Tonics Materia Medica

Question 1

What are the 3 criteria for an adaptogen?

Answer 1

1) Nontoxic and relatively free of side-effects
2) Has nonspecific action with an overall increase in resistance to physical, chemical and biological stressors
3) Has normalizing action irrespective of the direction of the pathologic state

Question 2

Common name, use and energetics of Asparagus racemosus

Answer 2

Asparagus racemosus – Shatavari
• Uses: demulcent; hot flashes; major female tonic
• Energetics: Cool and moist

Question 3

Common name and use of Polygonum multiflorum

Answer 3

Polygonum multiflorum – Ho Shou Wu Root
Uses: Liver and kidney tonic; nourishes blood and semen; strengthens heart; longevity tonic; lowers cholesterol and arterial lipid and plaque; blood deficiency

Question 4

Common name, use and MOA of Eleutherococcus senticosus

Answer 4

Eleutherococcus senticosus – Siberian Ginseng Root/Rhizome

Uses: increase stamina, growth; stabilize blood sugar; increase immune activity; adaption to heat, cold, or physical stress

MOA: T-cell activation; increases endurance and reduces activation of the adrenal cortex in response to stress; optimization of the HPA axis; increases oxygen utilization of working muscles; hypoglycemic

Question 5

Common name, use and energetics of Panax ginseng/quinquefolius

Answer 5

Panax ginseng/quinquefolius – Asian Ginseng/American Ginseng

Uses: adaptogenic; inc. vitality, endurance and ability to withstand stress; strengthens immune response; male and female infertility; diabetes mgmt.; radiation therapy

Energetics: energizer; hot

Question 6

Common name and use of Angelica sinensis

Answer 6

Angelica sinensis – Dong Quai Root

Uses: reduces pain, inflammation, promotes menstruation, general tonic for women, menstrual regulator and tonic

Question 7

Common name, use, MOA and energetics of Withania somnifera

Answer 7

Withania somnifera – Ashwaganda Root

Uses: adaptogen; anxiety; immunomodulating; analgesic; antipyretic; sedative; exhaustion tx; thyroid dysfunction

MOA: anti-inflammatory and antioxidant; regulates sleep

Energetics: Warm and dry

Question 8

Common name, use and MOA of Schisandra chinensis

Answer 8

Schisandra chinensis – 5-Flavor Berry

Uses: adaptogen; astringent; liver health; asthma; nervine; cardiotonic

MOA: antioxidant; antitussive