CardioPro 2000

 

All three herbs in CardioPro are world class tonic herbs. Each one has been used for centuries for their general benefits and specifically as tonics to the heart and cardiovascular system. These are not “medicinal” herbs. They are tonic, which means that they help maintain optimal functioning of the heart and the other functions that they influence.

 

The human heart is both a physical and a spiritual organ. We need to nurture both aspects in order to achieve true radiant health.

 

Herbs in CardioPro

 

Gynostemma 

 

Gynostemma pentaphyllum is a remarkable herb. It has become one of the most popular tonic herbs in Asia in the past two decades, and has become a rage in Japan. It is popularly believed to be a major anti-aging, and longevity tonic. It is considered to be a major adaptogenic.  It is said to be "ginseng at tea price." Gynostemma is a potent antioxidant, immune-modulating, anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcer, liver protecting, and respiratory tonic agent.

 

Gynostemma is widely used in China and Japan specifically for its cardiovascular health benefits. Studies from around the world indicate that Gynostemma has the following cardiovascular-related actions in humans: cardiovascular protecting, cholesterol regulating, anti-hyperlipidemic (lowers blood and body fat), platelet regulating, anti-obesity, triglyceride lowering, and anti-thrombic Gynostemma contains saponins that are similar to or identical to Ginseng saponins. The saponins in Gynostemma are known as gypenosides. Gynostemma is very effective in alleviating high triglycerides, high LDL (low-density lipoprotein – the “bad” cholesterol), and in raising substances which are anti-atherosclerotic, in particular HDL (high-density lipoprotein – the “good” cholesterol). In a Chinese clinical study conducted on hundreds of patients with high cholesterol, the efficacious rate reached 94.8% after pharmaceutical and clinical application. It also exerts the effects of fat metabolism regulation, lipoid peroxide depression and fat sediment reduction in the blood vessels.

 

Therefore, Gynostemma is believed in Asia to be efficacious against atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, and simple obesity, etc. It is an excellent supplement for those who are working to lower their cholesterol and triglycerides, reduce body fat, and improve the condition of their heart and cardiovascular system. Though thorough studies have not been conducted in the United States as yet, it is clear that this safe herb should be included in your heart-health program.

 

Gynostemma and Your Immune System – In addition to its direct benefits on the cardiovascular system, Gynostemma strengthens the human immune system. This may be of great importance to heart health.

 

Gynostemma and other immune boosting herbs (such as Reishi Mushroom, Astragalus root, Cordyceps and Maitake Mushroom) can play a very beneficial role in preventing chronic inflammation in the cardiovascular system. It is widely theorized in Japan and China that part of the reason that people who consume Gynostemma regularly suffer from less cardiovascular disease is because Gynostemma reduces inflammation in the arteries caused by infectious microbes. Gynostemma has been demonstrated to be a very effective immune modulator and, in particular, a potent, yet safe, natural anti-inflammatory agent.

 

All in all, Gynostemma is considered to be one of Asia’s premier heart protective herbal supplements.

 

Reishi mushroom

 

Ganoderma lucidum, better known as Reishi, is arguably the most revered herbal substance in Asia, ranking with Ginseng and Gynostemma as an elite substance for the attainment of radiant health, longevity and spiritual attainment.

 

Reishi has traditionally been used as an anti-aging herb and has been used for many diseases and disorders as well.  It has long been a favorite tonic supplement by the Chinese royal family and virtually any one who could obtain it. Reishi has been particularly revered by the followers of the Taoist tradition as the "Elixir of Immortality" – that is, as a major longevity herb that also increases wisdom, happiness and intelligence.

 

Reishi is widely used in Asia to improve the cardiovascular system. This famous herb helps lower LDL (the "bad" cholesterol) and reduce excess fatty acids. It has been found to prevent and treat hardening of the arteries, angina and shortness of breath associated with coronary heart disease. 

 

Numerous clinical researchers in China, Russia and Japan have reported that Reishi has cholesterol-lowering properties. In one relatively large study, the effective rate was about 86% for 3 to 6 months of treatment. Reishi has an inhibitory effect on cholesterol biosynthesis and absorption. One mechanism of action is due to Reishi’s ability to inhibit an enzyme in the cholesterol biosynthesis pathway.

 

Reishi is also beneficial to those with high blood pressure. Japanese researchers have isolated 10 anti-hypertensive phytochemicals from Reishi. Reishi is used very broadly in Japan and China to regulate blood pressure. Reishi has not been found to lower the blood pressure of those with normal healthy blood pressure or of those with low blood pressure. In a clinical study at Tokyo University hospital, patients with essential hypertension (genetically inherited) were given six 240-mg reishi tablets of Reishi each day. After six months on this regimen, they showed normal systolic and diastolic readings.

 

The water-soluble fraction of Reishi was found to suppress platelet aggregation.

 

Reishi is a superb anti-stress herb.  Throughout history it has been used to bring balance into the lives of people who needed help in this department, and that means most everyone. Stress is a major contributing factor to heart disease. Reishi helps relieve stress in a manner that can help prevent heart disease.

 

Important Note About Source and Quality: There are many kinds of Reishi sold in America, but only Reishi mushrooms grown naturally on Duanwood logs have been proven to have all the benefits described above. Hot house Reishi grown on saw dust and rice hulls, the most common kind of Reishi sold in America, is far less effective than Duanwood Reishi. Reishi “mycelium,” the artificially-grown fungal mass that is the most common source of “Reishi” in the U.S. supplement industry, has not been demonstrated to have the potent cardiovascular protecting qualities of Duanwood Reishi.

