Chinese Herbs, Top List of Superior Tonics

When most people speak of "Chinese herbs" they are most commonly referring to the class of superior major tonic herbs widely used in the Chinese herbal system.

These are herbs that can be taken as teas, extracts or patent formulas ideally tailored to help nourish or activate specific bodily systems. 

Although these tonics are natural herbal allies for many health conditions, they are not normally used medicinally to "treat" specific illnesses.

Tonic herbs are, as the name implies, "tonifying" and work to build and strengthen our defense systems so we are less susceptible to getting sick or vulnerable to what causes disease in the first place.

In other words, tonic herbalism is a preventative approach, emphasizing the promotion of health as opposed to the purging of disease once it has taken root.

Many are considered " longevity foods" that can be used on a regular basis throughout the course of one's lifetime. In fact, their effects tend to increase the more you use them, yielding cumulative long-term benefits.

They are highly regarded in many East Asian cultures and some popular varieties, like astragalus, jujube, and goji, are often used in everyday meals, brewed into soups and cooked with grains or legumes for added nutritional fortification.

Chinese herbs are superior tonic roots, barks, leaves, berries and mushrooms that are used to "tone", through their adaptogenic nature, the major organ systems of the body. They are often referred to as adaptogens because they increase our body-minds ability to "adapt" to change and help us overcome daily life stress.

In other words, they help to encourage resistance to trauma, anxiety, and fatigue by allowing the body to naturally regulate itself, normalizing over-activity or under-activity of the organs and glands. Additionally, tonics have a protective nature beyond that of other more common nutritive, sedating and cleansing herbs.

Many of the approximated 52 tonic herbs work specifically on different vital organ pathways to rebuild, rejuvenate and/or activate life-force energies. They can not only bring about positive changes in one's physical being but also greatly influence overall wellness on an emotional and spiritual level.

To enable the release of beneficial components, all of these herbs must be either simmered in water as a tea, infused in an alcohol menstruum or must go through a special hot water extraction process.

Creating highly individualized tonic herb formulas is an ancient Chinese practice that requires a large degree of knowledge and education. There is definitely an art to blending different herbs to achieve specific health goals.

Because there can be a myriad of different scenarios occurring within any one particular individual, it may be appropriate to seek the advice of a qualified Chinese herbalist for additional assistance. This will allow the practitioner to tailor the most ideal formula and blend of herbs that can work to balance specific deficiencies and/or activate energies where needed.

This is not to say, in our opinion, that we can't experiment with different herbs or read more about the unique properties of each in order to personalize our own preparations when appropriate.

This list of Chinese herbs is designed to lay the groundwork for broader understanding and help you become more familiar with the different herbs and their range of functions. We don't list all the major Chinese herbs but have selected among the top common varieties traditionally used by ourselves and other Western herbalists.

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Asparagus root (Asparagus lucidus) is one of the major Chinese herbs that work on all three treasures, supporting the lung, heart and kidney systems. It is most famous in TCM as a Shen tonic specifically used to calm the heart and is often prescribed as a natural antidepressant because of its uplifting nature. It is also supportive as a Chi and Jing tonic working as a natural energizer for the lungs as well as a nourishing tonic for kidney Yin deficiencies. It is particularly beneficial to women, taken to help increase fertility, sex drive and used in many beauty formulas as it is known to add luster to the skin. Asparagus lucidus is closely related to the Ayurvedic herb Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) and is often used interchangeably.

Astragalus root (Astragalus membranaceus) is a primary Chi (Qi) tonic that has been long revered as one of the most potent energizing tonics available next to ginseng. Working directly with the spleen and lung organ systems, the root is warming to the body and promotes strong musculature, good posture, and healthy respiratory, metabolic and eliminative functions. It is also well-known for its immune-enhancing attributes, containing unique astragaloside polysaccharides that encourage increased immune response. Astragalus contains a saponin called cycloastragenol which some health authorities believe is directly linked with what the Chinese call "Upright Qi." This is thought to be the energy that counteracts the effects of gravity associated with the aging process.

