This is a review of tonic herbs for body systems. One category of such herbs is known as "neurotonics," since these herbs produce effects on the nervous system.
Since tonic herbs, by definition, exert bi-directional balancing actions on body processes, it's expected that neurotonics be capable of both relaxing as well as invigorating various aspects of neural functioning. Again, it should be emphasized that the tonic herb's action can be compromised or lost altogether by improper extraction procedures, or by combining the tonic herbs with nontonic herbs which have the tendency to overpower tonic action. For example, although valerian root (discussed below) is a good tonic herb, it loses tonic action when combined with wood betony and skullcap, two herbs with good sedative action, but lacking the ability to balance neural function.
The need for this balancing tonic action is especially important in the nervous system where balance is absolutely vital to healthy neural action. Virtually all internal glands and organs, as well as the heart and blood vessels, function in response to counterbalancing signals from the two opposing branches of the autonomic nervous system: the sympathetic and parasympathetic subdivisions.
Poor endocrine, cardiac, and neural health result when either of these two nervous systems gets the upper hand and imbalances neural control. Tonic herbs have an amazing ability to restore and maintain balance among all of the factors involved in the give and take relationships between neural impulses, endocrine function, and tissue response to neural and hormonal signals.
Three common neurotonic herbs are described below.
The most common applications for valerian root, dating back centuries, involve: calming upset nerves; balancing mood problems; and relieving muscle and emotional tension, pain, and headaches. It is used to treat insomnia, muscle cramps and spasms, muscle pain, stress, PMS, and even much more severe conditions, such as epilepsy, palsy, and multiple sclerosis.
Most people turn to valerian root for its sedative action, but it is also of value as an anti-depressant, especially when combined with other neurotonic herbs.
Because of its tonic nature, passion flower combines well with valerian root in sedative compounds, anti-stress agents, and PMS aids. People with sleep disorders of any kind will find that neurotonics produce a deep, relaxing sleep, without producing a hangover the next day; instead, they invigorate and improve performance.
Virtually all brain neurotransmitters are affected positively with ginkgo, and blood flow to the brain is enhanced significantly. As an added benefit, ginkgo is a powerful antioxidant that protects sensitive neurons from the ravages of aging and damage done by free radicals.
This is only a brief glimpse into three important neurotonics, combinations including chamomile, lime blossoms, hops, and peppermint are also available.