 

Tibetan Rhodiola

 

Tibetan Rhodiola (Rhodiola sacra), one of the two most precious herbs of Tibet (the other being the Cordyceps mushroom), is highly regarded throughout the Orient for its benefits to the circulatory, respiratory and nervous systems of the human body. Tibetan Rhodiola has been found to be extremely beneficial to the cardiovascular system, and has been found to prevent and even to treat serious heart disease, according to Chinese studies. It is used primarily as a tonic herb to help preserve the healthy condition of the heart and its tributaries. It is also a powerful immune modulator, building the immune system into a well-tuned fighting machine. Tibetan Rhodiola also is being widely used as an effective and safe antidepressant. Studies now indicate that Rhodiola is more powerful than St. Johns Wort, currently the world’s number one selling natural antidepressant substance. Tibetan Rhodiola increases oxygen levels in the blood and improves blood flow to the heart and brain, as well as throughout the body. Because it increases oxygen supplies to the brain, it is widely consumed by students and people who work with their brains for many hours on end to increase concentration and mental endurance.

 

The Human Heart

 

Everybody understands that the human heart is a great and essential organ that pumps blood ceaselessly throughout our bodies until the moment of our death. Over the past half century, there has been great emphasis placed on the mechanical functions of the heart and its great network of vessels. Western medicine has invented miraculous procedures, devices and machines to treat heart disease that have captured our collective imagination.

 

But in spite of these incredible advances in urgent medical procedure, heart disease still reigns as the number one health problem and cause of death in America. The basic truth still remains that it is better to maintain and promote the optimal natural health of the heart and its tributaries than it is to ignore it until we need emergency care. The heart and circulatory system need proper maintenance and loving care to keep it in good shape. If we abuse it, it will show signs of damage and will ultimately break down. It is often said, and it certainly true, that many people pay much more attention to their car or their wardrobe than they do to their heart. 

 

Throughout the ages, the heart has been central to the health-related efforts of the wise people of the Orient, who learned through careful study and practice how to promote radiant health in general and heart health in particular. That knowledge, which was learned over many centuries and was proven through experience, can be of great value to those who now wish to promote the radiant health of their cardiovascular system. That time-tested knowledge may be added to modern scientific insights concerning the heart and circulatory system to make a profound difference in over-all health and longevity.

 

The Heart of Hearts

 

There is another aspect to the human heart that is overlooked today by most scientists, physicians, government regulators, and drug companies – that is, the human heart plays a profound spiritual and emotional role in the life of a human being. We feel from the heart, we love from the heart, and we evolve spiritually from the heart. Everybody knows that our psychology and emotions affect our heart, and most people know intuitively that the heart effects our psychology. Chinese philosophy takes into consideration both the physical and spiritual (emotional and mental) aspects of the heart. The body, mind and spirit are one. They cannot be dis-associated. The Chinese, like almost all cultures in the world, believe that the heart plays a much greater role in our health and happiness than “just” pumping blood, as essential as that role is. Life is not about living long – it is about living a long, happy, fruitful, positive life. The joy of life is felt in the heart and is spread by the heart.

 

Heart health is therefore a multi-layered and multi-dimensional issue. In the following pages, we will present the Dragon Herbs view of true Heart Health. First we will revue for you the physiological nature of the heart and circulatory system, and then we will go look at heart health and function from the Chinese perspective. 

 

The Heart and Circulatory System

 

Your heart is an incredible organ with a formidable task. An adult heart beats approximately 100,000 times a day, pumping about 2,000 gallons of blood. It has been estimated that the heart will beat about 3 billion times during a 70-year lifetime. Your heart pumps nearly five quarts of blood through your body every 60 seconds. Could you imagine pumping your biceps or abdominal muscles even a thousand times without rest? Given the heart's arduous task of supplying the body with blood every moment of every day, it must be well taken care of.  A heart that is not properly cared for will most likely develop heart disease. 

 

Heart Disease Is Rampant in Our Society

 

Heart disease is the leading cause of death among Americans. Each year there are more than 1 million heart attacks in the United States. Of these heart attacks, 250,000 are sudden, resulting in death within one hour. Many heart attacks result in tissue damage that further diminishes heart health and longevity.

 

The July 2001 issue of Circulation, a leading heart journal, has reported that heart disease is rampant across all age groups in American society today. The study found that 17% of 13 -19 year-olds had hardening of their coronary arteries, as did 37% of those in the 20 - 29 year-old group, 60% of those in the 30 - 39 year old group, 71% of those in the 40 - 49 year-old group, and 85% of those who were 50 years old and older. Heart disease is indeed an epidemic in our society at this time!

 

The Cholesterol Story

 

Cholesterol is an important hormone and hormonal building block. It is the most commonly occurring steroid in humans and is found in all cell membranes, and myelin sheath (nerve lining). It is the metabolic precursor of most steroid hormones, which are necessary for life. However, an imbalance in the types of cholesterol and/or an excess of a detrimental variety known as LDL, low-density lipoprotein, and commonly refered to as the “bad cholesterol,” is now universally recognized as a marker for established or potential cardiovascular disease.

 

LDL is the most common type of cholesterol in your blood stream. The reason that it is “bad” is because excessive amounts of this cholesterol stick to vessel walls forming plaques. A plaque is a hard build-up of LDL, calcium and other materials that harden the vessel wall and can eventually close off the vessel.

 

There is also a type of cholesterol that is very “good.” It is known as HDL, high-density lipoprotein. It is commonly referred to “good cholesterol” because high levels of HDL are associated with a reduced risk of heart disease. HDL helps “un-stick” LDL from vessel walls and transport this “bad cholesterol” out of the arteries and back to the liver, where it may be broken down and eliminated from the body.

 

It is now estimated that the majority of adult Americans suffer from cholesterol imbalance and, in particular, LDL excess. Regulating the cholesterol balance and normalizing the LDL level is a major health goal – one that everyone should take seriously.