While it might seem somewhat unusual to call this common culinary spice a tonic, but the cassia variety is in fact considered a Jing herb. Also called Rou Gui, its hot energy and sweet pungent taste promotes good circulation and helps balance cooling herbs used in tea formulations. Both the bark and the twigs of the Chinese cinnamon tree (Cinnamomum cassia) with their warming, yet demulcent qualities, increase Yang energies, strengthen kidney Yang and are likewise considered mild sexual tonics. The cassia variety should be used in small quantities because of its potential liver-damaging coumarin content that can be harmful when consumed in very high doses. This is not the case with Ceylon cinnamon, but Ceylon is less tonifying to the body.

Cistanche (Cistanche deserticola) is the stem of a desert plant most famous as a potent tonic for enhancing sex drive and virility, often referred to as the "ginseng of the desert." It is specifically a kidney Jing herb that works to increase kidney Yang, offering several benefits that encourage optimal functioning of the reproductive organs and glands. Like eucommia and morinda, it is likewise strengthening the skeletal structure, especially the back and knees. Cistanche extracts also fortify the Yin element and are rejuvenating to the kidney-adrenal complex. The herb is made up of unique plant compounds such as phenylethanoid glycosides and cistanocides that contribute to its adaptogenic nature and range of actions.

Codonopsis root (Codonopsis pilosula) is a mild, yet energizing, Chi tonic considered the "poor man's ginseng" and often used in formulas as a ginseng substitute. It is not as strong as most ginseng varieties, which may be preferred by certain constitutions. Specific to the lungs and spleen, it helps to clear out excess mucus from the respiratory tract but also moistens and nourishes the tissues and organs where needed. It is particularly well-known for providing greater balance to the major metabolic systems. It also acts as a blood tonic to detoxify and build blood and encourages a beautiful complexion. It is considered a wonderful immune-boosting tonic root for those who are severely depleted or weakened after prolonged illness. 

Cordyceps mushroom (Cordyceps sinensis or Cordyceps militaris) was described by herbalist Li Chih Shen to be equivalent to ginseng in its restorative qualities. As both a Chi and Jing tonic, it acts as an immune system modulator and natural energy stimulant. Also known for its effects at revitalizing the sex glands and reproductive system, the mushroom is considered a potent aphrodisiac and top tonic for increasing one's sex drive. Cordyceps is known to be useful in recovery from adrenal depletion and helps increase lung capacity as well as oxygen utilization, making it a great tonic for improving athletic performance and aerobic workouts. Cordyceps is a fungus that originally grew off of insect bodies but today it is widely cultivated, usually on rice cakes.

Dong quai (Angelica sinensis), also spelled dang gui or tang kuei, is a top blood-nourishing tonic for both men and women, useful for revitalizing the blood and increasing circulation. As a Chi tonic, it has been praised as the "woman's ginseng" because of its reviving effects on the female reproductive system. It is a commonly used ingredient in many Chinese patent formulas for this purpose. Working primarily with the spleen and liver systems, it is used to promote menstrual stability in women, reduces PMS symptoms and is also recommended for those with anemia to restore blood balance. Dong quai is good for men as well, helping to build muscle by increasing blood flow to the tissues. 

Eucommia (Eucommia ulmoides) is a potent kidney tonic and Yang Jing herb most well-known for its ability to strengthen the skeletal structure of the body. It is specifically effective for joint and back pain as well as stiffness, especially in the knees, ankles and lower back. Eucommia, in many cases, can be used as a nutritional tonic for the elderly to ensure healthy cartilage and to guard against conditions like arthritis. Also considered a Yin Jing herb, it encourages flexibility in the ligaments and tendons and is known to help fortify and nourish the bones. Eucommia additionally supports healthy endocrine and sexual functions. It can be used by both men and women for such purposes.

