others have been found to increase virility and fertility. Some herbal products have been found to be useful spiritually, helping to clear the inner vision, thus enhancing ones awareness of the veiled secrets of nature, and indeed even of God (or Tao, as the Chinese perceive it). And a few of natures treasures are said to do all of these things.

6 PREFACE

The knowledge of these products has been passed on from generation to generation for a very long time and has been tested literally millions of times. The Chinese call these very special herbal products the tonics, and together they form a unique and sophisticated system known as Chinese tonic herbalism. This system is every bit as valid and useful in todays world as it has been historically in the East. We live in a time when natural means of attaining physical and psychic health have regained popular recognition. It is hoped that this book, Chinese Tonic Herbs, may be an inspiring and practical introduction to a way of health and happiness that has been proven valid in Eastern lands by many, many people for a long, long time.

The herbal products known as the tonics are special in many ways, and indeed stand out from the great majority of herbs, Chinese or otherwise. Each of these special herbs has been found to contain vital elements which enhance the life force of those who consume them. Some are considered super-nutrients, while others contain active ingredients that improve our physiological functioning and boost energy.

Yet, other factors contribute to the massive popular usage of these herbs in the East. One factor is that the tonics are safe. That is, they are virtually non-toxic when used properly. One can take these herbs as often as desired. But this is not to say that one should not choose their tonics intelligently. Different tonics have different effects, and knowledge of these effects serves as a basis for selection. The purpose of this book is to provide this knowledge of the tonics and their effects so that Western people can wisely select tonics for their own benefit. This book should be read carefully before trying the tonics so that mistakes are not made.

If the reader has any known medical problem, it is essential that they consult a qualified physician first, before trying the tonics.

The tonics are not medicinal. They are not used, in this context, to treat disease. Nor are they used to prevent specific ailments. They are not drugs in this sense. They fall more appropriately into the same category as foods. The tonics provide nutrients and other biologically active agents that seem to invigorate the body and mind in a natural, gentle, balanced way. If the reader has any questions regarding the use of the Chinese tonic herbs, they should consult with an Oriental herbalist. Many acupuncturists and martial arts masters also are familiar with the tonic herbs. If no such guides are available, the reader may contact the author through the publisher of this book.

Life is balance. To do anything in an extreme way can be unsafe. The tonics were first used by Oriental sages and yogic masters for the purpose of enhancing their efforts to attain radiant health and spiritual illumination. The tonics were not, and are not, used by these masters for healing purposes, per se', but are used instead to assist, harmonize, and re-establish the natural order by encouraging natural processes and by enhancing the life force.

The tonics are taditionally used to promote a dynamic equilibrium of the psycho-physical condition and to promote maximum, indeed radiant, health. It is with awareness of this great philosophical tradition that the reader is encouraged to approach Chinese tonic herbalism. The tonics are not to be taken lightly; for

as wondrous natural treasures, they demand great respect. If the reader approaches the tonics with the right attitude, incredible results may occur. Be careful, be alert. Follow instructions, be steady, and be patient. For, as an old Chinese saying goes, Flasten slowly and you will soon arrive.

You will soon know all about Ginseng, Royal Jelly, Tang Kwei (the great womans tonic) and many other great tonic herbs. You are embarking on an amazing journey. Over time, certain tonics will become your favorites and over more time you may master Chinese tonic herbalism. At that time you will truly be on the road of health and happiness.