 

A Heart-Healthy Diet

 

The body manufactures about 1,000 milligrams of cholesterol daily – enough for healthy functioning. Humans also consume foods that are rich in cholesterol. Cholesterol is substance found only in animal products. The highest sources of cholesterol are organ meats, eggs, meat, poultry, cheese, and butterfat. It is recommended that the average person consume less than 300 mg per day. Americans currently consume 400-500 milligrams of cholesterol a day.

 

Too much cholesterol, generally resulting from an over-consumption of high-cholesterol foods, can cause fatty plaques to form on arterial walls. This buildup will narrow the arteries, and in some cases will totally block the flow of blood to organs like the heart. This condition is known as atherosclerosis. When atherosclerosis occurs in heart vessels, also known as coronary heart disease, chest pain and heart attacks can result.

 

One way to treat or prevent heart disease is by eating a low-cholesterol, low-fat diet. This approach primarily emphasizes consuming foods that are low in cholesterol and triglycerides (fat). A heart-healthy diet generally eliminates or avoids most modern fast foods, which are generally high in LDL (bad cholesterol). Fatty meats, eggs and full-fat dairy products ultimately can be deadly if over-consumed.

 

Your fat intake should not exceed 20 to 30% of your daily calories. There are two main types of fats: saturated and unsaturated. Saturated fats tend to increase your LDL and are found mostly in animal products. These fats are solid at room temperature. Two vegetable oils, palm and coconut oil, are high in saturated fats and should be avoided. To reduce the amount of saturated fat, cut back on, or better yet eliminate, items such as cheese, butter, and lard. They can easily be replaced by low fat, low cholesterol products at a natural foods store.

 

Polyunsaturated  fats such as corn oil, soy oil, safflower oil, and sunflower oils reduce the amount of LDL but also reduce the amount of HDL in your blood. Polyunsaturated fats remain liquid at room temperature. The best fats to use are monounsaturated fats from olive oil, canola oil, or peanut oil that reduce LDL but do not reduce the "good" HDL. Be sure to use only naturally produced oils, preferably from a natural foods store. Canola oil, for example, may be produced using chemicals, which ruin the benefit of the oil. 

 

By eliminating or reducing the amount of the foods that are high in LDL and fat, you are reducing the chances of cardiovascular disease. That is the basis of most low-cholesterol, heart-healthy diets.

 

The Best Diet – A Proactive Approach

 

A truly heart-healthy diet should include foods that actually help improve cholesterol profile and reduce triglycerides. Your objective should be to lower the LDL (bad cholesterol) if it is too high and to raise the HDL (good cholesterol) as high as possible.

 

Diets low in intake of saturated fats and rich in intake of polyunsaturated, or better yet, monounsaturated fats can help accomplish this when combined with the following dietary factors:

 

·         A diet high in soluble and insoluble fiber

Amolo tea provides a wonderful array of fibers

 

·         A diet rich in antioxidants.

Many fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants. Blueberries, for example, are extremely rich in antioxidants. Lycium fruit is among the richest sources of antioxidants of any food on earth..

 

Amolo fruit

Astragalus root

Bupleurum root

Epimedium leaf

Ginger root

Ginseng root

Green tea

Gynostemma leaf

Licorice root

Ligusticum

Ligustrum fruit

Lycium fruit

Peony root

Polygonum root

Polyrhachis Ant

Reishi mushroom

Salvia root

Schizandra fruit

Siberian Ginseng Tibetan Rhodiola

 

In particular, the antioxidant potencies of Amolo tea, green tea, Gynostemma, Lycium fruit, Schizandra fruit, and Polygonum root are among the most extraordinary in nature. A number of the tonic herbs listed above should always be included in any complete tonic herbal program.

 

 

·         A diet that rich in of essential fatty acids, also known as EFA’s.

 

Essential fatty acids, or EFA's, are needed for maintaining proper cell membrane structure, and for efficient metabolism of cholesterol. Fish oils from cold water fish (e.g., mackerel, herring, and tuna), are rich sources of EFA’s. It has been repeatedly noted in population studies that people who consume more fish consistently have a lower incidence of heart disease. Other food sources of EFA’s include seeds (especially flax and hemp seeds), whole grains, the green leaves of plants, algae, and nuts and legumes (walnuts, soy, flax and canola).

 

Chinese Tonic Herbs and Heart Health

 

Powerful, Safe Herbs That Regulate Cholesterol

 

Changing your diet is indispensable to improving your cholesterol profile. But there are other proactive things you can do to hasten the desired result of establishing healthy triglyceride and cholesterol levels. Certain herbs, most of which fall into the category of “tonic herbs,” have been proven around the world to significantly lower LDL (“bad” cholesterol) and triglycerides in the blood, and to simultaneously increase HDL (“good” cholesterol), thus creating a healthy cholesterol profile (ratio).

 

These herbs are reliable and remarkably effective. Chinese and Japanese researchers have conducted thousands of studies testing the effectiveness and safety of these herbs and the conclusive evidence is that they are among the most effective cardiovascular health-promoting substances on earth. 

 

These safe Chinese herbs have been demonstrated to improve the cholesterol profile – in many cases dramatically. A dietary-herbal approach is safer than the use of drugs, since the herbs have none of the side effects associated with synthetic drugs. According to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, “cholesterol lowering drugs should be used only on those with the highest risk or when diets fail and urges that maximum effort at dietary therapy be made before initiating drug therapy. Very recently another cholesterol-lowering drug was removed from the market after the FDA determined that too many deaths occurred as a direct result of it use. No deaths have ever been associated with any of the herbs described in this article – to the contrary, there is only evidence that these herbs have helped benefit those who have used them. If, however, your physician determines that your cholesterol imbalance presents a present danger requiring the use of drugs, by all means follow the instructions of your physician.