He Shou Wu (Polygonum multiflorum), or also called fo-ti, is a tonic adaptogen, top superfood, and premier Yin Jing tonic. It is one of the fundamental Chinese longevity herbs used extensively in TCM. According to Ron Teeguarden, "This herb has been consumed by almost every Taoist master that has ever lived." It is very effective for replenishing kidney Yin and deep deficiencies associated with adrenal exhaustion. While acting as an energy restorative, it is simultaneously very calming to the nervous system. Containing high amounts of zinc and iron, it can be fortifying to the blood and also very cleansing to the liver. It is a highly respected sexual stimulant that is known to encourage fertility in both men and women. Fo-ti is traditionally "prepared" with black soybeans to activate its health-enhancing constituents. We do not advise consuming herbal teas made with raw fo-ti root as they can be toxic to the liver.

Ginseng (Panax ginseng), is one of the most valued Chinese herbs used in East Asia and known around the world for its extremely energizing and health-promoting effects on the body. As a premier Chi tonic, ginseng is a warming and stimulating adaptogenic substance that is prized for its restorative and strength-building compounds, called ginsenosides. Ginseng has tonifying effects on both the lung and spleen, the two organs responsible for extracting energy from the foods we eat and the air we breathe. Although primarily used to activate Chi, ginseng also works on all three treasures including Jing and Shen as well as Chi. There are many different types of ginseng roots with varying qualities depending on the source and age of the root itself. American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) is another variety that is often used as a sometimes preferred alternative because of its cooling nature.

Gynostemma (Gynostemma pentaphyllum), or jiaogulan, is a popular East Asian green leafy herb commonly prepared as a tea infusion.  In Traditional Chinese Medicine, gynostemma leaf has properties that are bitter and cool and are beneficial to the lung and heart organ systems. It is believed to offer effects that clear heat, reduce inflammation, moisten the lungs as well as build adaptive energy. The leaves are the most potent part of the plant, containing triterpenoid saponins called gypenosides which are often compared to the ginsenoside saponins found in Panax ginseng root. Both the saponins and Gynostemma pentaphyllum polysaccharide content have shown to exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Teas and hot water extracts help prevent fatigue and are supportive to those with cardiovascular conditions, type 2 diabetes, and obesity issues.

Jujube fruit (Zizyphus jujuba), or also called "red dates", are a Jing and Chi herb and blood cleansing fruit that are also known to regulate fluids, useful for either drying up excess mucus or moistening the tissues when needed. They are used to "clear the five openings", which includes the eyes, ears, nose, throat, and sinuses. Jujube is a great harmonizing adjunctive herb to use with other tonics in herbal formulations. They are especially appropriate for neutralizing the fiery nature of Yang herbs, like ginseng. The dried fruit is added to preparations for toning and purifying the stomach, acting as a mild laxative.

Chinese licorice root (Glycyrrhizae uralensis) is a deliciously sweet and unctuous tonic that is known as "the great harmonizer" for its harmonizing or supporting influence when used with other Chinese herbs. This is due to its effectiveness at enhancing the main properties of other herbs and is, therefore, a common ingredient in many Chinese patent formulas or herbal preparations. It is a Chi (energy)tonic beneficial to the spleen, stomach, kidney and lung systems. Chinese licorice is also known for its detoxifying effects that help to neutralize and eliminate toxins from the body. These cleansing attributes are said to "allow for all energies to flow more smoothly." It is considered in Chinese herbalism to be building to the muscles, nourishing to the adrenals and helps expel mucus from the lungs. Chinese licorice additionally helps to enhance digestion and its cooling nature can be supportive as a natural anti-inflammatory.

Lycium fruit (Lyciium barbarum), or also called lycii or goji berries, are a tonifying blood tonic and Jing herb, helpful for improving functions of the kidneys, liver and immune system. In Chinese medicine, gou qi zi is considered a major tonic herb for restoring Yin Jing and can be a nourishing decoction to use with other tonic herbs, like fo-ti and rehmannia, in cases of kidney Yin deficiency, often associated with kidney-adrenal burnout. High in species-specific polysaccharides referred to as Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBPs), the berries are known to stimulate the production of superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione. Goji is comprised of carotenoids like beta-carotene and zeaxanthin, and are additionally a good source of iron. They are often used as a harmonizing ingredient blended with other Chinese herbs to increase their effectiveness.