 

Other great herbs that benefit the Cardiovascular System:

 

There are a number of Chinese herbs that are very beneficial to the cardiovascular system. They tend to lower “bad” cholesterol (LDL), to raise “good” cholesterol (HDL), and to lower other blood fats such as triglycerides. They also help improve blood flow, and they help prevent inflammation in the blood vessels. And very importantly, they are very safe, having no side effects when used correctly. Here are some of the most important herbs:

 

Notoginseng Root

 

Notoginseng, also known as Pseudoginseng, is a close relative of ginseng that was traditionally called the “Herb for the Preservation of Life.” Notoginseng has been the subject of intensive study in recent years because of its heart-protective benefits. Notoginseng has the ability to positively affect the heart and its tributaries in a number of ways. Chinese research indicates that Notoginseng increases blood flow in the coronary artery (the artery that supplies the heart itself with blood) and increases the consumption of oxygen in the middle muscular layer of the heart. This results in the lowering of blood pressure and in improving regularity of the heartbeat. The herb reduces cardiac load and lowers arterial pressure.  It improves collateral microcirculation in and around damaged heart tissue in humans. 

 

This has led to the conclusion by Chinese medical doctors that Notoginseng can prevent insufficiency caused by stagnation of blood in the heart. Notoginseng has been found to clinically relieve chest pain and the feeling of oppression in the chest due to angina pectoris resulting from coronary insufficiency. It is often consumed to improve the flow of blood, reduce triglycerides and reduce the cholesterol levels in the blood and coating the arteries. 

 

Raw (unsteamed) Notoginseng has an extremely potent hemostatic effect; that is, it stops all sorts of bleeding, both internal and external, quickly and effectively.  The finely ground powder of raw Notoginseng can be used alone and applied externally to wounds to stop bleeding.  It is often mixed in liniments to be applied to bruises (contusions) to disperse the clotting and relieve swelling and pain.

 

Notoginseng root is rich in saponins, in many cases similar or identical to ginsenosides derived from Panax Ginseng.

 

Because of its reputation for benefiting the circulatory system, Notoginseng has been shown to dilate the coronary artery and to increase coronary blood flow and thus providing more blood to the cardiac muscle in humans.

 

The herb is widely used clinically in Asian countries for angina pectoris and other coronary disease. It is often given in conjunction with western-style drugs and always under a doctor’s supervision. 

 

Salvia

 

Salvia miltiorrhizae is one of the primary herbs now used in Chinese herbalism used to prevent and treat heart disease, including angina pectoris.  Salvia has the capacity to activate blood circulation and to dispel blood stasis, or blood congestion. It is used in much the same manner as raw Notoginseng, except that Salvia is a cooling herb that can dispel heat. As a cooling herb, it can be used to treat problems where there is blood stagnation (areas where blood flow is sluggish) or blood stasis (areas where blood flow is entirely blocked or impeded) accompanied by heat, as is the case in heart disease and skin eruptions.

 

Salvia can be combined with Ligusticum and Notoginseng to improve circulation in the myocardium, or it can be used alone.  It is now widely used in China to prevent plaque build-up in the arteries and to prevent heart disease.

 

Ligusticum

 

Ligusticum wallichii is one of the primary “blood-vitalizing” herbs used in Chinese herbalism. It is used extensively in hundreds of formulations for the purpose of improving circulation. It has a warm energy and affects the Liver and Heart functions. It is very widely used in treating menstrual disorders because it is so effective at activating blood flow and relieving pain associated with blood and Qi stagnation.  It warms the uterus and decongests swelling in the pelvic basin. In addition to its blood vitalizing effects, Ligusticum is a good blood tonic. 

 

It has recently been recognized that Ligusticum provides many benefits to the heart muscle and circulatory system. Research on the cardiovascular benefits of Ligusticum has intensified in the past decade. Its action in this regard is similar to that of Notoginseng and Salvia. It significantly enhances myocardial (heart muscle) circulation and is now being widely used clinically in China to treat and prevent heart disease. It is such a safe herb, that it can be used by anybody.

 

Hawthorn

 

Hawthorn, also known by it botanical name of Crataegus, has become an extremely popular herb in Europe. Hawthorn is rich in flavonoids that have been shown to dilate peripheral and coronary blood vessels. Hawthorn has been shown to act as a cardiotonic with double-direction action on blood pressure – restoring both high and low blood pressure to normal. This action helps alleviate hypertension (high blood pressure), and reduce the severity and frequency of angina attacks. Hawthorn has been used in treating irregular heartbeats, spasms of the arteries (Reynaud’s), and certain nervous disorders, such as insomnia (which in Chinese medicine is believed to be related to the heart). Thus Hawthorn can be used to treat symptoms of coronary heart disease; however, it should not be used by those under a doctor’s care for such a disease without the doctor’s direct supervision, especially if the doctor is prescribing medication. Hawthorn has no known toxicity, but may potentiate the action of digitalis.

 

Ginkgo biloba

 

Ginkgo biloba is now widely accepted as a beneficial circulatory system agent. The standardized extract of the Ginkgo biloba leaf has been found in numerous studies to improve circulation throughout the body, though perhaps most strikingly in the brain and genital regions. Ginkgolides and bilobalides in Ginkgo biloba have a powerful anti-inflammatory effect. They also reduce the stickiness of the blood by inhibiting the Platelet Activating Factor, which causes platelets to stick together, reducing the flow of blood circulation. Ginkgo biloba also contains flavone-glycosides, including quercetin and proanthocyanidins, which are extremely potent and effective antioxidants.

 

 

The Immune System and Cardiovascular Disease

 

Asian researchers have long theorized that there is a strong link between the immune system and cardiovascular disease. Many immune-modulating herbs are also considered beneficial to the heart, blood and blood vessels. American scientists are now starting to agree with this theory.

 

Recent studies have supported the theory that infections may be linked with heart disease in a significant percentage of cases. Within the last year, studies have shown that infections may cause fatal heart attacks where no heart disease was detected or suspected. As a matter of fact, as many as 30% of all heart-related deaths may be a result of infections, and not of atherosclerosis.

 

A University of California study found that patients with infection had poorer blood flow and were more likely to experience the blood clots that cause heart attacks and strokes. The researchers measured the white blood cell count of nearly a thousand people being treated with clot-busting drugs for heart attacks. They found that  "patients with inflammation – elevation of their white blood cell count – had poorer blood flow into the heart muscle and more blood clots in the artery than patients with low white cell counts." The higher the white blood cell count, the higher the patient's risk of dying from a heart attack or developing congestive heart failure.

 

One study found that people infected with herpes simplex, the virus that causes cold sores, were twice as likely to have a heart attack or die from heart disease as uninfected people. Researchers are theorizing that the inflammation caused by microbes such as herpes simplex have the effect of causing lesions to grow in the arteries, even when cholesterol levels are not excessive.

 

Researchers have also found a link between infections and atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis, or coronary artery disease, is caused when immune-system cells latch on to cholesterol particles and try to pull them out through the blood vessel walls. They get stuck because they are too big and the result is a "plaque" or clogged area. Scientists think inflammation, perhaps caused by a bacterial or viral infection might bring in more immune cells and worsen the process of atherosclerosis. This theory has been supported by the fact that several studies have found Chlamydia bacteria in these arterial plaques.

 

Many Chinese Herbs Strengthen the Immune System, Reducing Chronic Inflammation

 

There are many Chinese herbs that reduce inflammation in the body, both safely and effectively. Some of the herbs are considered tonic because they may be used on a daily basis to help the body fight infection and control inflammation, and some are considered “medicinal” because they are best used on a case-by-case basis for specific infections and inflammatory conditions.

 

Some of the most potent immune potentiators herbs are:

 

·         Reishi mushroom (Duanwood Reishi)

·         Gynostemma leaf 

·         Astragalus root

·         Cordyceps mushroom

·         Ginseng root

 

Dragon Herbs Products that have significant immune boosting activity

 

·         Supreme Protector

·         Four Kings

·         Protector 2000

·         Duanwood Reishi Capsules and fluid extract

·         Cordyceps Capsules

·         Astragalus Capsules

·         Gynostemma Capsules

 

The Heart from the Oriental Perspective

                                               

"The Heart is the Supreme Master of the organs and is the abode of Shen, the Spirit. If the Master is brilliant, his subjects are peaceful. If the Master is disturbed, his twelve officials are endangered."

~ An ancient Chinese health classic

 

Shen, the human spirit, resides within the heart

 

Shen is the spiritual aspect of a human being. Shen presides over the emotions, allowing them to manifest appropriately, but overriding them when they are not appropriate. When Shen rules, the oneness of all things becomes sublimely clear and duality becomes an obvious illusion. One can see the whole picture--both sides of every issue and of every story. Yin is seen in Yang, and Yang is seen in Yin. Good is seen in bad, and bad is seen in good. No dualistic position is absolute, and therefore tolerance, compassion and patience become the guiding spirit of one's life. 

 

When Shen is "disturbed" or "shaky" any emotion can become dominant. Frequently, the person will experience agitation, nervousness, heart palpitations, insomnia, dizziness, fainting spells, uncontrolled laughter and grief (often occurring only moments apart), hysteria, deep sadness, fright, and mumbling to oneself. These may be overcome by applying the use of the proper Chinese tonic herbs in conjunction with meditation and changes in lifestyle.

 

The Heart controls the cerebral cortex of the brain, consciousness and the mind

 

The Heart, from the Chinese view, controls the mind and is capable of being the master of the body. The Heart function encompasses cerebral functions. According to the ancient masters, the Heart maintains consciousness. The Heart maintains control over perception and thinking. Normal functioning of the Heart, as it governs the brain and mind, produces a clear, quick mind and a vigorous spirit.

 

This is obviously a critical role of the Heart that is not associated with the physical organ that we usually call the heart in western physiology. Virtually all Eastern cultures associate the Heart with the mind. The emotions have a huge influence on the health of the heart organ, as well as on the entire circulatory system. In the East, heart health and mental health are inseparable.  In Chinese herbalism, heart tonics also strengthen the brain and mind.

 

The Heart controls the entire cardiovascular system, blood circulation and the pulse

 

The Heart is responsible for the proper condition and functioning of the entire vascular system. The condition of both the large and small blood vessels throughout the body are under the control of the Heart. The heart muscle is maintained by the energy of the Heart meridian and is protected by the Pericardium. Blood obstruction of the cardiac tissue will result in angina pectoris, purplish lips, purple spots on the tongue, and shortness of breath.

 

The Heart controls blood circulation. This includes the capillary circulation as well as blood circulation through the large vessels. The pulse, which reflects the condition of one's circulation, is thus controlled by the Heart function. 

 

The color of the face reflects the condition of the condition of the Heart. If the face is bright red, this indicates an “excessive” condition of the Heart. A pale, lusterless complexion indicates a “deficient” condition. If the condition continues, the skin will become not only lusterless, but dark because of blood stagnation. 

 

The Heart helps regulate the emotions

 

The Heart helps to regulate the emotions and when the Heart is open and flourishing, it can overrule the lower emotions and establish calm. For this reason, the Heart helps to stabilize the emotions when they become uncontrolled or unruly.

 

Heart is also charged with executing the demands of Shen, which resides in the Heart. If Shen is strong and pure, then Heart follows the dictates of Shen and life is dynamic, peaceful and joyous. A great Chinese classic states that "the Heart is the door of joy and happiness." This is not the "joy" of revelry and excess, which will be followed by a depressed period, but the joy of universal, all-embracing love.      