Morinda root (Morinda officinalis) comes from the same genus as noni fruit and is a Yang Jing tonic with similar properties to that of eucommia bark, it is also a very useful tonic for bone and joint health and is commonly combined with eucommia in herbal formulations for these purposes. It is influential as a strength-building herb and an often added ingredient with other primal Jing preparations to improve, not only physical strength but cognitive capacities. Morinda root is warming to the kidneys and is used to treat kidney Yang deficiency and those with specific sexual issues such as premature ejaculation, impotence and infertility. It is additionally supportive for maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system.

Rehmannia (Rehmannia glutinosa), is a thick dark root that works specifically as a Jing herb, both as a blood and kidney Yin tonic. Often compared to fo-ti root for its ability to nourish Yin depletion, rehmannia is a prized longevity herb known to provide potent restorative, building properties that can have a beneficial effect on increasing fertility as well as sex drive. The root is used in tea decoctions for strengthening the tendons, bones and bone marrow in addition to supplying nutrients to the ears and eyes. Like fo-ti, rehmannia is always usually "prepared" to activate its health-promoting compounds that are specific for Yin deficiency. Raw roots, however, are also used for other medicinal purposes.

Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum) tonifies all three treasures: Jing, Chi and Shen and is often referred to as the "great protector", guarding against the effects that physical, immunological and mental stress can have on the body over time. When taken consistently it is said to profoundly strengthen immune functions, calm and protect the nerves and help us to positively adjust to potential anxiety in our lives. Reishi is a highly respected Shen tonic renowned as the “herb of spiritual potency” for its ability to open the heart and encourage a meditative state of being. Reishi's active ingredients include water-soluble polysaccharides and peptidoglycans, in addition to more than 100 triterpenes, like ganoderic acid, depending on the strain and quality.  (*)

Himalayan rhodiola, which is considered more potent than the common Rhodiola rosea species, is an energizing Chi tonic adaptogen particularly famous as a top herbal aid for relieving daily life stress and anxiety. It is well documented for its capacity to increase mental alertness and concentration skills, often recommended for overworked individuals or those who sit at a desk or do computer work for extended periods of time. Tea decoctions are useful as a restorative herb for those with adrenal fatigue and is considered helpful for encouraging a better night’s sleep. The wild Himalayan variety is valued for improving one's capacity to take in oxygen, especially in ritual tea drinkers. It is tonifying to the lungs, heart and effective as a strong immune system modulator. (Visit our page on how rhodiola is top tonic for stress.)

Schizandra berries (Schizandra chinensis) are one of the most popular libido-enhancing tonics known in TCM, rejuvenating the kidney Jing and increasing fluids to the reproductive systems and sex glands. The berries work on all three treasures, Jing, Chi, and Shen and also function as both a Yin and Yang tonic. Taking the herb for periods of time is said to lubricate the area just under the epidermis layer, providing for soft, supple skin. Subsequently, it has been used in China by women of the imperial court specifically to enhance and preserve a youthful appearance. Schizandra (also spelled schisandra) is a blood purifier that also enhances eyesight and range of vision. Many of the tonic effects to the skin and eyes are also a result of its liver-cleansing qualities. It is known to be one of the only Chinese herbs to effectively enter all 12 meridians and is likewise comprised of all 5 tastes. The berries are commonly soaked and brewed as a "five flavor tea."

These herbs are best taken when one is free of sickness and disease. Because major Chinese herbs are mostly building to the body rather than cleansing, it is also appropriate to stop taking tonics for a period time when undertaking cleansing or juice fasting protocols

According to Ron Teeguarden "It is a strict rule of Chinese tonic herbalism that the tonic herbs are not to be used when acutely ill, even if the acute illness is just a common cold.

Correct any acute ailments before starting to use the tonics, and suspend their use if and when you catch a cold or other acute illness."

Many times Chinese herbs are referred to by their Chinese/English names, not the "Western" names many use to identify them.