 

If, on the other hand, Shen is weak, the demands of the true self are overcome by the emotions and the lower passions, and Shen is forced to recede and to become essentially dormant. The result will be a loss of self-control and endless craving for excitement and satisfaction from the illusionary world outside. These cravings can never be permanently satisfied, so the person will experience cycles of excitement and depression.

 

The tongue is the orifice of the Heart

 

The tip of the tongue also shows the condition of the Heart.  If the tip of the tongue is bright red, this indicates excessive Heart fire, while a pale tongue indicates a deficiency of blood and Heart Qi. 

 

The entire tongue is said to be the orifice of the Heart, and therefore when the Shen is disturbed one cannot speak (as when one is in shock). 

 

The Heart helps regulate blood pressure

 

If Heart Qi is sufficient, blood pressure will be maintained at a proper level.  If Heart Qi becomes deficient, blood pressure may be low, the limbs will be cold, the tongue will be pale and the pulse will be weak and may skip beats.

 

When the Heart is under attack, the person may experience dizziness, voice loss, hysteria, delirium and fever.

 

In a double blind study of 223 patients with essential hypertension, the active constituents of Gynostemma, known as gypenosides, were shown to have potent anti-hypertensive effects. The results showed decrease in hypertension with the effectiveness rates of 82% for the Gynostemma extract, versus 46% for a ginseng group, and 93% for a group given indapamide, a drug used to treat high blood pressure and congestive heart failure. Indapamide has a long list of side effects, while Gynostemma has virtually none.

 

The Heart–Kidney Relationship

A particular function of the heart, which the Chinese called the Circulation-Sex function is one of the most fundamental functions of the body as a whole.

 

“The Heart and the Kidney keep each other in check and are dependent upon one another. The spirit of the Heart (Shen) and the essence of the Kidney (Jing) cooperate in establishing and maintaining human consciousness. ”

 

                                          ~ An ancient Chinese health classic

 

Circulation-sex, then, unites the two primal forces within man and nature, that of Water and Fire, Yin and Yang, Kidney and Heart. It unites the two poles of our being, the physical and the spiritual, and harmonizes the feelings of love as they manifest both physically and spiritually. 

 

If a person has difficulty experiencing or expressing love either physically or emotionally, the Circulation-Sex Function must be opened and regulated. Therefore the Circulation-Sex Function is of utmost importance for a great many people, especially those who are having difficulty in communicating their feelings of love with people to whom they are close. The Pericardium meridian also is of deep importance in the treatment of sexual dysfunction due to anxiety and other suppressed emotions.

 

Note: The herb Polygala, also known as “the Will Strengthener” is believed to tonify the Circulation-Sex Function. When combined with Shen tonifying herbs, as it is in the Dragon Herbs formula called Will Power, it is helpful in opening up the connection between the loving functions of the Heart and the sexual functions of the Kidney. This then can have a profound, life-changing influence on a person’s feelings and expressions of love, and on all of one’s relationships.

 

Imbalances of the Heart

 

The Chinese have been observing the heart and its influence for thousands of years. Taoist sages and masters of the health arts have determined that there are a number of syndromes involving the heart for which the tonic herbs are particularly useful.

 

The heart can be deficient in qi, blood, or yin, and is capable of having too much fire. Commonly, especially in the Western world, the heart is prone to congestion and blood stasis. In addition, the heart is perceived of as being the seat of Shen. Shen disturbances can be corrected by using Shen tonics that aim at the heart. There are tonic herbs that can help with all of these situations. 

 

Naturally, the whole point of tonic herbalism is to maintain health and generate radiant health. The tonics are not quick, stopgap medicines. It takes some time for them to do their wondrous work because they are actually changing how things work at the root. They help the body to gain the strength and physiological balance necessary to maintain optimum functioning. This pertains especially to the heart. The tonics can restore and maintain a healthy heart, and can even nourish the heart in such a way as to make the tissue youthful, therefore prolonging the life of the heart itself. And they can nurture the spiritual aspect of the heart by stabilizing the emotions that attack the heart and by allowing Shen to flourish to its full potential.

 

The following information is for information only, and is not intended to provide a means of self-diagnosis or treatment for any condition or disease. Consult with a Dragon Herbs consultant and/or other health professional if you feel that any of the following syndromes relate to you.

 

Weak Heart Qi

 

When the Qi (vitality) of the Heart is insufficient, blood pressure may be low, there is a strong tendency toward edema (swelling, bloating), and the person will experience chronic fatigue, shortness of breath, depression and cold extremities. The tongue will be pale. To overcome this insufficiency of Heart Qi, standard Qi tonics are used.

                       

Some of the Dragon Herbs products that are beneficial to Heart Qi:

 

·         Ten Complete Supertonic

·         Adaptogen Energizer

·         Super Adaptogen

·         Endocrine Health

·         Spring Dragon Longevity Tea

 

Insomnia

 

Insomnia is a very common condition in America. Millions of people find it difficult to fall asleep or to stay asleep. The common western approach is to take a sedative or some other drug that induces sleep, albeit artificially. These drugs are essentially trick the body into sleeping, but in fact do not go to the root of the problem at all. The true solution to insomnia has to involve the regulation of the sleep-wake cycle controlled by the hypothalamus, the master regulatory organ imbedded in the brain. Adaptogenic herbs help to strengthen the functioning of this essential organ and therefore help regulate all the functions of the body.

 

According to Chinese health philosophy there are three primary causes of insomnia. Insomnia is generally associated with the Heart function in, and all three insomnia syndromes are associated with the Heart.

 

A classic principle of Chinese health philosophy states that

 

“When yin is deficient, yang will not be controlled.”

 

When the yin of the heart is undernourished, the yang of the heart rages out of control and a “false fire” condition arises. The individual experiences insomnia, particularly disturbed sleep with vivid dreams. In other words, the person has difficulty staying asleep.

 

The person with this type of insomnia will also have a poor memory, and their skin will be dry. The palms of their feet and soles of their feet may be hot, and their tongue will be red. The person may also experience night sweats if the problem is severe.

 

Some Dragon Herbs products that are beneficial to Heart Yin:

 

·         Ginseng and Zizyphus

·         Primal Yin Replenisher

 

Blood deficiency. If a person’s insomnia is characterized by having difficulty falling asleep (rather than staying asleep), the condition is most likely due to a deficiency of heart blood. This is a very common condition, especially among women who are anemic, which is very common in America. The symptoms resemble those of Heart Yin deficiency but the tell-tale difference is that the person has difficulty falling asleep (as opposed to staying asleep), along with symptoms such as fatigue, a pale tongue, dizziness, and general pallor (all signs of general blood deficiency). To build heart blood, use blood tonics. 

 

Some Dragon Herbs products that are beneficial to Heart Blood:

 

·         Ginseng and Longan Combination

·         Magu’s Secret

·         Magu’s Treasure

 

Shen disturbance. It has been clear to the Chinese for a very long time that when Shen is disturbed, that sleep is difficult. When the emotions are allowed to run amuck, it will be almost impossible to sleep. For this reason it has always been advised that people train themselves to let the emotions of the day go away at bed time. Try not to lie in bed worrying or angry.

 

Some Dragon Herbs formulations that promote normal sleep by calming the emotions:

 

·         Pearl Shen

·         Super Shen Drops

·         Bupleurum and Dragon Bone

·         Will Power

 

The treatment of insomnia presents a perfect example of how Chinese herbalism attempts to treat the root of a problem rather than the symptoms. In America, sleeping pills are among the most widely prescribed and widely used forms of medication. Without determining the true cause, a strong and possibly dangerous drug is used to overcome the nervous system and to force the body-mind to sleep. There is absolutely no question that sometimes the cure is worse than the disease when using such harsh drugs. Many people develop a dependence upon, or become addicted to, these chemical drugs and they may have profound physiological and psychological effects over a period of time.

 

The Chinese approach is very different. American pharmaceutical companies are having a very difficult time convincing Chinese people (in China) that sleeping pills are the answer to insomnia. The Chinese approach to this disorder, as with any disorder, is to determine the root cause, restore balance, and thus to build the person’s health so that within a reasonable period of time the insomnia is cured and the person can sleep through the night naturally, without the use of drugs.

 

If you are using drugs under a doctor’s care (or even if not under a doctor’s care), you should not quit the use of most medications without supervision, and certainly not cold-turkey. Withdraw carefully. Start using the herbs and expect some adjustment period. Usually, within a week or so, sleep patterns begin to adjust in the right direction. Some cases that are deep seated require longer treatment, perhaps even months. These people should seek the help of a professional herbalist.  

 

Emotional Instability (Instability of Shen)

Shen is the psychic energy and emotional balance of a human being. From a spiritual perspective, it is the spark of divinity that resides in our heart. Shen is the master of the emotions. There is a condition that is commonly called “shaky Shen.” Shen instability is the common denominator in most forms of neurosis. It develops due to severe psychological stress or incomplete emotional tools to deal with common stress. The result is that Shen recedes and the emotions are left without a master. Common symptoms include chronic anxiety, nervousness, agitation, mania, disorientation, depression, insomnia, nightmares and fright. People who are suffering from shaky Shen often experience wide, striking mood swings. They can emotionally flip in just a matter of moments. 

 

And remember, everybody at some times in their life will go through periods of extreme emotional turmoil. It is not a far leap from this stressed imbalance to full blown neurosis. At the first sign of stress-related emotional imbalance, start using some of the great Shen herbs (if you weren’t already taking them). Of course, better yet, take the adaptogenic herbs like Reishi, wild Ginseng, Acanthopanax, Pearl, Schizandra and Gynostemma regularly so that you can handle stress with the ease of a sage. Then you won’t ever fall into the dark pit.

 

Dragon Herbs formulations that help stabilize the emotions and counteract emotional stress:

 

·         Pearl Shen

·         Super Shen Drops

·         Bupleurum and Dragon Bone

·         Will Power

 

Mental Confusion

 

The Chinese believe that certain mental conditions can be attributed to weakness of the heart, especially due to a lack of yang energy. The symptoms that result from the lack of yang energy include distinct mental confusion, depression, listlessness and lack of expression, accompanied by general chill and possibly heart arrhythmia. Depression is a severe condition, and in the United States can only be clinically diagnosed by a physician. These signs may indicate a deficiency of yang energy entering the heart.

 

Obstruction and Stasis of Heart Blood

 

This condition is quite serious and generally requires medical intervention. Essentially, “obstruction and blood stasis of the heart” is the Chinese way of saying you have advanced heart disease. Typical symptoms of “obstruction and blood stasis” (heart disease) are angina pectoris (chest pain), shortness of breath, stiffness and occasional pain in the left shoulder or arm, purple spots on the tongue and a purplish hue to the lips. These symptoms must be taken very seriously since they can be an indication of a life-threatening condition. Therefore, do not try to treat yourself with tonic herbs without the cooperation of a physician.

                                               

Chinese herbalism is rich in herbs that can improve blood circulation, remove obstructions and heal myocardial tissue. Consumed regularly, Chinese tonic herbs can help prevent blood stasis and obstruction of the heart.

 

There is considerable evidence that each of these herbs can help reverse heart disease. However, diet and exercise also play a major role in heart disease and should be upgraded if heart disease becomes a concern. Qi Gung exercise and T’ai Chi are superb forms of exercise for people with heart disease, since they are inherently non-stressful. Swimming and walking are also great forms of exercise.

 

The Dragon Herbs Approach to Heart Health

 

Maintain the health of your heart by doing the following:

 

1.         Exercise daily

 

Exercise has been proven to benefit the heart. Walking, swimming, running, ballroom dancing, spinning, cycling, kick boxing, aerobics, skipping rope, etc., can all have a dramatic impact on cholesterol profile and heart health in particular, and on overall health in general.

 

Better yet, practice yoga, Qi Gong or T’ai Chi. These highly sophisticated health arts are designed to promote all the functions of the body in harmony. They were developed over the ages by great wise people who were in touch with their bodies and spirit. These practices, when combined with proper diet, herbs, meditation and a positive Shen-driven attitude will lead to new realms of health and happiness.

 

2.         Eat a heart-healthy diet

 

Reduce, or better yet eliminate, the foods in your diet that are high in fat and cholesterol – that means most meat, butter, eggs, saturated oils, lard, full-fat dairy, etc. Reduce or eliminate sugar intake (you may replace sugar with Guilin Sweetfruit, a natural zero calorie sweetener that tastes great and is positively healthy). Stay away from fast food restaurants as much as possible. Avoid fried foods. Don’t use too much salt, and the salt you use should be sea salt or some other broad spectrum mineral salt that is not to rich in sodium.

 

Consume more of the foods that have a positive influence on the heart, especially foods, oils and herbs rich in essential fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants.

 

Eat whole grains, plenty of vegetables, beans, seaweed, fruit, natural vinegar, polyunsaturated and monounsaturated oils (peanut, canola, corn, walnut, safflower, etc.). We recommend eating fish for most people, though conscious vegetarianism is a higher form of living and eating.

 

Consume soy products such as tofu, soy milk, and naturally fermented miso on a regular basis.

 

Have clear broth vegetable and/or fish soup at least once a day (many Chinese claim this is the secret to staying slim and healthy)

 

Consume foods and herbs rich in antioxidants. In particular, the antioxidant potencies of Amolo fruit, green tea, Gynostemma, Lycium fruit, Schizandra fruit, and Polygonum root are among the most extraordinary in nature. A number of the tonic herbs listed above should always be included in any complete tonic herbal program.

 

Drink green or oolong tea after meals, or have a cup of Spring Dragon Tea (a Gynostemma-based herbal tea). Tea and Gynostemma (the main herb in Spring Dragon Tea) have both been demonstrated to benefit cardiovascular health and to aid in weight management. If you have consumed fatty foods, drinking Amolo Tea can help protect you by helping eliminate the fat.

 

3.         Consume heart-healthy tonic herbs

 

A number of herbs have been demonstrated to have significant health-promoting influence on the cardiovascular system.

 

Dragon Herbs has taken the condition of the cardiovascular system very serious for many years and produces a range of herbal formulations that can profoundly benefit heart and circulatory health.

 

Dragon Herbs products that are beneficial to the cardiovascular system by improving blood circulation and reducing blood stasis:

 

·         CardioPro

·         Young at Heart

·         Cardiovascular Protector

·         Gynostemma Capsules

·         Duanwood Reishi Capsules

·         Duanwood Reishi Fluid Extract

·         Spring Dragon Longevity Tea

·         Salvia Capsules

 

4.         Develop your Shen

 

True heart health is not limited to the physical heart alone. The human heart requires cultivation.

 

Begin by learning to give. Giving is the universal means of developing your Shen. The more you give, the more Shen will develop.

 

Learn to control your emotions. This is accomplished by consciously viewing the issues of life from as broad a perspective as possible. See the good in bad, and the bad in good. Consciously develop the following six character traits and your Shen will rapidly be restored:

 

·         COMPASSION

·         LOVE

·         GENEROSITY

·         TOLERANCE

·         FORGIVENESS

·         ACCEPTANCE

 

Shen is our spirit. It may also be translated as our higher consciousness. This is ultimately the most important of the three treasures because it reflects our higher nature as human beings. Chinese masters say that Shen is the all-embracing love that resides in our Heart. Shen is expressed as love, compassion, kindness, generosity, acceptance, forgiveness and tolerance. It manifests as our wisdom and our ability to see all sides of all issues, our ability to rise above the world of right and wrong, good and bad, yours and mine, high and low, etc. Shen is our higher knowledge that everything is one, even though nature manifests dualistically and cyclically, often obscuring our vision and creating illusion.

 

Shen is the spark of divinity within each human being. Shen is the spiritual radiance of a human being and is the ultimate and most refined level of energetics in the universe. It is associated with our awareness of and oneness with the Universal Infinite Being, and is manifested in our own godliness. Shen is not considered to be an emotion, or even a state of mind. It presides over the emotions and manifests as all-encompassing compassion, and non-discriminating, non-judgmental awareness.

 

Dragon Herbs Complete Heart-Healthy Herbal Programs

 

Program 1

 

·         CardioPro

·         Young at Heart

·         Pearl Shen Capsules

·         Spring Dragon Longevity Tea

 

Program 2

 

·         CardioPro

·         Cardiovascular Protector

·         Shen Drops

·         Will Power

·         Spring Dragon Longevity Tea

 

Traditional Function Heart tonic, improves blood circulation

 

Who can use it? Anyone, unless advised not to do so by a physician

 

Concentration: 8:1

 

Specifications: 100 Capsules 490 mg each

 

Ingredients

Duanwood Reishi fruiting body, Tibetan Rhodiola root, Gynostemma leaf, Gypenosides (Gynostemma leaf saponins).

 

Other Ingredients: Gelatin (capsule), silica

 

Usage Take 3 capsules, 2 times per day or as directed by a healthcare professional

 

Remember Ron Teeguarden’s “First Rule of Tonic Herbalism,” summed up in a single word – Compliance. If you don’t take the herbs, they won’t work.”